What's happening in Franklin, MA: Monday, August 25, 2025 ??

Monday, August 25

Library & Senior Center events

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->        

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

** Town Meetings today   **

Planning Board Meeting

Monday, August 25 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08252025-1869 

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What's happening in Franklin, MA

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

2025-26 Dean College Theatre and Dance Single ticket sales start on September 1st

Good evening all,

Regular Single Ticket sales start on September 1^st for all of the 2025-2026 Theatre and Dance Season shows at Dean College via online sales at www.dean.edu/boxoffice.  Single ticket types include Adult, Senior Citizen, Non-Dean Student, Dean Faculty/Staff, and Dean Students.

Here is a breakdown of the eight (four theatre and four dance) mainstage 25-26 season shows:

2025-2026 Performing Arts Season at Dean

The Wolves
Written by Sarah DeLappe
     October 15-19, 2025 - Main Stage

A contemporary play that follows the experiences of a high school girls' indoor soccer team. The drama unfolds entirely during their pre-game warm-ups as nine teenage girls navigate complex issues of adolescence, identity, and social dynamics. Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.  (www.concordtheatricals.com).

Fall Dance Concert
     October 31-November 1, 2025 - Guidrey Center

This performance showcases student choreography, celebrating the creative voices of Dean's dance majors and demonstrating a range of choreographic perspectives

Cabaret
Book by Joe Masteroff; Based on the play by John Van Druten and stories by Christopher Isherwood; Music by John Kander; Lyrics by Fred Ebb
     November 12-16, 2025 - Main Stage
Daring, provocative, and exuberantly entertaining, this musical explores the dark and heady life of Bohemian Berlin as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich.  Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark (www.concordtheatricals.com).

Faculty Dance Works
     December 5-6, 2025 - Main Stage

Two energetic and exciting evenings of dance, featuring outstanding works conceived by the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance faculty and guest artists.

Much Ado About Nothing
Written by William Shakespeare
     February 18-22, 2026 - Main Stage
One of Shakespeare's last comedies, Much Ado About Nothing was first presented in 1598 and feels as contemporary as if it were written yesterday. The classic play is chock-full of surprises, laughs, relationships that feel familiar, and unforgettable characters navigating their way through impossible circumstances.

Choreographers' Concert
     February 27-28, 2026 - Main Stage

Dean student choreographers will have selected works showcased and adjudicated by renowned industry professionals in this two-night concert. Join us to enjoy the creative talents of emerging choreographers in a full production setting.  Friday evening's presentation will feature live commentary from guest artists following each work, while the program will be reprised as a regular concert on Saturday evening.

Please note: The performances may differ each night, so please ensure you attend the appropriate performance if you hope to see specific students.

The Prom
Book and lyrics by Chad Beguelin; Book by Bob Martin; Music by Matthew Sklar; Based on an original concept by Jack Viertel; Original Broadway Production directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw
     April 8-12, 2026 - Main Stage
In this comedic and heartwarming musical, four Broadway stars come together to support a high school girl in a small town who faces backlash from the school's PTA for wanting to attend prom with her girlfriend. Winner of the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical, The Prom expertly captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever.  Presented through special arrangement with, and all authorized performance materials are supplied by, Theatrical Rights Worldwide 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036 (www.theatricalrights.com).

Dance Company
     April 23-26, 2026 - Main Stage

Faculty and guest choreographers will showcase the impressive talent of Dean's dance majors through a variety of new and restaged dance works, featuring a diverse program of dance genres.

If there are any questions, please email Anna Proulx at aproulx@dean.edu.  Thank you.

	David Rowell (he/his/him)
	Associate Professor /      Program Coordinator – Arts Leadership
	508-541-1638 (office) | drowell@dean.edu | 850-443-5736 (cell)
		dean.edu

What "one" question would have for a candidate in the Town of Franklin Biennial Election Nov 4, 2025 ???

As the ballot gets closer to being finalized, we can take review the questions we have used in previous elections (link for 2023 & 2021 provided below) and see if there are any updates required.

You can make multiple question entries to ask your "one" question for each role. For example, the question for a Town Council candidate would likely differ from a Planning Board candidate. 

You can help with this effort by submitting your "one" question for each candidate role with a 3 step process. 

• Enter your email (required for validation of the question)
• Select the candidate role for your question
• Enter your question

The final set of questions will be published after the analysis is complete.

Link to question survey -> https://forms.gle/aoVd8bRz1ULwkCnq8

Questions being gathered for use by Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio candidate interviews for the Town of Franklin 2025 Biennial Election.

