MassMEP Awarded $2.93 Million in NIST MEP Cooperative Agreement to Support Massachusetts Manufacturers in FY 2026

MassMEP, the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership, announced today that it has been awarded the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Cooperative Agreement for Massachusetts for Fiscal Year 2026, totaling $2.9 million. The award coincides with MassMEP’s 30th year of service supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers throughout the Commonwealth.

As part of the national NIST MEP Network, MassMEP delivers high-impact consulting, training, and technical assistance designed to improve manufacturers’ competitiveness, profitability, and resilience. The FY 2026 cooperative agreement enables MassMEP to continue helping manufacturers strengthen their topline growth, bottom-line performance, and long-term business pipeline, while remaining and expanding in Massachusetts.

https://massmep.org/

Consistent with NIST MEP performance measures, MassMEP-supported manufacturers have reported significant economic impact in recent years, including increases in new and retained sales, measurable cost savings, and new capital investments. These engagements have also resulted in the creation and retention of thousands of manufacturing jobs across Massachusetts.

“This cooperative agreement reflects the strength of MassMEP’s results-driven approach and the confidence NIST places in our ability to deliver measurable impact for manufacturers,” said Kathie Mahoney, President of MassMEP. “For 30 years, we have worked directly with manufacturers to address their most pressing challenges, whether improving operational performance, achieving regulatory compliance, developing their workforce, or accessing funding and new markets.”

“I am thrilled to see MassMEP receive this $2.9 million NIST MEP cooperative agreement,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (10th Norfolk District), Co-Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus. “MassMEP’s unwavering commitment to innovation, training, and strong community partnerships continues to strengthen our manufacturing ecosystem and support the long-term economic health of the Commonwealth.”

About MassMEP: MassMEP is a private, nonprofit organization and part of the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership National Network.

The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is based at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The national Program Office (NIST MEP) which provides the federal government funding for the MEP National Network™ is located in Gaithersburg, MD. The MEP National Network includes the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP), MEP Centers across the U.S. and in Puerto Rico, the MEP Advisory Board, MEP Center boards, and the Foundation for Manufacturing Excellence, as well as nearly 1,400 trusted advisors and experts at approximately 475 MEP service locations, providing any U.S. manufacturer with access to resources they need to succeed.

For more information please reach out to MassMEP here.

Candlelight Vigil for Renee Nicole Good held on Thursday, January 8, 2026 (audio)

FM #1624 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1624 the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Candlelight Vigil for Renee Nicole Good held on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The vigil was held on the Franklin Town Common. 

Each of the speakers are introduced by master of ceremonies Rachel Plukas

• Erin Ferguson

• Ron Tibbetts

• Rev Beverly Waring

• State Rep Jeff Roy

• Michael Walker Jones

The recording runs about 30 minutes. Let’s listen to the candlelight vigil held January 8, 2026. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1624-vigil-for-renee-nicole-good-01-08-26/

Photos of the vigil can be found in one album

https://photos.app.goo.gl/QmAG9vXQXY8iQkQe7

Candlelight Vigil for Renee Nicole Good held on Thursday, January 8, 2026 (audio)

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I hope you enjoy!

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

"Franklin in Miniature, 1932" opening remarks by State Rep Jeff Roy - Dec 6, 2025

My thanks to State Representative Jeff Roy for sharing the copy of his remarks to open the "Franklin in Miniature" exhibit, Saturday, Dec 6, 2025, so the whole community could read at their leisure. And perhaps be inspired to come and see the work at the Historical Museum during open hours through January 2026.

"Good morning, everyone. 

It is a true pleasure to stand here today to celebrate a monumental achievement in historical preservation and craftsmanship: the completion of the latest installment of the Franklin in Miniature exhibit.

State Rep Jeff Roy

The overall exhibit, "Franklin in Miniature, 1932," now fully realized, is a spectacular sight to behold. But today, we especially recognize the completion of Train Town 3, which focuses on the industrial landscape around Hayward Mills, now the Franklin Mill Store, and Franklin Yarn, now Franklin Paint.

