"A Mile for the Mind" fund raiser to benefit Brain Injury Association Saturday, March 22 at the Sculpture Park

via Hunter Schulz, Miss Blackstone Valley 2024

I met Hunter at Ali's "Look UP" gallery show

Hi! 

I'm hosting my fundraiser "A Mile for the Mind" benefiting the Brain Injury Association of America on Saturday March 22nd, 12-2 PM at the Franklin Sculpture Park (911 Panther Way Franklin, MA  02038 United States)! 

There will be raffles, snacks, prizes, and more 😊 

You can make a donation online ->   https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=biausa&id=321

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW): Episode 285 - Interview with Jim Spadaccini (audio)

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you!

Immersive Wine Experiences: The Future of Tasting with Ideum

Episode Summary:

Join Kim and Mark on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as they delve into the cutting edge of wine technology with Jim Spadaccini of Ideum. Discover how Ideum is revolutionizing the wine tasting experience with its innovative interactive tasting tables.

In this episode, Jim shares the story behind Ideum and its expertise in creating captivating museum exhibits. He then dives into the fascinating details of their wine tasting table technology, explaining how it enhances the user experience. Learn how the tables cater to both still and sparkling wines with their different modules, providing a unique and informative journey for wine enthusiasts.

Jim also discusses the accolades Ideum has received for its groundbreaking work and how their experience in museum interactives has contributed to the development of this exciting wine technology. Looking ahead, he offers insights into the future of wine experiences and how technology like Ideum's tasting tables will continue to shape the industry.

Episode 285 - Interview with Jim Spadaccini (audio)

About Ideum:

Ideum is a company specializing in the design and development of interactive experiences. Their wine tasting table technology is transforming the way people engage with wine, offering a blend of education and enjoyment.

Learn More:

Ideum: www.ideum.com

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW): www.thewww.wine

Cheers!

Kim and Mark

🍷🍷🍷

http://www.thewww.wine

#wine #thewonderfulworldofwine #ideum #winetasting

https://soundcloud.com/user-492543397/episode-285-interview-with-jim-spadaccini?

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) · Episode 285-Interview with Jim Spadaccini

HockomockSports.com: "Franklin Outlasts Newton North To Win First Ever State Championship"

Ryan Lanigan || HockomockSports.com Editor, will have a more complete update and photo gallery later today (Monday):

"For the first time in program history, the Franklin boys basketball team are state champions.

The top-seeded Panthers held off a late push from #3 Newton North, including a potential game-tying three at the buzzer, to secure the title with a 55-52 win.

Senior Caden Sullivan scored 11 of his game-high 31 points in the fourth quarter, including some clutch free throws in the final minute to help Franklin get the win."

Shared from (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/franklin-outlasts-newton-north-to-win-first-ever-state-championship/

The Boston Globe also provides coverage

"There was a lot of weight on Caden Sullivan’s shoulders down the stretch of Sunday’s thrilling Division 1 boys’ basketball state final at Tsongas Center.

The weight of a grieving community, of a team full of new starters, and a program desperately trying to get over the hump for its first state title.

Franklin’s senior captain took it all in stride, stepping up with 14 of the Panthers’ final 16 points to out-duel Newton North star senior Teagan Swint in a 55-52 victory that went down to the final buzzer."

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/03/16/sports/miaa-division-1-boys-basketball-franklin-newton-north-caden-sullivan/?

How to access the Boston Globe with your Franklin library card   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/02/how-to-access-online-resources-with.html 

FHS Cheerleaders take 1st at Nationals

FHS Cheerleaders take 1st at Nationals

 

"Nationals 2025 ✅ 

We are beyond proud of this team and everything they have accomplished throughout the whole year. 

Thank you seniors for everything and we wish you the best next year!"

Shared from (also has more photos of their time in Florida) ->   https://www.instagram.com/p/DHSTsoVOfVs/

The Yellow Boat continues to sail to the State Finals

"THE YELLOW BOAT IS SETTING COURSE FOR STATE FINALS!!!!  

The Yellow Boat continues to sail to the State Finals

 

We are so excited and grateful for this opportunity as we move forward in 2025 Dramafest. Congratulations to all of our cast, crew, and All Star Award winners for an amazing performance!!  

 

See you at finals!"

The Yellow Boat continues to sail to the State Finals 2

Shared from ->

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F5AggUxVo/

Good Deeds: Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Celebrates Women's History Month

Women's History Month is celebrated in March to acknowledge the vital contributions and significance of women in our society. Recognizing the achievements of women throughout history is essential in understanding the nation we live in today.

