Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Join us for our next meeting: July 10th on the Town Common!


We are meeting on the second Thursday this month.
Franklin LGBTQ Alliance
In this newsletter we include an invitation to our next meeting and community events, including our next book club discussion, and include more opportunities to get involved.
 
Want more information or need to contact us? Visit our website here!
We are so happy with the success of our fourth annual Franklin Celebrate with Pride Festival and so grateful for the beautiful weather we had!
 
We want to give a huge thank you to everyone who made this event possible, including all our exhibitors, performers, volunteers, town employees, and of course all the people who came out to the common - this event would not have been possible without YOU!!! 
You Are Invited To Our July Monthly Meeting!
 
When: *July 10th* at 6:30pm
 
Where: Franklin Town Common
 
What: Join us for some games on the Common!

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Just the Facts About US Trade & Tariffs (video)

Steve Ballmer talks through US trading partners, imports & exports and how tariffs factor in In 2024, the US imported $4.1 trillion and exported $3.2 trillion in goods and services. Higher tariffs can raise prices and the US jobs impact is complex (lower tariffs can cause job losses in some sections and job gains in others).


Attention challenge via NY Times

Attention challenge via NY Times
Attention challenge via NY Times

"Today, we (NY Times) bring you another focus challenge, in which we invite you to spend uninterrupted time looking at one piece of art. This one is an Indian painting made in the foothills of the Himalayas in the early 1800s.


(These are published on the first Monday of each month. Sign up here if you’d like to be notified.)"


Follow the link for full details on how to examine the photo and to start the time. At the end, the story of the picture is revealed.





MassBudget: Statement on the Impacts of Reconciliation bill on MA

On July 4, 2025, the President of the United States signed an extensive budget reconciliation bill that will bring extraordinary pain upon millions of families across the nation. This bill will take health coverage and food access away from millions of the most vulnerable people across the country in order to give the wealthiest people massive tax cuts. The bill signed by the President will be detrimental to the economy and will bring the most direct harm to low- and middle-income families, including Massachusetts residents.

MassBudget President Viviana Abreu-Hernández, PhD, issued the following statement:
“This Billionaire Bailout Bomb bill targets millions of individuals and families already struggling by eliminating their healthcare and food support in order to help the rich get richer. Not only is it inhumane but it is also fiscally irresponsible, raising the national debt limit by over an estimated $3 trillion dollars over the next decade.

The bill signed by the President on July 4th also extends tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest in the country. According to an analysis of the bill from Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), the wealthiest top 1% by income will receive $1.02 trillion dollars in tax cuts over the next decade. During that same period, there will be $930 billion in cuts to Medicaid, which provides health care access to low-income individuals and families. 

MassBudget: Statement on the Impacts of Reconciliation bill on MA
MassBudget: Statement on the Impacts of Reconciliation bill on MA
It is important to put this bill in context because it is part of a larger national agenda, commanded by the President, that intentionally targets the most vulnerable people. Current estimates forecast that around 300,000 in Massachusetts could lose health coverage due to changes in Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Our partners at Massachusetts Law Reform Institute (MLRI) estimate that 150,000 Massachusetts residents are at risk of losing some or all of their household’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the changes in this bill, leaving families unable to afford groceries.
  "


Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fmFranklin 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:

wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday, Franklin Public Radio
wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday, Franklin Public Radio


Tuesday


SAFE Radio – Jim Derick and Dr. Anne Bergen Addressing issues of Drug Abuse Disorder 


Jazz Journey – with Pamela Hines - An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era


Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday
Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday

Franklin TV schedule for Tuesday, July 8, 2025

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = TUESDAY
7:30 am Joe Landry: The Railroad in Franklin
9:00 am Mental Health: Abigail Drake
10:00 am Frank's Musings: Israeli Conflict
10:30 am Frank's Musings: Big, Beautiful Bill
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Peppers
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Pies
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 1
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 8
3:30 pm Riffing on Main Street: Amy Adams
4:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2
6:00 pm Horace Mann PSA
6:30 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Ciambotta
7:30 pm Strawberry Stroll 2025
8:00 pm Franklin 4th 2024: Backyard Swagger

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

7:00 am Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22
8:30 am FHS Spring Jazz 2025
10:00 am Mental Health: Abigail Drake
12:30 pm All-Town Showcase 2024: Chorus and Orchestra
2:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Lacrosse v Taunton 04-10-25
4:30 pm Tri County Graduation 2025
8:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2
9:00 pm FHSTC: Urinetown

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

8:00 am  School Committee 06-10-25
2:00 pm  School Committee 06-10-25 

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
Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Monday, July 7, 2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Monday, July 7, 2025 ???

