Introducing, A-Wreath-of-Franklin!

Upcoming Community Program

Introducing a collaborative community Program: A-Wreath-of-Franklin! Brought to you by your Franklin Cultural community volunteers (Franklin Council and Franklin District), Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Town of Franklin Department of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.

Join us for A-Wreath-of-Franklin, a festive community celebration! Local artists, schools, and community members are invited to decorate wreaths in their interpretation of our inaugural theme, "Stories of the Season". Our cultural volunteers will pair community wreaths to be displayed at local businesses throughout the downtown area (December through January). Deadline for community wreath sign up is November 22nd. Click here! On December 7th, 12-7pm, enjoy a "Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll" event. Community members are welcomed Downtown to vote for their favorite wreaths, shop, eat and enjoy local festivities! Don't miss the fun!

About the Wreaths Just as each wreath is carefully crafted, our traditions and acts of kindness weave together to create a stronger, more united community.  What does our theme, "Stories of the Season" mean to you? Is it celebrating your family heritage? Interpreting a favorite book from your book club? What will your story be? Once the wreaths have been created our volunteers will match the wreath with a local business located in the Downtown/Cultural District area. Wreaths will be placed in windows, with a QR code sign enabling our community to vote for their fan favorite! About the Downtown Event - Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll | Saturday, December 7th, 12-7pm Franklin's Cultural volunteers and community members are working hard in coordinating festive program elements that will include raffles, custom beverages, music performances and more! Stay tuned to our website as we add event details. Wreath Making Community Workshop | Thursday November 14th at Fairmount Fruit Farm. Free workshop; Spots are limited, please RSVP here! In this hands-on wreath-making session, participants will craft beautiful wreaths while building meaningful connections with other community members. Whether you're an experienced crafter or trying something new, this event offers a welcoming space to develop new skills and embrace the joy of making art together. As this workshop is free, we'll have some materials onsite; but we ask participants to bring a few things of their own to join in on the fun! - Wreath (real of faux, whichever you prefer) - 'Adult' scissors - Wire - Any special elements you might be saving for 'a project'  Light snacks and beverages will be provided. Thank you to our workshop hosts, Fairmount Fruit Farm for sharing their beautiful space with us! Guests will also have the option of purchasing any Fairmount Fruit Farm goodies onsite. Please RSVP for the number of people in your party to make sure we have enough materials!

Have questions? Please reach out to the Director of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Cory Shea.

Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email

Town of Franklin Franklin Culture District | 355 East Central Street | Franklin, MA 02038 US

School Committee votes to allow 54 former DT students & siblings not to redistrict at a cost of $75K (audio)

FM #1295= This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1295 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Oct 22, 2024. All 7 members participated in Council Chambers.

Quick recap:

• Decision on the overall redistricting proposal was approved at their last meeting but one aspect of that 'tabled' to this meeting: the choice on how to include the former Davis Thayer students. The motion had been amended and then tabled for further clarification on the total number of students involved. The number grew in the time between meetings so if the parents of former DT students choose to stay with Keller rather than move to the new district, they (1) provide their own transportation for the duration of their students' elementary education (2) the district comes up with a net new teacher for one year (approx. $75K) to pay for the increase in enrollment in the new north elementary rather than the south. With the approval (by a 4-3 vote) tonight, the District will now be contacting those affected parents who will need to make a decision in the next couple of weeks. The numbers provided for students covered by this opportunity are if all choose to take it. One would think that providing the extra transportation (rather than taking advantage of the district busing) would result in not all taking this choice. We'll see how it works out.

• A change to the calendar for this school year was approved to add 3 half days in June to provide a block of 4 half days to enable the teachers and other personnel time to pack for the move before the school year ends. As the override failed, this is one of the consequences of the lack of money the district has to operate. The vote to approve was passed by 6-1 after a motion to 'table' the decision for 1 meeting failed by a 3-4 vote.

• Approval of the goals for the superintendent passed by a 7-0 vote.

• Consent agenda was passed by a 7-0 vote.