Questions used for the 2023 Biennial Election ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OdCjTIczcePZDciQuW8HZSfF34LAnCVh/view?usp=drive_link

Questions used for the 2021 Biennial Election ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GkFh21gYukaMheQL-P4C0T_EEaItvcAu/view

What "one" question would have for a candidate?

What are the Franklin school bus routes? When do they run?

The Franklin Public School bus routes were sent to parents/families on August 19. For those of us who may be driving around Franklin during the 6:30 AM to 8:15 AM time frame, the bus stops and routes are available here.

FPS bus communication memo -> 

What are the Franklin school bus routes?
When do they run?

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5969489/8-19_Bus_Route_Communication.pdf

FPS bus routes for 2025-2026 ->   https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5969464/8-19_FPS_Bus_Routes.pdf

Other bus and transportation items can be found on the PFS page ->   https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/transportation/

Good Deeds: We remember our Women - Sep 10

GOOD DEEDS: "We Remember Our Women"

By William P. O'Donnell

Norfolk County Register of Deeds

Good Deeds: We remember our Women - Sep 10

Many Americans may never fully appreciate the strength, vision, and lasting impact of the women who have shaped our country, our communities, and our lives. Some of these individuals exhibited perseverance, others bold leadership, and still others through a lifetime of dedication, intellect, courage, and love. We all have women in our lives who were impactful and make each of us who we are today. On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds will honor the impact and importance of women in our society with an open house and the release of "We Remember Our Women," the fourth volume in the Registry's Notable Land Records series.

The event will take place from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Registry's Great Hall at 649 High Street in Dedham Center and is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, and guests will receive copies of the notable land record publication "We Remember Our Women." Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kimberley L. Driscoll will deliver keynote remarks, adding a powerful voice to an afternoon dedicated to honoring the women of Norfolk County.

The creation of the "We Remember Our Women" booklet was made possible by the Registry's History Comes Alive Transcription Project, which has transcribed over 450,000 handwritten land records dating back to 1793. These records now allow users to see the legal cursive script and clearly readable print text, which can more easily reveal the land histories of early Norfolk County residents. This repository of land records is available to the public both at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds and online from the comfort of home via our website at www.norfolkdeeds.org.

This edition of Notable Land Records pays tribute to 44 women from the 28 communities of Norfolk County whose lives and work have left a lasting mark on society. Their stories span medicine, environmental advocacy, journalism, literature, and military service. Among those featured are the second female doctor in the United States, a conservationist from Canton, two female Army Generals, a gold medalist gymnast, and an astronaut who recently returned from space. All living women featured in the booklet have been invited to attend the event, offering guests a rare opportunity to meet and celebrate these trailblazers in person.

The article also includes a few interesting facts that help bring these stories to life. One woman from Norwood helped shape national civil rights policy through decades of advocacy and leadership. Another, from Randolph, broke barriers in broadcast journalism, becoming a trusted voice in homes across the country. A trailblazer from Canton helped launch a conservation movement that changed how Americans protect wildlife. In Quincy, one woman's legacy continues to influence the world of film and stage. These are just a few of the many inspiring stories found in the pages of "We Remember Our Women."

Abigail Adams, the second First Lady of the United States, was born in Norfolk County in 1744 in Weymouth. In 1764 she married John Adams. She was President Adams's closest confidant and took an active role in politics and what was happening in the country. Abigail Adams wrote to her husband John during the Continental Congress debate in Philadelphia, "I desire you would Remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors." This event carries forward her message, recognizing those whose contributions continue to shape life in our communities and beyond.

There are a number of points throughout the year that recognize the impact and importance of women in our society. Women's History Month is celebrated during the month of March. Women's Equality Day takes place on August 26 commemorating the 1920 adoption of the 19^th amendment to the United States Constitution which prohibits the states and federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex.

It is important to recognize and be mindful of the women in our contemporary society and all they have accomplished. Let us take a moment to thank all women who have made a difference in our communities and in our own lives. Our lives, our communities and our country would not be what they are today without all of you. So come down to the Registry of Deeds in Dedham Center on Wednesday, September 10th to celebrate and give thanks.

Reminder: Veterans Benefits Presentation & Discussion Sep 15 at Franklin Senior Center

Reminder: Veterans Benefits Presentation
& Discussion Sep 15 at Franklin Senior Center

Join us Monday, September 15, 2025 at 9:00AM for a discussion of VA and State Survivor Benefits.

Coffee and Pastries will be provided!

The event is open to Veterans, Service Members, Spouses & their Children.

