Medway Porchfest on Saturday, September 27 from 2 to 7 PM

Medway Porchfest on Saturday,
September 27 from 2 to 7 PM

Porchfest rocks the town of Medway this Saturday, September 27, from 2-7 PM at various local spots.

Visit the official site to explore the full list of performers and venues: https://medwayporchfest.org/

Heather talks about her journey developing b.Luxe and hair loss solutions (audio)

FM #1511 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1511 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Heather Cohen, owner of the b.Luxe Hair & Makeup Studio in Medway. We had our conversation at the Franklin TV & Radio Studio on Thursday, August 28, 2025. 

Heather Cohen, owner of the b.Luxe Hair & Makeup Studio

Heather lives in Franklin and is now personally specializing in solutions for hair loss as part of the studio services. Our conversation covered Heather’s road to the present time, hair stylist, opening her own studio in Medway in 2011, growing the studio, facing hair loss and researching, experimenting to find appropriate solutions. 

It was a fun and fascinating conversation.

The recording runs about 42 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1511-heather-cohen-her-bluxe-story-08-28-25/

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b.Luxe web page -> https://bluxe.com/ 

Hair loss solutions -> https://bluxe.com/hair-loss-solutions 

Studio Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/bluxehairandmakeup/ 

Heather’s Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/b.luxewigsandtoppers/

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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 out. 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"

6th Annual Medway Community Church Reach Out & Run 5k = Aug 23

Want to get a little exercise for a good cause, and get some free swag too?  

Register for the 6th Annual Medway Community Church Reach Out & Run 5k by 8/3 to get a free race t-shirt.  

6th Annual Medway Community Church
Reach Out & Run 5k = Aug 23

100% of race proceeds benefit the Franklin Food Pantry, Medway Village Food Pantry, and the Medway House Family Shelter. 

Runners, walkers, and strollers are all welcome, and we have a fun Kids Run too.

See you at the starting line!

Register -> https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Medway/ReachOutandRun5K

Do you know about the open gym fundraiser for the Children's Museum of Franklin, scheduled for Aug 15, 2025

Do you know about the open gym
fundraiser for the Children's Museum of
Franklin, scheduled for Aug 15, 2025

Join us for a fun afternoon of open gym play and the chance to get a sneak peak and help raise funds for The Children's Museum of Franklin!

Sign up with the link below!

https://store.unleashedbrands.com/the-little-gym/medwayma/schedule/class (Scroll down to find the fund raiser slot fo the Children's Museum)

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1A8HeJ32TX/

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy Announces Passing of House Budget

Investments Made Supporting Franklin and Medway

State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) announced key victories for Franklin, Medway, and the Commonwealth in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) House budget, a $61.47 billion spending plan focused on economic opportunity, education, housing, and transportation passed without new taxes. Representative Roy successfully advocated for targeted local investments and critical statewide initiatives through a series of budget amendments.

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy
Announces Passing of House Budget

"I was proud once again to deliver local aid to Franklin and Medway that will improve the lives of my constituents," said Representative Roy. "In these difficult times, I am grateful for the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano and Ways & Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz for making it all happen.

"The House's FY26 budget makes key investments that better support Massachusetts students and families, that increase access to affordable health care, and that provide for a safer and more reliable public transportation system - all without raising taxes. In a moment of incredible uncertainty at the federal level, our budget is proof that government can be both fiscally responsible and an agent of good, the kind of government that our residents deserve," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and the House Committee on Ways and Means for working diligently to craft a budget that delivers results for our constituents, as well as all my colleagues in the House for their valued input."

"This budget builds off the successes of the last few years by prioritizing our residents. Whether it is greater investments into programs like housing stability, public transportation, or early education these initiatives are a reflection of our shared values," said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). "By reinvesting in the people of the Commonwealth we will continue make our economy more competitive and equitable for years to come. I want to thank Speaker Mariano for his leadership during this budget process, as well as my Vice-Chairs Ann-Margaret Ferrante and Kipp Diggs, and the entire membership of the House for their thoughts and guidance over the last few months to make this a more successful and well-rounded budget."

Due to responsible fiscal management, the House's FY26 budget is balanced, and makes significant investments across several issue areas, without needing to include new taxes or tax increases nor drawing from the Stabilization Fund, which is set to reach $8.36 billion.

Representative Roy's local and statewide budget wins include:

Local Investments in Franklin and Medway

• $100,000 for the Franklin Performing Arts Company to support arts and cultural programming.

• $50,000 for the Children's Museum of Franklin to expand educational opportunities for local families.

• $50,000 for the Franklin Food Pantry and $50,000 for the Medway Village Food Pantry to fight food insecurity.

• $25,000 for the Medway Community Farm to support local agriculture.

• $25,000 for the Franklin Downtown Partnership to promote economic development in the heart of Franklin.

• $100,000 for the SAFE Coalition to support individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.

Local Investments in Franklin and Medway

Statewide Initiatives Led by Roy

• $500,000 for the Genocide Education Trust Fund to support curriculum and teacher training on genocide awareness in middle and high schools.