Monday, July 7


Library & Senior Center events
Library & Senior Center events

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->   

** NO Town Meetings today   **



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


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

SAFE Coalition schedules Teen Mentorship program for Norfolk, Plainville, and Wrentham students

Would your teen benefit from safe, judgment-free meetings to build resiliency and learn life skills?

SAFE Coalition schedules Teen Mentorship program for Norfolk, Plainville, and Wrentham students
SAFE Coalition schedules Teen Mentorship
program for Norfolk, Plainville,
and Wrentham students
Enroll them today in SAFE & @healthykpcoalition's Teen Mentorship Program for Norfolk, Plainville, and Wrentham students!

Details:
• Ages: 14–18
• Dates: Tuesdays, July 8–August 12
• Times: Middle schoolers 2–3 p.m. | High schoolers 3–4 p.m.
• Location: Bumblebee Farm (461 Hancock St, Wrentham) 🐝
• Cost: Free! (snacks provided)

Registration required: https://tinyurl.com/safeKP

This evidence-based mentorship program helps teens 💪 build resiliency, develop responsible decision-making skills, and establish healthy relationships.

Participants will:
• Set personal goals and reflect on decision-making
• Experience substance use awareness activities (including Fatal Vision goggles)
• Learn stress management and relationship-building skills
• Build strategies for handling challenges
• Strengthen confidence and resiliency
• Enjoy games, snacks, and more!



Franklin Establishes a New “Carry In / Carry Out” Trash & Recycling Policy for All Users Of The Town’s Outdoor Spaces

Policy to take effect July 1st, 2025

This new policy is being put into effect due to staffing issues and budget constraints.

The intent of this policy is to keep our parks and recreation areas clean, green, safe and sustainable.
Town of Franklin seal
Town of Franklin seal


What This Means
All visitors, teams, families, and sports organizations that use Town spaces are responsible for:
Disposing of all trash, food waste, wrappers, bottles, cans, and recyclables properly that is brought into a park or field
Disposing “properly” means to use the proper trash or recycling containers that may be provided on site. If containers were taken off site, trash should be disposed of or recycled off site
Leave the area cleaner than you found it

What You Won’t See
Trash or recycling barrels will not be provided at the usual places at parks or fields as in the past
If trash and recycling containers are provided on site, they will be consolidated to one spot near an entrance/exit to improve efficiency and reduce costs
Public Works crews will not collect or remove any litter left behind
 
Why It Matters
Our facilities remain clean and welcoming for everyone to enjoy in a safe manner
Reduces operating costs and environmental impact
Encourages responsible stewardship of public spaces

Important Notes
Coaches, youth sports groups, parents and players are expected to help enforce this policy during games, practices, other events, and causal use
Failure to comply may result in loss of field permits or field closures
We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our community clean! Together, we can protect and preserve our outdoor public facilities.

Youth Track & Field meet series starts on Tuesday, July 8

Youth Track & Field meet series starts on Tuesday, July 8
Youth Track & Field meet series starts on Tuesday, July 8
Coach Bailey (@FranklinHSXC
"Don't forget on Tuesday, July 8th we start the summer youth track meet series. Field events start at 5pm and the running event will begin shortly after.

Anyone that wants to volunteer should plan on showing up just before 5pm. See you there. https://t.co/fOd5UGOJci"


The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW): Shelley Lindgren - A Journey Through Italian Wine (audio)

Join hosts Kim and Mark on this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine WWW) as they delve into the captivating world of Italian wine with the esteemed Shelley Lindgren. Shelley, a multifaceted talent as a celebrated restaurateur, accomplished author, and passionate winery owner, shares her remarkable journey through the world of wine.

Listen in as Shelley recounts the highlights of her impressive career, from being lauded as "Best New Sommelier" and "Best Wine Director" to earning recognition for "Best Wine Program." She reflects on the profound honor of being knighted by the Italian government, her prestigious James Beard Award, and multiple Wine Spectator awards, revealing which of these accolades she holds most dear.

Shelley Lindgren - A Journey Through Italian Wine
Shelley Lindgren - A Journey Through Italian Wine
The conversation then uncorks the secrets behind Shelley's acclaimed restaurant chain, A16 (www.a16pizza.com), with locations spanning California and even reaching Tokyo. Discover what treasures wine enthusiasts can expect to find on her meticulously curated wine lists, offering a true taste of Italy.

Shelley also shares insights into her latest literary endeavor, "Italian Wine: The History, Regions, and Grapes of an Iconic Wine Country," offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Italian viticulture.

Venture further into Shelley's passion as she discusses her California-based winery, Tansy Wines (www.tansywines.com), where she champions the beauty and diversity of Italian white varietals. For those looking to expand their palate beyond Pinot Grigio, Shelley provides invaluable tips on exploring the fascinating world of Italian whites.