The observance of Women’s History Month began in 1978 as a week-long celebration to coincide with International Women’s Day in Santa Rosa, California. The movement gained widespread support, leading to its national recognition. By 1980, women's organizations and historians successfully lobbied for a national celebration. President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation establishing March 8th as National Women's History Week. Each president continued this tradition until 1987 when Congress passed Public Law 100-9, designating March as "Women’s History Month." Since 1995, every president has issued an annual proclamation designating March as "Women’s History Month."

Registry of Deeds Celebrates Women's History Month

Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance selects a theme. This year's theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” inspired me to share the remarkable stories of five women who have left an indelible mark on our history.

Mary Pratt, from Quincy, was a remarkable female baseball player. She played as a pitcher in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) from 1943 to 1947. Pratt was known for her exceptional skills on the mound, and she pitched a no-hitter in 1944. Her contributions to women's baseball helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes. After her baseball career, Pratt continued to inspire others as an educator and coach, advocating for the advancement of women in sports.

The stories of athletes like Mary Pratt are often brought to life through the lens of dedicated journalists who capture their achievements.

Jackie MacMullan, born in Westwood, is a renowned sports journalist and author. Throughout her career spanning from 1982 to 2021, she has broken barriers in the male-dominated field of sports journalism. MacMullan's insightful reporting and storytelling have earned her numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Her work has paved the way for future generations of women in sports media.

Education has always been a cornerstone of societal progress, and it plays a crucial role in shaping future generations.

Bathsheba Benedict was a pioneer in education and the benefactress of Benedict College. Born Bathsheba Adams Barber in Bellingham, Massachusetts, in 1809, she married Stephen Benedict, a banker, mill owner, Baptist church deacon, and early abolitionist from Pawtucket, in 1830. After her husband’s death in 1868, Bathsheba used proceeds from his insurance policy and estate, along with a donation from her brother-in-law, to coordinate a donation of several thousand dollars to the American Baptist Home Mission Society. This donation helped start a Baptist school for freed slaves in the South. Bathsheba Benedict's contribution laid the foundation for what would become Benedict College, established in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1870.

Bathsheba Benedict's legacy extends into the realm of civil rights and social activism, where another trailblazer, Florida Ruffin Ridley, made significant strides.

Florida Ruffin Ridley, born in 1861, was an African American civil rights activist, suffragist, and writer from Brookline. She was one of the first African American teachers in the Boston Public Schools and co-founded the Woman's Era Club, one of the first African American women's clubs in the United States. Ridley used her writing to advocate for racial equality and women's rights, contributing to publications such as the "Woman's Era" newspaper. Her efforts in advancing civil rights and women's suffrage left a lasting impact on society. In November 2019 the Brookline Town Meeting voted to rename the Coolidge Corner School as the Florida Ruffin Ridley School.

The drive to improve lives and inspire change is also evident in the field of public health and nutrition, as demonstrated by Charlotte Barrell Ware's pioneering work.

Charlotte Barrell Ware, born in 1868, was a pioneering figure in the dairy industry who developed protocols for producing and bottling the healthiest milk available at the time. The innovative methods in dairy farming she taught at the Warelands Dairy School located in the town of Norfolk set new standards for quality and safety, benefiting countless families and communities. Ware's commitment to improving public health and nutrition was evident in her relentless pursuit of excellence. She advocated for better sanitation practices in milk production, which significantly reduced the incidence of milk-borne illnesses. Ware's legacy lives on through the continued emphasis on food safety and quality in the dairy industry.

These women have had a profound influence on various fields: Bathsheba Benedict in education, Florida Ruffin Ridley in civil rights and suffrage, Charlotte Barrell Ware in science and public health, Mary Pratt in sports, and Jackie MacMullan in journalism. Their pioneering efforts and dedication have not only advanced their respective fields but also inspired countless individuals to follow in their footsteps, demonstrating the power of resilience, innovation, and excellence.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, let us recognize and honor the achievements of these extraordinary women. Their contributions have shaped our society and continue to inspire us today. Our communities, nation, and world are better because of the impact these women have made.

Parents Night Out Hosted by the Class of 2028

Parents Night Out Hosted by the Class of 2028

Looking for a fun night for your kids while you enjoy some time off?

