Want to know where to get your Girl Scout Cookies in Franklin, MA?

In case you needed to know, (yes, I'll admit to needing this) the remaining schedule for Girl Scout cookie sales beginning with Sunday, Jan 22, 2023. 

• 1/22 Fresh Start Market 12-3pm
• 1/28 
• King St. Dunkin' 8a-1p
• Dean Bank 8:30a-12p
• Stop & Shop 10a-2p
• 1/29 Learning Express 10a-2p
• 2/4 
• King St. Dunkin' 8a-1p
• Aubuchon's 10a-2p
• 2/11 
• Shaw's 9a-2p
• Stop & Shop 10a-2p
• Dean Bank 8:30a-12p
• 2/12
  
• King St. Dunkin' 8a-1p
• Shaw's 9a-2p
• Stop & Shop 10a-2p
• 2/18 
  
• Learning Express 10a-2p
  
• DCU Bank 8:30a-1p
• 2/19 Learning Express 11a-2p

Want to know where to get your Girl Scout Cookies in Franklin, MA?

Look no further than Thru the Looking Glass

Written by:  Lyn MacLean

Holiday shopping days that remain are now closing in! Selected for our fourth business in our “Shop Local Series”, we would like to highlight Thru The Looking Glass Custom Picture Framing located at 11 East Central Street, Franklin. 

Established in June 2018, the store offers a wide variety of custom framing services and will work with you throughout the design process to make your framed art the perfect complement to your home. Perhaps you have a special photograph you would like restored as a special gift? Look no further, Thru the Looking Glass has partnered with a local specialist who completes the photo restoration and printing for the shop. You know that special image will be in safe hands with this dynamic partnership. No need to ship your adored photograph out to a stranger far away.  

The owner Maryann Wickman also offers unique vintage holiday items that you will not see in other stores. It’s a personal interest of hers to obtain unique items that she collects over the course of the year and presents for purchase in her shop. The inventory is always changing so you are encouraged to visit frequently to find that perfect gift for someone special in your life.  

The store name cites custom picture framing. However, one will notice quickly upon entering the shop that there are wonderful gift-giving items all around.  The shop includes hand-knitted hats, scarfs, blankets, consignment pottery, handmade cards, and Alice and Wonderland-themed art and watercolors. They are open Tuesday to Friday from 10 AM - 5:30 PM and Saturday from 10 AM - 4 PM.

If you cannot decide from all the wonderful items to choose from, they offer gift cards as a perfect gift to give this season. Remember to shop locally and support your Franklin businesses this holiday season and throughout the year. 

Visit Thru the Looking Glass on the web at ->   https://thruthelookingglassframes.com/

Reminder: THINK FRANKLIN FIRST GIFT CARDS 

The cards are available for purchase in any denomination at Dean Bank or franklingiftcard.com.  This website provides the most up-to-date list of participating businesses.  

If you are a local business owner who would like more information contact Lily Rivera at  508-553-4888 or riveral@franklinps.net 

Look no further than Thru the Looking Glass

Support the Franklin Music Boosters! Get your meal(s) from Santa Fe Burrito Grill - Tues, Dec 6 from 5 to 9 PM

Mrs. Plouffe (@FranklinHSOrch) tweeted  Mon, Dec 05, 2022:

"Enjoy a great meal, support a local business and the Franklin Music Boosters!

Santa Fe Burrito Grill 

Tuesday, December 6 from 5 to 9 PM
30% of the event sales are donated back. 

Tell them it's for the Franklin Music Boosters!"

https://twitter.com/FranklinHSOrch/status/1599774433123573760

Support the Franklin Music Boosters!  Get your meal(s) from Santa Fe
Burrito Grill - Tues, Dec 6 from 5 to 9 PM

Fur And Feather Families Take Note! Vet Med Pet Supplies has been helping Franklin area pets for almost 40 years

Written by Lyn MacLean 

Fur And Feather Families Take Note! 