Kim and Mark explore the wisdom of the adage "what grows together goes together," delving into the art of pairing Italian wines with their regional cuisine. Shelley also sheds light on the intriguing differences between Italian and American wine laws.

Finally, in a moment of delightful curiosity, Shelley reveals an Italian wine or food question that has yet to be posed to her.

Tune in for an enriching and engaging conversation that will deepen your appreciation for the wonderful world of Italian wine. 

Cheers!

🍷🍷🍷

Kim and Mark www.thewww.wine

#wineeducation #wine #italy #thewonderfulworldofwine 

Audio link -> 
or


Senior Center events for the week of July 7 - July 11, 2025

Senior Center events for the week of July 7 - July 11, 2025
Senior Center events for the week of July 7 - July 11, 2025
Here’s what’s happening this week at the Franklin Senior Center. Stop by and join in the fun!

Social Action Services calendar for July 2025 shared by Hockomock YMCA

Social Action Services calendar for July 2025 shared by Hockomock YMCA
Social Action Services calendar for July 2025
 shared by Hockomock YMCA
The Hockomock YMCA shares their monthly Social Action Services calendar and provides details on support groups, food access, and available resources to support our friends & neighbors in the community.

For more info or support in navigating services, contact Brynne Kirwan, LCSW - brynnek@hockymca.org



Register O'Donnell Reports Number of Foreclosures, Promotes Assistance Programs

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reminded Norfolk County homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage or facing foreclosure that there are consumer assistance programs available to help them out.

A statistical review of the first six months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 shows a decrease in foreclosures and notices to foreclose, the first step in the process. In the first half of 2025, a total of 29 foreclosures were recorded, down 38% from 2024, and 143 notices to foreclose were recorded, down 29% from last year.

“There is no question that this reduction in the number of foreclosures and notices to foreclose is good news.” Register O’Donnell continued, “With that said, we realize that foreclosure activity has a human face associated with it, and there are still a number of our neighbors who have lost their homes, and even more are dangerously close to losing their homes.”
Register O'Donnell Reports Number of Foreclosures, Promotes Assistance Programs
Register O'Donnell Reports Number of Foreclosures,
Promotes Assistance Programs

To help those facing issues paying their mortgage, the Registry of Deeds has partnered with upstanding non-profit agencies by promoting their services when it comes to mortgage modification and foreclosure programs.

NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (NHS) offers a multitude of services with the aim of helping homeowners maintain safe, affordable, high-quality housing and grow their financial skills. NHS’ services include rental assistance, emergency financial help, shelter and homelessness prevention, first-time homebuyer education and counseling, financial coaching, foreclosure prevention, affordable residential and small business loans, and the construction and management of high-quality rental housing across Southern Massachusetts.

Since 1965, Quincy Community Action (QCAP) has been providing anti-poverty services in the Greater Quincy region. This includes basic needs such as food and nutrition, fuel assistance, affordable housing, quality early education and care, adult education and workforce development, and financial education. QCAP helps more than 100 communities, and more than 28,000 individuals benefit from QCAP services annually.

Homeowners can contact Quincy Community Action Programs at (617) 479-8181 x-376 or NeighborWorks Housing Solutions at (617) 770-2227. Another option available is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at (617) 727-8400.

“All of these agencies provide a range of assistance, from helping with the mortgage modification process to providing legal services to offering credit counseling,” stated Register O’Donnell. “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance.”

For more information on these and other support options, go to the Registry’s website at www.norfolkdeeds.org, click on the Support tab, and then click on the subtab that mentions Foreclosure Assistance.

“Counselors can help homeowners understand their mortgage terms, negotiate with their lender, and develop a plan to avoid foreclosure. There are legitimate resources available to help homeowners in distress, but it is important to be cautious and do your research before trusting any company promising quick solutions,” said Register O'Donnell.

Register O’Donnell also warned homeowners against falling prey to for-profit companies that offer loan modification and credit counseling services but charge an exorbitant fee.

“Unfortunately, foreclosure rescues and mortgage modification relief do have those individuals who try to scam the public. In some cases, unscrupulous for-profit foreclosure relief and mortgage modification companies are preying on vulnerable homeowners,” noted O’Donnell. “They make unrealistic promises and charge a lot of money for doing so. If one of these companies is telling you something that is too good to be true, it probably is. Please check out any for-profit foreclosure relief and mortgage modification company before entering into a contract with them.”

To avoid falling prey to for-profit companies that offer loan modification and credit counseling services but charge an exorbitant fee, residents can check the Better Business Bureau or consumer protection websites to see if there are any complaints against the company.

Register O’Donnell concluded, “The Registry is proud of its commitment to helping those facing a mortgage delinquency or foreclosure by directing them to the appropriate agency that can hopefully put them back on the road to financial recovery. I urge people who feel that they need such services to contact the agencies referenced above.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.