Franklin Downtown Partnership Names Jenna Reilly Executive Director

The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jenna Reilly as its new Executive Director. With almost 20 years of experience leading retail operations, driving strategic growth, and creating community-centered experiences, Reilly brings a combination of entrepreneurial leadership, business development expertise, and a deep commitment to fostering a vibrant, connected community.

Reilly joined the FDP as a business member in 2026 after co-founding Book a Break, a Franklin-based company that creates themed, multi-day literary retreats. Before launching Book a Break, Reilly built a long retail career with Tiffany & Co. in Massachusetts, New York and Texas. Most recently, she served as Store Director in Providence, where she was selected to help revitalize the business. Her leadership included strategic planning, team development, client engagement and events that attracted new audiences and drove record-setting results. She previously led the Chestnut Hill location, delivering sustained growth and cultivating a culture centered on service and employee engagement.

“Jenna brings an entrepreneurial mindset and business development expertise to identify new opportunities, increase the Partnership’s impact on downtown development and create even greater value for our FDP members,” said Scott Martin, President of the Franklin Downtown Partnership Board of Directors. “As we welcome Jenna, we also extend our deepest gratitude to our recently retired executive director, Lisa Piana. Throughout her remarkable 22-year tenure, Lisa was a passionate and tireless advocate for downtown Franklin. She was instrumental in growing our signature events to new heights and advancing downtown development in countless ways. The strong foundation she built will continue to shape our work for years to come.”

A Franklin resident for the past five years, Reilly lives in town with her husband and their two children. Her family has enjoyed FDP traditions including community festivals and the Ladybug Trail, giving her firsthand appreciation for the Partnership’s role in making downtown Franklin welcoming and vibrant.

“The sense of community here is something special, and it is in large part shaped by the thoughtful programming and events led by the Franklin Downtown Partnership. Experiencing events like the Strawberry Stroll and Harvest Festival has not only deepened my connection to the town, but also reinforced how impactful well-executed, community-driven initiatives can be in bringing people together and supporting local businesses. The opportunity to contribute to and grow that impact is incredibly meaningful to me,” Reilly said.

As Executive Director, Reilly will help build on FDP’s signature programming, strengthen relationships with local businesses and community partners, and identify new opportunities to support a thriving downtown. Her appointment comes during the Partnership’s 25th anniversary year, a milestone that offers an opportunity to celebrate FDP’s history while looking ahead to its next chapter.

“I’m very excited to serve the Partnership in this new capacity,” Reilly said. “This milestone year is a wonderful time to reflect on all that has been accomplished and to build thoughtfully on that strong foundation. I’m honored to help create positive impact in the years ahead.”

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, green space, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Franklin TV: A Message from Liz Harkins, Executive Director

"I’m excited and honored to serve as the new Executive Director of Franklin TV and WFPR-FM. We have an incredible foundation to build on, thanks to the vision and dedication of our Board of Directors and the work of Pete Fasciano in establishing a strong infrastructure for our community media organization.

There are many exciting things ahead! We’re expanding opportunities for residents, businesses, volunteers, and local creators to get involved—whether you’re interested in television, radio, production, or simply being part of the Franklin community.

Want to get involved or have an idea for a TV or radio program? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us at info@franklin.tv or call 508-541-4118.

 

Come meet the team, tour our studios, and discover all that Franklin TV and WFPR-FM have to offer.

Thank you for watching Franklin TV, listening to WFPR-FM, and staying connected with Franklin News."

— Liz Harkins

Executive Director, 

Franklin TV & WFPR-FM

Contiune to read about what's happen at the Studio, the TV & radio schedules.

Download the program guide for this week.  https://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

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Join Us for an Afternoon of Community & Connection!

  

Franklin residents and businesses are invited to join us for an afternoon of food, music, fun, and community! The Block Party kicks off at 3:00 PM—come hungry and enjoy great food, good tunes, and all the fixings.

