What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, July 19, 2025 ???

Saturday, July 19

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9:00am Library Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am Rise Up (Franklin United Methodist Church)

10:00am Walking Group (St John's Episcopal Church)

10:30am Legendary Foam Party! (Franklin Public Library)

12:00pm Mad Science Minis! (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Library Bag Sale (books by the bag) (Franklin Public Library)

2:00pm Matt York Concert (live music)(Franklin Public Library)

8:00pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->        

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

** NO Town Meetings today   **

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What's happening today in Franklin? 

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

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin residents and friends Join National “Good Trouble Lives On” Day of Action to Honor John Lewis and Defend Democracy

On Thursday, July 17, more than 100 residents gathered in Franklin as part of Good Trouble Lives On — a nationwide day of action honoring the life and legacy of civil rights hero Congressman John Lewis.

The local event, organized by the Franklin Democratic Town Committee and the Committee to Protect Our Democracy was one of hundreds coordinated actions across the country. Participants marched, rallied, and made “good trouble” to demand an end to the growing attacks on voting rights, civil liberties, and essential public programs.

“We showed up today because Congressman Lewis taught us that getting into ‘good trouble’ is how we change history,” said Colin Cass, chair of the Committee to Protect Our Democracy. “Our democracy is under attack — and we won’t be silent while extremist politicians try to roll back our rights and erase our voices.”

photo submitted by group
doing the "Good Trouble"

Participants echoed the national campaign’s demands, including:

• Ending the Trump administration’s assault on civil and human rights
• Stopping politicians from targeting Black, Brown, immigrant, and trans communities with harmful policies
• Protecting and expanding vital programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and Social Security

In the spirit of Congressman Lewis’ legacy, participants committed to continuing the fight for a multiracial democracy where every voice counts and every person has the freedom to thrive.

For more information about the national campaign, visit www.goodtroubleliveson.org.

For interview requests or event photos, please contact Rachel Plukas at 508-654-6216 or rlplukas@gmail.com

Additional photos -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/Si3kMYemaaeGm25z7

Economic Development Subcmte spends 3 hours in discussion on Wednesday (audio)

FM #1480 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1480 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the audio recording of the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 in the 3rd Floor Training Room. 

3 members were present and participated in the first agenda item. Once that was complete, the 4th member, Cobi Frongillo joined them for the remainder of the session. He had recused himself from the Crossing Neighborhood District discussion to avoid a conflict of interest. His father's business is located in that potential district.

Quick recap:

Item 1 - Crossing Neighborhood

• TA Jamie Hellen provides the overview of the background on the proposal for the Crossing Neighborhood. Multiple zoning bylaws make up the "package" to work together. Direct link to the memo providing the overview https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6226/1a-DPCD-Memo---Crossing-Neighborhood-Zoning-District---71625

• Hamblen looks at this as a "mini downtown commercial". She raises an issue on 3 family by right, J Halligan notes that the current bylaw actually includes the proper language; apparently in the draft, the section language got left out. It can be included (and should) without vote to modify this. An oversight on version control. This identifies a couple of updates to the online zoning codes as they were changed just not reflected in the current versions

• After much discussion

• Motion to amend 2.3 8a from no to planning board special permit Passes 3-0

• Motion to move to Town council as amended, second passes 3-0

Item 2 - Use Variances

• Discussion on Recommendation on eliminating “Use Variances” from the authority within the Zoning Board of Appeals

• Discussion on elimination of use variance from approval by the ZBA, which in those cases tend to overstep their authority; the restriction was intentionally made by the zoning bylaws with PB and Council approval and then the ZBA can act on their own...