This third diorama alone is vast, measuring five feet by twelve feet, covering sixty square feet. It features thirty structures meticulously modeled in exact 1187th scale. The goal of this work is to bring history to life. To that end, the diorama includes 100 little people imported from England and 50 period automobiles. It is an effort to make history tangible, so visitors can truly understand what they are looking at.

This project was a true test of dedication and perseverance. Train Town 3 took over 2,500 hours of effort spread across 18 months.

When combined with the first two dioramas - the depot building (Train Town 1) and the Thompson Press/roundhouse (Train Town 2) - the entire exhibit represents over 3,200 hours of work.

Such an enormous undertaking demands unique talents and incredible collaboration. This entire exhibition is the result of the tireless partnership between Scott Mason and Sam Maxwell.

 

Scott, who is a master craftsman, brought the vision, the commitment to historical accuracy, and the determination to overcome daunting logistical challenges. His process involved extensive archaeological effort, measuring every detail of the standing buildings, often with a 100-foot tape, electronic devices, laser measures, and cameras, to establish what existed in 1932.

His insistence on precision meant the team aimed to be accurate within just one millimeter of the actual dimensions.

But Scott could not have achieved this without his partner, Sam Maxwell. Scott Mason himself established Sam as a vital partner in this process and the project engineer. Sam was the technical backbone of the effort, responsible for the advanced CAD work, all the advanced design, and running essential machinery like the laser and the 3D printer. 

The third diorama alone involved close to 800 hours of laser time, showcasing the immense technological contribution Sam provided. Scott Mason even joked that Sam was responsible for him, highlighting the critical role Sam played in managing the demands of the entire process.

Their combined expertise-Scott's craftsmanship and historical drive, paired with Sam's engineering and technological mastery-is the reason this complex industrial landscape has been recreated in such breathtaking detail.

We are thrilled that the dioramas, which open today, will run through the end of January 2026.

 

Please join me in offering sincere gratitude and hearty congratulations to Scott Mason and Sam Maxwell for their remarkable effort and collaboration. They have not only built a model; they have given our community a beautifully accurate, enduring piece of its own history.

(L-R) cutting the ribbon - Sam Maxwell, Scott Mason, & Jeff Roy

An album of pictures that I was able to take in advance of the opening

https://photos.app.goo.gl/6dX8gNB9q3yFfycW8

You can listen to Scott talk about the development of this diorama

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/scott-mason-talks-about-train-town-3.html

Officials Celebrate SNETT Trail Extension

A cold morning in mid-November, State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) was joined by Congressman Jake Auchincloss, local Franklin town officials and members of the SNETT Rail Trail Committee to celebrate the acquisition of rail line from Grove Street to Union Street.

Congressman Jake Auchincloss, left, gets a
tour of the site on Union Street in Franklin
of the extension of the SNETT Trail

“This is a tremendous win for the community and will truly boost the crossing neighborhood in Franklin,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). “The extension of the rail trail will give families and individuals the opportunity to walk, bike and run through Franklin and beyond. I want to thank Congressman Auchincloss, Franklin officials and the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee for their persistence and commitment to Franklin’s resources and continuing to offer recreational and economic development options to the community.”

Representative Roy worked with Congressman Auchincloss to get CSX, a freight train company, and Franklin officials to provide a pathway for the town to acquire the rail line to turn it into an extension of the rail trail. That would connect the current trailhead on Grove Street to Union Street and extend the line across town. This extension makes the Southern New England Trunkline Trail an 80-mile recreation trail extending from Franklin to Connecticut.

"I am proud to be a part of the team to bring this vision to fruition" said Jamie Hellen, Franklin Town Administrator. "This acquisition will be the cornerstone of a revitalized Franklin Crossing Neighborhood and will provide an incredible opportunity for recreational enthusiasts, including bikers, hikers, walkers and many others to be able to access this 80 mile SNETT trail that will extend all the way to Connecticut. I want to thank Congressman Auchincloss, Rep Roy, the former Town Council for the support in acquisition and the Franklin-Bellingham Rail Trail Committee for their steadfast advocacy. This is a true partnership for the greater good of all residents!"