Take a tour of our studios, meet the Franklin TV & WFPR-FM team, and discover how you can get involved in local media and community programming. Bring your friends, bring your appetite, and come celebrate community with us!

Franklin TV: Meet Liz Harkins

The Changing of the Guard

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 08/09/2026

When I began work at freshly formed Franklin.TV I knew I had a big hill to climb. Looking outward from atop these last 14 years of great growth and service, it’s a comfort to know that we’re in good shape – in all respects.

Now the time has come to pass the torch. From now until the end of the year I will be passing my responsibilities as Franklin.TV’s Executive Director to Liz Harkins. She is very experienced, amply qualified and capable, and will bring her forward-looking vision of community media service to Franklin.

The masthead above says, ‘Meet Liz Harkins’. That’s my recommendation. She’s here every day. Call the studio and arrange a personal ‘Hello and welcome aboard’.

In the weeks ahead I will be transferring (inflicting?) the many day-to-day tasks and responsibilities to Liz that the work entails. One such task that I will surely miss – writing these words – every single week. (A personal joy and privilege.)

Next week we post our 3rd legal notice regarding our Annual Open Board Meeting that takes place here at the studio on Saturday, August 29th.

On August 23, Liz will bring her own voice and vision to these pages. The words I wrote in my initial posting follow on the next page.

They ring true today as they did then – for progress never ends.

And – as always –

Thank you for watching. 

Thanks for listening to wfpr●fm,

and staying informed at Franklin●news.

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Making Progress !

Pete Fasciano, a/k/a “The New Guy”  8/24/2012

Somewhere back in the early days of TV I remember General Electric’s tag line:

“Progress is Our Most Important Product.”

As a youngster, I pondered how a company goes about manufacturing progress. Solid or liquid? Do they sell progress by the bag or barrel? Is progress portable?

I hope so.

I’d like to pack some with me wherever I go (because you just never know).

In my time, I’ve tackled many projects. My latest is Franklin TV. I’m The New Guy. If memory serves, you have to be The New Guy for at least a year. Perhaps I should put that on my business card. – Pete Fasciano, New Guy. That said, I must say that I can’t recall a time when I’ve been welcomed into a community so warmly with open arms. Clearly, Franklin has a soft spot for new guys. That’s just one among many good things I’m learning about Franklin, and why this is a truly great town. The consistent support that I’ve gotten from local folks has been most gratifying. While tackling all that must be done to make Franklin TV successful, I’m also gratified that real progress is being made. We are improving our technical facility now and all through the next year. We have a new website. It will also see progress in the days ahead. We are launching a Franklin Radio service as well.

That’s solid progress.

One More Thing !

Pete Fasciano, Executive Director

Our schedules are about to get a facelift. Later this month we’re going to be rearranging our schedules a bit. Our goal is to make our programming day more consistent across the week and (hopefully) make it easier for you to know when certain types of programs should be on – music, sports, etc. We’ll be moving some programs around to see how it all looks.

It’s a bit like furniture. Does everything look like it’s in the right place? At least, programs are much lighter than furniture. No heavy lifting. In the end, we hope that (like furniture) you find our schedule to be comfy, functional and inviting.

And, thanks for watching!

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

Hockomock Area YMCA Promotes Two Leaders, Names New Executive Director at Bernon Family Branch in Franklin

L-R: Scott Martin, Jen Doherty and Jim Downs

The Hockomock Area YMCA has announced two leadership promotions, recognizing the contributions of long-time YMCA staff leaders Scott Martin and Jen Doherty at its Bernon Family Branch in Franklin.

After more than thirteen years of leadership at the Franklin Y, Scott Martin will transition to the role of Vice President of Enterprise Strategy & Risk for the Hockomock Area YMCA. In this role, he will help guide key strategic initiatives and support the organization’s continued growth and community impact across the 16 communities it serves.  

“Scott’s thoughtful leadership and steady presence have made a lasting impact on members, volunteers, and colleagues alike in the Franklin community where he lives and works,” said Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “In his new role, Scott will continue to play an important part in strengthening the YMCA’s ability to serve communities across our association and advancing enterprise-wide strategic initiatives in the areas of risk management, marketing, membership & sales, technology, and project management.”

