by Frank A. Davis

FRANKLIN
For several weeks, representatives of a new community group, STEP (Striving to Empower People), Franklin Public Schools and Franklin Department of Parks & Recreation have been together working on a new program for city youth.

STEP is led by the Rev. Anthony Rawlings. The group consists of a diverse membership of concerned citizens representing private residents, businesses, churches, etc.

The first program of this new group is a partnership to form a basketball program for youth ages 14 and up that are students in Franklin Public Schools.

The program kicked off this new venture on Feb. 13 in the J.P. King Jr. Middle School gym. Teams were formed of youth that came out and a scrimmage game was held. The program will continue each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the middle school gym.

Other youth are invited to come and sign up to be a part of the program.

Volunteer adults are also invited to assist.