Vet Med Pet Supplies is being highlighted as the third in our “Shop Local for the holidays” series.  This quaint shop is located at 359 West Central Street and has been serving the community for almost 40 years since 1983.

The shop caters to Dogs, Cats, Small Birds and Fish, Rabbits, Reptiles, Guinea pigs, and even Chinchillas.  The store offers high-quality foods, grooming supplies, and non-prescription health aids for allergies and anxiety.  Is your dog anxious or could become overwhelmed with all the holiday hustle and visitors?  The store even has a large selection of CBD oral health aids to help calm anxious dogs.  

“Our team has a wonderful depth of knowledge and works hard to provide personal service to our customers”, the owner Karen Walsh stated. “One of our staff members has even worked for local zoos and a vet in town” she emphasized.  The staff enjoys assisting customers with fitting collars, harnesses, and winter coats to establish a proper fit for the animal.   This is the type of personalized pet service you typically do not receive in a big box pet store. 

 

Vet Med Pet Supplies has been helping Franklin area pets for almost 40 years

Currently, Stella and Chewy’s brand is offering a special holiday promotion.  The sale offers to buy 3 freeze-dried food items for dogs for $25.00 and buy 3 Crav’n Bac’n Biscuits for $20.00.  In addition, they offer to buy one get one free canned cat food.  This promotion runs until the end of the year.  

All animals are welcome to visit the store as well.  Upon arrival, they will be greeted with a special treat and can walk, hop or crawl around the store to see what they like.  Vet Met has welcomed cats, rabbits, dogs, and even ferrets to visit the store.   Save time, visit Vet Med with plenty of parking available.  Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 10-6 pm and Sunday 12-5.  

Lastly, remember that last-minute gift idea of a gift card!  Vet Med Pet Supplies is a participant in the THINK FRANKLIN FIRST GIFT CARDS.  

The cards are available for purchase in any denomination at Dean Bank or franklingiftcard.com.  This website provides the most up-to-date list of participating businesses.  

If you are a local business owner who would like more information contact Lily Rivera at  508-553-4888 or riveral@franklinps.net 

Shop Small, Shop Local (video)

As a member of the Franklin Downtown Partnership, you know the importance of shopping small and local! 

This is a video The Partnership recently produced promoting shopping local!

Video link ->  https://youtu.be/V01bMdW543A

Shop Small, Shop Local 

Instead of Black Friday, let's focus on Small Business Saturday & #GivingTuesday

Yes, the commercials started a while ago. Black Friday deals available online and Before Black Friday. It is hard to avoid them they are so pervasive.

(1) Small Business Saturday is an opportunity to really spend our money wisely and locally. Consider the #ThinkFranklinFirst gift card and the shops where it can be used. Check out the listing of shops here ->  https://franklingiftcard.com/participating-businesses

Don't have a #ThinkFranklinFirst gift card? You can buy one online or at Dean Bank. www.franklingiftcard.com

Did you catch the series on local Franklin businesses we are running? The first 2 are available and more are coming. Thanks to contributor Lyn MacLean!

• Pour Richard's Wine & Spirits ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/11/the-shop-local-for-holidays-series.html
• Pretty Is Pink -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/11/shop-local-at-pretty-is-pink-boutique.html 

Yes, #ThinkFranklinFirst Gift Cards are reloadable

(2) There are over 100 nonprofits based in Franklin and a number of others who service this community while based elsewhere. #GivingTuesday was developed in response to the popularity of Black Friday and an attempt to focus on supporting the nonprofits. 

You should be seeing nonprofits advertising or emailing to prompt a donation for their cause on #givingtuesday. 

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is just one of the many we can support! The Food Pantry, SAFE Coalition, HMEA, the Hockomock YMCA... the list goes on...  If you can't think of a nonprofit to support there is a listing of them based in Franklin here -> https://www.franklinareanonprofitnetwork.org/p/area-non-profits.html

You can support the Franklin Downtown Partnership

Shop Local at the PRETTY IS PINK Boutique and "Look Good – Feel Good"

Written by: Lyn MacLean 

PRETTY IS PINK Boutique is being highlighted for our second in the series of “Shop Local” for the holidays. 

