Saturday, February 22, 2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, February 22, 2025 ???

Saturday, February 22

9:00am Fallen Heroes: James P. Murray (Franklin Town Common)
9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)
9:30am Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) (Franklin Public Library)
10:00am Winter Farmers Market (Fairmount Fruit Farm) 
10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)
10:00am Amy Adam's "This Love" exhibit  Franklin Historical Museum
10:30am Winter Beach Party (Franklin Public Library)
1:00pm Teen Murder Mystery Party (Franklin Public Library)
2:00pm Breath of Stars (ticketed event) (Dean College Main Stage Theater)
2:00pm Metro-West String Quartet  (Franklin Public Library)
7:00pm Breath of Stars (ticketed event) (Dean College Main Stage Theater)
7:30pm The Franklin Underground (live music) (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)
8:00pm Karaoke Night (Raillery Public House)


** NO Town Meetings today   **


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Why are there multiple calendars?
What's happening today in Franklin?
What's happening today in Franklin? 
Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Library calendar of events ->    calendar link
The Senior Center calendar of events ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false

Fallen Hero Recognition: James P Murray - Feb 22, 2025 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (2/22/25) at 9 AM on the Veterans Walkway at the Town Common to honor James P Murray.

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.


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James P Murray, Oiler, US Navy - World War I

The only record we have of James P Murray is that he died from disease while serving in the Navy on February 22, 1918.

Fallen Hero Recognition: James P Murray - Feb 22, 2025 - 9 AM
Fallen Hero Recognition: James P Murray - Feb 22, 2025 - 9 AM


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

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

You can find all the videos for 2024 in one playlist -> 

Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14

Social Services, Food Services, Supportive Day Programs, Transportation, Fitness Classes, Support Groups, and select Senior Center Programs will be hosted at alternative locations.

Franklin Senior Center will be temporarily closed from March 5 through March 14, 2025 to allow for necessary building repairs.

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we make these important improvements to our facility,” said Sarah Amaral, Director. “Our goal is to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all our members, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on March 17, 2025. What better way to welcome the community back than a delicious corned beef and cabbage dinner, prepared and served by our very own Franklin Fire Department.”

We extend our gratitude to the Finance Committee, Capital Budget Subcommittee, and Town Council for approving the funds necessary for this insulation project. Town Administration, along with Senior Center staff and volunteers, is dedicated to ensuring that vital services continue during this period. Thanks to the generosity and support of our community partners, several programs will be held at off-site locations, including Franklin VFW, Pete’s Nerd Emporium, Franklin TV Studio, Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School, Franklin’s Historical Museum, Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), Dean College, and Franklin’s Municipal Building.

The Supportive Day Program will be held daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Municipal Building’s Training Room with the exception of Wednesday, March 12th when the program will be closed.

Tri-County Regional Vocational High School will be providing lunches on a daily basis from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, but members must arrive by 11:45 AM and call the Senior Center the day prior to register. The only exception will be on Friday March 14th, where you can pick up a boxed lunch at the municipal building, provided by Franklin Public Schools Food Services. No breakfast will be provided during the closure.

Transportation services, on the Senior Center’s Van, will run throughout the closure, providing access for errands, shopping, and medical appointments. This includes the social day trip to Lotvin Gallery of the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on March 12th.

Franklin Senior Center Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franklinseniorcenter

Daily robocalls will be sent out with the most up to date information. If you would like to be added to our robocall list, please call the senior center at 508-520-4945.

A full schedule of events, map, and location details will be included in the March Edition of our Senior Center newsletter, the Franklin Connection. This will also be available on the Senior Center’s website.

Below is a schedule of other events taking place in alternative locations:

Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14
Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14 - Alt sites #1

Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14 - alt sites #2
Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14 - alt sites #2


Download the PDF as a reminder or to share ->

Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14
Franklin Senior Center Closed March 5 Through March 14


Police Station Building Committee Agenda for Feb 25 meeting at 7 PM

Police Station Building Committee
Agenda & Meeting Packet
February 25, 2025 = 7:00 PM

Agenda:

1. Introduction of CHA and Kaestle Boos Associates Team
a. The project team will do introductions
2. Launch the project website
a. The project team will walk through the new project specific website
3. Presentation and discussion on the site evaluation process and preliminary timeline
a. The project team will give a presentation on the project timeline, process, community outreach, open houses and site evaluation process.
4. Adjourn


Agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->

Police Station Building Committee Agenda for Feb 25 meeting at 7 PM
Police Station Building Committee Agenda for Feb 25 meeting at 7 PM

Amy Adams exhibit "This Love" is continued thru Sunday, Feb 23 at Historical Museum

Amy Adams exhibit "This Love" is continued thru Sunday
"This Love" is continued thru Sunday

via Amy Adams 

"Thank you to everyone who shared time and showed up last night. I am so grateful for the support. Community is everything. I hope you all left just as moved and in love with art.
In a surprise turn of events, the exhibit has been extended and will be up through Sunday (2/23/25) if you would like to revisit or go check it out."



