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

New Events This Month

Bradford Senior Center Trip
March 2
Join the TRIP Center Thursday, March 2nd as they carpool to the Bradford Senior Center for a wonderful presentation about Contra Dance Music & History in NH.  Molly Traynor and Bob McQuillen will perform music on fiddle, piano, and accordion while giving us the 300-year history of Contra Dance music. Bob McQuillen has recorded many years with well-know artists such as Dudley Laufman from Canterbury. McQuillen has written music in the Contra style and has received grants from the Smithsonian and other foundations for his folklore music. Come and enjoy the toe-tapping music and learn about the heritage of NH Contra Dance Music.  The bus will leave the center at 11:00 a.m. Lunch is served at 12:00 noon; there is a suggested $2.00 donation. Program will start at 12:30. Cost for program is FREE; lunch is $2.00 per person.

Mystery Lunch
March 3
Join the TRIP Center for one of our ever-popular mystery trips! We will travel to an undisclosed location for lunch. The cost of the van is $6.00; lunch is your responsibility. Buss will depart at 10:30.

Trip to Rockingham Mall
March 6
On Monday, March 6th at 9:00 a.m., travel to Salem, NH and enjoy a day shopping at the Rockingham Mall. They have many wonderful stores to shop in and you can grab lunch at one of their terrific restaurants.  If there is enough time, we will skip across the street to the Christmas Tree Shop. Cost of the van is $8.00. Contact the TRIP Center for more information 934-4151.

Monopoly Game
March 7th
Did you know that the game Monopoly was released on March 7, 1933? Today, it's the best-selling board game in the world, sold in 80 countries and produced in 26 languages. Join us at the TRIP Center at 1:30 p.m. for our own Monopoly challenge. We will serve refreshments and if you have the board game bring it along as we only have one copy.

Servicelink
March 9th
Eve Slawsky, Long Term Support Councilor from ServiceLink, will be at the TRIP Center on March 9th beginning at 10:30 am to speak about what makes a good neighbor. She will also be available for one on one confidential meetings to answer any questions you might have about ServiceLink and its services. Stop by and stay for lunch.
  
Importance of Good Nutrition
March 10th
In celebration on National Nutrition Month, Christine Pearse, a registered licensed nutritionist who provides consulting for the Peabody Home in Franklin, will be at the TRIP Center to speak to us about the importance of good nutrition. She will provide education on wise food choices and answer any questions you might have regarding good nutrition. Discussion to begin at 10:45. Call the Center or stop by for more information. All guest speaker presentations are FREE and are open to the public.

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.

National Open Your Umbrella Indoors Day
March 13th
Throw that old superstition out the window and bring your umbrella to the TRIP Center this day. We will have a grand umbrella opening event at 11:00 a.m. and prizes will be awarded for the most unusual umbrellas. Stay and join us for lunch after.

Craft Fair at the TRIP Center
March 16th
The Busy Hands Craft Group will display all of their beautiful handmade crafts that are for sale at the TRIP Center on March 16th. This is a great opportunity to do a little shopping and to speak with the ladies that make/create these wonderful homemade items. You might even want to join the group as they are always looking for new members to join them. Bring a friend; this event is open to the public, 10:00 – 2:00.

Little Shop of Horrors
March 17, 18, 24, 25 
Franklin Footlight Theatre and the Franklin Franklin Opera House present: Little Shop of Horrors March 17, 18 and 24, 25 2006 at the Franklin Opera House @ 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $14 - $16   $2 discount seniors/students. Call (603) 934-1901 for Tickets or online at www.franklintheatre.com

St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon
March 17th
Join the TRIP Center on March 17th at 11:30 am as they enjoy a delicious traditional Irish dinner of corn beef and cabbage with rolls and all of the fixings. Wear your favorite green items and join us for some green beer (O’Doul’s).  Stay after for some Irish music and bring a friend to join you. Sign up early at the Center.

First Day of Spring Bar-B-Que
March 20th
The TRIP Center will have their first cookout on March 20th beginning at 11:30 am; Hamburgers, hotdogs, and more. Dress in your summer attire and let’s get ready for the warm weather. They will plant flower seeds inside after lunch to get a start on our window boxes.

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.
Diabetes Fair: The Latest and Greatest in Diabetes Care!
March 22
Come and see the latest in blood sugar monitors, insulin pumps, diabetes supplies, and foot care.  There will also be exhibits on exercise and nutrition.  A team of nurses and dietitians will be available to answer your questions.  Wed., March 22 • 12:00-2:00 p.m.  •  Franklin Regional Hospital Call 934-2060 ext. 369 for more information

Free Blood Pressure Screening
March 28
The Visiting Nurse Association will provide FREE blood pressure screenings on Tuesday, March 28th from 10-11 am at the TRIP Center. Be sure to stop by the Center this day and get your blood pressure checked.

Routine Monthly Events

City Government

Franklin City Council Meeting
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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 3 - 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 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
March 6, 13, 20 & 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
March 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
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
March 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
March 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
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
March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
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
March 6, 13, 20 & 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
March 6, 13, 20 & 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
March 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 & 31
Sandy Marshall will teach this new class at the TRIP Center. 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
March 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 & 31
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
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30
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!
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30
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
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30
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
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30
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)
March 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
March 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
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
March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31
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
March 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

Story Time & Crafts
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30
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!

Foxwood’s Casino
April 5th
Here’s your chance to strike it rich! The trip package is a bargain at $30.00 per person and includes the bonus package in place. The day will begin at 7 am and end around 7 pm. Please call the Center for more information.  To attend any TRIP Center event, sign up at the Center or call to reserve a seat, 934-4151.

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 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 and to make an appointment.

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 the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month and has guest speakers. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14th 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.

The Merrimack County Family Caregiver Coalition was set up to assist family caregivers through education and support programs. Since its inception in 2002, the coalition has also developed and produced an education series for family caregivers; a lending library of books, videos and other media; and participates in other family caregiver initiatives. The mission of the Merrimack County ServiceLink is to provide information and support referrals for older adults, adults with disabilities, their families and caregivers that allow and empower them to live as independently and as fully as possible within the choices available to them. If you are interested in learning more about the coalition, please contact Merrimack County ServiceLink, 1 (866) 634-9412 (toll free) or (603) 228-6625, www.servicelink.org.

‘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

The TRIP Center is in need of people who have computer knowledge and skills to assist us in getting our greatly needed computer lab up and running. We also need someone to teach classes to our seniors when the computer lab is complete.  If you have the time to volunteer your expertise and knowledge, please call the Center at 934-4151 and ask for Nancy.

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!

Some men see things the way they are and ask, "Why?" I dream things that never were, and ask "Why not?"      
  - George Bernard Shaw