The rail trail extension is game changing in making Downtown Franklin a compelling destination both for locals and people from further afield.  Franklin will be the ideal starting point for a family walk or bike ride combined with a visit to local businesses,” said Paul Stamp, Vice President of the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee.

Massachusetts contributed $700,000 towards the purchase of the line and has committed and addition $1 million to prepare the trail for use. 

A group photo with Congressman Auchincloss,
Representative Jeffrey Roy, Franklin
town officials and members of the
Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee

“This Rail Trail extension is a game-changer for Franklin—creating a welcoming trailhead and bringing new visitors into our downtown,” said Cobi Frongillo, Past President of the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee and former Franklin Town Councilor.  “Our community has pushed for this connection for years, and it’s finally moving forward thanks to the persistence of town leaders and the leadership of Representative Roy and Congressman Auchincloss.”

You can follow the Rail Trail Committee page for updates ->   https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/

Understanding AntiSemitism in 2025 (video)

On Tuesday, October 28, State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin), Rabbi Rachel Putterman of Temple Etz Chaim, and Reverend Kathleen McAdams of St John Episcopal Church led a panel discussion regarding antisemitism in the current moment. The event will took place beginning at 7 PM at Franklin High School. 

The Franklin TV video recording is now available ->   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIQson4vgC4

Understanding Antisemitism in 2025 -
A Panel Discussion - Oct 28, 2025 

Rep. Roy moderated the panel discussion which  included the following:

• Jeremy Burton, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston
• Rabbi Rachel Putterman, Temple Etz Chaim in Franklin
• Dr. Miri Bar-Halprin, Director of Trauma Training and Services at Parents for Peace and a lecturer at Harvard Medical School
• Mike Rubin, Uxbridge High School Principal and President of Temple Etz Chaim
• State Rep. Simon Cataldo, Co-Chair of the Special Massachusetts Committee on Combating Antisemitism
• Rev. Kathy McAdams, Saint John Episcopal Church, Franklin

Fraser Engineering celebrated its 75th anniversary & grand opening of its new headquarters in Franklin

Fraser Engineering marked a historic milestone Thursday, October 23, 2025, as the company celebrated its 75th anniversary and the grand opening of its new headquarters in Franklin. The event brought together employees, friends, family and members of the community for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the company’s proud legacy and continued growth.

Fraser Engineering celebrated its 75th anniversary
& grand opening of its new headquarters in Franklin 

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, supported by the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, Fraser Engineering was honored with an official citation from state Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to tour Fraser’s workshop and pre-fabrication facility during an open house showcasing the company’s advanced capabilities and highly skilled workforce.

“At Fraser Engineering, we truly are great people doing great work,” said Cecelia “C.J.” Fraser, CEO of Fraser Engineering. “Our new headquarters reflects our remarkable journey, our dedication to our clients and our drive to keep building excellence for the next 75 years and beyond.”

Founded in 1950 by Mr. and Mrs. Lester Fraser Sr., Fraser Engineering began with a simple belief: that good people, hard work and creative problem-solving are the foundation of customer satisfaction. Seventy-five years later, that philosophy continues to drive the company’s success under third-generation family leadership. Today, Fraser Engineering is recognized as one of the region’s most diverse contracting and service companies, proudly certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a woman business enterprise (WBE).

Photos from the event can be found here

More Perfect Union: Immigration and The Courts (video)

I filled in for Peter J to host this episode of More Perfect Union. Participants were

• Michael Walker Jones
• State Rep Jeff Roy
• Rachel Plukas, Chair, Franklin Democratic Town Committee
• US Representative Jake Auchincloss

video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy_3NmbWXF4

The court decision file mentioned can be found ->    https://knightcolumbia.org/documents/ahmr9jfap2

 

US 4th MA District Representative Jake Auchincloss participated remotely

Voices of Franklin: State Rep Jeff Roy encourages "vote for stability, experience, and continued progress"

Political power shapes almost every aspect of our lives—and this upcoming election will once again determine the direction of our community. Every election is ultimately about values and the kind of town we want to build together. As someone who has been on the ballot 21 times, I'd like to share a perspective grounded in experience. 