The recording runs about 2 hours & 55 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1295-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-10-22-24/

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

Franklin TV -> https://www.youtube.com/live/ff3Vn-2hi0g?si=0REBBEJdliJoXiyW&t=186 

School Committee agenda -> https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/4941932/SCAGENDA_10-22-24.pdf

My notes for the full session are captured in one PDF file ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1F633bBHQYfntqvuKD_XocZBsiRQouF1j/view?usp=drive_link 

Photos of the Davis Thayer decision information can be found in one album ->

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ow3w1ZoXM7dDrMD88 

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

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!

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

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

School Committee votes to allow 54 former DT students & siblings not to redistrict (audio)

FHS football tops Sharon on Friday (video)

Via Twitter, Franklin TV, and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the Fall sports competition for Franklin High School on Friday, October 25, 2024 

Football = Franklin, 57 @ Sharon, 7 – Final

1st Quarter: (F) Andrew Fraulo 5-yard rush, Owen Essam XP good; (F) Kyle Walsh 5-yard rush, O. Essam XP good; (F) Cole Sidwell 6-yard rush, O. Essam XP good.

2nd Quarter: (F) Justin Bianchetto 2-yard rush, O. Essam XP good; (F) J. Bianchetto 13-yard pass to Johnny Duffy, O. Essam XP good; (S) Luke Fernald 18-yard pass to Aidan McAuliffe, Danny Frost XP good; (F) J. Bianchetto 6-yard rush, XP failed.

3rd Quarter: (F) Will Tirrell 7-yard rush, Chase Kiriacopoulos XP good; (F) Safety.

4th Quarter: (F) Nick Palmieri 1-yard rush, C. Kiriacopoulos XP good.

Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBZtd43yS8w

For other results across the Hockomock League (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-10-25-24/

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

FHS Boys Soccer Boosters announce Community Night at Pisini Stadium - Oct 29

Community Night at Pisini Stadium - Oct 29

FHS Boys Soccer Boosters (@FHSBoysSocBSTRs) posted:

📣‼️Calling all soccer fans‼️📣

Next Tuesday, October 29th is FHS Boys Soccer COMMUNITY NIGHT! 

Join us at Pisini Stadium as we celebrate all levels of Franklin Soccer--from Pee Wee to our high school athletes.

Wear your FHS colors 💙🩵🤍 and cheer on the boys in the LAST

Shared from -> https://t.co/wI6SZgnYAa

Ladybugs return to State House

via State Rep Jeff Roy's newsletter:

In 1974, something was bugging the second graders at Kennedy Elementary School in Franklin. They were puzzled that among all the symbols in the Commonwealth, there was no state insect. Since ladybugs are considered good luck and protect plants from pests without being harmful to gardens, the children and their teacher considered the insect worthy of becoming the Bay State’s official state bug.

These second graders swarmed the State House while wearing homemade ladybug costumes and visited lawmakers to make their case. After some heroic efforts by these pioneering students and their teacher, involving a petition, testimony before a legislative committee, and letters to legislators, the ladybug became the official state insect in 1974.

On Friday, October 4, 2024, the same ladybugs, returned to the State House for a 50th Anniversary celebration and tour. They took a tour of the building with Rep. Roy and then were greeted by Governor Maura Healey.  For more photos from the visit-> 

https://www.facebook.com/jeffreyroy/posts/pfbid0TPNWPecrXkhuQGmdzYnWKqsYq5q3UouWdjgZYZ8vM9bZSYQ4gcVcVfhZcaNDx9okl

You can view the WHDH Channel 7 report -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDXhbkeQ5T8

Ladybugs return to State House

Tri-County culinary wins First Place for Most Creative, Best Chili, and Overall BBQ Champion!

1st Place for Most Creative, Best Chili, and Overall BBQ Champion!

via Tri-County RVTHS: 

Big congratulations to Josh Tobey, Olivia Cadorette, Caroline Kaluzny, and Alyssa Furbush who repped Tri-County at the Cape Cod BBQ competition! 

Their mouthwatering menu included Beef Chili with Mang Tango seasoning, Pulled Pork Bao Buns with Vinaigrette Slaw, Pickled Onions, BBQ Slaw, and Apple Spice Cupcakes with Maple Frosting and Candied Bacon.  