Update to Beaver St. Interceptor Project for week of Feb 24 to Feb 28, 2025

Monday (2/24) through Friday (2/28): The construction crew will be conducting the jack and bore trenchless installation of the new sewer under Rte. 140. The work will be occurring off the road at 38 Pond St. and within the Franklin Village Mall area. No traffic impacts are expected.

Update to Beaver St. Interceptor Project for week of Feb 24 to Feb 28, 2025
Update for week of Feb 24 to Feb 28, 2025
At the Franklin Recreation Center, the construction of the new Beaver Street Interceptor Pump Station will continue with removal of formwork, damp proofing of the concrete and backfilling of the structure.

Please reference the interactive map and posted signs for details and updates.

Shared from -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/557/Beaver-Street-Interceptor-BSI-Project


Have an older laptop or device to donate?

Have an older laptop or device to donate?
Have an older laptop or device to donate?
"Do you have an old laptop, tablet, or phone collecting dust? Donate them to SAFE!

SAFE will redistribute these devices to those without  online access. By providing this tech to those in need, we open access to education, job opportunities, and vital resources!

Devices should be in working order and include the power adapter.

Donations can be dropped off at our office in Franklin: 31 Hayward St. Suite 2C (Mosely Mill building) or you can contact us to arrange pickup: info@safecoalitionma.org or (508) 488-8105"

FYBO gear swap - Donation Phase through Sunday, Feb 23

FYBO gear swap - Donation Phase through Sunday, Feb 23
FYBO gear swap - Donation Phase through Sunday, Feb 23
"Our 1st FYBO Gear Swap officially starts TODAY!

Our DONATION ONLY phase is today through Sunday - gear can be dropped off at 30 Old Grove St in clearly marked bins. Gear will then be organized for our next phase…

On March 1st (9am - 1pm) and March 2nd (9am - 11:30am) you can go to Next9Up (40 Kenwood Circle) to either 1) Grab & Go, 2) Donate Only, or 3) Donate and Grab.

Help us save the world, one mitt at a time!"



2 articles from the Boston Globe on the MA housing crisis and possible solutions

(1) Via the Boston Globe:  "Opinion | How Mass. can streamline its homebuilding process"
"It’s no secret that homeownership is out of reach for many people in Massachusetts. The average sale price of a single-family home is $642,000, the third highest in the nation. Renting instead is cold comfort; the average Greater Boston apartment costs $3,058. Although the state and local communities have taken steps to increase the housing supply, more housing still needs to be built.

Massachusetts achieved its notorious reputation for unaffordability by layering barrier upon barrier to new housing. In new research published by the Pioneer Institute, we lay out what we learned about the arduous and uncertain homebuilding process by interviewing builders, planners, lawyers, and scholars from across the state."
Shared from ->

How to access the Globe via the Library with your library card

Go directly to the brief that lead to this article


(2) via the Globe ->  "State commission on housing production targets single-family zoning, other sweeping reforms"
"Single-family neighborhoods are synonymous with the American Dream. Their driveways and grassy yards define the communities of suburban America, including Greater Boston.

But are they also compounding Massachusetts' deep housing crisis?

A state-appointed commission focused on the state’s worsening housing shortage in fact identified single-family-only zoning — the land-use rules that created suburban single-family neighborhoods — as a primary obstacle blocking the surge of construction Massachusetts desperately needs to address its housing problem.

And so the commission proposes a seemingly profound idea: get rid of single-family zoning — everywhere in Massachusetts."

Continue reading the article online ->  https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/02/21/business/massachusetts-housing-affordability/

MA housing crisis and possible solutions
MA housing crisis and possible solutions
How to access the Globe via the Library with your library card





Pour Richard's - Saturday Sessions with George

Pour Richard's - Saturday Sessions with George
Pour Richard's - Saturday Sessions with George

 

"Saturday Sessions with George!  
Every Saturday 1-6 PM.  
From bin ends to new finds- George will have an intriguing arrangement weekly to taste. And the vinyl spinning will match the wine spectrum as always."