New York City fashion lives right here at 480 King Street, Franklin. This women’s clothing boutique has been located in Franklin for over TWENTY years!  

Pretty is Pink’s motto is "Look Good – Feel Good". Any woman will do just that by shopping a wide selection of crew and funnel neck sweaters, slip, mini, and smocked dresses, knit wraps, and straight, flare, and wide-leg pants and jeans.  Complimenting these clothing choices, you will also find crossbody, clutch, tote, and shoulder handbags. Accessories such as jewelry, and fun-colored winter hats with coordinating mittens would make a perfect gift for teens or teachers at a perfect gift giving price point. Lastly, tucked among the amazing clothing selections lies a beautiful woven plush paw blanket that would be the perfect gift for any animal lover on your list.    

Do you have a holiday party you need something special for? Look no further as an abundance of sparkle was seen to make your ensemble stand out from the crowd. Dusters, dresses, and blouses with shine and sparkle were plentiful. 

Personal, individualized service is the hallmark of this store. The employees get to know their customers directly. They learn the preferences of their clients and if desired will provide feedback about the fit and overall look of each item tried on. 

A customer profile can be kept on file with the client's purchased sizes and items so if and when new items arrive that they may like, the client can be updated and suggestions can be made for these new items as soon as they hit the selling floor. 

Do you have little ones that deter you from trying to shop in-store?  Pretty is Pink has you covered. To allow you time to focus on shopping, the store offers a sip-and-shop beverage bar that allows little ones to sit in a comfortable chair with hot chocolate and a selection of pink starbursts and Hershey’s chocolate kisses.  They can unwrap these treats to allow you time to find that special item you’ve been looking for.  To top off your shopping experience everything is gift-wrapped for free! 

To keep on top of all events and sale promotions you can add your contact information to their list. You will receive an email or text every Thursday with the current promotion that they offer each week. For example, last week they sent a text to notify subscribers of a customer appreciation flash sale on the "day of" for 30% off Haute Shore handbags. Customers flocked to the store that day to take advantage of the fabulous savings. 

The upcoming "PINK FRIDAY" will be on Friday, November 26. Serving Bubbly and treats while you shop with special promotions announced that day. 

And don’t forget that Pretty is Pink is participating in the Franklin First Gift Cards which can be purchased in person at Dean Bank or www.franklingiftcard.com. 

These are a perfect “PINK” idea for hostesses, husbands, fathers, and anyone who wants their special person to make their own selection.  Make your gift-giving local, quick and easy. 

The hours of operation from now until the end of the year will be Monday-Wednesday and Friday 10-5, Thursday extended hours 10-7, and Sunday 12-4.  The store is open 7 days a week.  Online purchases can also be made at www.prettyispink.com

Shop Local at the PRETTY IS PINK Boutique and "Look Good – Feel Good" (image courtesy of Pretty Is Pink Facebook page)

The Shop Local for Holidays Series features Pour Richard’s Wine & Spirits

Written by:  Lyn MacLean

Here at Franklin Matters, we would like to encourage shopping locally during the upcoming holiday season.  Over the next few weeks, we plan to feature a variety of local establishments to highlight some of the wonderful gift options they can offer just a short distance away.  Avoid the crowds, avoid the parking scramble, and support your local shop owners.   

Pour Richard’s Wine & Spirits

Gift giving, home cooked meals and the special pairing of a fine wine or spirit epitomize the traditions for many this time of year.   This is why today we would like to highlight POUR RICHARD’S WINE & SPIRITS at their new location at 835 West Central Street #2 Franklin. They are currently celebrating their 10 year Anniversary serving the Franklin community. 

“Never Drink Ordinary” is their motto and I can see why.  As I entered the store, I immediately was greeted with the warm presence of the owner Ann Williams.  I quickly recognized the unique well-edited selection of wines, craft beers, ciders, and spirits that were available. 