Stepping into the role of Branch Executive Director in Franklin is Jen Doherty, who has served as Associate Executive Director in Franklin and has been part of the YMCA team since 2011.

During her YMCA career, Doherty has held several leadership positions for the past thirteen years, including Membership Experience Director and Senior Member Experience Director at the Invensys Foxboro Branch, before joining the Franklin leadership team. Her experience and commitment to the YMCA mission have helped strengthen member engagement, staff development, and community partnerships.

“Jen is a respected leader who understands the YMCA’s mission and the important role the Bernon Family Branch plays in the Franklin community and beyond,” Downs added. “Her leadership, dedication, and connection to our members, staff, and volunteers position her exceptionally well to guide the branch into the future.”

Doherty expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to continue serving the Franklin community. “I’m honored to step into this role and continue working with the incredible staff, volunteers, members, and community partners who make the YMCA such a special place,” said Doherty. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation created under Scott’s leadership, enhancing Y programs and services to support emerging needs, and expanding opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.” 

About the Hockomock Area YMCA:

No Place Like This Place. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.  

The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 16 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

Franklin Downtown Partnership Executive Director Celebrates 22 Years & Early Retirement

After 22 years of leading the Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP), Executive Director Lisa Piana will be taking early retirement to spend more time with her family.

  

“I feel that this is the right time as the FDP celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year,” Piana said.

 

Lisa Piana

The FDP’s mission is to stimulate economic development in downtown in order to create a positive impact throughout the area, as well as to be a proactive organization that brings residents, business owners and community leaders together, encourages cooperation, and builds leadership to revitalize downtown Franklin. 

Under Piana’s leadership the FDP member base has grown from 25 members to nearly 300 today.

Longtime FDP President, Scott Martin said, “Lisa has had a strong impact and is a passionate leader. She’s a strong advocate and has built relationships with town council, administrators at both the town and state level, and with retailers. She always is thinking not only what’s best for downtown, but what’s best for Franklin as a whole.”

“She is one of the most creative people I have worked with,” Martin added. “Where there’s a challenge or opportunity, she doesn’t see just one solution. She can think of three or four different angles. She sees opportunities everywhere.”

Years of Collaboration

Piana’s first major project as Executive Director was working with Marini Construction who developed Franklin Commons and the building where Birchwood Bakery is located.

“It was really important to work with the developers early in their proposal so we could include green spaces in their planning,” Piana said. The FDP and the town convinced Marini to include the patio on Summer Street and on East Central Street where the bakery now has outdoor seating.

Another early project was the design of the Historical Museum’s green space including the straw hat boy bronze sculpture. The sculpture reflects Franklin’s important history of manufacturing straw hats.

 

In 2021 Piana led the downtown art mural projects in three separate alleyways by reaching out to the local artists from the Franklin Art Association for their talents. 

She is credited with creating The Ladybug Cultural & Historical Trail in the Cultural District in 2022. The trail consists of 2-foot-wide fiberglass ladybugs, painted by local artists, from a 2019 Cultural Council project. The ladybugs are tucked among buildings, art murals, and historic points of interest in downtown. 

The Ladybug Trail is a good example of collaboration with FDP members and so many organizations. The committee consisted of Town Council members, Franklin Garden Club, Cultural District Committee, Franklin Art Association, and the Franklin Historical Museum.

She has been involved in overseeing more than 40 community events in her time with the FDP.  Back in 2005 the signature events – Strawberry Stroll and Harvest Festival – were small events with just a few hundred attendees. Today each event brings in close to 10,000 visitors from Franklin and surrounding towns.

Volunteers are vital to the FDP and how these community events and projects get completed. “There are so many talented and generous people in Franklin,” Piana explained. “Volunteers are the key to the FDP’s success throughout the years.”