Shared from -> https://t.co/Ux5mBRkrky

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday, Aug 25, 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:

wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday - Franklin Public Radio

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule

Franklin TV schedule for Monday, Aug 25, 2025 (Your local Public, Education & Government "PEG" station)

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

7:00 am Riffing on Main Street: Steve Sherlock

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

9:00 am 4th of July 2025: Jamie Barrett

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Fish

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Taquitos

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Meatballs

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Black Bean, Roasted Pepper & Garlic Pizzetta

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 4

3:02 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 11

4:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith

5:30 pm Metrowest Symposium: Equity & Access in Arts & Culture

6:30 pm Horace Mann PSA

7:00 pm Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 1

8:30 pm Celebrate with Pride 2025: Queens of the South Coast

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

8:30 am SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

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

10:30 am Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22

12:00 pm Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22

1:30 pm Lifelong Music: Strings School 01-22-25

3:00 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v Oliver Ames 03-31-25

6:00 pm Rec Basketball: 6th - 8th Grade Girls Championship 2025

9:00 pm FHS Theater Company: Legally Blonde

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

8:00 am Planning Board 07-28-25

12:00 pm Finance Committee 08-11-25

2:00 pm Planning Board 07-28-25

7:00 pm Planning Board  CHAMBERS  816 6919 3330

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: Sunday, August 24, 2025 ??

Sunday, August 24

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

1pm Sunday Fundays (Fairmount Fruit Farm)

1pm Franklin Historical Museum (always free) 

7pm Sunday at Sunset (St John's Episcopal Church)

** NO Town Meetings today   **

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What's happening in Franklin, MA

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

Number of School Committee and Town Council candidates for Biennial Elections from 2003 to this year (as of 8/22/25)

Tabulating the total number of candidates for Town Council and School Committee via the PDF Annual Reports available from the Town of Franklin web page reveals the following information:

• Currently the most candidates for Town Council is found this year (with nomination paper data as of 8/22/25)
• The School Committee has the most variation in number of candidates from a negative 1 (6 for 7 spots) in 2005 to a plus 5 (12 for 7 spots) in 2021 to a current plus 3 (as of 8/22/25)
• There were 4 elections where all you needed was to get on the ballot to get elected to the School Committee vs. the Town Council where in 2 elections there were 10 candidates and at the end one was left out

Town Council - chart of candidates plus or minus by year since 2003

Town Council - chart of candidates plus or minus by year since 2003

School Committee - chart of candidates plus or minus by year since 2003

School Committee - chart of candidates plus or minus by year since 2003

The PDF Annual Reports can be found -> https://www.franklinma.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=39

The data table, compiled from the PDF copies, that drove the charts can be found ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jWlQaxx40GKbSTSY2-81Jgfpm6isnqXp/view?usp=drive_link

Franklin, MA: School Committee agenda for meeting August 28, 2025

Franklin School Committee 

August 26, 2025 - 7:00 PM

Municipal Building – Council Chambers 

Call to Order Mr. Callaghan

Announcements from the Chair

Pledge of Allegiance 

Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business

A. Review of Agenda

B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan

C. Payroll Mr. McNeill

D. FHS Student Representative Comments

E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/New Presentations

A. New Hires Update

B. 2025-26 Family Handbooks Presentations

III. Discussion/Action Items

A.   2025-26 ECDC Family Handbook Approval

I recommend approval of the 2025-26 ECDC Family Handbook as discussed.

B.   2025-26 Elementary Family Handbook Approval

I recommend approval of the 2025-26 Elementary Family Handbook as discussed.

C.   2025-26 Middle School Family Handbook Approval

I recommend approval of the 2025-26 Middle School Family Handbook as discussed.

D.   2025-26 FHS Family Handbook Approval

I recommend approval of the 2025-26FHS Family Handbook as discussed.

E. Horace Mann Campus Naming

I recommend that the Franklin School Committee designate the school land located on Oak Street and Panther Way encompassing the Early Childhood Development Center, Franklin Middle School, and Franklin High School as the Horace Mann Campus as discussed.

F. Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee creation

I recommend the creation of the Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee as discussed.

IV. Discussion Only Items

A. None

V. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports

B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from your August 12, 2025 School Committee meeting as detailed.

School Committee agenda for
meeting August 28, 2025

VII. Citizen’s Comments

VIII. New Business

To discuss any future agenda items

IX. Executive Session

X. Adjournment

Meeting agenda (includes remote participation info) ->  https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5979277/SCAGENDA_8-26-25.pdf

Meeting packet folder (items released for the meeting, in some cases, a day or two after the meeting) -> https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2025---26-meeting-packets/august-26%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/846929

The Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) is enrolling

The Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) is enrolling

For more info and to enroll -> https://www.franklinps.net/o/ecdc/page/now-enrolling