These amendments complement major statewide investments in the FY26 House budget, including:

• $7.1 billion in Chapter 70 school aid, with minimum $150 per pupil increases.

• $1.3 billion in Unrestricted General Government Aid to cities and towns.

 

• $450 million for the MBTA and $110 million for RTAs, alongside $40 million to launch the MBTA Academy.

• $94 million to make community college free and expanded financial aid and adult learner support.

• $275 million for Emergency Assistance shelters, and $258 million for rental vouchers to protect housing stability.

• $475 million for childcare provider grants and $15 million to reduce the waitlist for affordable child care.

Speaker Mariano and the House Committee on Ways & Means introduced their FY26 budget proposal on April 16, 2025, following a review of the Governor's proposal and a series of public hearings. The budget passed the House of Representatives 151-6 and now goes to the Senate for consideration.

The PDF press release from which this was copied can be found ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VFwWYNL8pPPCnuyq41thIXd7sfVaZpb4/view?usp=drive_link

Medway Pride Flag Raising - Choate Park - June 1

Medway Pride Flag Raising - Choate Park - June 1

"Save the date!

This year, there will be lots of new activities, including local vendors, artists, and a selfie wall.

Come celebrate PRIDE with us!"

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BCcgCN7Hr/

10th Norfolk District Debate - 10/08/24 between State Rep Jeff Roy & Charles Bailey (audio)

FM #1286 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1286 in the series. 

State Representative Jeff Roy met his challenger Charles Bailey in a debate on Tuesday October 8, 2024 at the Medway Middle School. The debate was arranged and hosted jointly by the Republican and Democratic Town Committees of both Medway and Franklin.

The debate was live streamed by Medway to their cable subscribers as well as to Facebook. Franklin likewise broadcast to their cable subscribers and to YouTube.

After a brief delay to allow for a technical issue to be resolved as well as the Medway Fire Chief to allow additional participants, as the room capacity (50) had been met, the debate began and lasted just about an hour.

The recording runs about 60 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1286-10th-norfolk-district-debate-10-08-24/

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The video replay can be found here -> https://www.youtube.com/live/Mw0u4rgg1rI?si=_qvFcdvOovhPHRIH&t=1105 

My notes taken during the debate and capture din one PDF thread via Twitter ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VtwlvEhZsEQzWDT0kARiMZ6EfbEg3ILl/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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!

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

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

10th Norfolk District Debate - 10/08/24 between State Rep Jeff Roy & Charles Bailey (audio)

10th Norfolk District (Franklin and Medway) Candidate Debate - Oct 8, 2024 at 7 PM

The 10th Norfolk District Candidate Debate is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct 8, 2024 at 7:00 PM. 

The candidates:

• Jeffrey Roy, Democratic Candidate
• Charles Bailey, Republican Candidate

DATE = OCTOBER 8, 2024

TIME = 7:00PM (DOORS OPEN 6:45)

LOCATION = Medway Middle School, Presentation Room, Door 7

The debate will be broadcast live on Medway Cable and Franklin TV, as well as Medway Facebook and Franklin YouTube, both with captions. All four platforms will have replays available.

The event is jointly sponsored by the

• Medway Republican Town Committee
• Medway Democratic Town Committee
• Franklin Republican Town Committee
• Franklin Democratic Town Committee

Download a copy of the flyer to share ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-j_p8NKYu3k9tEdulafdaVv7NlHheB2p/view?usp=drive_link

10th Norfolk District (Franklin and Medway) Candidate Debate  - Oct 8, 2024 at 7 PM

Splash pad at Choate Park opens this week

Splash Pad Update

Splash pad at Choate Park

The splash pad will begin its summer schedule TODAY, Monday, June 17th. The hours of operation are 11 AM - 5 PM, seven days a week (weather permitting). 

Please note, the splash pad will not be turned on inclement weather and if the forecasted daily temperature is below 75 degrees. The Parks and Recreation website (www.medwayparksrec.com) will be updated daily with posted hours at the top of the page when the splash pad is on. Have fun and enjoy the splash pad.

Town of Medway, MA Medway DPW

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/VWaBoKT7Xnqp89Yz/

Tri-County students help this Pirate Ship Come Ashore in Medway

Months of work and collaboration resulted in a plentiful supply of play structures for youngsters in nearby Medway, one of many collaborations between Tri-County students and community entities. In this case, members of our Carpentry Program completed easels, sinks and a two-story Pirate ship for use on the playground at McGovern Elementary School.

Carpentry students and instructor Mr. Mark Spillane were on hand to cut the ribbon

While our Carpentry students and instructor Mr. Mark Spillane were on hand to cut the ribbon earlier this week, other programs played a crucial and integral role in the project coming to fruition. Engineering students assisted with the plans and design ideas while our Plumbing students helped design faucets for the outdoor sinks. Finally, members of our Auto Technology program pitched in by repairing and servicing a trailer to transport the 1,500-pound wooden ship from Franklin to Medway. Understandably, the pirate ship has been the most popular attraction for McGovern students thus far.

