Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Friday, July 10, 2026
First Friday Networking Breakfasts return Friday, August 7 at 7:30 AM
Thursday, March 12, 2026
What's happening in Franklin, MA: Thursday, March 12, 2026 ???
- FHS Class of 2026 - fundraiser at (Santa Fe Burrito Grill) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/03/fhs-class-of-2026-fundraiser-santa-fe.html
- Franklin Youth Hockey fundraiser at (Papa Gino's) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/03/franklin-youth-hockey-fundraising-via.html
Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Meeting
Thursday, March 12 Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03122026-2188
Conservation Commission Meeting
Thursday, March 12 Time: 7:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/571?fileID=8589
Cultural District Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 12 Time: 7:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03122026-2170
The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Jack Lank talks about making connections, small business issues, and the split vs. single tax rate (audio)
FM #1508 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1508 in the series.
This session shares my conversation with Jack Lank, Executive Director for the United Regional Chamber of Commerce. We had our conversation in the Franklin TV & Radio studio on Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Our conversation covers Jack’s role in fostering connections amongst business and government to meet the needs of the 16 communities the organization covers. We touch on the split tax vs single rate property tax, the tariffs situation and business disruption it brings given all the legal uncertainty around them.
The recording runs about 46 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1508-jack-lank-chamber-small-business-connections-09-02-25/
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United Regional Chamber of Commerce page -> https://unitedregionalchamber.org/
On Facebook main page -> https://www.facebook.com/UnitedRegional/

Ribbon Cutting at BFT in Franklin Village on
Friday hosted by United Regional Chamber of Commerce
On Facebook “Rally Around the Restaurants” -> https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057116753301
Original post in 2007
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2007/12/20-reasons-to-not-implement-dual-tax.html
Updated post in 2010
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2010/12/split-tax-vs-single-tax-rate.html
Updated post in 2021
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/11/20-reasons-to-not-implement-dual-tax.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!
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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"
Monday, March 24, 2025
The next Heart Of Massachusetts Networking & Referral Group is April 16
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| next Heart Of MA Networking & Referral Group is Apr 16 |
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Reminder: MetroWest Network Group: Stephen Melanson presentation scheduled for Oct 4
Stephen Melanson
Personal Branding: How to use 'Simplicity'
to differentiate, compete, and win
Friday, October 4, 2024
If you're looking for your next professional role, you have to break away from the pack and be clear about your value. And if it's not simple enough, it won't work as well as you need.
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| MetroWest Network Group: Stephen Melanson presentation scheduled for Oct 4 |
Why would an employer be crazy to not hire you? Do you know?
Can you verbalize it in about 5 seconds, or describe it in a few words?
Join us to learn how to establish a proper networking relationship. You'll learn:
• The rules for 'Simplicity' as a business tool
• What 'Verbal Branding' is, and how to use it
• How to differentiate and not commoditize yourself
• The mindset you need for selling yourself
Why you should attend: After you attend, you'll feel more comfortable presenting yourself, promoting yourself, and differentiating yourself from the other job seekers---to land the job you want.
Stephen Melanson has been a management consultant, speaker, trainer, Verbal Branding expert, and originator of the only 'Differentiation and Business Simplicity' platform of its kind. He has worked with individuals and small through Fortune 500 firms, and is currently a Multimedia professional and Brand Ambassador for the iconic Keene Sentinel in Keene NH.
MetroWest Networkers Group
1st & 3rd Fridays of the month: 10 am - Noon
24 Vernon Street, Framingham, MA 01701
At the offices of the First Parish in Framingham Unitarian Universalist Church
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
MetroWest Network Group: Stephen Melanson presentation scheduled for Oct 4
Stephen Melanson
Personal Branding: How to use 'Simplicity'
to differentiate, compete, and win
Friday, October 4th
If you're looking for your next professional role, you have to break away from the pack and be clear about your value. And if it's not simple enough, it won't work as well as you need.
MetroWest Network Group: Stephen Melanson presentation scheduled for Oct 4
Why would an employer be crazy to not hire you? Do you know?
Can you verbalize it in about 5 seconds, or describe it in a few words?
Join us to learn how to establish a proper networking relationship. You'll learn:
• The rules for 'Simplicity' as a business tool
• What 'Verbal Branding' is, and how to use it
• How to differentiate and not commoditize yourself
• The mindset you need for selling yourself
Why you should attend: After you attend, you'll feel more comfortable presenting yourself, promoting yourself, and differentiating yourself from the other job seekers---to land the job you want.
Stephen Melanson has been a management consultant, speaker, trainer, Verbal Branding expert, and originator of the only 'Differentiation and Business Simplicity' platform of its kind. He has worked with individuals and small through Fortune 500 firms, and is currently a Multimedia professional and Brand Ambassador for the iconic Keene Sentinel in Keene NH.
MetroWest Networkers Group
1st & 3rd Fridays of the month: 10 am - Noon
24 Vernon Street, Framingham, MA 01701
At the offices of the First Parish in Framingham Unitarian Universalist Church
Thursday, September 12, 2024
Massachusetts Nonprofit Network (MNN) Annual Conference scheduled for Oct 24 in Worcester
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| MNN Annual Conference |
Interested in attending this year’s event? The 2024 Conference will return to the DCU Center in Worcester on October 24, 2024.
Register now! Early-Bird Rates through September 13 only.
Monday, September 9, 2024
Young adult (21-35) mixers scheduled in Worcester
"Hi All!Wanted to share this event for young adults (ages 21-35)!
Come connect!"
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| Young adult (21-35) mixers |
All participants must be pre-registered to attend the event! The cost is $20 per person with a 2.50 processing fee. This includes appetizers, beer and wine, and dessert. Best of all, it's a monthly mixer geared toward connecting young adults, ages 21-35, for conversation, networking, and fun. We will meet on the third Wednesday from 7-9pm every month in one of two locations which will rotate. Both locations are in Worcester with their own lots for safe and easy parking!
October 16th 7-9pm First Unitarian- Bancroft Room- 90 Main Street Worcester, MA (parking off State Street to the left of the building, entrance in the lower lot.)
November 20th 7-9 pm -The Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester- 140 Shore Drive Worcester, MA
December 18th- 7-9pm- First Unitarian- Bancroft Room- 90 Main Street Worcester, MA (parking off State Street to the left of the building, entrance in the lower lot.)
January 15th 7-9pm- The Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester- 140 Shore Drive Worcester, MA
QUESTIONS? email MYAN@uucworcester.org
Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/tkYiGGLtxU7eJvya/
Sunday, July 28, 2024
Metrowest Networkers Group schedules Lindsay Benedict as Speaker for Friday, August 2
- LinkedIn tips and tricks.
- ChatGPT and how it fits into the job search.
- Interviews- the peak interview and interviewology- the four types of personalities and how to tailor your approach
- Her approach to the job search as a millennial
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Save the date - Coach Kevin Dickie - Your Confident Mindset - June 21
Kevin Dickie
Your Confident Mindset
How Your Mindset Can Ensure Successful Networking
Friday, June 21
Have you consciously taken control of your life and your career?
If you go into an interview thinking that you will not get hired, you undermine your presentation and your skills, even unconsciously. Interviewers can often tell when you do not believe in yourself.
In turbulent times, confidence can be inspiring. Kevin will show you how to develop a confident mindset without coming off as arrogant or self-absorbed.
Kevin will provide:
· Techniques to overcome self-doubt and limiting beliefs
· How reframing your thoughts changes perspective
· How a Growth Mindset leads to more confidence
Kevin Dickie is a certified Master Life Coach, Confidence Life coach, and Goal Success Life Coach, who successfully transitioned from Program Management and Customer Service into Life Coaching. He specializes in guiding people through challenging life events; helping clients recognize their unique gifts; and attain their goals that seemed unreachable.
Why you should attend: In these turbulent times, your job search and career transition need every edge you can apply. This session will answer many of your questions about networking, confidence, and how your mind influences both.
Join us at the Metrowest Networkers Group
1st & 3rd Fridays of the month: 10 am - Noon
24 Vernon Street, Framingham, MA 01702
At the offices of the First Parish in Framingham Unitarian Universalist
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