They snagged First Place for Most Creative, Best Chili, and Overall BBQ Champion!  #workhardtodaycounts #BBQChamps #FoodGoals #WinningFlavors 

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DBeA4aXJ3uj/ (link has additional photos)

Calling to the attention of middle and high school students to gain community service hours as part of the Pantry Elves

Pantry Elves

"Attention middle and high school students looking for community service hours - sign up for "Pantry Elves" - an essential fundraising campaign that helps feed our neighbors over the holiday season and winter months.  

Please note there are changes to the campaign and participants will not canvass neighborhoods. Sign up today or learn more on our website!"

Register for Pantry Elves -> https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-involved/volunteer/pantryelves/

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/sGT6XaY1AtXcYXqe/

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Project: Construction Update for the Week of October 28

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Project

 

 

 

BSI Construction Update for the Week of October 28th!

Monday (10/28) - Friday (11/1): Beaver Street from RT. 140 (West Central Street) to the Franklin Recreation Center will be closed, see interactive map for location. The road closure will be from 7am to 4pm, Monday thru Friday.

Those needing to access Beaver Street and the businesses/properties located on that section of Beaver Street will be detoured over to Grove Street. When the contractor is able to, they will open up one way traffic from RT. 140 towards Grove Street. Please follow all posted detour signs and be prepared for delays.

At the Franklin Recreation Center, the construction of the new Beaver Street Interceptor Pump Station will continue with concrete form placement and rebar tying for the pump station foundation.

On Tuesday October 29th, a small concrete pour is scheduled in the morning, prior to activities starting at the Recreation Center.

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

Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) Project: Construction Update for the Week of October 28

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 below as work progresses.

BEAVER STREET INTERCEPTOR HOTLINE: 508-553-5526
(PLEASE LEAVE A MESSAGE AND WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL)
EMAIL: BSI-info@franklinma.gov

Read more -> https://www.franklinma.gov/water-sewer-division/pages/beaver-street-interceptor-project

Three ways scammers try to steal your money

Three ways scammers try to steal your money By Alvaro Puig We recently shared advice to help you safeguard the personal information in your accounts, on your computer, and on your phone to protect it from identity theft. But scammers aren't just after your data. They want your hard-earned cash, too. Here are some common scams to watch out for. Read more -> https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/10/three-ways-scammers-try-steal-your-money?

Three ways scammers try to steal your money

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, October 25, 2024 ???

Friday, October 25

8am – 1pm  Early Voting (Town Clerk's Office) 

10am – 12pm Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

2 – 6pm Franklin Farmers Market (Franklin Town Common)

2 – 6pm Cousins Maine Lobster (Franklin Town Common)  

2 – 6pm Doglio Coffee (Franklin Town Common)

2 – 5pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church) 

Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main St, Franklin, MA 02038, USA

3 – 6pm Padula Brothers (live music) (Franklin Town Common)

4 – 8pm Trunk or Treat (Franklin TV and Radio 102.9 FM)

4 – 6pm 5th Annual Pumpkin Patch (St John's Episcopal Church)

7:30 – 10pm FPAC: The School of Rock (THE BLACK BOX) 

9 – 11pm Steven Fritzsche (Two for the Rode)  (3 Restaurant)

**  NO Town Meetings today   **

What's happening today in Franklin? 

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

Why are there multiple calendars?

Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

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 Library calendar of events ->    calendar link

The Senior Center calendar of events ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/upcoming

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

What vendors and activities are at the LAST Farmer's Market for this season - October 25 ???

We are glad you asked.  

Thanks to the good folks operating the Franklin Farmer's Market, we have the answers to share. 

Thanks for all the goodness this season, can hardly wait until next year!

 the LAST Farmer's Market for this season - October 25

"Based on an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence gathered throughout last night and this morning, they collectively determined that the fire was intentionally set"

See the following statement from @massdfs : https://www.mass.gov/news/fire-in-franklin-church-being-investigated-as-arson 

UPDATE: The ATF this afternoon informed State Police fire investigators that they would match up to $5,000 in Arson Watch Reward Program funds in connection with last night’s fire. That would raise the maximum reward for information to $10,000.