I've noticed a small but vocal group calling for a complete overhaul of our Town Council. While change is a healthy part of democracy, a wholesale reset would be short-sighted—and an invitation to instability. If you prefer the kind of chaos and division we've seen too often on the national stage, that's your choice. But if, like me, you value consistency, continuity, and proven leadership, I urge you to support and return the incumbents to the Council.

Politics is, at its heart, a relationship business. I have worked closely with all the current members of our Town Council. They are thoughtful, dedicated, and deeply committed to Franklin's success. Their experience and institutional knowledge have guided this community through challenging times—and their steady leadership continues to serve us well.

With three current members choosing not to seek re-election, there will already be fresh voices joining the Council. That's healthy. But we should balance that new energy with the wisdom of those who know our town's history, its priorities, and its people.

In my role as your State Representative, I depend on strong local partners who understand our shared goals and have the courage and judgment to make tough decisions. I will always welcome and collaborate with new councilors, but I know firsthand the value of having experienced leaders at the table.

Some have suggested that our community is divided. I see something different. I see a town that works together to navigate complex financial realities with prudence and care. I see councilors who listen to their constituents and make decisions rooted in service, not politics. And I see a democratic process that continues to reflect the best of Franklin—balanced, inclusive, and forward-looking.

On November 4th, I encourage you to vote for stability, experience, and continued progress. Support the incumbents who have shown their dedication to this community and are ready to keep Franklin a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Sincerely,

Jeff Roy
State Representative

If you have something to say, you can find the guidelines here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html

Voices of Franklin: State Rep Jeff Roy encourages "vote for stability, experience, and continued progress"

Dale Medical Products of Franklin recognized at 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Gillette Stadium

Dale Medical Products, Inc. of Franklin, Massachusetts received the Manufacturer of the Year Award for the 10th Norfolk District at the 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held Tuesday, October 21st at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA.  This award is given in recognition of outstanding leadership skills in the manufacturing industry.  The annual event was hosted by the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, in partnership with MassTech Collaborative and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP).

Jeffrey N. Roy

Dale Medical Products was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Founded in 1961, Dale is a trusted manufacturer of specialty medical devices, known for delivering high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective solutions that enhance patient care. Their products are designed to reduce infection rates, improve efficiency, boost patient satisfaction, and support cost accountability. What sets Dale apart is their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. With a focus on innovation, they consistently strive to make things better — offering superior quality for patients and exceptional service for healthcare providers. As an employee-owned company, Dale is deeply invested in its mission and people. Their dedication to financial strength, market leadership, and innovation drives their ongoing success and impact in the healthcare industry.

Each year, the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus hosts the Manufacturing Awards Ceremony to highlight many of the Commonwealth’s most noteworthy manufacturers and celebrate their successes as leading manufacturers in the industry. This recognition is reserved for Commonwealth manufacturers that exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts” and propel their industry towards continued growth and innovation. This year, over 60 diverse manufacturers were selected by legislators from across the Commonwealth to be recognized at the awards ceremony. 

“I was proud to join my colleagues in recognizing 69 Massachusetts Manufacturers for their outstanding contributions to our Commonwealth’s economy. Their innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to job creation, strengthens our communities, and ensures that Massachusetts remains a leader in advanced manufacturing,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).  “All of these companies, like my nominee Dale Medical, exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts.”   

“Our state is a hub of manufacturing and innovation,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “From materials manufacturers that ship products globally, to nurseries that bring beauty to homes and businesses, to breweries and distilleries — these are products made with unmatched skill and pride here in Massachusetts. Congratulations to each of the awardees, and my deep thanks to Senator Paul Feeney for his leadership of the Manufacturing Caucus, to Representative Roy, and to all the members who raise their voices on behalf of our manufacturers every day.”

"From groundbreaking work in the life sciences industry, to unparalleled innovation in the production of renewable energy, to the development of game changing technology across so many sectors of our economy, Massachusetts has a manufacturing industry to be incredibly proud of," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "I want to thank Representative Roy, Senator Feeney, and the entire manufacturing caucus, as well as partners like MassTech Collaborative and MassMEP for the work that they continue to do to ensure that the manufacturing industry in Massachusetts can continue to grow and succeed."

“Massachusetts manufacturers are central to our economic strength, our competitiveness and our identity as a state that builds what’s next. The companies recognized today demonstrate the strength of Team Massachusetts and how investments in innovation, skilled workers and strong regional partnerships continue to drive growth in every corner of the Commonwealth,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley.  

Senator Paul R. Feeney

“It was an honor to recognize the manufacturers nominated today for their outstanding contributions to the Commonwealth and for exemplifying what it means to ‘make it in Massachusetts.’ Each company recognized at this event is a testament to why Massachusetts has cemented itself as a destination for highly-skilled, transformational manufacturing partners that make cutting-edge advancements, challenge convention and shape our future. Chair Roy and I offer our heartfelt thanks to the manufacturers in attendance, their talented workforces, the legislators who nominated businesses in their districts and continue to be their voice on Beacon Hill, and all Massachusetts manufacturers who continue to transform what’s possible,” said Senator Paul R. Feeney (D-Foxborough), Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.

“Massachusetts manufacturers continue to demonstrate why this sector is so vital to our state’s technology and innovation economy,” said CAM Director Lily Fitzgerald. “The Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at our annual Massachusetts Manufacturing Mash-Up recognizes the people and companies creating good jobs, breaking new ground, and strengthening supply chains to keep our ecosystem resilient and innovative.”

A group photo of Massachusetts manufacturers attending
the 10^th Annual Manufacturing Awards on
Tuesday, October 21 at Gillette Stadium

“Congratulations to this year’s Manufacturing Award winners. Your innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence embody the very best of manufacturing in the Commonwealth. Manufacturing remains the backbone of our economy, creating good jobs, driving technological advancement, and strengthening our communities. At MassMEP, we are proud to support and serve Massachusetts manufacturers, helping them grow, compete, and prosper for years to come,” said Kathie Mahoney, President, MassMEP.

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes 71 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

Resilient Rhythms: A Teen’s Story of Strength Through Dance

“Dance can transform every emotion into strength, healing, and connection by bringing communities together in ways words cannot.” — Tanavi Balaji

Franklin High School junior Tanavi Balaji recently marked a remarkable milestone with her Arangetram, the traditional solo debut in Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest and most revered classical dance forms. Known for its intricate movements, expressive storytelling, and rhythmic precision, Bharatanatyam demands years of dedication and discipline.

The Arangetram, which means “ascending the stage,” represents a dancer’s formal graduation after years of rigorous training. Tanavi began her journey at age five and delivered a performance that was both powerful and graceful, leaving the audience mesmerized by her artistry and emotional depth.

(L-R)  Tanavi Balaji, Jeffrey N. Roy

Her extraordinary dedication drew recognition from Massachusetts State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy, who presented her with an accolade, and Massachusetts State Senator Rebecca L. Rausch, who honored her for her artistic achievements and contributions to cultural enrichment. Both leaders praised her for using art to inspire others and foster the well-being of the community. The celebration was further graced by Professor Kaye Kelly, Senior Faculty at Berklee College of Music, who spoke of dance as a transformative force that softens hearts and unites people through its universal language.

Beyond her technical skill and stage presence, Tanavi dedicated her Arangetram to promoting emotional & mental resilience, highlighting dance as a universal language of healing and expression. “Dance allows us to feel, express, and come together,” she said. “It transforms every emotion, whether joy, sadness, hope, or love, into strength that uplifts and inspires communities.”

“In today’s ever-changing world, it is important to pause and celebrate what brings us together through art, culture, and compassion,” Tanavi added. Her Arangetram was both a personal triumph and a testament to resilience, inclusivity, and the power of art to unite communities.

Moments like these remind us that creativity and culture can inspire, heal, and leave a lasting impact on all who experience them.