 




The website is under reconstruction but you'll be able to find it -> https://pourrichardswine.com/




Did someone use your SSN to file taxes? Here’s what to do


Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission

By BCP Staff

If you're filing your taxes online this year, watch for signs of tax identity theft, like someone using your Social Security number (SSN) to file and claim a tax refund. One way you'll know is if the IRS rejects your tax return once you file. Learn to protect yourself while filing online and what to do if someone steals your tax refund.

Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/02/did-someone-use-your-ssn-file-taxes-heres-what-do?




 
Did someone use your SSN to file taxes? Here’s what to do
Did someone use your SSN to file taxes? Here’s what to do

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, February 22, 2025

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, February 22, 2025
Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday
Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm.

It ia available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

Time/DaySaturday
7:00 AMJazz Journey 1 - Hines
8:00 AMJazz Journey 2 - Hines
9:00 AMWine - Lenzi/Simone
10:00 AMFrank's Music - Falvey
11:00 AMMusic
12:00 NoonMusic
1:00 PMWine - Lenzi/Simone
2:00 PMFM Radio - Sherlock
3:00 PMFM Gov - Sherlock
4:00 PMFM News - Sherlock
5:00 PMFrank Musings/Presents - Falvey
6:00 PMTurntable - Vibe/PaulyG
7:00 PMTurntable - Vibe/PaulyG
8:00 PMBlues - Derick/Remissong
9:00 PMBlues - Derick/Remissong
10:00 PMMusic

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

Friday, February 21, 2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, February 21, 2025 ???

Friday, February 21

* No scheduled delay for trash/recycle curbside pick up this week due to the holiday, weather might have something to do about though. Stay Tuned

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)
10:30am The BaNannies (Franklin Public Library)
1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)
1:00pm Teddy Bear Workshop #1 (registration full) (Franklin Public Library)
2:00pm Teddy Bear Workshop #2 (registration full) (Franklin Public Library)
7:00pm Breath of Stars (ticketed event) (Dean College Main Stage Theater)
9:00pm Michael Rivelis (live music) (3 Restaurant)


** NO Town Meetings today   **


--------------


Why are there multiple calendars?
What's happening today in Franklin?
What's happening today in Franklin? 
Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Library calendar of events ->    calendar link
The Senior Center calendar of events ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false

Remington Middle School Student Cade Taccini Named Project 351 Ambassador for Franklin

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Principal Craig Williams are proud to share that Remington Middle School eighth grader Cade Taccini has been selected as Franklin's Project 351 Ambassador.

Remington Middle School nominated Cade for her willingness to help whenever needed, strong leadership skills, and ability to serve as a voice of reason among her peers.
Cade Taccini Named Project 351 Ambassador for Franklin
Cade Taccini Named Project 351 Ambassador for Franklin

"Cade is the first person to volunteer when she sees something that needs to be done. She completes her work with integrity, seeks to learn, and showcases her creativity and strengths," said Principal Williams. "She is an active member of our school community, and we are incredibly proud of her commitment to service."

Cade was surprised to learn she was named as the community's Project 351 Ambassador. But she was honored by the appointment.

"I thought, 'Wow. Me?' Then I felt really good about myself that my teachers and school thought I could make a difference," Cade said. 

Project 351 is a statewide youth-led service initiative that brings together eighth-grade students from every city and town in Massachusetts for a year of leadership development and community service. Ambassadors are chosen for their dedication to helping others, commitment to service, and leadership potential. 

On Jan. 25, Cade joined fellow Ambassadors from across the state at Project 351's annual Launch Day in Boston, where they participated in a day of service and leadership training.

After gathering at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum for a morning of celebration, attended by Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, the Project 351 Ambassadors were mobilized by Service Hero teams for an afternoon of volunteerism at La Colaborativa, Brighton High School, and Cradles to Crayons. In partnership with these community leaders, Ambassador service on Launch Day impacted more than 34,000 neighbors.

Through Project 351, Cade has already seen how small actions can create meaningful change.

"I've learned how group fundraisers can impact so many people. By doing simple things, we can make a difference," she said. "I've also learned that there are other kids out there who are willing and excited to make a better future."

This year, Project 351 celebrates its 15th year with a collective social impact on more than 1.4 million lives. Project 351's annual Launch celebration honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

"Project 351 is powered by the idealism and ideas of 8th grade change makers," said Carolyn Casey, Project 351 Founder and Executive Director. "As we welcome our 5,588th Ambassador, we celebrate the transformative good made possible when we unite in common cause. And we uplift the values they stand for -- kindness, compassion, and respect for the dignity of all."

Looking ahead, Cade is eager to take what she has learned and apply it in Franklin.

"I want to show people that if we work together, we can make a big impact," Cade said. "I'm looking forward to leading my fundraiser at school and meeting other Ambassadors who want to make a difference."

Cade has been an active participant in Remington's school community, including involvement in student council and the Little Buddies program. Remington Middle School and district leaders are excited to see how she brings her Project 351 experience back to Franklin.

"Not only is Cade representing Franklin on a statewide level, but she will also be bringing back what she's learned to make a difference in our own community," said Principal Williams. "Her dedication to service sets a great example for others."

"Cade's selection as a Project 351 Ambassador is a testament to her leadership, compassion, and dedication to service," said Superintendent Lucas Giguere. "We are very proud of her commitment to making a difference, and we look forward to seeing how she uses this opportunity to positively impact Remington Middle School, Franklin, and the broader community."

About Project 351 -> https://project351.org/
Founded in 2011, Project 351 is a youth-led movement for change powered by an eighth-grade unsung hero and high school Alumni mentors selected to represent every city and town in Massachusetts. Youth are recognized by hometown educators for an exemplary ethic of service; values of kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude; and devotion to equity and inclusion. The Ambassadors' 12-month term of leadership development and service is the foundation of Project 351's leadership model. High school, college, and career Alumni steward Project 351's mission and model of impact as mentors, program leaders, and governance. Through the 35ONE enrichment continuum, a new generation of leaders develops the skills, knowledge, and courage to achieve bold change. Click here for more information.

3rd of 6 Joint Budget Listening Sessions held, more questions & answers (audio)

FM #1368 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1368 in the series. 


This session shares the Joint Budget Listening Session held Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the Franklin Senior Center. All 10 members participated along with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. School Supt Lucas Giguere missed the session due to school break week.


Brief statements by TA Hellen and School Committee Vice Chair David McNeill opened the session before going to the audience for questions and comments. At least 13 folks stepped up to comment or ask a question, some multiple questions.


Link to the Town page with the budget materials for both Town and School sides

https://www.franklinma.gov/Archive.aspx?ADID=500 


As of today, $3.6M short, may change slightly but that is the ballpark for today. Town budget coming out in April.


Cherry sheet link to MA Dept of revenue as referenced by Town administrator Jamie Hellen https://www.mass.gov/cherry-sheet-estimates 


The recording runs about 2 hours 12 minutes , so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1387-joint-budget-listening-session-3-02-19-25/


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The agenda doc 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02192025-1559 


The agenda packet includes:


a. Town Administrator FY26 Budget Update #4 Memorandum - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4201/Town-Administrator-FY26-Budget-Update-4-Memorandum- 


b. Updated FY26 Budget Model (1/30/25)  - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4191/02b-FY26-Budget-Control-Sheet---Control-Summary 


c. Estimated Override Matrix  - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4190/02c-Override-Tax-Rate-Impact-Calculationxlsx---Sheet1 


d. Board of Assessors Request Letter  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4189/02d-Board-of-Assessors-Support-for-Administrative-Assistant


The Franklin TV video is available for replay ->    https://www.youtube.com/live/HWM25y_m2Bk?&t=552 


Franklin Public Schools had a tri-fold handout available for participants. A PDF copy for you to view and download is here ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q02Jpzl96WslZNUv6hMeXzwEmwVXCuoM/view?usp=drive_link 


My notes captured during the meeting can be found in one PDF -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1639lkClEA8IfavpdIKCQq_MbW2i1AsMB/view?usp=drive_link 


The Dr Bergen, School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan discussion on the history of school cuts  Audio link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pqiBAoPBMg 


The Fire Dept presentation on ambulance call volume at the Feb 5 Town Council meeting

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/02/town-council-approves-capital-budget_8.html 


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.


How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know

  • And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


3rd of 6 Joint Budget Listening Sessions held, more questions & answers (audio)
3rd of 6 Joint Budget Listening Sessions held, more questions & answers (audio)