Listen to the first session of the Joint Budget Subcommittee Thursday, April 16, 2026 (audio)

FM #1736 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1736 in the series. 

This session shares the Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting held on Thursday, April 16, 2026. 

The recording runs about 1 hour & 55 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link -  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1736-joint-budget-subcmte-mtg-04-16-26/

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Franklin TV video is available for replay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbKccD9CA3Q 

The agenda for this session

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04162026-2252  

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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"

Mitzi shares the insights on the special events at the Library in May 2027 (video & audio)

FM #1733 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1733 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

 

We talk about 

• Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month

• Closed on Sundays due to budget reduction

• Closed all day on Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day

• Library events for May 2026

• In calendar order rather than by category this time around

Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages.

The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended.

The recording runs about 17 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Franklin Public Library page

Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKPfVe63_fU

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1733-franklin-public-library-may-2026-highlights-04-21-26/

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Mitzi Gousie’s email - mgousie@minlib.net 

Franklin Public Library page -  https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Library event calendar - https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events 

May 2026 newsletter - https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/m/newsflash/home/detail/126 

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

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"

Talking about "A Dance with The Cosmos" by Marc D Cohen - 04/24/26 (video & audio)

FM #1731 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1731 in the series. 

This episode shared my conversation with Marc D Cohen, author of “A Dance with the Cosmos.” Marc’s second book of poetry was recently published. We had our conversation virtually via Zoom on Friday, April 24, 2026. 

Our conversation covered

• Marc’s Franklin story

• His first poem

• Poetry to make sense of the world

The conversation runs about 52 minutes, let’s listen

Video link - https://youtu.be/_j5FbVNj8Iw

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1731-a-dance-with-the-cosmos-04-24-26/

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Marc’s Facebook page to follow for readings and events  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586969831319 

The publishers book page https://www.archwaypublishing.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/870852-a-dance-with-the-cosmos 

You should be able to find the book where books are sold

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

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"

Town Council's Communication Subcmte meets for the first time Monday, April 27 (video)

The Town Council's Communication Subcmte met for the first time on Monday, April 27, 2026 as scheduled at noon. All four members participated, 3 in the 3rd floor training room, 1 remote (Grella).

Chair Caroline Griffith opened the session. She opened for comments from the committee members on what their ideas were. Councilor Max Morrongiello, then Councilor Jane Callaway-Tripp and Councilor Gene Grella shared their ideas before Chair Griffith completed the round.

Liz Kalaijian, Director of Communications & Community Engagement as well as Julie McCann, Operations Manager participated.

Franklin TV video = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouZWNXNKTd8

Meeting agenda - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2270 

My set of notes from the meeting in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JiB0YpZXFHfWRnnMBQM7u26r8qx6cOiJ/view?usp=drive_link

Once Upon A Town: Stewart Block (video)

Joe Landry & Scott Mason talk about the Stewart Block, the buildings that were there, before the buildings we see in that area today.

Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShTSMbPVsB0

 Once Upon A Town: Stewart Block (video)

Both FHS girls lacrosse and baseball teams post wins on Thursday

Via Instagram, Franklin TV, and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the Spring sports competition for Franklin High School on Thursday, April 23, 2026

Baseball = Franklin, 10 @ Wachusett, 6 – Final 

– Franklin’s five runs in the top of the seventh inning originally looked like insurance but they turned out to be vital as the Panthers held on for a win on the road at Wachusett. Franklin led 3-2 going into the sixth and 5-3 heading into the final frame of the game. Sophomore Ethan Herndon drilled a one-out home run to right, sophomore Ethan Edmunds blasted a two-out, three-run home run to right, and junior Owen Pennini smoked a triple and scored on an error as the Panthers’ advantage ballooned to 10-3. Wachusett rallied in the bottom half to get within four, and had the bases loaded, but Brady Short got the final out to close out the win. Jack Sullivan set the tone from the leadoff spot with three hits, including a double, and scored three runs. Edmunds (five RBI, double) and sophomore Cam Lambert (double, RBI) also had three hits in the win. Edmunds secured the win on the mound, allowing two runs (none earned) on three hits and four walks, striking out seven in five innings.

Softball = Franklin, 4 @ Newton North, 5 – Final

Girls Lacrosse = Franklin, 15 vs. Needham, 7 – Final 

– Franklin trailed 5-4 at halftime, but went on a 10-0 run after the break to turn the game on its head and run away with a comfortable non-league win to stay unbeaten this spring. Kendall Mone was instrumental in Franklin’s win, causing four turnovers on defense and controlling the game on the draw. Morgan Lovell grabbed six draw controls for the Panthers and her defense on Needham’s top attacker helped the Panthers turn the game around in the second half. Izzy Cross continued her strong play in attack with five goals and two assists. Ruby Risgin scored four times and set up another and Clara Blongastainer added a hat trick and a helper.

Franklin TV video available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tjqDMrNK-A

For other results across the Hockomock League (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-04-23-26/

FHS Panther sports results shared via Twitter & subscription to HockomockSports.com

45th Anniversary Lions All-State Band (video)

The Franklin TV recording of the 45th Anniversary Lions All-State Band performance on Monday, April 20, 2026 is available for viewing.

Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cry-f-oTMuA

SAFE Coalition: Hear Mark's Story (video)

"Mark represents everything we stand for at SAFE: compassion, dedication, and meeting people where they are. He reminds us that every person deserves dignity, respect, and to never feel alone—and that’s exactly what we strive to provide to everyone who walks through our doors.