• After much discussion, Motion to move to council for further discussion (Jones)

• Not seconded, hence the move does not take place. There will be some discussion overall on this topic in a positive manner per Hamblen

Item 3 - update on World Cup

• FIFA requirements will host the fan center in Boston. We are still figuring out what we can do. Artificial Turf fields are not used by international games (Gillette is redone with real grass for international games)

• Lots of other events at the same time; Highland games, Tall Ships, etc

• Marketing via MetroWest on the benefits of Franklin. Hotel outreach, transportation planning needed; Porchfest, 4th of July also in similar time frames... Found in Franklin market for goods, crafts

Item 4 - EDC goals

• On the one hand, given the length of the meeting and discussions there seemed little interest in this item; only one member Frongillo was prepared with a short list of priorities

• Recognition from TA Hellen that until B Taberner's replacement is hired, there is very little staff to do the additional work

Motion to adjourn, passes 4-0

The recording of the meeting runs about 3 hours.   

Audio link ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1480-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-07-16-25/

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Economic Development Subcmte mtg

Franklin TV video replay is available -> https://www.youtube.com/live/6hKdQIw9rpQ 

The EDC agenda and supporting documents

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07162025-1818 

My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ME-F_qCpL61vAQz0NeBnFDIakEXX3mzO/view?usp=drive_link

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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. 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"

Senior Story Hour - WFPR: Episode 082 - Ambrose Bierce, First Real June, Iggy's Children's Book, Love Poems, Summertime, The Thousand Hour Lesson, and much more

In this episode, The Franklin Senior Center Writers Group share stories, poems, and writings about the life of Ambrose Bierce, the first feelings of summer and June, love poems, playing in the summer, in or out of place, Bo gives us a chapter in his children's book based on him and his dog Iggy, and Bob gives us another chapter in The Thousand Hour Lesson.

Audio link -> https://senior-scribblers.captivate.fm/episode/episode-082-ambrose-bierce-first-real-june-iggys-childrens-book-love-poems-summertime-the-thousand-hour-lesson-and-much-more-

Senior Story Hour - WFPR

Senior Story Hour - WFPR = The Franklin Senior Center Writer's Group

Steve Sherlock hosts The Franklin Senior Center Writer's Group for a monthly reading of short stories, essays, poetry and more. 

Find more episodes here (or on your favorite podcast app) ->  https://senior-scribblers.captivate.fm/episodes

Congressman Auchincloss Extends An invitation for Virtual Update and Q&A session Monday, July 21

Hi neighbor, On Monday, July 21st, I'll be hosting a Virtual Update and Q&A to discuss the future of health care. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and hear how President Trump's policies through the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" will impact health care and Medicaid coverage in Massachusetts, and how we can respond. Health Care Edition: Congressional Update and Q&A with Rep. Jake Auchincloss and special guest Michael A. Curry, Esq.  President & CEO, Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers Monday, July 21st 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm  RSVP for the Zoom link HERE   Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss WASHINGTON 15 Independence Avenue SE 1524 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5931 NEWTON 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 Newton, MA 02458 Phone: (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO 8 North Main Street Suite 200 Attleboro, MA 02703 Phone: (508) 431-1110

Community cookout scheduled for United Methodist Church, Sat, July 26

All are invited to a FREE community cookout at the Franklin United Methodist Church (82 W. Central Street) on Saturday, July 26. Food will be served from 5:30 - 6:30 PM. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Limited seating will be available.

Community cookout scheduled for
United Methodist Church, Sat, July 26

There is no need to register for this event; however, setup/cleanup volunteers and those looking to donate deserts should signup by going to https://onrealm.org/FranklinUMC/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=OTdmMWEwNDQtNDhlOS00YWU5LTkzZWUtYjMxZDAwZDRlZDVh

In case of rain, this event will be cancelled. Notices will be posted to the church’s website and FB page. If you have any questions, or would like to donate to this event, please contact Pastor Jacob.

To learn more about Community Cookouts @FranklinUMC, go to https://franklinumc.org/community/cookouts/. 

Download the flyer as a reminder or to share -> https://franklinumc.org/wp-content/uploads/FLYER-COMMUNITY-COOKOUT-202507.pdf

MetroWest Nonprofit Network recognizes the Franklin Food Pantry Board of Directors as a Nonprofit Valuable Player (NVP)!