 

“Lisa is very team-oriented,” said Michael Carroll, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications Officer at Dean Bank. “She’s always inclusive and collaborative giving credit to the group rather than the individual. She’s always been good that way. I think any good leader does that.”  

 

Under Piana’s leadership the FDP helped downtown businesses get through some challenging times including the major Streetscape project in 2016 and then COVID a few years later. “People often forget how the sidewalks and roads were torn up and in some cases you couldn’t even get in the front doors of some of the downtown businesses. Business owners were just trying to stay afloat and then it happened again when COVID hit,” Piana explained.

She points to her dedicated Board of Directors over the years for the many downtown successes.  “Without the leadership of people like Scott Martin, FDP President, and Roberta Trahan, FDP Vice President, we would not have been able to accomplish all that we have done. There are so many community leaders that have given hundreds of hours of their time. It’s what makes Franklin so special,” she said.

Reflecting Back

What is she most proud of? “One of the things I’m most proud of is the collaboration that the FDP has with so many community leaders and organizations.” She explained, “I think when you have everyone working together for a common goal that’s really how things get done. It’s rewarding to see projects completed year after year, and the goals become reality.”

The Franklin Downtown Partnership has worked to enable new businesses to open while supporting the established businesses. Shops are thriving due to shared promotions and events, networking, and strong social media.  Downtown now has a dynamic mix of eateries, gift shops, pubs and entertainment. 

What is most clear when talking with Piana is her passion for the downtown. “I love my job. I get to work with amazing leaders, volunteers, and small businesses. It has truly been a dream job.” 

Reflecting on her tenure, Piana said the downtown has changed dramatically, but the Partnership’s goals have pretty much stayed the same. “We’re still focused on our mission to continue with the revitalization and economic development of the downtown. Every time we finish one project another is presented to us. Our work is never done.” 

She feels that this is a good time to pass the baton. “I’m excited to spend more time with my family, travel and restart my art career. I will stay involved. It is in my DNA,” she laughed.

Piana’s last day as Executive Director will be April 30th. She will remain on staff for the rest of the year to guide the new executive director and work on special projects. And she will continue to promote the downtown every chance she gets.  

The Franklin Downtown Partnership, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org

MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau Announces New Executive Director

The MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau (MBVB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Stacey David as their new Executive Director. Ms. David most recently served as Deputy Director of the Bureau, and previously served as a Board member for the organization, representing the arts and culture sector.

“We are so excited to have Stacey David as the new ED at the Visitors Bureau,” the MBVB Board of Directors said in a statement. “Stacey is such a strong leader and has already shown how she plans to positively impact the organization's effectiveness, visibility, and ability to promote the local area as a tourist destination. We are excited to watch her guide the Bureau to success by providing clear direction, building a strong team, and adapting to the evolving landscape of tourism.”

The MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau promotes travel and tourism throughout the 19 towns of the MetroWest region, which includes Ashland, Bellingham, Framingham, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Hudson, Marlborough, Medway, Milford, Millis, Natick, Northborough, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, and Westborough. Affiliated with the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT), the MBVB conducts a number of marketing and advertising campaigns each year to draw both domestic and international visitors into the region, as well as enticing tour groups and meeting planners to consider MetroWest as a destination. The Bureau’s membership includes hotels, restaurants, area attractions, arts and cultural organizations, and retail establishments, all of which are promoted through the annual Visitors Guide and marketing campaigns.

“I am delighted to take over the helm of the Visitors Bureau,” Ms. David said, “and look forward to continuing the great work we started this year. We are continuing to expand our marketing and advertising programs, which include both ads and editorial coverage in Yankee magazine, Down East, Rhode Island Monthly, New Hampshire magazine, and Connecticut magazine, all of which highlight the amazing things to see and do in MetroWest. We launched a beautiful new Visitors Guide this summer, which can be found on our website as well as in visitor information booths all over New England. In conjunction with our partner tourism councils, we are working on a huge PR campaign as well as a digital marketing campaign. We have expanded our website, and will continue to do so, and hope that both residents and visitors see us as a resource for exploring MetroWest.”

MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau Announces New  Executive Director

Now that businesses are starting to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Bureau has once again offered paid memberships that include a variety of benefits.

“We see ourselves as a partner to our members who can provide a wide variety of marketing and promotional assistance at a fraction of the cost were they to undertake the same campaigns on their own. Our members can participate in co-op advertising programs and other initiatives with very little investment on their part, either financially or through human resources. We love having engaged members because there are so many ways we can promote them.”

Residents and visitors can access the Bureau’s regional events calendar, attraction listings, and the Visitors Guide online at www.metrowestvisitors.org. Businesses interested in more information on the Bureau, membership, and current marketing initiatives should email Stacey David at sdavid@metrowestvisitors.org. 

Addressing Hate in School Sports Statement from the MIAA and M.A.S.S - Addressed to School Superintendents

An Update from Executive Director Robert Baldwin
Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA)

 

"We are all deeply troubled by the dis-regulated behaviors that continue to occur in interscholastic athletics, our schools and in our communities. We know you join us in taking very seriously our responsibility to help instill in student athletes a commitment to behaving with the utmost respect and dignity.

Over the past two years in particular, our country has begun a profound reckoning on race and racism. Many of our schools and districts are grappling with these topics and striving to be more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. MASS and the
MIAA are committed to engaging deeply in this work, too - so that we can make a difference in eradicating racism and all other forms of bias and hatred.

One of the greatest benefits of interscholastic sports is the opportunity to meet and interact with students from other communities and backgrounds. It is essential that students and adults approach those interactions with respect and civility. We believe we have a significant opportunity to begin placing greater emphasis on some of our other core responsibilities - particularly educational athletics, which includes sportsmanship and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

On December 8, over 400 district leaders (superintendents, principals and athletic directors) participated in the Addressing Hate in School Sports Conference hosted by the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office at the TD Garden. We are ready to initiate the next phase of this comprehensive plan with 13 regional trainings across Massachusetts. The two½ day trainings will be held on Friday and Saturday dates between March and May of this school year.

To be successful, a district training, comprised of a team of Superintendent, High School Principal, and Athletic Director that lead with one clear message regarding norms and expectations for behavior all sports programs, is imperative. The program delivered by the Northeastern Center for the Study of Sport in Society is designed to help this leadership team be better prepared to set the tone and expectations of your program to prevent incidents of bias, harassment, and discrimination - and to respond effectively to incidents when they do arise.

An email with the link to register for these trainings will be sent to you the week following February vacation. As superintendent for your district, you will be responsible for formally registering up to three district staff - preferably yourself, your High School Principal, and your Athletic Director - for attendance at one regional training. We are grateful for your leadership in encouraging your district's staff to prioritize attendance at these important trainings.

Let's begin the task of eradicating hate and bias to ensure that no one engaged in interscholastic athletics feels disrespected, unsafe, or unwelcome - on or off the playing fields. We believe that a united leadership utilizing the platform of interscholastic athletics can permeate our schools, communities, and society."

Addressing Hate in School Sports Statement from the MIAA and M.A.S.S

Recap: Franklin Housing Authority meeting 2/07/22

Quick recap:

• The Franklin Housing Authority met on Monday, Feb 7 at 4:30 PM in the community room at Central Park terrace
• Key item - waiting list has over 8 thousand individuals, only 300 odd are from Franklin. It is good t have Franklin a desirable community but we need more housing
• The four units out of service from the fire in 2021 may be back online in March. Currently empty units being filled as applicants are vetted and arrangements confirmed
• Revenue up over this time last year, attributed to better management of rental payments coordinating with residents on the timing of the Social Security funds, etc.
• Director contract extended for 5 year term using current contract language. The DHCD template is in court being challenged on some of the provisions  and the resolution is not anticipated any time soon. Hence, the renewal of the current contract terms

 