Will you join Mark in investing in people?

Together, we can continue to show up, stand beside those in need,

and turn hope into action."

Donate here - https://secure.qgiv.com/event/safe2026/donate

Additional info on the SAFE Gala held recently

Catching up to the Chalkboard Chat for the March 24 meeting of the School Committee (video & audio)

FM #1718 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1718 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with School Committee member Reis Hansen  We had our discussion via Zoom on Monday, April 13, 2026. We condense and get into the explanations behind the key items from the recent School Committee meeting March 24, 2026.

Our conversation covered the following topics:

• Lifelong learning update

• Student Opportunities Act Plan Vote

• Endorsement of Request for Statement of Interest for Development of Strategic Plan

• Subcommittee & Liaison role updates

Our conversation runs about 40 minutes. Let’s listen

Video link - https://youtu.be/aVk_yy7ETU8

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1718-chalkboard-chat-04-13-26/

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School Committee page (with contact info) - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/school-committee 

School Committee subcommittee assignments - 

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

The Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/uQe3rLUq6e8?&t=87 

The agenda for this session - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03242026-2201 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting in one PDF -  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZuJSdiqLK1QBa9NdcjVsk5KVX7AH2MX3/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo album of the slides presented for Lifelong Learning

https://photos.app.goo.gl/adaJ3sZeYK5ih5t28

  

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

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"

Watch the first session of the Joint Budget Subcommittee Thursday, April 16 (video)

The Joint Budget Subcommittee met in its new term for the first time on Thursday evening.

Franklin TV video is available for replay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbKccD9CA3Q

Town Council hears from NatinalGrid, Fire Dept, and Police Dept and completes session within 4 hours (video)

The Franklin Town Council met on Wednesday, April 15 as scheduled at 7 PM. Yes, they did return to a 7 PM time slot and also finished within their 4 hour limit. All 9 councilors participated with one remote causing all votes to be recorded via roll call.

Franklin TV video for replay  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Z7xJHgZ4lI

The agenda - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04152026-2251 

My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w2q_cMoAOiQs0picPbtkZonCRTXqxI63/view?usp=drive_link

Quick recap 

• NationalGrid presented on their infrastructure improvement efforts. They did not share details on outages, frequency or location although ultimately conceded that the northern section of Town did pose problems with how their grid is laid out as it doesn't have the same redundancy built in that is available in other section of town.
• Fire Chief Allen supported by his 2 Deputy Chiefs presented an overview of the department, its operations and ability to meet service needs. The presentation doc was shared before the meeting and linked below
• Police Chief Lynch and Deputy Chief West presented an overview with some history of the department, leading up to the shift to the 4x4 schedule and need to maintain a minimum of 34 patrol officers. 
• When questioned about the possible police station chief Lynch repeated what he has said before, the police station is needed but he'll always advocate for his people and make due with the inadequate station.
• Likewise when questioned on a parking control officer (PCO), he said, sure give me the extra funding but don't take a patrol office away. The PCO can only write tickets, the patrol officer can do so much more. The presentation doc was shared before the meeting and linked below

Photos of the NationGrid presentation

https://photos.app.goo.gl/XPcwTx5vSXnDjQdy8

Link to Fire presentation

https://drive.google.com/file/d/14vWcLc710A9CkTSgpJ0Tg3jcHcbR3zaY/view?usp=drive_link

Link to Police presentation

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yF7LNhdfHfpOL_sq8gIaWpW2eQCgT8MG/view?usp=drive_link

page from Police presentation on recent budget history

Franklin School Committee gets a mid year update on the District & School Improvement Plans (video)

The Franklin School Committee met as scheduled on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All 7 members were present to participate in person.

Franklin TV video is available for review - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IF4JTAfLa5E

Agenda doc also contains remote participation info

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142026-2250

The meeting packet folder contains the doc released before the meeting and after the meeting

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/april-14%2C-2026-sc-meeting-packet/26737086

My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vRqOLinf4Pyzl_K-5sm6fjBuhOqbceig/view?usp=drive_link

Quick recap

• The complete administrative leadership team across the district was present to provide a midyear update on the District and School Improvement plans
• The 'current' District and School plan can be found - https://heyzine.com/flip-book/24ecc9f7e5.html#page/1. The updates as approved last night should be update to the school page in a day or so.

 

Your Brain Hallucinates Your Conscious Reality | Anil Seth | TED

Your brain hallucinates your conscious reality (Anil Seth | TED2017)

Video link -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyu7v7nWzfo

Right now, billions of neurons in your brain are working together to generate a conscious experience — and not just any conscious experience, your experience of the world around you and of yourself within it. How does this happen? According to neuroscientist Anil Seth, we're all hallucinating all the time; when we agree about our hallucinations, we call it "reality." Join Seth for a delightfully disorienting talk that may leave you questioning the very nature of your existence.

If you love watching TED videos like this one, become a TED Member to support our mission of spreading ideas: https://ted.com/membership

Finance Committee spends over 5 hours reviewing and questioning the FY 2027 budget (video)

The Finance Committee spends over 5 hours reviewing details of the general government portions for the FY 2027 budget on Monday, April 6. This is the first of 3 or 4 sessions this week to review and question the details of the budget.

8 of the 9 members of the committee were present in Council Chambers for this session.

The Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/Y7KSV5MTfHs?&t=140

Agenda doc including links to the FY 2027 budget 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04062026-2219 

My full set of notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jmG8Vn97Cemo5YjonVvLtr72hkqHHM26/view?usp=drive_link