MetroWest Nonprofit Network recognizes
 the Franklin Food Pantry Board of Directors

Via the Franklin Food Pantry: 

"We are so incredibly proud of our 2024 Board of Directors!  

Congratulations on being named a Nonprofit Valuable Player (NVP) by the MetroWest Nonprofit Network! Your hard work and dedication to The Pantry and to our community is making a real difference and we are so grateful."

MetroWest Nonprofit Network

"Congratulations to the 2024 Board of Directors of the @Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.—our newest Nonprofit Valuable Player (NVP)! 

Nominated by Executive Director, Tina Tavares Powderly, because of their unwavering commitment to the Pantry's mission and Franklin community.

"Their strategic vision has empowered us to grow thoughtfully—investing in staff, volunteers, and infrastructure, most notably are first permanent space, to better serve those in need. This dynamic group brings diversity, dedication, brilliance, and a spirit of collaboration and fun that continually motivates and strengthens our entire organization." —Tina

 The NVP Award is part of MWNN’s Mission: Possible campaign—celebrating the individuals and organizations making their nonprofit missions possible. It's all in honor of National Nonprofit Day on 8/17."

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/19RVewN6vV/

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Project Construction Updates ~ Monday (7/21) through Friday (7/25)

The construction crew will be working off the road on Fisher Street adjacent to the MBTA Tracks. Limited to no traffic impacts are expected.

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Project

NO WORK on Beaver Street - On either side of the MBTA tracks Beaver Street will have steel plates to allow for traffic to pass over.  Please use caution when traveling in this area.  

At the Franklin Recreation Center, the construction of the new Beaver Street Interceptor Pump Station will continue with construction of the exterior building structure and internal building component installation.

Please reference the interactive map and posted signs for details and updates.

We appreciate the public's continued support and understanding and will continue to communicate regularly via social media, our dedicated email list, and the construction map as work progresses.

Shared from -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/557/Beaver-Street-Interceptor-BSI-Project

Community Alert: Let Medway help us avoid what they experienced

A valuable reminder from the Medway Police Department:

"This morning, multiple vehicles were broken into at Orangetheory in the Medway Commons. Windows were smashed, and belongings were stolen.

This type of crime is consistent with known organized groups that travel across states and communities, targeting fitness centers, parks, and similar places. Their MO often includes breaking into vehicles to steal purses, wallets, or bags that are left in plain sight, then quickly using stolen credit cards or cashing stolen checks before victims even realize what happened.

Community Alert: Let Medway help us avoid what they experienced 

📌Aside from today's incident, other recent activity includes:

- Last week: Checks stolen from a vehicle in another part of the state were cashed at a Medway bank.

- Over the Weekend: Credit cards were stolen from a gym locker room in Millis and were used shortly after at CVS in Medway.

To help prevent these crimes, always lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables in sight, and take personal belongings with you whenever possible. Staying alert in parking areas and reporting suspicious behavior can make a big difference!"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DMNj97Nt5Ve/

Keep an eye on what's happening

https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/jul/18/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-to-end-in-2026-as-cbs-cancels-show

 

"The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has been cancelled and will end in May, with network CBS announcing it will retire the Late Show entirely after a 33-year run.

The news comes just a few days after Colbert criticized the network’s parent company, Paramount, for settling a lawsuit with Donald Trump for $16m (£12m) over the US president’s claim that CBS News deceptively edited an interview with the then presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

The settlement coincided with Paramount seeking approval from the US Federal Communications Commission for an $8.4bn merger with Skydance Media. Colbert called the settlement “a big fat bribe”.

Colbert, who has hosted the talkshow since 2015, announced the news during Thursday night’s recording, telling the audience he had been told of the decision the previous night."

Continue reading the article (subscription may be required)

www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/jul/18/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-to-end-in-2026-as-cbs-cancels-show

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, July 19, 2025

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:

 

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday

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