Twitter thread of notes taken during meeting listed below

Audio of the meeting to be available in couple of days

• Franklin Housing Authority meeting underway, recording in process, assuming gremlins are kept at bay, recording will be available in day or so #fha0207
• Meeting agenda here -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/events/fha_2-7-22.pdf #fha0207
• Over 8K on waiting list for housing, 315 local residents on listing. #fha0207 revenue up about $11k year to date with 11 vacancies, 4 related to fire, a couple of units coming to use this week.
• A TV unit is on in the background for resident use, hopefully won't mess with the recording too much. #fha0207
• Motion to accept director report, second, next meeting March 7 (keeping it to Weds) motion as amended passes unanimously. #fha0207 motion to accept operation statement, seconded, auditor doing ok, passes unanimously.
• No CPC update, anything under old business? No. Checking on other listings per agenda. Furnace replacement. Amount of bids exceed DHCD award to date but trying to adjust to fit within or increase accordingly #fha0207 board approval pending DHCD funding for 9 units - passes
• Winter St emergency boiler replacement project #fha0207 may need to add a temporary unit to keep things going while replacement underway, expecting bids this week, have expedite approval motion approved unanimously
• Tenant board member to fill the next vacant seat, working with Town Clerk and tenants to communicate and prepare accordingly, tenants would file application, be reviewed by Town Administrator, and ultimately approved by Town Council #fha0207
• Ethics and DHCD training mandatory but board member is optional for tenant members #fha0207
• Mgt agreement with Norfolk, value of contract increases, approval for $66k, Norfolk Board also to approve, passes unanimously, Board can approve allowance of 30% for executive for mgt of contract, approved unanimously; prior salary based upon 39.5 hours, #fha0207 5% increase on base per DHCD, first since 2017, motion to approve as allowed by DHCD, unanimously
• Litigation regarding the DHCD template, looking to extend current agreement for Lisa for 5 years, rather than use the new template; no resolution likely to DHCD template anytime soon; best option to extend for now #fha0207 specific motion to be read in
• Motion read, moved, second, passes unanimously; motion to adjourn, passes unanimously #fha0207 That's all for tonight catch you next time!

The Twitter thread can also be found in one PDF

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ORrbvLxd9uE1zgWPf8qu9EtwW-NPt5N8/view?usp=sharing

Franklin Housing Authority

Introductory conversation with the new Senior Center leadership team - 01/26/22 (audio)

FM #713 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 713 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Danielle Hopkins. the new Director for the Franklin Senior Center and Christina LaRose, the new Deputy Director.  We talk about their first couple of weeks in their new roles at the Senior Center. 

You’ll hear how each of them came to this role and from their backgrounds how well they are fitting together. Much learning and listening underway with good ideas for reopening the café and then adjusting/expanding programs to meet the needs of the community.

The recording runs about 18 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Danielle and Christina. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-714-introductory-conversation-with-the-new-senior-center-leadership-team-01-26-22

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Franklin Senior Center https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc

Senior Center Connections newsletter  https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-senior-center/pages/connection-newsletter

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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

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"

 

Introductory conversation with the new Senior Center leadership team - 01/26/22 (audio)

Recap: Senior Center new Director and Deputy introduced to Council on Aging (audio)

Recap:

• Town Administrator Jamie Hellen introduced the new Senior Center Director Danielle Hopkins and Deputy Director Christina LaRose to Council on Aging
• First day was yesterday and they are back so that is good. Christina to primarily handle day to day, Danielle to focus on personnel, long term planning Lots to do
• Posted for chef and deputy chef, not likely to fulfill until late Feb/Mar so cafe will be down for a period. Looking to bring back and improve things when they do
• Assessment of programs which are working and should continue, which are not and maybe stop; survey to gather input on wants/needs
• Redefine the role of the Council, had not been part of the program process before, would like to be more than 'rubber stamp' approval; next COA meeting to look into the COA scope, mission, etc. Need to have full COA membership involved
• Friends of Franklin Elders would like accounting for what they have provided and look to help as things go forward
• "best meeting since I've been on the board"