With a long-standing experience in the beverage industry, Ann worked with Blackbutton Distilling to create a Pour Richards private label bespoke Gin.  This Gin was formulated with nothing added or subtracted, no sugar or cornstarch were added which lends to a rich spirit.   

A second Pour Richards blend included the Mad River Double Barrel Rum created in bourbon barrels, a third called the Hill Rock Bourbon Whiskey and a fourth, Ladies Choice Bourbon Whiskey. 

Pour Richards provides a highly personalized service.  The owner makes an effort to know all customers names and loves to provide suggestions to meet personal tastes. 

With advance notice the store is more than happy to create custom gift baskets where they can curate suggestions or fulfill any specific spirit requests you may have for your recipient.

Along with gift baskets, curated 3 or 6 pack of craft beers, cases of wine and tasting kits of various spirits can be packaged. To top off this personalized service, keep in mind that curbside pickup is available to expedite your purchases quickly during this hurried season.  

Several upcoming events to kick off the holiday season are listed below.  You can sign up in person or online at www.pourrichardswine.com 

Local Beer & Wine Vendor Event 

“Small business” Saturday, November 26, 2022 1-4 PM 

Local Beer and Wine Vendors will provide sample testing and special discounts.

Bubbles & Bark Event Saturday, December 3, 2022   2-5 PM

- Focused on Holiday pairing gift ideas, Hostess Gift Ideas - $20.00 at door 

100% proceeds are donated directly to the Forever Home Rescue New England of Medfield, MA. They are devoted to saving the lives of dogs. 

Artisan Chocolate and spirits pairing

Thursday, December 8th 7:00pm start

- Wrights Old School Chocolate of Walpole, MA will present an Expert Chocolatier that will explain the sourcing of cocoa beans and the process of making the chocolate.  $20.00 includes a tasting kit of various full size single origin chocolate bars along with spirit samples to taste that complement the chocolate pairing.  Tickets may be purchased the night of or online at www.pourrichardswine.com

Reminder: Other ways to support your local community 

THINK FRANKLIN FIRST GIFT CARDS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE! 

Another great way to support our local economy.  This gift card provides use to a variety of local businesses and makes the perfect gift!  The cards are available for purchase in any denomination at Dean Bank or franklingiftcard.com.  This website provides the most up-to-date list of participating businesses.   

If you are a local business owner who would like more information contact Lily Rivera at  508-553-4888 or riveral@franklinps.net 

 

THINK FRANKLIN FIRST GIFT CARDS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE

Escape Into Fiction - Save the Date - April 30 - Independent Book Store Day celebrated

"#savethedate The #bookstore is participating in Independent Bookstore Day April 30th 10-5!!!

We will have 3 local vendors, an 11am #storytime with a #specialguest and of course #BOOKS."

@cravemead  https://www.instagram.com/cravemead/

@teecuptreasures  https://www.instagram.com/teecuptreasures/

@paperbackcandles https://www.instagram.com/paperbackcandles/

Shared from Instagram ->  https://www.instagram.com/p/CcvaInTLICs/

Escape Into Fiction - Save the Date - April 30 - Independent Book Store Day celebrated

Senator Rausch talks with Sarah Mabardy (Facebook live - 03/25/22) (video)

Having left Facebook, I try not to encourage folks to go there but in this instance, the 30 min (or so) conversation is worth spending some time with. Senator Becca Rausch prompts Sarah Mabardy to share some great nuggets of info that are well worth implementing (if you haven't already).

For example: Sarah talks about her service orientation, facilitating "word of mouth," and her idea of "everyday impact."

Video link -> https://www.facebook.com/beccarauschMA/videos/266734962322974

And a reminder that the Franklin First Gift Cards can be used all year, not just around the holidays  -> https://franklingiftcard.com/

Senator Rausch talks with Sarah Mabardy (Facebook live - 03/25/22) (video)

#ThinkFranklinFirst gift cards a great way to shop locally

"Trying to find the perfect gift can be tough, but it doesn't have to be! With over 35+ participating businesses in town, you can give the gift of Franklin this holiday season.