Register for Parents Night Out on March 28, 2025, from 5-8 PM at Franklin High School!

Crafts & entertainment

Pizza

Paired with responsible high school mentors

Supervised by Franklin HS staff

For grades K-5 (limited to 100 kids)

Drop-off at the Community Entrance (by the gym). Pick-up by 8 PM. Only listed individuals can pick up your child.

Register & pay online by March 24, 2025 ($20 for 1 child, $10 for additional siblings (up to 2 siblings!)). No payments at the door. Signed release form required at drop-off (provided at drop-off).

Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

Link to Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdOZuPK6PjMex5AD6AuT2qc9geYBSwyduHYFcoP3KdBKkh5Yw/viewform

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/FranklinParents/posts/3025953800888249/

Town of Franklin looking to hire a Director of Planning and Community Development

Our Department of Planning and Community Development is led by the Director of Planning and Community Development with a focus on planning and implementing policies and initiatives to fulfill the land use-related goals of the people of Franklin. 

Director of Planning and Community Development

Working collaboratively with the Director of Conservation and Town Planner; the mission of the DPCD is to make every effort to maintain the character of the community while enhancing its economic, recreational and social vitality. DPCD balances its approach to these initiatives through long-term planning and public participation. 

⤵️ Check out the full posting here (https://lnkd.in/e3Mz7xUd)

📩 Application materials due: April 11, 2025

Shared from -> 

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/town-of-franklin-ma-economic-development_director-of-planning-and-community-development-activity-7305722768619196417-4EdP

The full posting can also be found here -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4709/Director-of-Planning-and-Community-Development----March-12-2025-PDF

Social Network Forum at FHS on Thursday, Apr 3, 2025

Social Network Forum at FHS on Thurs, Apr 3, 2025 

"Join us for a Social Network Forum at the Franklin High School on Thursday, April 3, 2025. 

See the flyer and RSVP here (via QR Code) :  https://t.co/iq2I95h0A9

Direct link to RSVP -> https://share.hsforms.com/2226Sv7n_QoyNDp00gcpumwgbr 

Download a copy of the flyer as a reminder or to share -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P7-y7T1nTm44l3WTh7SzD7ZWccJa4ce8/view?usp=drive_link

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

Senior Center schedule for week fo March 17 - March 21, 2025

"Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 

The Senior Center will be CLOSED on Monday and Tuesday to put the finishing touches on the building. 

We look forward to welcoming you all back on Wednesday March 19th!"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHQ5Cc2xamV/

Senior Center schedule for week fo March 17 -  March 21, 2025

Help yourself with a Spin Class and Help the Jefferson PCC fund raising efforts on March 30

Help Jefferson PCC fund raising on Mar 30

Sign up for a 45 minute ride with a short reception to follow on Sunday, March 30 at Cyclebar Milford. $40/rider.  

All proceeds benefit the Jefferson Elementary PCC.

Registration opened March 16 -> https://members.cyclebar.com/book/cyclebar-milford/piq_16456721

https://www.cyclebar.com/location/milford

wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday, March 17, 2025 - Franklin Public Radio

Available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the Franklin area FM dial at 102.9 

wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday - Franklin Public Radio

Monday

• Chapters – Jim Derick  Insightful, life-affirming stories and interviews
• Music to Lift the Spirit - Frank Falvey
• Senior Story Hour – Senior Center Writers Group
• Frank’s Musings/Presents – with Frank Falvey

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule

Franklin TV schedule for Monday, March 17, 2025

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

7:00 am Riffin' on Main Street: Pauline Spender

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

9:00 am Critical Conversations: Social Media

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Meatballs

1:05 pm Cooking Thyme: Spring

1:35 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2

2:02 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 3

3:02 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 12

4:00 pm Franklin Art Association: Erin Spencer

5:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1

7:00 pm Care For Ukraine

8:30 pm  Circle of Friends: Tracy Grammer

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel        (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

9:30 am Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith

10:30 am FHS Concert Hour 02-26-25

12:00 pm All-Town Showcase 2024: Band

1:30 pm FHS Girls Varsity Hockey v Canton 02-05-25

3:30 pm FHS Winter Jazz 01-29-25

5:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Basketball v Central Catholic 03-03-25

7:30 pm SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

8:30 pm FHS Boys Varsity Hockey v Arlington 02-25-25

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

 

8:00 am Planning Board 03-10-25

2:00 pm Planning Board 03-10-25

6:00 pm Joint Budget Subcommittee Listening Session 6 03-12-25

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

FHS Boys Basketball brings home the D1 State Championship!!!