Meeting agenda =>   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/untitled_document.pdf

Link to Council on Aging (including membership) -> https://www.franklinma.gov/council-aging

Audio file ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-697-fsc-council-on-aging-01-11-22

• Ready for live reporting of the #coa0111 Council on Aging meeting about to begin
• Town administrator Jamie Hellen arrives and meeting commences. Introduces new Senior Center director Danielle Hopkins. Deputy director Christina LaRoche also introduced. They provide their background #coa0111
• Correction LaRose not LaRoche #coa0111
• Round of intros of attendees, only folks on Zoom had appeared to be nefarious folks and removed. #coa0111
• Deputy director added to senior center to bring alignment with other town Dept. Had been gradually building budget with part-time resources #coa0111
• Christina to primarily handle day to day, Danielle to focus on personnel, long term planning, etc #coa0111 Yesterday was first day on job, so getting a feel for it
• Job posted yesterday for chef and kitchen manager. Will take time to fulfill role. #coa0111 cleaning was done, broken furniture taken care of, additional inspection of equipment while 'down time' is here.
• Desire for better accounting on the ins/outs. Likely not reopening until later Feb/Mar. Kitchen folks had not been part of the tax work off program, looking for better volunteer structure. #coa0111 pandemic is major factor for cafe operations
• Tri-county maybe more formally helping to support the food service, how about the public schools? They already serve the students with 10 kitchens, this could be "1" more. At leverage where possible the ops program they have with weekend backpack for students ...
• Seniors have food needs on the weekend also. #coa0111 had been only 'rubber stamping' ops, would like to be more involved in programming, and then communications, and plans for execution. COA is rather loose.
• Some things work, some things not so well, there are a lot of opinions; need to survey and assess to plan accordingly. Statement on COA read, motion to redefine at next meeting, second, passes (not sure of #) #coa0111
• New office will work with COA to determine agenda, gets posted to Town page, and then shared via all channels. GATRA is only one of many topics that can use help in getting the word out. Some use phone, internet, computer, others don't #coa0111
• Printed copies made available at stores, etc. Where possible and made aware of. #coa0111 Friends needs feedback on gifts to Senior Center, provided gift cards at Christmas for distribution. Who got them? Tri-county did print work for COA, newsletter etc.
• Friends have more than $49k to help support operations. Annual fund raising generally gets $25k (+/-). Need to do labels for this year's mailing. #coa0111 "best meeting since I've been on the board"
• Need all members engaged in the scope discussion at the next meeting #coa0111 reinforce the sign in process to ensure better counts
• Motion to adjourn, second, passes #coa0111

Recap: Senior Center new Director and Deputy introduced to Council on Aging (audio)

Franklin Council on Aging - Meeting Agenda - Jan 11, 2022 - 10 AM

Franklin Council on Aging - Meeting Agenda

Jan 11, 2022 = 10:00 AM

Meeting will be held at the Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street

1. Call to order; 10:00 a.m.

2. Minutes of last meeting

3. Introductions of new Director and Deputy Director

4. Common Grounds Cafe update

5. Role of the Council on Aging

a. General Role of the COA

b. Senior Center five year strategic Plan

6. FOFE Liason Report

7. Chairperson’s Comments

8. Citizen’s Comments

9. Adjournment

Next Meeting - Feb 8, 2022

Agenda doc with remote connection option ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/untitled_document.pdf

Franklin Council on Aging - Meeting Agenda - Jan 11, 2022 - 10 AM

FM #576 - Erin Rogers, Senior Center Special Events Outlook for Jul/Aug - 06/23/21 (audio)

FM #576 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 576 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Erin Rogers. Erin is currently the Executive Director for the Franklin Senior Center.  She replaced Karen Alves when Karen retired last year.

We talk about her transition to Executive Director in the middle of COVID-19. We talk about the variety of special events and activities scheduled for July and August. The regular event calendar with specific dates and time details can be found on the Senior Center page..

The recording runs about 21 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Erin.