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to call 1-800-682-9229.

the maximum reward for information to $10,000

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DBhCvnZR1k0/

The Boston Globe also provides coverage of the fire and arson investigation -> 

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/10/24/metro/franklin-church-fire-arson/

FHS girls soccer post win on Senior Night Thursday

Via Twitter, Franklin TV, and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the Fall sports competition for Franklin High School on Thursday, October 24, 2024 

Boys Soccer = Franklin, 0 @ Milford, 1 – Final 

– Milford junior Danny Da Silva delivered the game-winning goal with just over 10 minutes to play to help the Hawks knockoff division-leading Franklin. Sophomore Gui Quaresma won the ball on the edge of the Milford defensive third and quickly found classmate Mayck Moreira at midfield. Moreira took a few touches forward before hitting a through ball between a pair of defenders and Da Silva latched onto it and deposited a low shot to the far post for the only goal of the game. Quaresma, Gabe Santos, Andre Moura, and Gianelli Caccin all played terrific in front of goalie Robbie Cappelli as Milford earned its second shutout and win over the Panthers this season. Tiko Lourenco also had a great game for Milford, working hard throughout the midfield all game long.

Girls Soccer = Milford, 2 @ Franklin, 5 – Final

Volleyball = Franklin, 0 @ Barnstable, 3 – Final 

– Franklin came up just short in a tight second set and couldn’t dig out of the 0-2 hole in a 3-0 loss on the road at Barnstable (21-25, 24-26, 14-25). Olivia Alberti had a strong game in the middle with 11 kills (0.474 hitting percentage) and four blocks, Makayla Kuykendall added nine digs and six kills, Faith Edgehille notched 15 digs, and Brooke Daniels finished with 22 assists.

For other results across the Hockomock League (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-10-24-24/

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

Fall Cleanup - Scheduled for Week of November 11, 2024

It's Fall Cleanup time!

Yard waste will be picked up curbside during the week of November 11, 2024.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/fall-cleanup-week-november-11-2024

Fall Cleanup - Scheduled for Week of November 11, 2024

Holiday Shop & Artist Meet - Greet Event - Nov 23

I'll be hanging out and selling tons of handmade items:

Holiday Shop & Artist Meet - Greet Event - Nov 23

- embroidered beanies (which sold out within 45 minutes last year)

- embroidered ornaments

- embroidered wall hangings

- original watercolors

- various handmade cards, including Christmas cards (which sold out last year)

- original acrylic paintings

- hand painted bookmarks

- hand pointed rocks

- apparel

- and more!

» This is the only time every year that I hold a shop in person, so come check it out!

*Bonus points if you share about it!

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/evBamwMh2NL4fJ3X/

Reminder: DPW Touch a truck Saturday from 10 to 2; map available for parking, etc.

"Join us this weekend! Looks like it is going to be a beautiful Fall day!!  

We have plenty of parking available. Please see the map below!"

map available for parking

Reminder: DPW Touch a truck Saturday

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/fuGFb51t5v1W6BkN/

Halloween decoration winners announced

The Franklin Lions Club announce decoration winners:

"Thank you to everyone who entered the 5th Annual Halloween House Decorating Contest! All of the displays were amazing and such a joy to observe.

Thank you to all of our judges as this was not an easy task! Score sheets are in, calculated, and we have the winners! 

I will announce the top 10 displays here. First, second, and third place winners will receive an email outlining the award presentation. 

Top 3 winners will receive a yard sign to display with pride and a declaration from State Representative Jeffrey Roy!

1.. 404 Martello Rd: Raven's Hallow Cemetery and The Poison Garden

2.. 2 Overlook Drive: Bruce Wonka’s Haunted Candyland

3.. 35 Meadowlark Lane: Pumpkin Patch of the Dead

4. 65 Summer Street: REDЯUM MANOR

5. 6 Hayden lane: Rumble in the graveyard

6. 65 Pond St: Everything scary

7. 3 Ashbury Drive: Haunted House at 3 Ashboo-ry Drive

8. 674 Pleasant Street: Jimmy “bones” Buffett Tribute

9. 787 Lincoln St: Disney’s Haunted Mansion

10. 6 Anchorage Road: Graveyard Playground

Community Vote: Thank you to everyone who saw each display and voted for your favorite. This years’ Community winner is: 35 Meadowlark Lane: Pumpkin Patch of the Dead 

If you haven’t already, please go out and see all of the creative and fun displays the Franklin Community has to offer!

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/kVPZhQna8q2owCqq/