MIAA DIVISION 1 STATE CHAMPIONS!

MIAA DIVISION 1 STATE CHAMPIONS!

Winning 55-52 over Newton North

  https://t.co/rVm0SfRxoh

(https://x.com/fhsboysbball/status/1901416112526327998?t=PZc72aWPX9azgFUTIjVpGw&s=03)

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Sunday, March 16, 2025 ???

Sunday, March 16

* "Look Up" Gallery (Franklin Public Library during open hours)

7:30am All You Can Eat Breakfast (Franklin Rod & Gun Club)

11:00am Sunday Brunch (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)

1:00pm Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

1:00pm “Stand Out” mini-demonstration to support Ukraine and American support for Ukraine 

2:00pm Weekend Watercolor (registration required) (Franklin Public Library)

2:00pm FPAC: Mel Brooks "The Producers" (THE BLACK BOX)

7:00pm Rehearsal for Distinguished Young Women (Patti Eisenhauer Dance Center)

8:00pm Jambag (live music) (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)

** NO Town Meetings today   **

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

Why are there multiple calendars?

What's happening today in Franklin? 

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/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false

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-calendars

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Town Council meeting, Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 7 PM

Franklin Town Council

Agenda & Meeting Packet

March 19, 2025 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

2nd floor, Council Chambers 355 East Central Street 

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 9 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

c. Upcoming Town Sponsored Community Events.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. In compliance with G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 20 et seq, the Open Meeting Law, the Council cannot engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter. Nothing herein shall prevent the Town Administrator from correcting a misstatement of fact.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

a. February 26, 2025   

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4743/3a-February-26-2025-TC-Meeting-Minutes--Draft-for-Review

b. March 5, 2025  

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4747/3b-March-5-2025-TC-Meeting-Minutes--Draft-for-Reviewdocx---Google-Docs

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS - None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS - None Scheduled

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM - None Scheduled

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION - None Scheduled

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 25-15: Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot Question

(Motion to Approve Resolution 25-15 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4746/9a--25-15-and-25-16---Override-Date-and-Question

b. Resolution 25-16: Setting Date of Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot

(Motion to Approve Resolution 25-16 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4745/9b-1---RESOLUTION-25-16---Override-Ballot-Date

c. Bylaw Amendment 25-925: Amendment to Sewer System Map (Raymond St) - Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 25-925 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4730/9c-25-925-and-25-926---Raymond-St-Sewer-Extension-2

d. Bylaw Amendment 25-926: Amendment to Water System Map (Raymond St) - Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 25-926 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4731/9d-1---BYLAW-AMENDMENT-25-926---Water-System-Map---Raymond-St

 

e. Resolution 25-17: Acceptance of Gifts - Veterans’ Services Department ($635) (Motion to Approve Resolution 25-17 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4742/9e-25-17---Gift-Acceptance---Vets-Dept

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATORS REPORT

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Economic Development Subcommittee

c. Joint Budget Subcommittee

d. Police Station Building Committee

e. GATRA Advisory Board

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting 

Agenda doc -> https://franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03192025-1639

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Town Council meeting, Wednesday, MArch 19, 2025 at 7 PM

2 times to get your Questions Answered: Mon, Mar 17 - 6:30 PM at the Library and / or Weds, Mar 19, 11:00 AM at the Senior Center; both with Remote option

What is going on with .... ?

What happened to ....?

How come .... ?

Join Steve Sherlock, Franklin Matters & wfpr.fm Community Information Director (volunteer), for an informal and informative Q&A session. 

What is the session about?

• Steve provides some updates on what's happened in the past month in the first 10-15 minutes, then opens the floor to answer whatever questions you have.

When: Monday, March 17, 2024 at 6:30 PM  

Where: Franklin Public Library (Community Room) and via Zoom

  Or

2 times to get your Questions Answered

When: Wednesday, March 19, 2024 at 11:00 AM  

Where: Franklin Senior Center (2nd floor conf room) and via Zoom

If you want the Zoom link, please use this form, or check with the Library/ or Senior Center front desk, or email me:  https://forms.gle/Nh8RxkMtG1J1DGwj9

Download this flyer as a reminder or to share -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FCj7dKJmAdCgLHYOA4mGelLZJ__B7Qd_/view?usp=drive_link