Visit www.experiencethreerivers.com for additional community information as well as copies of the Choose Franklin Community Newsletter!!!

NEW EVENTS THIS MONTH

American Heart Association Go Red Day for Women
February 2
Join the TRIP Center beginning at 10:30 a.m. to draw attention to two serious women’s health issues, heart disease and stroke. Guest Speaker: Melissa Rizzo, Community Educator from Franklin Regional Hospital, will talk to us about how to keep your heart healthy. There will be handouts and a Q & A session. Then at 11:30 a.m. Special Heart Healthy Luncheon: Bring a relative or friend (gentlemen are invited too) to join you for lunch! The students from Bessie Rowell Elementary School have decorated place mats for us with their ideas on how to keep your heart healthy. Wear the color red this day to show your support. There will be door prizes, giveaways, and more. This event is FREE and open to the public. Lunch is a suggested $2.00 donation for seniors; $3.00 for all others.  Please call the Center at 934-4151 for more information about this event.

Pot Luck Supper
February 4
Join your neighbors and friends at the pot luck casserole supper at the lodge of the Veterans Recreational Memorial Area, 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 5:30 pm. For more information contact Timmy Morrill at 934-2727.

Fireworks!
February 4
Come check out a free Fireworks display to celebrate Franklin's Winter Carnival at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 7:00 pm. The display is sponsored by Franklin Savings Bank, Rutter Media & Grevior Furniture. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

New England Sled Dog Club Races
February 4 and 5
Join the New England Sled Dog Club on February 4th & 5th, 2006 at the Profile Falls/Franklin Falls Dam area.  This event is a two day Sprint race with 4-dog, 6-dog, 8-dog and unlimited classes, ski-jor 1+2 dog, 1 + 3 dog Junior divisions as well.  The races start at 9:00 am and run until 5:00.  There are typically 15 min. breaks between classes and dogs run all day long.  Last year’s event brought 78 teams running and a capacity crowd at the start/finish line, Profile Falls.  The Corp of Engineers and the New England Dog Sled Club are hosting this event with help from The lakes region snowmobile club.  The Lions Club will be on hand as a food vendor.  There will also be club merchandise on hand for purchase.  Go to www.nesdc.org for more details. 

Pancake Breakfast
February 5
Join your neighbors and friends for the annual Pancake Breakfast to raise funds for the Franklin Outing Club at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 7:30 am. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

Winter Carnival Ski and Snowboard Races
February 5
It's time once again for the annual excitement of the family fun Ski and Snowboard races! Pending an adequate snow base, the event will be held at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at noon. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

Kids Circus On Stage
February 5th
Join the Franklin Opera House as they witness The Russian American Kids Circus On Stage transform professional performing skills into a circus spectacular on theatrical stages worldwide.  These artists fill the stage with a blur of spangles, synchronized unicycling, expert juggling, daring aerial feats and acts of precision balancing, featuring outrageous costumes, staged under magical lighting and state of the art techniques in the hallowed tradition of the circus…An artistic endeavor like no others. The Russian American Kids Circus On Stage is a unity and synthesis of circus elements, theatre, dance, music and comedy; all giving birth to an entirely new genre of the theatrical experience. The Russian American Kids Circus on Stage has performed over 1200 shows including Bill Cosby Shows, Commercials (CVS/Pharmacy, Coca-Cola, Target), and The Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration at Epcot Center (just to name a few.)  Show times are 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Advance Tickets: $18 Adult, $15 Senior/ Student. Add $2.00 for tickets purchased on the day of the show. Please call the Franklin Opera House at (603) 934-1901 for more information or go online to www.franklinoperahouse.org

ServiceLink
February 8th
Bobbi Blades from ServiceLink will at the TRIP Center beginning at 10:45 a.m to answer your questions about ServiceLink and how it can help you. ServiceLink is an information and referral service for senior citizens and adults with disabilities and their families. You can call or come to the Center at any time for this information and one-on-one assistance.

Valentine’s Day Crafts
February 8
Wednesday, February 8 at 12 noon come to the Franklin Public Library on your early release day from school, and join us in making some Valentine's Day crafts. This program is free for all ages with no sign-up needed. Come make a nice card or gift for your Valentine!