Recycling Event coming up Saturday, Nov 1 from 9 AM to 12 PM at Franklin High School parking lot

Recycling Event coming up Saturday, Nov 1  from
9 AM to 12 PM at Franklin High School parking lot

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1D8L3utN4t/

Governor’s Supplemental Budget – Education Earmark Awards for Franklin Public Schools

via Superintendent Lucas Giguere

"I am excited to share that Franklin has been awarded two education earmarks under the Fair Share Supplemental Budget. Governor Healey’s Supplemental Budget, signed on June 24, 2025, invests in education and transportation across the Commonwealth, with funding directed toward projects that support students at every level.

The first earmark, $75,000, will support the replacement of a specialized transportation van. This funding enables us to continue updating our aging fleet, ensuring that students who require these services have access to safe and reliable transportation. Special thanks go to State Representative Jeff Roy for his advocacy in securing this important support.

specialized transportation van

The second earmark, $100,000, will support the first phase of improvements within our school courtyards, transforming them into outdoor learning environments and engaging spaces for students. These redesigned areas will enhance the interior spaces within the school footprint, creating safe, flexible, and inspiring environments for hands-on learning and social interaction. Special thanks to State Senator Rebecca Rausch for her advocacy in securing these important funds.

Details on the earmarks statewide can be found on the state’s website:

👉 Fair Share Supplemental Budget – Education Earmarks

We are deeply grateful for this recognition and support. Thank you to our legislators and community partners for their continued advocacy on behalf of Franklin Public Schools.

FY26 MIIA Safety Grant

I would like to thank the Town of Franklin and Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and his staff for supporting Franklin Public Schools in submitting our proposal for additional two-way radios for our schools. The proposal was awarded in the amount of $9,945. These two-way radios help to support a safe learning environment for students and staff, and ensure quick and efficient communication throughout each school day and in the event of an emergency.

Shared from the FPS Page -> https://www.franklinps.net/live-feed#10203952

Understanding Antisemitism in 2025 - A Panel Discussion - Oct 28, 2025

On Tuesday, October 28, join State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin), Rabbi Rachel Putterman of Temple Etz Chaim, and Reverend Kathleen McAdams of St John Episcopal Church for a panel discussion regarding antisemitism in the current moment. The event will take place at 7 PM at Franklin High School.

Understanding Antisemitism in 2025 -
A Panel Discussion - Oct 28, 2025 

Rep. Roy will moderate the panel discussion which will include the following:

• Jeremy Burton, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston
• Rabbi Rachel Putterman, Temple Etz Chaim in Franklin
• Dr. Miri Bar-Halprin, Director of Trauma Training and Services at Parents for Peace and a lecturer at Harvard Medical School
• Mike Rubin, Uxbridge High School Principal and President of Temple Etz Chaim
• State Rep. Simon Cataldo, Co-Chair of the Special Massachusetts Committee on Combating Antisemitism
• Rev. Kathy McAdams, Saint John Episcopal Church, Franklin

This community conversation will address the history of antisemitism, experiences of antisemitism today, and communal responses to antisemitism including the work of the Special Commission and public school curriculum requirements.

Occurrences of antisemitic incidents have dramatically increased over the past five years, including in our community, especially since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023. According to the Anti-Defamation League New England (ADL), there were 438 antisemitic incidents in Massachusetts in 2024, a nearly threefold increase from 152 antisemitic incidents in 2022.

There will be time at the end for the panelists to answer questions from the audience.

This event is open to the public.

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, September 20, 2025 ??

Saturday, September 20

9am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9am Library Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

10am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10am Rise Up (Franklin United Methodist Church)

10:30am Laptop Refurbishing Events (New England Chapel)

10:30am Weekend Wiggles! (Franklin Public Library)

11am Fall Safety Fest (Fletcher Field)

12pm 5th Annual Mexican Independence Day Fiesta (La Cantina Winery)

1pm Library Books by the Bag Sale (Franklin Public Library)

6pm Free Danielle Miraglia Concert at SAFE Cafe After Dark (31 Hayward St)

8pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House)

** NO Town Meetings today   **

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What's happening in Franklin, MA

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

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

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar