Wednesday, June 18, 2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 ???

Library & Senior Center events
Library & Senior Center events
Wednesday, June 18

  • Eat at Sante Fe - help Santa Foundation (Santa Fe Burrito Grill)

11:00am Franklin Q&A (Franklin Senior Center)
1:00pm Where's the Toast? Memory Cafe (Franklin Senior Center)



For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->   






**  Town Meetings today   **

Town Council Meeting

Wednesday, June 18 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/Town-Council-4/?#_06182025-1788


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What's happening today in Franklin?
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

Free Summer Lunches for Youth Return to Local Communities

The Hockomock Area YMCA is proud to announce the return of its Free Summer Lunch Program, providing nutritious meals to youth ages 1–18 at multiple locations across the region. 

This initiative, part of the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to food access and community well-being, ensures that children and families have access to healthy meals throughout the summer months when school is not in session.

Free Summer Lunches for Youth
 Free Summer Lunches for Youth
Beginning the week of June 23, free lunches will be available at the following sites: 
Memorial Elementary School – Milford
12 Walnut Street, Milford, MA
Monday through Friday | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
June 23 – August 15
Bellingham Public Library
100 Blackstone Street, Bellingham, MA
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
June 24 – August 14
Jackson Elementary School – Plainville
68 Messenger Street, Plainville, MA
Tuesdays & Thursdays | 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
June 24 – August 14

No registration is required, and all children and teens are welcome to participate.

A free lunch will be given to each child and the adult accompanying them. Meals are served in a safe, welcoming environment, and families are encouraged to attend together.

“This program is about more than just food—it’s about community,” said Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “We are proud to partner with local schools and libraries to ensure that no child goes hungry during the summer.”

The Summer Lunch Program is part of the YMCA’s broader food access efforts, which include weekly food distribution and year-round support for families facing food insecurity. For more information, visit https://www.hockymca.org/summer-lunch-program.

USDA Non-Discrimination Statement:
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. 

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits.

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. 

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. 

Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture 
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 
1400 Independence Avenue, SW 
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 
(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or
This institution is an equal opportunity provider. 

About the Hockomock Area YMCA:
Where Cause Meets Community.  At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility. 
 
The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

School Committee reluctantly approves personnel & funding cuts to FY 2026 budget (audio)

FM #1460 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1460 in the series. 


This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. 6 members participated in Council Chambers, 1 remote (Sompally). 


Quick recap:

  • A brief executive session was held before approving the new teacher contract for a 3 year term. Details of the amount approved were not shared, however, members of the negotiation subcommittee spoke highly of the collaboration and cooperation that resulted in a good deal for the district and the Town. The vote was unanimous and included Town Administrator Jamie Hellen (7-0-1) (1 absent)

  • The budget adjustment reducing the proposed budget by $2M was previewed in a subcommittee meeting before the full committee meeting. 12 personnel are added to the 29 that were reduced by redistricting. Additional expenses were cut to bring the budget into balance per revised Town funding due to the failed override

  • Bus fee will remain at $387, Sports fees will remain high at this year's levels for next year. A full analysis of the fees and participation will be conducted next year as part of the FY 2027 budget to see what can be done given the lower funding from the Town

  • The Superintendent evaluation was approved as "Exemplary". A fair results given the multiple threads of work, budget, override, redistricting and oh, conducting school for the district at the same time


The recording leaves out the executive session (replacing with a brief music interlude) Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1470-franklin-ma-school-cmte-mtg-06-10-25/



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Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYQVNOKqqR8 


The agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06102025-1780 


The meeting packet folder (all the docs released before or after the meeting)

https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/june-10%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/814634 


My full set of notes ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rqv1NSxrFjWZdzwpeo2WJwq3H7FIwujA/view?usp=drive_link 


Pictures of the budget revisions can be viewed here ->    https://photos.app.goo.gl/YnKXoUH5NncMo2Wk6 


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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"


School Committee reluctantly approves personnel & funding cuts to FY 2026 budget (video)
School Committee reluctantly approves personnel & funding cuts to FY 2026 budget (audio)


Breanna Atwood offers goal keeper training

Bre Atwood offers goal keeper training
Breanna Atwood offers goal keeper training 

Breanna Atwood offers goal keeper training 

"Hi everyone!  
I’m offering one-on-one and small group goalkeeper training this summer and into the fall.  
I just recently graduated from The University of Southern Maine where I was apart of the women’s soccer team for my whole college career.  
If you’re interested don’t hesitate to message me for further details!"





The Franklin DPW hydrant painting contest comes around again

It's time for the Franklin DPW's 2025 Hydrant Painting Event!
For more information, including event rules, application and frequently asked questions, please visit: https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1160/2025-Hydrant-Painting-Event

Franklin Food Pantry shared "The Cost of Hunger in MA" report from the Greater Boston Food Bank


We're proud to share the Fifth Annual Food Access Report from our partner, The Greater Boston Food Bank.

Here are the findings:
  • "The Cost of Hunger in MA" report from the Greater Boston Food Bank
    "The Cost of Hunger in MA" report
    from the Greater Boston Food Bank
    Hunger on the Rise: 37 percent of Massachusetts households faced food insecurity in 2024, rising from 34 percent in 2023
  • Nutrition and Health Disparities: 67 percent of food-insecure households reported having at least one chronic health condition
  • Health Care Costs: 40 percent of food-insecure households reported forgoing necessary medical, dental, or prescription care
  • Social Costs: For the first time, the 2024 study examined how hunger impacts social well-being and connectedness—finding, for example, that only 58 percent of food-insecure households voted in the 2024 election, compared to 82 percent of food-secure households.

Read the full report here:



Live music performances Friday, June 20 -> Frankie's Four, Jamie Barrett, Jennifer Tefft



At the Farmers Market, Frankie's Four performs from 3 to 6 PM on the Town Common ->   
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BbUB1jTwF/








Jamie Barrett
LIVE @ Bog Iron Brewing THIS Friday, June 20th from 7:30-10:30 pm  https://www.facebook.com/share/1ASWmqpQJd/









Jennifer Tefft says "Looking forward to seeing my friends at @quarterdeckfalmouth this Friday! 8 PM.   https://www.instagram.com/p/DLAO_Q0MAwi/

Franklin Youth Football: Paperwork Day is June 21

We are looking forward to our Fall 2025 season! Here is what you will need to know.

Location:
New England Chapel, 300 E Central St, Franklin

Dates/Times:
Saturday, June 21, 2025

Athlete’s Registration Grade Time Slots

Football Grade 8
8:30am - 9:30am

Football Grade 7 Blue and White
9:30am -11am

Football Grade 6
11am - 12pm

Football Grade 5
12pm - 1pm

Football Grade 4
1pm - 2pm

Football Grade 2/3
2pm - 3pm

Cheer 14u
8:30am - 10am

Cheer 10u
10am - 12pm

Cheer 8u
12-2pm

There is a detailed email on what to bring sent on May 22nd. You can also find the email in TeamLinkt app - instructions how to get there is included with the attached pictures.

All the answers to your questions are in the email. If you need it sent again, please let us know via DM.

Thank you and see you soon!

The Youth Football website registration link -> https://app.teamlinkt.com/register/find/franklinpanthersyfb





Reminder: Franklin Lions offering light kits again to "Light up Franklin" for the 4th of July

Franklin Lions offering light kits again to "Light up Franklin" for the 4th of July
Franklin Lions offering light kits
again to "Light up Franklin" for the 4th of July
The Fourth of July is around the corner.

We are excited to let everyone know that we are selling our Fourth of July lanterns again! $15 for a set of three.

Please either message us here on Facebook or email Lion Haley Kane (email in flyer) if you would like to purchase a set. We can deliver them to you!

Thank you so much in advance.

Franklin Lions appreciates the support.





Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio introduced a brand new schedule early in 2025 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 Wednesday
Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday


8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM   Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock 
Franklin and its local government, services and events  (repeats Saturday at 2 PM)  

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM  The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone  All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points.    (repeats Saturday at 1 PM)  

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi discover Down Under with Mark Davidson ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/06/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode.html

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

Franklin TV schedule for Wednesday, June 18, 2025

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

7:30 am Mental Health: Max Morrongiello
8:30 am FPAC: Broadway in Franklin 2022
10:00 am Franklin Art Association: Vincent Crotty
11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Ice Cream
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Mac 'n' Cheese
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Margherita Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 8
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 6
3:30 pm Chad Hollister Band
5:30 pm Second Sunday Speaker Series: Freedom Trail
8:30 pm Circle of Friends: Joe Crookston

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

7:00 am Parmenter Graduation 2025
8:30 am FHS Concert Hour 02-26-25
10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman
11:00 am Cultural Council: BT ALC Big Band
12:30 pm FHS Graduation 2025
4:00 pm Tri County Honors Night 2025
6:00 pm FHS Senior Awards Night 2025
8:30 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v King Philip 06-09-25

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

8:00 am Town Council 06-04-25
2:00 pm Town Council 06-04-25
7:00 pm Town Council  CHAMBERS  812 4996 2535

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
Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA