Parmenter Foundation highlights the SAFE Coalition as a new grantee

"The Parmenter Foundation is proud to highlight the @safecoalition as one of our new 2026 grantees.

SAFE is a nonprofit dedicated to compassionate, judgment-free support for individuals impacted by substance use, mental health challenges, and related concerns.

Through our grant, SAFE is able to provide wraparound services for those who have experienced a death, including supporting the complicated grief from substance use and suicide loss.

We encourage you to learn more about SAFE at their link - https://www.safecoalitionma.org/"

For more about the Parmenter Foundation  https://parmenterfoundation.org/mission-and-values/

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DbIuSUIxYNA/

Commonwealth Pride awards

Via Ted Cormier-Leger

"Extremely humbled and honored to part of the inaugural class of 105 people statewide to be recognized for contributions to the LGBT community, our hometowns and to the commonwealth. It was a beautiful ceremony and I wish everyone could have experienced the joy in the chamber.

Thank you to the organizers, to Rep Roy for the nomination and to my loving husband for being in the audience as my biggest fan.

Happy Pride. "

Shared from - 

https://www.facebook.com/share/1BnSNDE7BN/

The Pride Program with all the info on the awards and recipients can be found - https://www.canva.com/design/DAHLbg6yl5k/0PDh29xsqWclVzOPJmZQOg/view

Fallen Hero Recognition Schedule for June 2026

Fallen Hero Recognition Schedule for June 2026

A series of Memorial events are scheduled for 9:00 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor those Fallen Heroes on their "killed in action" date.   

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that fallen hero.  

This is a way of keeping the memory of that hero alive.

• June 1 – William G. Hosford – WWII
• June 5 – Frank Gryzboski – WWII
• June 12 – Lloyd M. Ellis – WWII
• June 13 – Elijah H. Coldwell – WWI
• June 14 – Timothy J. Hayes – WWII
• June 20 – Edward A. Kelly – WWII
• June 24 – Baldo S. Lazzerini – WWII

The schedule of Fallen Heroes for the year on one page (PDF)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tlyiAK18owM81p8aJs1vhKc3p2bIK1cv/view?usp=drive_link

Fallen Hero Recognition: Second Lieutenant William G. Hosford, U.S. Army Air Corps - June 1, 2026

Memorial event today (6/01/26) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Second Lieutenant William G. Hosford, U.S. Army Air Corps. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that veteran. This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

 

Fallen Hero: Second Lieutenant William G. Hosford, U.S. Army Air Corps

Second Lieutenant William G. Hosford, U.S. Army Air Corps, was born in Franklin on April 1, 1915, son of James R. and Mary Hosford. William lived with his parents and three brothers and three sisters at 22 Queen Street. William graduated from Franklin High School class of 1933 and later attended Michigan State University.

William completed his flying course of instruction at Craig Field, Alabama and received his wings and commission on December 12, 1941. Second Lieutenant Hosford was assigned to the 35th Air Pursuit Squadron, 8th Pursuit Group, Port Moresby, New Guinea. On June 1, 1942 he was shot down by Japanese machine gun fire while in aerial combat flying a Bell P-39F.

Second Lieutenant William Hosford had written in letters to family and friends of his eagerness to serve his country even to the point of giving up his life, should it be necessary. When 2nd LT Hosford was called upon to make the supreme sacrifice, those nearest to him knew that he made it willingly.

Second Lieutenant William G. Hosford was 27 years old at the time of his death and now eternally rests in the Honolulu Memorial Site on Honolulu, Hawaii.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/fallen-hero-second-lieutenant-william-g.html

Fallen Hero: 2nd L William Hosford

School Committee recognizes Seal of Biliteracy students and retirees (audio)

FM #1747 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1747 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 7:00 PM. All 7 members of the Committee participated, 6 were present in Chambers, 1 participated via Zoom. 

Quick recap

• 17 students were recognized for achieving the Seal of Biliteracy in one or more languages other than English

• A number of school department retirees from the Central Office or individual schools were recognized for their years of service

• Superintendent Giguere presented his evidence as part of his evaluation. The subcommittee will collect additional feedback from committee members and prepare the final evaluation for review at a future meeting

• The committee entered Executive Session, not to return to open meeting, to discussion negotiation strategy

Let’s listen (approx. 2 hours)

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1747-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-05-26-26/

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School Committee, principals, and retirees

School Committee and Biliteracy students

Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/uf-sv9TG2GU?&t=67 

The agenda doc can be found - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05262026-2332 

My notes can be found in one PDF file

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CM6UX_yg5qKduMZqiXqjYZNFCGQ4-K8T/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"

Rotary recognizes Diane Padula with "People of Action" Award

Rotary recognizes Diane Padula with "People of Action" Award

"Congratulations to Diane Padula for her People of Action award at this weekend’s annual district meeting as well as the entire club on becoming a 100% Paul Harris Club!"

For more about Rotary International recognitions - https://www.rotary.org/en/donate/recognition

Shared from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18b7u6Xw2r/

Franklin Police Department conduct annual awards ceremony

"Today (5/10/26) we gathered together — patrol officers, supervisors, command staff, retirees, families, and friends — to honor the officers who stood out this year during our annual award ceremony.

As officers, accepting awards is never easy. Many of the calls we respond to are during the worst moments of someone’s life. We do not do this job for recognition; most of us simply feel like we are doing the job we took an oath to do.

What is important, however, is recognizing the families who stand beside us through the hard days, sad days, quiet days, and the “I don’t want to talk about it” days. Our families carry this job with us, often without ever seeing firsthand why those days happen. Ceremonies like today give them the opportunity to understand why so many call these officers heroes, even when they don’t see themselves that way.

It was our honor to recognize the following members today:

Life Saving Award:

• Officer David Gove and Officer Joseph Burchill

Honorable Service Award:

• Sergeant John Godino

Leadership Award:

• Lieutenant Michael Colecchi

Exceptional Duty Award:

• Officers Eric Cusson, Nicholas Storelli, David Ricci, Robert Burchill and Timothy Trubiano

Letters of Merit:

• Sergeant Louis Marguerite and Kalman Koblick Detective Tara Lagoa
• Officers Eric Cusson, Jovan Bielski, Andrew Viall, Nicholas Storelli, Robert Young, Derek Mackey, Conor Desmond, Kevin Quinn, Timothy Trubiano, Victoria McVicar, Robert Burchill, Jonathan Butler, Kevin Quinn, David Ricci, Jonathan Giron and Richard Martini
• Clinician Kallie Montagano

Congratulations to all of today’s recipients, and thank you to every member of the Franklin Police Department and their families for your sacrifice, professionalism, and dedication to this community every single day."

Shared from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GH7Pisbww/

Franklin Food Pantry Celebrates Volunteers at Annual Appreciation Luncheon

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, the Franklin Food Pantry hosted its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on April 29, honoring the dedicated individuals who drive the organization’s mission. Amidst a year of record-breaking demand for food assistance, the event recognized the team of volunteers whose commitment ensures that The Pantry remains a steady resource for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

The luncheon featured motivational speaker and local author Ali Rheaume who offered a moving account of how Pantry volunteers’ support has made a difference in the Franklin community.

(L-R) Tina Powderly, Ali Rheaume

"Franklin Food Pantry volunteers do more than provide food—they provide dignity," said Ali. "Volunteering to clean isn't just maintenance; it’s creating a welcoming, safe space. Stocking shelves isn't just labor; it's providing nutrition. Opening the door isn't just a task; it's an invitation to connection. And a smile from a volunteer tells a shopper, 'You are seen.'"

Each week, more than 150 volunteers ensure The Pantry remains stocked, operating, and ready for clients. Their dedication makes it possible to offer essential programs including in-person and walk-in shopping, curbside distribution, mobile pantries at four Franklin locations, the Weekend Backpack Program, holiday meal distribution, the Community Garden Program, and more.

some of the many volunteers recognized

"Volunteers are the foundation of everything we do, and we are truly honored to recognize their important contributions at this year’s Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry. "Our volunteers create a supportive community that fosters genuine hope and belonging, and helps ensure that every neighbor who seeks food assistance is served with dignity and compassion. We are truly grateful for their hard work and commitment.”

The luncheon was made possible by G&C Plumbing and Heating which sponsored the event, New England Chapel which provided the space, Vicario Studio which provided photography, 495 Rental which provided the tables, and Starbucks on E Central Street, The Rome, Elizabeth’s Bagels, and Board members who provided food, beverages, and desserts. Special thanks to Franklin High School’s JV and Varsity Softball teams for setting up the luncheon, and to Franklin Fathers for breaking down and cleaning up. 

For more information on the Franklin Food Pantry, volunteer opportunities, or receiving food assistance, please visit the Franklin Food Pantry website www.franklinfoodpantry.org.

About Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.

The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance, household necessities, and resource referrals to more than 1,880 individuals per year. The Pantry relies on donations and grants to purchase items and pay for daily operations, and partnerships with The Greater Boston Food Bank, Spoonfuls, and local grocery stores to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. Programs include Inside Shopping, Curbside Pickup, Emergency Food Boxes, Mobile Pantries, Home Delivery, Kids’ Snack Bags, Weekend Backpacks, Holiday Meals, and the SNAP match at Franklin Farmers Market. 

The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts, recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four-Star Charity, and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. The Pantry is located at 341 W Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140. Please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org, or on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more information.

AICUM Recognizes Representative Roy As Legislator of the Year

The Association of Independent Colleges & Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) has named State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) a Legislator of the Year, honoring his sustained leadership and advocacy for higher education. The award was presented at AICUM’s annual meeting at Bentley University and the award portion can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/5ea3wwfu

Representative Roy was recognized alongside Senator Barry Finegold (D-Andover) for his strong support of Massachusetts’ private, nonprofit colleges and universities—an essential sector represented by AICUM’s 58 member institutions.

(L-R) Rob McCarron, State Rep Jeff Roy

“Chair Roy has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the critical role private colleges and universities play in driving the Commonwealth’s economic vitality,” said AICUM President and CEO Rob McCarron. “From the local impact of Dean College in Franklin to the world-class research that fuels Massachusetts’ competitive edge, he has been a steadfast champion for higher education.”

McCarron emphasized the importance of leaders who recognize the far-reaching influence of higher education—not only on campus communities, but on regional economies, workforce development, and the success of students and families across the state.

Over his 14 years in the Legislature, Representative Roy has been a leading voice on education policy, including serving as Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education from 2019-2021. His commitment is rooted in personal experience: as a first-generation college graduate and former member of the Franklin School Committee. He understands firsthand the transformative power of education. In Massachusetts, where more than 70% of jobs require education beyond a high school diploma, that perspective has shaped his work to expand access and opportunity.

“My higher education journey changed the trajectory of my life,” said Representative Roy. “I’ve made it my mission to ensure every student has access to that same life-changing opportunity. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to expanding access, affordability, and opportunity across the Commonwealth. I’m grateful to AICUM for this honor and for their continued work on behalf of students.”

Michael Walker-Jones recognized with 2026 Black Excellence Award

via State Rep Jeff Roy:

"It was my great honor to nominate Franklin’s own Michael Walker-Jones for a 2026 Black Excellence Award, celebrated at the State House alongside the Black & Latino Legislative Caucus.

(L-R) Michael Walker-Jones, State Rep Jeff Roy

An educator, advocate, and community leader, Michael Walker-Jones has built a life defined by public service and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Beyond the classroom, he has been a tireless champion for systemic change. His decades of leadership include active membership in the NAACP dating back to the 1960s and service as Executive Director of the Louisiana Association of Educators. Here at home, he chaired the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for ten years and continues to elevate civic dialogue as co-host of the Towards a More Perfect Union podcast.

A devoted family man who raised four accomplished children, Michael embodies the principle that strong communities are built through connection, engagement, and service. Whether through broadcasting, advocacy, or one-on-one conversation, he remains an accessible and trusted voice working toward a more informed and equitable society.

During the ceremony, we also had the pleasure of sitting with Onawuni Jean Moss, the honoree nominated by Representative Mindy Domb. During the singing of Lift Every Voice and Sing — often called the Black National Anthem — she moved the entire room with a powerful and inspiring accompaniment of the performance. Be sure to watch the video below.

Congratulations to Michael and all the other awardees."

Shared from (view additional photos) - https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PkjNfsaL7/

Catching up to the Fallen Hero Recognition for William O. Martello - Jan 26, 2026

What should have been on Monday, Jan 26 was scheduled for Tuesday, Jan 27 due to the weather.

The Veterans Walkway on the Town Common was covered with about 20" of snow but that did not stop the proceedings.

Shovels prepared, a few managed to clear enough space along the walkway and from Main St to the walkway to enable the ceremony.

It is important to keep their names and service alive.

The gathering to honor William O. Martello despite the snow

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Fallen Hero Recognition: William O. Martello - Jan 26, 2026 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (1/26/26) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor William O. Martello.   

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

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Fallen Hero: Ensign William O. Martello, U.S. Navy

Ensign William Olindo Martello, U.S. Navy, was born on April 14, 1920, son of Theresa and Olindo Martelli. Willam was raised by Theresa and her second husband, Nicholas Martello, at 17 Howard Street with his four sisters and one brother. “Willie” attended the Franklin Schools and graduated from Franklin High School in 1937. William went on to Boston University where he graduated with honors with an A.B. degree and was initiated into Phi Beta Kappa.  

William Martello was a student, artist and musician as well as a fighting man. “Willie” was an accomplished concert pianist and was rated as one of the most promising young pianists in New England. Prior to his naval service “Lindy” traveled on the Grace cruise line to South American as an onboard pianist.  

William O. Martello enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserves on April 17, 1942 and later began his active naval service on April 8, 1943. William O. Martello attended Columbia’s naval officers training program and was commissioned an ensign upon completion of the program on July 28, 1943. He served as second in command aboard an invasion craft off the coast of the Anzio beachhead below Rome. Survivors of Ensign Martello’s landing craft, which had struck a mine in the waters off Anzio, reported that Ensign Martello had refused to heed the order to abandon ship, had fitted out a life raft with provisions, and when last seen, just as the ship turned over and went down, was hurling life belts into the sea for his crewmen swimming in the water.  

A month before his death Ensign William O. Martello wrote to his mother the following lines in a letter to her: 

“As for the war, we had to adjust ourselves to the personal problems it brought, and if a guy can’t take it, then his life is a failure. That is why I am not even afraid of death. If I did one thing that indicated cowardness, the rest of my life would be miserable.” 

Ensign William O. Martello, U.S. Navy, was lost at sea off Anzio on January 26, 1944 at the age of 23.

Audio of the 12/17/25 Town Council in 3 logical segments (audio)

FM #1612-13-14 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, numbers 1612-13-14 in the series. 

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated (1 remotely) for this 4 hour session. 

 

• 1612 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, recognitions, alcohol license renewals and everything else except 

• the snow update (see 1613) 

• and the charter discussion (see 1614)  (approx. 2 hours 27 mins)

• 1613 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW snow update  (approx.. 58 minutes)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7855/Snow-Presentation---December-17-2025 

• 1614 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process  (approx. 45 mins)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7848/2023-11-01-Town-Charter-Presentation 

Audio 1612 link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1612-town-council-mtg-minus-snow-charter-updates-12-17-25/

Audio 1613 link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1613-snow-update-to-town-council-12-17-25/

Audio 1614 link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1614-charter-discussion-at-town-council-mtg-12-17-25/

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

Additional notes including the video link for the meeting can be found ->

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/town-council-closes-out-year-approving.html 

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

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"

Members of the Franklin Fire Dept receive recognition of "recent life saving skills on a critical call"

"Members of Group 4 were recognized by

@Handtevy

for their recent life saving skills on a critical call involving a five week old infant. We are proud of each of them and their professionalism."

Members of the Franklin Fire Dept receive recognition of "recent life saving skills on a critical call"

Shared from -> https://x.com/FranklinMAfire/status/1983530180435140932

Fallen Hero Recognition: Levi Pieri - Sep 18, 2025, 9 AM

Memorial event today (9/18/25) at 9 AM at the Veterans Walkway on the Town Common to honor Private Levi Pieri, WWI. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Levi Pieri, Pvt US Army, WWI

Little is known of Pvt. Pieri. He was inducted 31 Aug 1918, and served with 33rd Company, 9th Training Battalion. It appears that while moving through training at Camp Devens, Levi contracted a disease, most likely the world-wide outbreak of flu and passed on this date Sep 18, 1918, while only having served less than 3 weeks.

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

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition during 2024

Mary O'Neill and Randy Jay surprised with recognition

A carefully orchestrated surprise recognition was conducted before the Franklin Commission on Disability meeting on Thursday, August 7. The meeting was held at the Peter L Brunnelli Community Center (Central Park Terrace).

Mary O'Neill, was taken by surprise with the gathering of more than the Commission members and with the presentations of proclamations by State Rep Jeff Roy and Town Administrator Jamie Hellen.

Among the many things Mary is known for it is her inspiration and persistence that produced the "Kindness Matters" signs seen around town.

Mary was recognized for 14 years leading the Commission

Randy was recognized for 8 years serving as Clerk.

Some photos of the event can be found in the album -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/7UgtTdLxSvgHy7KF8

Recap of the formal meeting that followed will be available in a day or so

(audio not share worthy quality)

Fallen Hero Recognition: Edward A. Kelly - June 20, 2025 - 9 AM

There is a Fallen Hero Recognition event today (6/20/25) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor First Lieutenant Edward A. Kelly, U.S. Army. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: First Lieutenant Edward A. Kelly, U.S. Army

First Lieutenant Edward A. Kelly, U.S. Army, was born on May 28, 1915, son of Michael and Ellen Kelly. Edward lived with his parents and one brother at 129 Fisher Street.  

First Lieutenant Edward A. Kelly was an officer in the regular army having enlisted on November 13, 1934. When conflict broke out, 1LT Kelly was sent to a tank outfit for training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was then ordered to the Hawaiian Islands to serve in an amphibious tractor outfit. 

1LT Kelly died a short time later on June 20, 1944, at age 29, while serving in Hawaii.  

1LT Edward A. Kelly was survived by his wife, Rose, and a child who were living in Los Angeles, CA at that time.  

First Lieutenant Edward A. Kelly was interred in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on February 17, 1949.

Fallen Hero: 1LT Edward Kelly

For the full series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this linkhttp://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html 

For the schedule of Fallen Hero recognitions 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/03/honoring-our-franklin-veterans-who-died.html

 

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7