Fallen Hero Recognition: Gerald M. Parmenter - World War II - July 17, 2025 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (7/17/25) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, U.S. Army Air Corps. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, U.S. Army Air Corps

First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, son of Ernest and Maud Parmenter, was born on October 18, 1917. Gerald lived at 466 King Street with his parents and a twin brother. He attended the Franklin Public Schools and was graduated from Franklin High School in 1935 and from Hill College in Woonsocket in 1937. Gerald did accounting work at local businesses and was associated with his father at the Red Mount Poultry Farm here in Franklin.  

Prior to the war Gerald, who was very enthusiastic about aviation, obtained his license as a civilian pilot. Gerald enlisted in the Army Air Corp in August of 1942 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1943 at Yuma, Arizona. First Lieutenant Parmenter served as a pilot in the air transport ferrying command, piloting planes built in this country to the British Government in Nassau.  

First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter died from injuries received in an air crash while in the line of duty near Ramsar, India in the Asiastic Theatre. 

First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter was 26 years old at the time of his death on July 17, 1944 while serving his country during WWII.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/fallen-hero-first-lieutenant-gerald-m.html 

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

Fallen Hero: First Lieutenant Parmenter

Electric Youth 2025 visit the Franklin TV Studio for a performance & conversation (audio)

FM #1479 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1479 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares our conversation with Raye Lynn Mercer & Electric Youth 2025 in the Franklin TV studios on Tuesday, June 4, 2025.  

Key topics

• Performance of their new acapella number

• Their European tour

After Electric Youth returns from Europe, they are scheduled for a performance at the Farmers Market/Concerts on the Common on August 1. Be sure to stop by and catch their performance.

The recording runs about  24 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Raye Lynn & Electric Youth 2025   Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1479-electric-youth-2025-06-04-25/

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAPVZx9kqi4

Franklin School for Performing Arts ->  https://www.fspaonline.com/ 

You can also check out Electric Youth's webpage -> https://www.electricyouth.com/  

The "38 Years at 38 Main" audio interview mentioned can be found here

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/09/raye-lynn-mercer-shares-some-stories-of.html 

Performance of "[I've had] The Time of My Life"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAPVZx9kqi4

Community calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar 

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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"

Franklin Public Schools Superintendent Lucas Giguere Earns National Credential in Educational Facility Planning

Franklin Public Schools is pleased to announce that Superintendent Lucas Giguere has earned the prestigious Accredited Learning Environments Planner (ALEP) designation from the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).

The ALEP designation is the highest standard of professional achievement in the field of educational facility planning. It recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional knowledge, skills, and leadership in designing and managing school environments that support student achievement, wellness, and community connection.

Superintendent Lucas Giguere

Superintendent Giguere was the only sitting superintendent selected to participate in this year's A4LE Academy cohort. He completed the program as the recipient of A4LE's annual national scholarship, which is awarded to just one participant each year in recognition of their leadership potential and commitment to educational innovation.

"We're incredibly proud of Superintendent Giguere for earning the ALEP designation, a prestigious national recognition of his expertise and leadership," said Franklin School Committee Chair David Callaghan. "His achievement is a testament to the forward-thinking vision guiding our schools, especially as Franklin undertakes a transformative district-wide reorganization. This credential affirms his deep commitment to designing learning environments that truly support all students now and into the future."

The ALEP designation enhances Franklin Public Schools' strategic planning efforts, including districtwide reorganization, equity-focused space design, and capital improvement planning. It equips the District with the tools and best practices to approach future building and renovation projects with confidence and purpose.

The ALEP credential must be renewed every three years and requires ongoing professional development in the areas of educational facility planning and design.

Shared from the FPS page -> https://www.franklinps.net/article/2311570

Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Cmte has Opportunities to Give Back

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee is seeking volunteers to join in its leadership roles. If you're passionate about the outdoors, making a difference in our community and connecting with others, we want to hear from you!

Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Cmte has Opportunities to Give Back

What's the Mission?

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group dedicated to the development, maintenance, and financial support of the Southern New England Rail Trail as a multi-use, universally accessible recreational path.

Here's what some of our volunteers say about being involved!

"The FBRTC has been an outlet for me--a chance to be in the community, doing meaningful things, with great people beside me. The committee's advocacy is a bright spot, and not just for me. I've had several people tell me how important it is for them to have a good, clean, usable trail available. I have a friend that walks it every day, rain or shine, and she thinks about me and 'Cliff's Trail'. I like that. I see the value of that, and the passion that good, outdoor spaces can engender. These are the spaces where life happens!" – Cliff W.

 

"Since joining the Committee, I've established local connections with like-minded people looking to improve the trail and encourage others to enjoy the outdoors. We work together to make improvements to the trail, and currently, I am advocating for benches on the trail! Being part of the FBRTC team has been a rewarding experience." – Sue F.

 

"I first got involved with the FBRTC to help develop the local rail trail and offer outdoor recreation opportunities for myself and my kids. What I received back was much more! Serving on the committee has connected me to neighbors and leaders in my community and has led to friendships both professionally and personally. I feel good giving back, and at the same time helping to create opportunities for people to improve their health and connect with nature." - Marc K.

How You Can Help

Each year, the committee selects volunteer-leaders to maintain and advocate for the Southern New England Trunkline Trail, and your help is critical at this time. Prior experience in nonprofits is important but not required!

To get involved and make a difference, please complete the form. You can also reach out for information by email at fbrtcommittee@gmail.com.

Thank you for your interest in the rail trail effort. We look forward to hearing from you!

The Franklin Cultural Council wants you! Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

FRIDAY, JULY 18 DEADLINE!

Have you seen the way Franklin bursts with energy when arts programming happens? Do you want to be a part of this energy?

If yes, the Franklin Cultural Council wants you and is currently seeking additional members. Here is the link to the Town of Franklin Volunteer Application:

https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php

Please make sure that you select the Franklin Cultural Council and not the Franklin Cultural District Committee. The cultural council is seeking new members. The cultural district is not as it it at it’s member capacity.

The Franklin Cultural Council wants you!
Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

Many exciting arts and culture offerings are on the horizon. We are seeking additional members to the Franklin Cultural Council to help with these planned future events and to assist in building new opportunities. The 250th birthday of our country and commonwealth happen in 2026 and our town will celebrate 250 years of incorporation in 2028. Volunteer to help the arts be vibrant threads in these celebrations!

Please direct any questions via email to:

FranklinCulturalCouncil02038@gmail.com

Here are some photos of what we have funded and/or assisted with this past year!

FRIDAY, JULY 18 IS THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR THE COMING YEAR

Arts and Culture create Community!

#FranklinMACulture

#FranklinMA

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ar2wxiPo2/

Jennifer Tefft schedules live music gigs Thu-Fri July 17 & July 18

Jennifer Tefft schedules live music gigs Thu-Fri July 17 & July 18

Couple of great summer spot gigs this week.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DMHC4YSsw_g/

Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday, July 17, 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 Thursday

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock

Franklin and its local government, services and events 

• This segment repeats the conversation with FHS student Tuhina Pal and the book of poetry she wrote on her path to recovery https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/tuhina-pal-talks-about-her-book-they.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM - first hour

10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM - second hour

Turntable – "Enjoy a fun experience with co-hosts The Vibe and Pauly G sharing personal discussions about a featured rock n roll vinyl record (1st hour) and the best, all music Vibe Playlist (2nd hour)"  

This week the Turntable Show airs the Eric Clapton "Slowhand" Album Hour and the Clapton Vibe Playlist Hour.  “Slowhand” was released on November  25, 1977 and was hugely successful commercially, reaching #2 on the Billboard 200 and going multi-platinum.  It established Clapton as a solo artist who could balance artistic integrity with massive commercial appeal.  

The album includes big hits:  “Lay Down Sally”;   “Wonderful Tonight”;  and “Cocaine”.  Over his career, Clapton has reportedly sold 280 million records worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling music artists in history.   

The Playlist Hour includes special live cuts and studio hits across Clapton's Blindfaith, Derek and the Dominos,  and solo recordings.  Enjoy listening to the music from one of the world's most influential rock n blues guitarists of all time.  

Find the playlist ->  https://tinyurl.com/TurntablePlaylists

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 Thursday, July 17, 2025

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

10:30 am SAFE Coalition: Overdose Awareness Day 2024

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Lasagna

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 2

3:00 pm Riffing on Main Street: Amy Adams

4:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

5:00 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Ciambotta

6:00 pm Horace Mann PSA

7:00 pm Frank's Musings: Supreme Court

9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Garnet Rogers

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

7:00 am Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22

8:30 am All-Town Showcase 2024: Chorus and Orchestra

10:00 am FHS Graduation 2025

2:00 pm ArtWeek: Theater in the Open

3:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

4:00 pm FHS Varsity Softball v Taunton 04-09-25

9:00 pm FHSTC: Urinetown

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

8:00 am Conservation Commission 07-10-25

2:00 pm Conservation Commission 07-10-25

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

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 ???

Library & Senior Center events

Wednesday, July 16

11L00am Franklin Q&A (Franklin Senior Center)

 

1:00pm Where's the Toast? Memory Cafe (Franklin Senior Center)

 

6:00pm Summer Patio Concerts: DJ Sam & Andy (live music) (Franklin Public Library)

 

6:30pm Queer Book Club (Franklin TV and Radio 102.9 FM)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->        

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

** Town Meetings today   **

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting

Wednesday, July 16 Time: 5:45 PM

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

(Note: due to equipment trouble in the Council Chamber studio, the meeting might be broadcast from the 3rd Floor Training Room.)

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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