#ThinkFranklinFirst gift cards a great way to shop locally

 

Get your card in hand today with no processing fees in person at Dean Bank or online at https://franklingiftcard.com/"

 

Shared from Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/109645590402552/posts/649671066399999/

gift cards a great way to shop locally

Get Wright Old School Chocolates at Christmas Fair Sat, Dec 11

Where do you #shopFranklin for chocolate? Wright Old School Chocolate is now available online or this Saturday in Foxboro: 

"Join us for Christmas with Grace: A Neighborhood Celebration. Bundle up and join us to experience Christmas through different time periods, an interactive experience of lights, music, and Christmas festivities! With activities for all ages, this celebration is sure to be added to your Christmas traditions year after year.

Guests will be able to explore at your own pace- strolling through Christmas scenes from different time periods, as well as an indoor marketplace to purchase some gifts while supporting local vendors. To ensure we prepare well for our guests, we encourage everyone to RSVP in advance, letting us know which timeframe you'll most likely join us for. There is no charge for admission, but we encourage everyone to bring spending money for the marketplace, as well as donations of men's winter hats and gloves to support our friends with LYNN Ministries, as they care for neighbors in need in Brockton. "

Register for this event (no free, COVID protocol's required)   https://www.grace.org/event/3858089-2021-12-11-christmas-with-grace--foxboro/

Listen to the Wright Old School  Chocolate Story ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/07/fm-577-inside-wright-old-school.html

Shop for Wright Chocolates online ->  https://wrightoldschoolchocolate.com/

Get Wright Old School Chocolates at Christmas Fair Sat, Dec 11

The 495/MetroWest Partnership reminds this is a good time to shop #MyLocalMA

The 495/MetroWest Partnership (@495Partnership) tweeted Wed, Nov 24, 2021:

"Whether on #BlackFriday, #SmallBusinessSaturday, or #CyberMonday, consider shopping, dining, and staying local in support of the outstanding retail stores, restaurants, and lodging throughout 495/MetroWest! #MyLocalMA https://t.co/nsUxdL0JeL"

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/495Partnership/status/1463532271739285508

And the best way to do this for Franklin is with the #ThinkFranklinFirst gift card.

• If you have a card, you can reload the value to buy more locally.
• Buy a gift card for someone to use locally. (See the merchant list where they are accepted -> https://franklingiftcard.com/participating-businesses)
• Don't forget that the nonprofits among us also could use a donation and #GivingTuesday is coming up on Nov 30

the best way to do this for Franklin is with the #ThinkFranklinFirst gift card

Peter Willis Photography - do your holiday photo gift shopping with Peter at Maks

Peter Willis Photography will be at Maks Roast Beef on Saturday, November 27 from 10 AM to 3 PM get your holiday shopping done! 

Can't make it to the event, you can still chat with Peter and place your order at https://www.peterwillisphotography.com anytime and get you favorite image delivered to your door.

Thank you in advance for your support!!!! 😃📸

https://www.peterwillisphotography.com/what-s-happening

Pete 

Peter Willis Photography 

https://www.peterwillisphotography.com/

Peter Willis Photography - do your holiday photo gift shopping

Franklin Newcomers - Changed Plans for Wednesday's meeting - Nov 10

Come join your friends and neighbors at the Franklin Newcomers & Friends Club monthly Meeting.  Meet us upstairs at "3" Restaurant on Wednesday, November 10 at 7:30. Typically we meet the 3rd Wednesday of the month at “3” . . .  however, we switched nights this month.

Last minute substitution!! We were scheduled to have a few members of the newly elected Town Council members speak, but their meeting has been postponed to the 10th – so we will reschedule them for sometime next year.

Terri Attinello, one of our members who also works at The Little Shop of Olive Oils, will speak about olive oil and balsamic vinegars – everything from history and cultural significance, health benefits, how to use and some fun facts. We will have some different oils and vinegars to sample. Complimentary appetizers and beverages will be served and a cash bar is available.

No need to be a newcomer to the area . . . and no need to RSVP.  Come join us and have fun while you make connections in your community.  We are a multi-generational club offering a wide range of activities for all ages with an emphasis on fun and camaraderie.  We are a member driven organization and are always excited to welcome new faces and new ideas.

Residents of Franklin, or any surrounding town that doesn't have a Newcomers Club, are welcome to join us the 3rdWednesday of the month.  We run our meetings September through May.  We also hold many fun and varied events throughout the year to stay connected.  We meet at “3” Restaurant, 461 W. Central Street, Franklin, upstairs in a private room.  

So come join us on the 3rdWednesday at “3”!

Look for us on our Meetup and Facebook pages for more information.
https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Newcomers-Friends
https://facebook.com/FranklinNewcomersFriendsClub 

Franklin Newcomers - Changed Plans for Wednesday's meeting - Nov 10

FM #566 - Talk Franklin - 06/11/21 "What's a giphy channel?" (audio)

FM #566 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 566 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my "Talk Franklin" conversation with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Marketing and Communications Specialist Anne Marie Tracey. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about: 

Pop Shop grants, one shop open, one coming soon

What’s a giphy channel?

 

Maple Hill ‘right of first refusal’ 

Public hearings, FinCom, Community Preservation Committee

Links to the key topics covered here are included in the show notes. The recording runs about 30 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie and Anne Marie.

** Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/62aec4ea-3cf1-42d2-b9c5-8d4ee2c92b65

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

Pop Shop Franklin

https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development/pages/pop-shop-franklin

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/06/first-pop-shop-franklin-site-opens-with.html 

Town Council agenda document folder

https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/6-9-21_town_council_agenda_1.pdf

The proposal summary and details on the 'right of first refusal' can be found in this document https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/mai/files/_maple_hill_rofr_open_space_update.pdf

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

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

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!

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

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

 

FM #566 - Talk Franklin - 06/11/21 "What's a giphy channel?" (audio)

MyFM103: Quest for the best - vote for your best selection

Please cast your ballots for your favorite Franklin businesses in the Myfm 101.3 contest!
https://myfmquestforthebest.com/vote/
#FDP
#buylocal
#questforthebest

Shared from Facebook:   https://facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/photos/a.256790157835460/1772609959586798/?type=3

Watch "We are Local - Love My Local MA" on YouTube

Whether it is #shopFranklin, #thinkFranklinFirst, #KeepItLocal, spending money in Franklin helps Franklin.

Direct link to video -> https://youtu.be/vaWHjnFWuV8

New business - CleanX Franklin opens for business

Proud to announce my new office cleaning business is up and running. CleanX Franklin is a local office cleaning business open Monday through Saturday. If you or anyone you know is in need of an office cleaning please contact us at cleanxfranklin@gmail.com

From their About page:  https://www.cleanxfranklin.com/

"Our mission at CleanX is simple: to provide high-quality services for our valued clients. Our team goes above and beyond to cater to each project’s specific needs. Through open communication and exceptional service, we hope you’ll find what you’re looking for with our Office Cleaning Service. For more information or general inquiries, get in touch today." 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/955635081150249/permalink/4108155262564866/

CleanX Franklin opens for business

Town of Franklin, MA: Pop Shop Franklin

Town of Franklin, MA (@TOFranklinMA) tweeted on Wed, May 12, 2021:

 

We are VERY excited to share our latest Economic Development project: Pop Shop Franklin! With RPP grant support from the @MassEOHED, we are securing two Downtown Franklin locations for small businesses to open POP UP SHOPS!

Interested? Learn more at https://t.co/jtyJz7eaqq 🎉🎉🎉

https://t.co/QSe6fQkWUl
 

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1392578802455388167?s=03

Pop Shop Franklin

https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development/pages/pop-shop-franklin