Earlier this week, the entire McGovern Elementary School student body and its principal Ms. Amy McDonald gathered along with Medway Superintendent Dr. Armand Pires and Facility Director Mr. Michael Grennon. On hand accompanying Spillane were TC Superintendent Dr. Karen M. Maguire, School Committee member Tracy Stewart, Principal Dana M. Walsh and Vocational Director Pamela Olsen.

Since its founding in 1977, the mission of Tri-County's Regional Vocational Technical High School is to provide an excellent comprehensive technical and academic education to regional high school students. State-of-the-art technical skills and knowledge are enriched and complemented by a solid foundation of academic skills. Creative and cooperative partnerships between area employers and a dynamic staff at Tri-County guarantee the continued growth and development of exciting programs designed to prepare graduates for careers in the twenty-first century. The school proudly services the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole and Wrentham. For more, visit the school online at www.tri-county.us or any of our social media platforms.

Annual Report Of The Charles River Pollution Control District - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

During Fiscal Year 2021, the Charles River Pollution Control District’s (District) regional advanced wastewater treatment facility received and treated approximately 1,693 million gallons (4.63 million gallons per day) of raw wastewater, including 9.6 million gallons of septage from the District’s member and customer towns before discharge to the Charles River.

As part of the District’s infiltration and inflow program, the District inspected the Mine Brook Interceptor Subsystem, which included inspecting 99 manholes, and performing closed-circuit television camera (CCTV) and multi-sensor inspections of 28,400 linear feet of pipe for signs of infiltration and inflow. Repair work is scheduled to be completed during FY 2022.

In late 2015, the District entered into a Power Purchase Agreement to receive net-metering credits from a solar array in Carver, Massachusetts. The array has been online since December 2015 and to- date the District has received over $420,000 in net- metering credits.

The District’s Fiscal Year 2022 budget is 1.9% higher than the previous years’ budget. The District’s FY 2022 budget for operations and maintenance is $3,814,850, while the capital projects budget is $2,262,900. Franklin’s share of the operation and maintenance and capital projects budgets are estimated to be $2,103,960 and $1,272,840, respectively.

For more information on the District please check out our website at https://www.charlesriverpcd.org/.

Respectively submitted

Douglas M. Downing, Chairman (Medway) 

David Formato, Vice Chairman (Franklin) 

Mark Cataldo, Clerk (Franklin)

Michael Callahan (Medway) 

Wolfgang Bauer (Franklin)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD) Officers:

Elizabeth Taglieri, P.E., Executive Director 

John D. Foster, Treasurer

Barbara Maffeo, Executive Secretary

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

MA Public Health reminds us to practice self-care and support your mental health; Boston announces pilot program

"It's more important than ever to practice self-care and support your mental health. Relax, stay socially connected at a safe distance, and take a deep breath. 

If you're in a crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. #StopSuicide" https://t.co/745s6GoH8i

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MassDPH/status/1440380331077496835?s=03

Mass. Public Health reminds us to practice self-care and support your mental health

Franklin participates in a grant program with Medway to implement this support for 911 calls and now Boston is starting a pilot program.

"Amid a nationwide push to rethink policing strategies and reduce the use of force when possible, a new Boston program seeks to scale back police involvement in 911 mental-health calls.

Last month, Acting Mayor Kim Janey announced a pilot program encouraging greater use of mental-health workers, EMTs and trained community members during 911 mental health calls. In a city that received 10,000 such calls last year, officials are seeking to de-escalate fragile mental-health interactions while easing the strain on police resources.

“This mental-health response will help us evaluate how to deliver the best possible response for our residents when they are in crisis,” Janey said during an Aug. 5 press conference. “These investments will help connect residents and their families with the care they need. They will also help us send officers to where they are needed most.”

Continue reading online 
https://www.mma.org/boston-launches-pilot-program-to-address-911-mental-health-calls/

Grant announced in 2018
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/08/franklin-and-medway-police-receive-jail.html

Franklin Police in its Annual Report section for 2020 touted the program

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/08/franklin-annual-report-2020-police.html 

Sad news from TC Scoops

Via TC Scoops 

"It is with a broken heart that I need to inform you that tomorrow, June 30th, will be our last day in operation at the Medway Shopping Plaza.  After nearly 10 years, the owner has decided suddenly, unexpectedly and, in my opinion, unnecessarily not to renew my lease after a month of attempting to come to an agreement.  Even as of last Friday it seemed like we were going to be able to come to some sort of arrangement, to no avail.

Thank you for all of your support over the years, you have all made me happy and proud to be part of the Medway community.

We will be operating out of the ice cream bus as much as possible, and will regularly post here as to where you can find it.

If you would like to tell ownership how you feel about this decision, feel free to call the home office at 617 227-0893 or email the plaza manager at jgriffin@dfi.cc.

We will end up on our feet, sometime, somewhere so until then adios!"

Shared from their Facebook post ->   https://www.facebook.com/tcscoops/posts/4460399980650218

Facebook page for TC Scoops  https://www.facebook.com/tcscoops/

Web page https://tcscoops.com/index.html

Sad news from TC Scoops