*** Audio file ->  https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1cadc538-2a63-4c09-bdca-5f1fa091979f

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Franklin Senior Center https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc

Senior Center Connections newsletter  https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-senior-center/pages/connection-newsletter

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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

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"

 

Erin Rogers, Senior Center Special Events Outlook for Jul/Aug

Spring Update From Franklin Food Pantry - Tina Powderly

Letter From Tina

As I wrap up my first month as the new Executive Director for The Pantry, I want to say hello and share some updates with you. First, I’m overwhelmed with the generosity and spirit of this community. As a Board member, I was of course aware of Franklin’s magnanimity but now having the opportunity to see it daily, I’m in awe by all you do for our neighbors. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

The Pantry is busier than ever as we enter our second year of the “new normal.” In 2020, we saw almost 20% more households than in 2019; 34% of those new faces were children.  We met this need in a variety of ways:  

Tina Powderly

• Twice weekly drive- up distribution, providing shelf stable foods, fresh produce and protein options.  
• Choice Tables, set up on nice weather days (yes they are coming!) where neighbors select additional hard to come by items.   
• Weekly Weekend Backpack Program for all Franklin elementary and middle schools, helping students who face food insecurity over the weekend.   
• New home delivery program for neighbors who weren’t able to visit us due to Covid-19.

We are hard at work planning our reimagined spring and summer events like the annual Empty Bowls and Party for the Pantry. Both events will happen – please see below for details!

As a largely volunteer-based organization, we continue to look for creative ways to engage our volunteers safely. We are grateful to our current bag assemblers, distributers, home delivery and mobile pantry drivers and truck unloaders. If you are a volunteer and haven’t been back yet, please know that we can’t wait to have you back and will be in touch as capacity restrictions loosen.  And to the many new folks who are interested in volunteering – we hope to open up new opportunities soon as well.  

Finally, we continue working on opening our new building at 138 East Central Street. Our architect and engineer are in the midst of designing a Pantry that will positively impact the Franklin community for many years.   New building updates are on our website.  

If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to contact me (tpowderly@franklinfoodpantry.org). 

 
With so much thanks and appreciation,

Tina Powderly
Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry  

 

New building updates can be found https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/new-building-updates/

 

 

Changes at the Franklin Food Pantry

Greetings!

We hope this email finds you well and you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. Life at The Pantry remains as busy as ever as we continue to provide our neighbors with fresh fruit and vegetables, proteins, and shelf-stable items. We are so grateful for your continued support over the past year, we could not continue to do the good work we do without you. While things may look a little different at The Pantry right now, our community is still such an important part of our organization and we wanted to share some internal changes with you.

We are pleased to announce that the Chair of the Board of Directors, Tina Powderly, will become our Executive Director and that Lynn Calling will move to the newly created position of Director of Development and Community Engagement. 

Tina Powderly

In her new role, Lynn will be spending her time on the new building Capital Campaign as well as work more closely with the individuals, groups and corporations who contribute to our mission. Tina will be responsible for the day-to-day Pantry operations and long-term strategic goals. Besides Tina’s move, our Board will remain the same with our current Treasurer, Jim Roche serving as the Interim Chair. These changes will take effect on March 1, 2021.

While this past year has been a challenge, we are proud of how we have continued to serve our neighbors. We surprised our neighbors with restaurant and supermarket gift cards, fresh flowers, special treats, and a choice table. We instituted weekly kids bags for families during the pandemic and still were able to do our annual Thanksgiving and winter holiday distribution. We continued a twice weekly drive-up distribution service so that even during the darkest days of the pandemic, our neighbors did not go hungry.

If you have any questions about The Pantry or just want to say hello, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at either: Tina Powderly or Lynn Calling. We look forward to a bright future and a reimagined Pantry!

Regards,

Tina Powderly and Lynn Calling 
Franklin Food Pantry

• Tina's email => tpowderly@franklinfoodpantry.org
• Lynn's email => lcalling@franklinfoodpantry.org

Changes at the Franklin Food Pantry