In this Talk Franklin episode TA Jamie Hellen let's us in on what's happening beginning in September (audio)

FM #1800 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1800 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares our “Talk Franklin” discussion with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. We recorded our conversation virtually via Zoom on Monday, August 17, 2026.  

Key topics

• Mid-summer status

• Town Council & contract extension

• A validated budget for FY 2027

• Joint Budget working on a strategy

• More topics coming

• Sept 2

• Town available land and facilities

• Sept 16

• Legislative update with Senator Rausch & Rep Roy

• Presentations by Food Pantry, SAFE Coalition, 250th Celebration

• Sept 3

• Police station building committee

• Economic Development 

• Split tax workshops

• UMass students study on downtown

The recording runs about 37 minutes. Let’s listen to our conversation.

Audio link - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/letstalkfranklin/episodes/Talk-Franklin--A-Podcast-from-the-Town-Administrators-Office---August-17--2026-e3nih1r/a-acr33iq

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Town of Franklin page -  https://www.franklinma.gov/ 

Notify Me - sign up for notification on meetings and agendas  https://www.franklinma.gov/list.aspx 

Subscribe to Franklin First newsletter  https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash 

Community calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar 

Town Administrator contract press release https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/08/franklin-town-council-approves-town.html 

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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!

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

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

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

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW): Episode 322 - A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong (audio)

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you!

A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong 🍷

Prepare to be inspired! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with one of the most influential figures in the modern wine landscape: Deborah Parker Wong.

From her deep academic roots to her editorial leadership, Deborah shares the incredible journey that led her to become a powerhouse in wine media and education. Whether you are a casual sipper or a dedicated professional, this episode is packed with "aha!" moments.

What’s Inside the Bottle:

• The Editor’s Desk: Deborah reflects on 20 years of professional wine writing and her influential role as the Editor for Somm Journal.
• The Slow Wine Revolution: Discover the philosophy behind the Slow Wine Guide—what it is, why it matters, and Deborah’s pivotal role in championing sustainable viticulture.
• The Academic Vine: As a lecturer at three colleges and a high-level WSET instructor, Deborah breaks down how she shapes the next generation of wine experts.
• Sensory Science & Master’s Wisdom: Dive into the fascinating world of sensory science. Deborah discusses her Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology and how technical knowledge enhances the tasting experience.
• "Frankenstein" Wines: We get technical and provocative as we discuss what makes a wine "Frankenstein" and the ethics of winemaking.
• A Motto to Live By: Deborah shares her personal motto and the driving force behind her relentless passion.
• Expert Buying Tips: Wrap up with Deborah’s top advice for navigating the wine aisle like a pro.

The energy and excitement Deborah brings to the table are contagious. You don’t want to miss this deep dive into the heart of the industry!

Learn more about Deborah: www.deborahparkerwong.com 

Listen to more episodes: www.thewww.wine

Cheers, 

Kim and Mark

 🍷🍷🍷

#WineEducation #SlowWine #SommJournal #SensoryScience #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #WineIndustry #WinePodcast #Viticulture #WSET #DeborahParkerWong

https://soundcloud.com/user-492543397/episode-322-a-masterclass-with

https://www.thewww.wine/a-masterclass-with-deborah-parker-wong/

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) · Episode 322-A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday, August 17, 2026

Yes, Franklin has its own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves.   

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.  

Tune in to listen to the following:

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Sunday, August 16, 2026

Yes, Franklin has its own radio station -> wfpr.fm.

Franklin Public Radio has a schedule full of the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following: (see image)

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, August 15, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm

Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following: (see image)

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Friday, August 14, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM - Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock covering Franklin, its local government, services, and events 

• This hour features Syed Azhar from Franklin Interact touting the Aug 18 event at Senior Center    https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/08/franklin-interact-coordinating-with.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM

10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM - Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Nick Remissong. 2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews  Showcasing the "Blues" as a basis for and influence of Country, Jazz and Rock and Roll, here and worldwide.

11:00 AM, 4:00 PM, and 9:00 PM - “The Vibe” show plays music for everyone searching for some enjoyment, some dance, a happy or thinking mood, and most importantly, having fun.  Tune in to wfpr.fm and listen to “DJ Vibe” spin music across many genres and join this new vibing experience

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

Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday, August 13, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM - Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock covering Franklin, its local government, services, and events  (Repeats Saturday at 3:00 PM)

• This hour features Jason Poulos, candidate for the Democratic Primary for the 4th District  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/jason-poulos-explains-his-stand-on-key.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM - first hour

10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM - second hour

Turntable – "Enjoy a fun experience with co-hosts The Vibe and Pauly G sharing personal discussions about a featured rock n roll vinyl record (1st hour) and the best, all music Vibe Playlist (2nd hour)"  

• The Turntable Show features "Harvest",  Neil Young's most successful album released February 1, 1972.  Harvest is the fourth studio album from Neil Young and includes two major hits, "Old Man" and "Heart of Gold".  
• The Vibe Neil Young Playlist Hour features both acoustic and electric classics from Neil Young performances.   A must listen if you like Neil Young live!

Find the playlist ->  https://tinyurl.com/TurntablePlaylists

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

School Cmte Policy Subcommittee reviews multiple policies, sets up for financial policy reviews (audio)

FM #1796 - This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1796 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, August  11, 2026. All 3 members (Dave Callaghan (Chair), Al Charles, Reis Hansen) participated in the session held in the 3rd floor training room. Dr Tina Rogers and Paula Marano also participated.

Quick recap:

• comment for discussion on page 3 of the restraint policy, suggestion to better clarify the separation of what is or isn't allowed by state and or here in Franklin; should be run by P Marano to confirm discussion on proposed 

• adult meal price from $4.75 to $5.75 at FHS higher utilization and a good amount from the other schools, relatively low financial piece of the overall budget adults get the same meal generally just an adult portion rather than student portion. pricing hasn't been changed since 2023. motion to approve recommendation for the adult meal fee from $4.75 to $5.75

• Ms Marano joins the discussion to review the earlier restraint item, she agrees with the minor modification discussed to clarify will be amended during the formal meeting 2nd reading later today

• next up discussion on technology and AI appropriate use in the classroom, informal advisory group of parents who responded to the survey, work still underway, needs to be done within the district too district improvement goals will include screentime on the scope, intentional use key 

• next up, field trip forms consolidated amongst the schools to be more consistent will be able to address this in the early school year as field trips are not anticipated right away 

• next up, community use of school facilities, should be available outside of school hours, during school hours, student and operations safety comes first so signage and communications around opportunity for a PSA video to help raise awareness of this item

• several items on budget and fiscal policy have not been touched since 2016. One makes reference to posting in newspaper. Would be good to review and potentially revise, then send to Budget Subcmte for their review and wordsmithing as necessary before bringing to full committee. Picking up these next time

• Meeting adjourns, folks move to Chambers for full School Committee meeting

The recording runs about 49 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1796-franklin-ma-school-cmte-policy-subcmte-mtg-08-11-26/

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School Committee Subcommittee assignments

https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/subcommittees-and-liaisons 

The meeting agenda can be found -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08112026-2442 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WlBkiyMfp-4d_K_m2aywqetojQ7s1-08/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 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"

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio introduced a brand new schedule early in 2025 for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

 

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM   Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock 

Franklin and its local government, services and events  (repeats Saturday at 2 PM)  

• This hour features the 300 Fisher St Discussion at the July 22, 2026 Town Council meeting   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/the-300-fisher-st-segment-of-town.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM  The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone  All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points.    (repeats Saturday at 1 PM)  

• This segment features Episode 321 - Crushin’ It in Boston: Redefining Wine Culture with Gabrielle Malina (audio)
    https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/08/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode.html
   

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

Audio recording of the Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee Meeting, Monday, August 10 (audio)

FM #1795 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1795 in the series. 

This session shares the exclusive audio from the Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee Meeting held on Monday, August 10, 2026. The meeting was held in the 3rd floor training room. 

 

The recording runs about 75 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link -   https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1795-horace-mann-legacy-subcmte-mtg-08-10-26/

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Meeting agenda 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08042026-2436  

My notes in one PDF 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w37wBgM4rHwGkXX5ZF6Kdod5ujkWMLXR/view?usp=drive_link 

Horace Mann Statue unveiled in 2017. The dedication post contains the audio of the event, including the FSPA performance of the song “Horace, Now There was a Mann“ as well as the dedication booklet (PDF)

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/05/fm-130-audio-recording-of-horace-mann.html 

Horace Mann trifold used beginning at Strawberry Stroll

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KfKvOLhuXlzlor53vvErcTONj-6FFk24/view?usp=sharing 

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

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"