Blood Drive
February 8
Please come to donate blood at the American Red Cross Blood Drive at St. Paul's Parish Center on Elkins Street in Franklin between the hours of 1 pm and 6 pm. Blood Supplies are drastically low and your assistance is needed. For more information on this Franklin Savings Bank sponsored event, call Sarah at 934-8343. Thank you!

Senior Community Service Employment Program
February 9th
Christine Budreau, Program Manager, Joyce Heck, Program Director, and Cecile Freeman, Employment Specialist will be at the TRIP Center at 10:30 to speak to us about this wonderful program and the opportunities available. Call the Center or stop by for more information. All guest speaker presentations are FREE and are open to the public.

Eat at Uno’s, Support the FMS PTO
February 9
ALL DAY, Take a day off from cooking lunch and dinner -- and doing the dishes! Eat lunch or dinner at Uno's (or call in for Take Out!) in Tilton and 20% of your bill will benefit the Franklin Middle School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). A COUPON IS NEEDED! Please stop by the Franklin Middle School or any office of Franklin Savings Bank to pick up your coupon. Or call Sarah Stanley at 934-8343 for one to be delivered to you. Thank you, in advance, for your support in raising funds for the Middle School!

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Support Group
February 10
Supported by Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America New England Chapter, this support group provides patients and families living with digestive diseases to meet and share their experiences. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts about living and coping with chronic illnesses. Meetings are located @ Concord Hospital Center for Promotion 279 Pleasant St. Concord NH Reservations and encouraged. Dr. Timothy Gardner a Gastroenterologist @ DHMC will kick off the meeting. Support groups will meet every 6 weeks. For more info please contact CCFA group facilitator: Cammy Dion, RN, crohns_4cure@yahoo.com or by phone @ 603-455-7895.

Food for Thought Café in Belmont
February 10th
Join the TRIP Center for an exciting trip to the Food For Thought Café in Belmont. The culinary students from the Laconia Technical School will cook up a tasty buffet for us to enjoy. We will car pool from the Center departing at 10:00; the van will also be available if needed. Lunch is your responsibility. Please sign up at the Center.

Trip to Boston Celtics Basketball Game
February 10
The Franklin Parks and Recreation Department will be taking a trip to the Fleet Center for the Boston Celtics vs. Portland Trail Blazers game on Friday, February 10th.  The game will be starting at 7:30pm and the bus will be departing from the Franklin Recreation Center at 4:30pm.  The registration deadline is January 6th, and a maximum of 50 individuals will be accepted.  Cost for this trip is $45.00 (which includes coach bus transportation and a ticket for lower level seating section 15 and 16), and must be paid in full by January 6th.  After January 6th no refunds will be allowed and tickets will no longer be held.  Children twelve and under must be accompanied by an adult.  To register or for more information stop by the Parks and Recreation Department office, 124 Memorial St.; Phone: 934-2118; E-mail: rec@franklinnh.org; website: www.franklinnh.org.

Snow Football Games
February 11
The Franklin Outing Club Winter Carnival excitement continues with the family Snow Football games! Pending an adequate snow base, the event will be held at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 11:00 am. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

Sledding Races
February 12
Be creative! Have fun! Make your own sled and get ready to race. Pending an adequate snow base, the Sledding Races will be held at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 12:30 pm. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

Shopping & Lunch in Concord
February 13th
Shop at Target for all of those after holiday bargains and after you are finished shopping, enjoy a delicious lunch at the Weathervane. Sign up at the TRIP Center. Space is limited. Cost is $4.00 for the van departing at 10:00; lunch is your responsibility.

Valentine’s Day Lunch
February 14th
Join the TRIP Center for a delicious lunch of stuffed chicken breast, rice pilaf with brownie sundaes for dessert. Wear your favorite pink or red items. There will be door prizes and raffles and a special music presentation by Yvonne Majors at 10:30 a.m. Stay for BINGO at 12:15 p.m.

TRIP Center Breakfast
February 17th
February is National Hot Breakfast Month. Join us for a delicious breakfast menu of eggs, sausage, home fries, French toast, assorted muffins, coffee, juice, and more. This will be a great way to spend the morning with friends. Transportation to the TRIP Center can be provided if needed. The cost is $5.00 per person. Breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. only. The public is invited to attend. TICKETS must be purchased at the Center by Friday, February 13th. All proceeds to benefit the TRIP Center. If you would like to volunteer to help, call Nancy at 934-4151. Hope to see you there.

Gary Sredzienski
February 17
In response to many requests the Franklin Opera House is pleased to bring Gary Szedzienski back for two shows on Friday, February 17th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm. Gary Sredzienski demonstrates the diversity of the piano accordion with a wide variety of styles encompassing several continents.  Gary commented, “The piano accordion is an amazingly versatile instrument with roots in many cultures. I have dedicated my life to preserving the ‘old world’ tradition of the performing accordionist.” Tickets are $11 for adults; $9 for students and seniors; and $5 for children 12 and under. Add $1 for tickets purchased on the day of the show. Family and group rates are available.  Please call the Franklin Opera House at (603) 934-1901 for more information or go online to www.franklinoperahouse.org or visit Gary online at www.garysred.com.

Ice Skating Party
February 18
Bring the family and enjoy the annual Franklin Outing Club Winter Carnival Skating Party! The party is at the skating pond at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 7:00 pm. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

28th Annual Webster Lake Fishing Derby
February 18th & 19th
It’s time to get your tip-ups and jigging poles ready for the 28th Annual Webster Lake Fishing Derby.  Registration, hot food & beverages, prizes, restrooms, and a bonfire will be located at Griffin Beach on Webster Avenue.  This traditional event is great for families and is open to anglers of all ages. All participating children will receive a prize. Additional prizes and trophies will be awarded to the largest fish caught in several categories on both days of the event.  The Grand Prize is $500.  There will be hourly cash & prize drawings from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.  The free “Teach A Kid to Fish Clinic” is a brand new program for this year’s derby and it is gaining momentum around town.  Mark Beauchesne, Fishing Expert from the N.H. Fish & Game Department, will be hosting the clinic.  The “Teach a Kid to Fish Clinic” will begin at 8:00am on Saturday, February 18th at Griffin Beach (a.k.a. “The Old Beach”).  It is a free program and is open to all children 15 or younger, accompanied by an adult.  All participants must comply with N.H. Fish & Game laws.  Pre-registration for the fishing derby is $12 (Adults) and $3 (Children), and can be done up until the day of the event at Newfound Sales & Trading Post at 414 Central St., Franklin (934-0019), or at their Bristol location at 381 Lake St. (744-8658). After 12pm on Saturday registration will be $15 (Adults), $5 (Children).  On-site registrations can be done on Saturday from 5am – 3pm, and on Sunday from 5am – 11am. For more information please visit www.experiencethreerivers.com/events.cfm.

Tour of the State House
February 24th
Join the TRIP Center as they travel to the Red Apple Buffet in Concord for a delicious buffet lunch and then go downtown for a tour of the state house. This should be very educational and interesting. Sign up early at the Center. Cost is $4.00 for the van departing at 11:00; tour is FREE; lunch is your responsibility.

Veterans Memorial Recreational Area Skiing
February 25
Grab your family, friends, skis and snowboards for some night skiing at our local, volunteer-run, family mountain! Pending an adequate snow base, the fun will be held at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 7:00 pm. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607.

Big Air Competition
February 25th
Winter Carnival fun continues with the Big Air Competition! Pending an adequate snow base, the friendly competition will be held at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Area (VMRA), 266 Flaghole Road in West Franklin beginning at 1:00 pm. For more information call Timmy Morrill at 934-2727 or the VRMA at 934-3607

Christmas Tree Shop
February 27th
Don’t you just love a bargain! Join the TRIP Center for a fun shopping trip to the Christmas Tree Shop in Nashua. We will stop for lunch after shopping. Cost is $6.00 for the van departing at 8:30; lunch is your responsibility. To attend any TRIP Center event, sign up at the Center or call to reserve a seat.

