Showing posts with label Rep Roy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rep Roy. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

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

Friday, October 24, 2025

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
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
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 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards on Tuesday, October 21 at Gillette Stadium
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
(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
Recycling Event coming up Saturday, Nov 1  from
9 AM to 12 PM at Franklin High School parking lot


Sunday, October 12, 2025

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
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:

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.


Saturday, October 4, 2025

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
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.

Saturday, September 20, 2025

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   **


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

What's happening in Franklin, MA
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

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Reminder: Fall Safety Fest Franklin - Saturday, Sep 20


Join us for the Fall Safety Fest on Saturday, September 20 from 11 AM to 2 PM at Fletcher Field, 45 Peck Street in Franklin!


Hosted by the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office and Sheriff Patrick McDermott in partnership with Representative Jeffrey N. Roy, this free community event will include a touch-a-truck experience, live K9 demonstrations, family activities, community vendors, resources, and free food.



We will also be collecting non-perishable food items for the Franklin Food Pantry. Bring the family and enjoy a day of fun, food, and community. We hope to see you there!


Norfolk County Sheriff's Office | 200 West St | Dedham, MA 02027 US


Constant Contact

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Sheriff Patrick McDermott, the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office & State Rep Jeffrey Roy to host Fall Safety Fest in Franklin on Sep 20

Sheriff Patrick McDermott, the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, and State Representative Jeffrey Roy are teaming up to host a free Fall Safety Fest at Fletcher Field in Franklin on Saturday, September 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

The safety fest will bring together local public safety agencies, community organizations, and Franklin area residents for an event filled with interactive displays, K9 and safety demonstrations, and a touch-a-truck experience, featuring vehicles from the Franklin Police, Fire, and Department of Public Works and the NCSO Command Center.

“We are getting a jump on fall with a great opportunity for people to meet the public safety professionals, local leaders, and organizations who serve their communities, said Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott. “We are excited to partner with Rep. Jeff Roy for this fun, family day.”

Children can explore a bouncy house and obstacle course, and all guests can enjoy complimentary hamburgers and hot dogs, courtesy of the sheriff’s “Tactical Picnic Unit.”


“The safety fest is a nice way for people to learn about the many local resources available to them across Norfolk County,” said Rep. Jeffrey Roy, 10th Norfolk. “We look forward to welcoming people of all ages to Fletcher Field as fall is about to settle into Massachusetts.”

Residents are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the safety fest in support of the Franklin Food Pantry.

Parking for Fletcher Field is located at both 45 Street and 84 Wachusett Street in Franklin.

Saturday, September 6, 2025

Town Council retires Fire chief, appoints new one, hears from Legislative delegates, Norfolk Cnty Sheriff & Food Pantry (audio)

FM #1507 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1507 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Town Council Meeting held Wednesday, Sep 3, 2025. 8 members were present to begin the session (Pellegri absent), one member during the long session (Chandler)


Discussion items: 

PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS

a. Proclamation: Hunger Action Month

b. Police Department

i. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Police Sergeant Michael Campanelli

ii. Promotion Recognition: Police Sergeant Joseph MacLean

c. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Fire Chief James McLaughlin


5. APPOINTMENTS

a. Fire Chief  - Chuck Allen


b. Community Preservation Committee - Richard Johnson    

c. Cultural Council

i. Ryan Hanley

ii. William Lee

iii. Caryn Parnell


PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Franklin Food Pantry Update: Tina Powderly, Executive Director

b. Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Update: Patrick McDermott, Norfolk County Sheriff

c. Legislative Update: Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeff Roy


9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 25-50: Adoption of Local Initiative Program “Friendly 40B” Policy (Tabled from July 23, 2025 Town Council Meeting) 

b. Bylaw Amendment 25-942: A Bylaw to Amend the Code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 170, Vehicles and Traffic - Second Reading 

c. Resolution 25-56: Acceptance of Gifts - Veteran’s Services ($750), Senior Center ($100)  

d. Resolution 25-57: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44 §53F3/4  


The meeting recording runs about 4 hours and 10 minutes (the recess audio was removed to shorten the elapsed time). Let’s listen in Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1507-franklin-ma-town-council-meeting-09-03-25/



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


Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5ILK2Y6yTw 


The agenda doc ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09032025-1891  


My notes captured in one PDF ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/12XGRErMbkxyGIwR7fA0nqhhzqnrsJ-mV/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"


Friday, September 5, 2025

Tom Mercer condenses the 4.5 hour 9/03/25 Council meeting to less than 30 mins (audio)

FM #1506 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1506 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares our “Town Council Quarterbacking” with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. We had our conversation via the Zoom Conference Bridge on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Our conversation condensed the Town Council meeting of September 3, 2025.


We focus on two questions:

  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


Discussion items: 

PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS

a. Proclamation: Hunger Action Month

b. Police Department

i. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Police Sergeant Michael Campanelli

ii. Promotion Recognition: Police Sergeant Joseph MacLean

c. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Fire Chief James McLaughlin


5. APPOINTMENTS

a. Fire Chief  - Chuck Allen


b. Community Preservation Committee - Richard Johnson    

c. Cultural Council

i. Ryan Hanley

ii. William Lee

iii. Caryn Parnell


PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Franklin Food Pantry Update: Tina Powderly, Executive Director

b. Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Update: Patrick McDermott, Norfolk County Sheriff

c. Legislative Update: Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeff Roy


9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 25-50: Adoption of Local Initiative Program “Friendly 40B” Policy (Tabled from July 23, 2025 Town Council Meeting) 

b. Bylaw Amendment 25-942: A Bylaw to Amend the Code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 170, Vehicles and Traffic - Second Reading 

c. Resolution 25-56: Acceptance of Gifts - Veteran’s Services ($750), Senior Center ($100)  

d. Resolution 25-57: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44 §53F3/4  


The conversation runs about 29 minutes. Let’s listen in

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1506-town-council-quarterbacking-09-04-25/



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


Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5ILK2Y6yTw 


The agenda doc ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09032025-1891  


My notes captured in one PDF ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/12XGRErMbkxyGIwR7fA0nqhhzqnrsJ-mV/view?usp=drive_link 


Background on “assessment center”  https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/assessment-and-selection/other-assessment-methods/assessment-centers/



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


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!

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


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


Tom Mercer condenses the 4.5 hour 9/03/25 Council meeting to less than 30 mins (audio)
Tom Mercer condenses the 4.5 hour 9/03/25 Council meeting to less than 30 mins (audio)