ROUTINE MONTHLY EVENTS…

City Government

Franklin City Council Meeting
February 6
The Franklin community is always welcome at the Franklin City Council Meetings, typically the first Monday of each month.  Meetings are held at 7:00 pm in Council Chamber of Franklin City Hall, otherwise known as the Franklin Opera House. 

Franklin School Board Meeting
February 20
All are welcome to attend the monthly meeting of the Franklin School Board.  Meetings are held the third Monday of each month in the Franklin High School Library at 7:00 p.m. For a copy of the agenda prior to the meeting, stop by the SAU #18 Office on the Franklin High School campus.  Your attendance and input is welcome and encouraged!

Franklin Planning Board Meeting
February 22
The monthly meeting of the Franklin Planning Board takes place the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Franklin City Council Chambers at 7:00 p.m., otherwise known as the Franklin Opera House.

Community Organizations

Franklin Rotary Club
February 7, 14, 21 & 28
The Franklin Rotary Club meets every Tuesday morning from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m.; join a meeting at Mr. D's Restaurant on North Main Street in West Franklin. To find out more about the great events and programs sponsored by the Franklin Rotary Club, visit http://franklinrotaryclub.org, or call Club President, Dave Liberatore, at 286-9507.

Franklin Outing Club Meeting
February 1
Join the Franklin Outing Club as they meet the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Veteran's Memorial Recreation Area Lodge.  Meetings are open to all members as the volunteers are in full swing of the ski season. Contact Kathy Fuller at mkf@metrocast.net for more info or call 934-3296.

Bessie Rowell Elementary School PTO Meeting
February 1
Join the Bessie Rowell Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization the 1st Wednesday of each month for great discussion between parents and educators to maximize the learning potential of our community youth, grades 2 - 4. Your attendance and input is most welcome! Meetings are held in the library of Bessie Rowell School on Rowell Drive from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact PTO President, Linda Lafever, at 934-4127.

Choose Franklin
February 2
Are you interested in being a part of a very active group of community-minded residents, business leaders, city officials, and civic group members to improve the economic, social and civic life in Franklin?  If so, Choose Franklin may be for you!  Join us at Franklin Regional Hospital, Conference Room C.  All are welcome!  Mark your calendars for meetings to be held the 1st Thursday of each month at alternating locations.

Winnipesaukee River Trail Association
February 14
Monthly meetings are held at 6:30 pm at Health First Family Care Center on the second Tuesday of every month.  Health First Family Care Center is located at 841 Central Street in Franklin.

Franklin Middle School PTO Meeting
February 14
Join the parents and staff of the Franklin Middle School for our monthly PTO Meeting, held the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the school Library at 200 Sanborn Street in Franklin. Your thoughts and ideas are most welcome!

FHS Booster Club
February 8
All are welcome to the Franklin High School Booster Club meetings the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm in the teacher’s room (by cafeteria) at the high school.  They are looking for new members to join their endeavors.  Check them out!

Paul Smith School PTO Meeting
February 8
Join the Paul Smith Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (usually the 2nd Wednesday of each month) for great discussion between parents and educators to maximize the learning potential of our community youth, grades K – 2. Your attendance and input is most welcome! Meetings are held in the teachers’ room of Paul Smith School on Daniel Webster Drive in West Franklin from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact PTO President, Kristi Sottile, at 934-2189.

Franklin Heritage Commission
February 9
Heritage Commission will have its monthly meeting the second Thursday of every month at 6:00 pm on the 2nd floor of the Franklin Public Library. Please come to learn or help out. If you would like to hear about the proposed Franklin Historic District, or help save the history and heritage of Franklin please attend our meeting or leave a message about your interest at 934-3900.

Franklin Opera House Board Meeting
February 21
All are welcome to attend the monthly meeting of the Franklin Opera House held the third Tuesday of each month in the Opera House (also known as Franklin City Hall) at 7:00 p.m.  For more information call the Franklin Opera House at 934-1901.

Franklin Historical Society
Will meet again beginning in April
Thank you for a great year. As is our custom, the Franklin Historical Society will not be meeting again until the spring, with our first gathering scheduled for the 1st Thursday of April. Keep up with our activities and notices by visiting www.histsoc.org/NH/FHS

Franklin Business and Professional Women
February 15
Franklin Business and Professional Women (BPW) meet regularly on the third Wednesday of the month. The February 15 meeting will be at Alfonzo's Italian Restaurant in Tilton with networking beginning at 6:00 pm followed by a meal at 6:30, then a business meeting. If you are interested in attending a meeting, new members are always welcome! Please contact Terri Lemire at 934-6554 or email TLemire@aol.com. You can also visit our website @ http://nhbpw.org/franklin.htm.

For Adults

Adult Volleyball
February 5, 12, 19 & 26
Any adult (18 years and older) interested in playing pick-up volleyball is welcome to the Franklin Recreation Center on Sunday evenings from 5:00pm – 6:30pm.  This is an on-going program with a one time fee of $10.00 for Franklin residents and $15.00 for non-residents.
 
Old Timer’s Basketball
February 5, 12, 19 & 26
Individuals forty years of age and older are welcome to participate in open basketball nights.  The Franklin Recreation Center is open on Sunday evenings from 6:30pm – 8:30pm for pick-up basketball games.  This is an on-going program with a one time of $10.00 for Franklin residents and $15.00 for non-residents. For more information or to register, contact the Franklin Parks and Recreation Department: Phone: 934-2118; e-mail: rec@franklinnh.org or our web page at www.franklinnh.org

Adult Recreation
February 6, 13 & 27
Adult Recreation will meet on Mondays from 6:30pm – 7:30pm at the Franklin Recreation Center.  This program encourages socialization as well as physical activities for adults with special needs.  This is an on-going program with a one time fee of $10.00 for Franklin residents and $15.00 for non-residents.

Parent and Child Meetings
February 7, 14, 21 & 28
Join Caroline McBee of the Riverbend Parent Child Centers Tuesday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Church on Central Street in Franklin.  This meeting is for parents and children.  Transportation is available!  Call Caroline McBee at 226-7505, ext. 3210.

Circle of Parents
February 1, 8, 15 & 22
Circle of Parents is a parenting support group that meets every Wednesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Franklin United Methodist Church at 88 Franklin St. in Franklin.  The group is designed to encourage parent leadership and develop parenting skills in a non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere. Moderated by a skilled facilitator, the group follows the national model of "sharing ideas, sharing support" where topics of discussion can be anything related to raising kids, such as discipline techniques, school behaviors and performance, youth culture and health and safety. Parents decide the topics, lead the discussions and are involved with group decision-making. The support group is free and childcare is provided.  Anyone seeking information about this group should call Joan Valk at 934-4885.

“Taking Life in Control” Support Group
February 1 & 15
“Taking Life in Control” is a support group for cancer survivors or anyone who is dealing with the diagnosis of cancer. Family, friends and new participants are always welcome. No advance registration is necessary.  Meetings take place the first and third Wednesday of the month from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Oncology waiting room at LRGH.

Open Basketball
February 1, 8, 15 & 22
Any adult (18 years and older) interested in playing pick-up basketball games is welcome to the Franklin Recreation Center from 7:30pm – 9:00pm on Wednesdays.  This is an on-going program with a one time fee of $10.00 for Franklin residents and $15.00 for non-residents.

Parent Meetings
February 2, 9, 16 & 23
Join Caroline McBee of the Riverbend Parent Child Centers every Thursday morning from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at 53 Kendall Street to learn more about effective parenting.  This meeting is for parents with no child care or transportation provided; if you are in need of these services, please refer to the Tuesday evening program, above.  Call Caroline McBee at 226-7505, ext. 3210.

At the TRIP Center

Bus to Concord
February 6, 13 & 27
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) coordinates a bus into Concord every Monday.  Go bowling, shopping, or make an appointment … and get there for only $1 round trip!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Pokeno
February 6, 13 & 27
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) has a Pokeno game every Monday at 12:15 p.m.  Stop by and join the fun!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Strength Training Classes
February 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 24 & 27
Sandy Marshall will teach this new class at the TRIP Center beginning Monday, October 3rd. The classes will be held on Monday’s and Friday’s from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Call Sandy at 934-2060 for more information and to sign up.

Line Dancing
February 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 24 & 27
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) has line dancing every Monday and Friday at 10:00 a.m.  Stop by and join the fun!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Craft Group
February 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28
This group of varied crafters that meets every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. to work on diverse projects for the Center craft fairs. All materials provided; they just need your talent. The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) Center is at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank).  Stop by and join the fun!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Agile Up!
February 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28
Agile Up! meets at the TRIP Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. The cost of the 6-week program is $30.00 ($2.50 per class) due at registration. We need a minimum of 15 people to hold the class and the class is open to the public. Please call the TRIP Center at 934-4151 to reserve a space in this great class.

BINGO
February 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) Center at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) coordinates BINGO every Tuesday and Thursday after lunch at 12:15 pm.  Stop in and try you luck!  They play for an hour and have a terrific caller.  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Chair Exercises
February 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) coordinates chair exercises every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 am.  Seniors are welcome to stop in for some exercise!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

HICEAS (Health Insurance Counseling Education Assistance Service)
February 7 & 21
Do you have questions about your Medicare Coverage?  Would you like free and confidential assistance determining your health insurance needs?  Are you confused or overwhelmed by all of the Medicare paperwork?  Do you know what to do if you can’t afford to pay the Medicare deductibles and co-insurance?  Roger Yacopocui, HICEAS volunteer will be at the Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program (TRIP) Center the first and third Tuesday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. for confidential and free counseling. Call 934-4151 for more information.

Old Time Radio
February 1, 8, 15 & 22
Join the TRIP Center for a new weekly program beginning on Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. Listen to cassettes of all the old radio shows like The Shadow, Lights Out, and The Inner Sanctum Mysteries. We also have an extensive collection of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and more. This will bring back great memories for some people and we encourage people who have never heard the classic radio shows to join us too! Refreshments will be served and this is open to the public.

Whist
February 3, 10, 17 & 24
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) has Whist every Friday at 12:15 p.m.  Stop by and join the fun!  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

Blood Pressure Clinic
February 28
The TRIP (Twin Rivers Intergenerational Program) at the corner of Smith and Canal Streets in downtown Franklin (across from Franklin Savings Bank) has blood pressure testing the fourth Tuesday of each month from 10 – 11 a.m., provided by the Franklin VNA.  If more information is needed, call Nancy Marceau at 934-4151.

For Children

Franklin Little League Sign Ups
February 1, 4, 9 & 11
Join the Franklin Little League as they gear up for their 2006 spring season! Sign ups will be held February 1 (6:00-8:00), 4(10:00-1:00), 996:00-8:00) & 11 (10:00-1:00) at the Franklin Recreation Center. Please bring a photocopy of your child’s birth certificate, even if you think we have it! After many League inquiries, Little League Hdq. in Williamsport, PA has modified the cut-off rule. If your child was born in May, June, or July of 2001, then he/she will be eligible to enter T-ball for the 2006 season. Fees are $35/player($25/second child, $15/third or more = $75 family cap) plus an optional pants deposit of $10 each pair. You may also purchase your child’s pants from the league for $10.00. If you purchase your child’s pants elsewhere they must be “baseball gray.”

Franklin Lassie League Sign-ups
February 1, 3 & 11
Join the Franklin Lassie League as they gear up for their Spring 2006 season! Sign-ups will be held Wednesday, February 1st from 6:00 to 8:00, Friday, February 3rd from 6:00 to 8:00 and Saturday February 11th from 10:00 to 1:00 at the Franklin Rec. Center. The cost for registration is $25 per player ($15 for the second child, $10 for the third = $50 family cap) plus an optional pant deposit of $10 per each pair. The Franklin Lassie League is open to all girls in grades K through 8, please bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate to sign-ups.

Story Time & Crafts
February 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28
Join the Franklin Public Library every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. and Thursday at 10:30 p.m. for a story reading and craft program.  Geared to preschool and Kindergarten aged children, this program is open to all with no sign-up needed, and it's free! Call the Franklin Library at 934-2911 for more information.

Mark Your Calendar Now For Great Upcoming Events!

Bill Warfield Jazz Quartet
March 10
Join the Franklin Opera House on Friday, March 10 beginning at 7:30 p.m. for a night of jazz. Founder of the Lehigh Valley Jazz Repertory Orchestra, Bill Warfield is recognized as a dynamic and innovative composer, clinician and educator. The Orchestra is in its sixth year of providing concerts that celebrate traditional and new jazz. The ensemble’s repertoire includes “Le Jazz Hot,” written by director Bill Warfield, based on the work of the composers of Les Six, Sketches of Spain, Hard Bop, and tributes to Gershwin, Armstrong, Ellington, Goodman, Shaw, Davis, and Led Zeppelin. Visit them online at www.warfieldmusic.com. To have your name added to the Opera House mailing list, call the box office at 934-1901 or visit www.franklinoperahouse.org.

Fifth Annual Community Talent Night
April 22
The Community Talent Night at the Franklin Opera House showcases some of the best talent in Central New Hampshire. If you want to enjoy the performances of your friends and neighbors or to share your own talent, this is an event that you won’t want to miss! Call Franklin Opera House at 603-934-1901 for information about performing in this year’s Community Talent Night.

Did You Know?

Over 50 Singles is a group of singles that enjoy having fun. It is very informal group and there is no membership fee or requirements. If someone hears of an activity it is sent out to group. We have been out to eat, dancing, and concerts there are plans for plays, sleigh ride, concerts, hikes, etc. Call Betty at 393-9964 for information or to be added to group list please leave your name, phone number and an e mail address if you have one if there is no answer.

The first issue of our new local paper, the Franklin Phoenix, will be released on February 9th!!! Watch your mailbox!

The Franklin Business & Professional Women recently announced the appointment of Sarah E. M. Stanley as the 2005 Woman of Achievement .  Stanley is the Assistant Vice President and Marketing Officer of Franklin Savings Bank. A graduate of Franklin High School, Stanley received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing in 1989 from the Whittemore School of Business at UNH.  Stanley is also a 2000 graduate of the New England School of Banking at Williams College and a 2005 graduate of the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing & Management.  In July of 2005, Stanley became the second person in New Hampshire to earn the certification of Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP). As well as being a member of the Institute of Certified Bankers and the American Bankers Association Bank Marketing Chapter, her current community involvement and accomplishments include: member of Choose Franklin, founder of the Franklin Community Newsletter, Member of the Franklin Business & Professional Women, Bessie Rowell Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) Vice President, Franklin Middle School PTO Member, Peabody Home Board of Managers Vice President, Franklin Opera House Marketing Committee.  Stanley resides in Franklin with her husband Scott Stanley, Jr., and two children. Congratulations Sarah!

The Dennehy Law Group is a firm of trial lawyers dedicated to providing our clients with quality and aggressive representation through commitment and hard work. Following tradition, we are a small client centered firm. Our attorneys possess the background to deliver high quality service. James’ clients benefit from his experience as a federal and state prosecutor and his extensive enforcement background. Since entering private practice, James has represented hundreds of clients in criminal cases. Lisa’s clients benefit from her experience as the owner and operator of the River Rock Stables and her litigation background. Lisa is engaged in providing counsel in the area of Equine and Business law. This includes business formation, liability issues, breeding agreements and boarding contracts. With offices in Franklin and Bedford, we service clients throughout central and southern New Hampshire, as well as northern Massachusetts. We represent clients in both State and Federal court. Call 648-6299 or visit www.dennehylaw.com for more information.

Friday, February 3rd is the American Heart Association Go Red Day for Women. Heart disease and stroke are two of the many cardiovascular diseases that take the lives of nearly 500,000 women each year. Fortunately, you can do a lot to prevent these diseases. Go Red For Women helps you discover unique lifesaving power by learning about heart disease and stroke and taking positive action to reduce your risk of both. Red is the American Heart Association’s color for women and heart disease. Make it your color too by participating in this special event and learning more about heart disease prevention.

The TRIP Center is in need of computers and printers. We are trying to update our computer room and need newer computers. If you would like to donate these items, please call 934-4151 and ask for Nancy.

Do you have a leaky faucet, a drafty window, or a broken light switch? Do you need grab bars installed or have rotten steps that need to be replaced?  The Fixit Program, operating in Belknap, Merrimack and Hillsborough counties, provided almost one million dollars in essential home repair service to area seniors in the past decade. The Fixit Program is a network of dedicated volunteers who provide maintenance services to home or mobile home owners age 60 or over. The homeowner pays only for the cost of materials. There is no paper work involved. Just give us a call and if a volunteer is available and willing  to help, we will be there. The program is sponsored by partial funding from the United Way and donations from seniors and family members who appreciate our help. Call us at (603) 225-3295 in Concord or (603) 934-5856 in Franklin.

The AARP is offering FREE help with your income taxes each Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through April 15th. Tax volunteers will be here at the TRIP Center to help you fill out your income tax returns. You must bring last year’s tax return with you. This service is for all ages. Call 934-4151 for more information.

If you have children, live in Franklin or Hill and worked in 2005 you may qualify for the Earned Income Credit. You can get your taxes done for FREE at the TRIP Center. Call 934-3315 for an appointment or for more information. The Franklin Asset Building Coalition sponsors this event.

The Apollo Senior Club is looking for new members to join their club. The club is very active in the community and is involved in major events like the Santa’s Workshop, the annual community Halloween party and the Senior Wellness Fair. The club also gives numerous charitable donations to local groups and offers many social events such as trips, BINGO, entertainment groups and dinners. The club meets monthly and has guest speakers. The first meeting for 2006 will be held on Tuesday, March 4th at 1:30 p.m. at the TRIP Center. You must be 50 years of age or older to join. Please call Emily Gulick at 934-3363 for more information or to join.

Trestle View Park is not yet complete! Help the Winnipesaukee Trail Association by purchasing a brick for the commemorative walkway through Trestle View Park. The bricks you buy will be engraved with your inscription, up to three lines of 14 characters each. You may purchase bricks in your name or to honor a family member, friend or loved one. Engraved bricks may be purchased for $50 each. Blank bricks are available for $10 each. Bricks will be laid twice a year. Please contact Carolyn Hurst at 603-934-5236 for more information or to purchase a brick.

The Veterans Memorial Ski Area is gearing up for a great ski season!  This all-volunteer ski area will soon be selling season passes at VERY affordable prices.  What better gift can you give this holiday season than one that is affordable, supports fitness, and simultaneously supports a local, historic, family recreational area?  Don't want to spend lots of money in gas to travel to ski?  Ski our family ski area in West Franklin!  For more information contact Kathy Fuller at mkf@metrocast.net or call 934-3296.

 ‘Around The State House’

State Representatives Dennis Reed (R) and Jim Ryan (D) would like to hear from their constituents.  What's important to you?  What would you like to see addressed in the Legislature?  Let them know!  Dennis Reed: (home) 934-3657; (office) 934-6607; (cell) 387-9120; e-mail at dreed1@msn.com.  Jim Ryan: (home) 934-2703; (office) 746-3102 or (800) 258-3774 x3282; and e-mail at jryan@metrocast.net.

Other Community Events Seeking Volunteers

Volunteers needed! Franklin Regional Hospital has openings in Emergency Services Medical Imaging and Medical Records. Join a great group of volunteers; make new friends, give a few hours a week and see the benefits! Call Sandy Marshall at 934-2060 ext. 207.

Twin Rivers Interfaith Food Pantry continues to serve 7 local towns. They are in need of Volunteers to help out at the Food Pantry, pick up food at several locations (a large truck is need for USDA food deliveries once a month), fundraising, etc. Please call Rev Randall Scheri at 286-8780 or Dennis Dyer 296-3935.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this issue of our Community Newsletter.   Thanks for reading; now you’re ready to enjoy our community!

To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.
       - David Viscotti