Franklin TV: Our Tech To-Do List

It’s alive. It never ends. It just evolves.’

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 05/03/2026

The technology that keeps Franklin.TV and wfpr.fm perking along has grown over the years. It continues to grow. It will never-ever-ever stop growing. (Help!) There’s always something to fix, software to update, new widgets to install.

This week we began installing two teleprompter systems in our small studio. This project will wrap up when the additional parts arrive over the weekend. Once done, we begin preparing for graduations at Franklin High and Tri-County High. Next week we return to the Franklin High field and pressbox to restore HD video fiber line service from there back to our studio. How techno-geeky does it get?

Trace/test video fiber from the field via the school TV studio and from there to the MDF room and back to our studio.

Add an MD-HX HD video TSG (Test Signal Generator) in the Pressbox. Add/pre-configure a streaming video encoder in the Pressbox.

Validate digital router settings and fiber lines in the Panther TV studio.; Validate return video test feed from our studio to Panther TV and Pressbox.

We move on to Town Hall Chambers for updates.

Add an MD-HX HD video TSG (Test Signal Generator) in the control room. Add a mechanical A/B program backup switch.

Recalibrate all microphone and line audio levels. 

Install 2 NIST internet clocks.

In the Town Hall 3rd Floor Training Room video system

Add 2 small video displays next to ceiling cameras 2 and 4.

Add an MD-HX HD video TSG (Test Signal Generator) in the control system. Recalibrate all microphone and line audio levels. Add SDI audio embedder. Fix 3 stand mics w/ XLR adapters.

July: Town Hall Chambers - install new 100-inch HDTV display behind the dais..

Run 3 HDMI fiber lines from all desks.

Then we install new digital signage systems in 4-5 locations.

And – other tech stuff will emerge before all of the above is completed. And – by now you’re probably asleep reading my our techy To-Do li-zzzzzz.

Just read it again when it’s time to retire for the night. (No need to thank me.)

And – as always –

Thank you for watching.

Thanks for listening to wfpr●fm, 

and staying informed at Franklin●news

 

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

Joe Landry to share the video "Faces In The Crowd" - Weds, May 6 at the Senior Center

Via Joe Landry

Joe Landry to share the video "Faces In The Crowd" -
Weds, May 6 at the Senior Center

Come to the Franklin Senior Center on Wednesday, May 6 at 1:00 to see the video "Faces In The Crowd".

It was taken during the 1978 Bicentennial parade that year.

It is always well-received and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551606135109407/posts/4335412866728706

Celebrate 11 years with La Cantina Winery

"11 YEARS & COUNTING! 

Come celebrate with us at La Cantina Winery as we mark 11 incredible years of great wine, amazing food, and unforgettable memories 

Live Music All Day:

• Matt Zajac 12–3 PM
• The Cowpunks 4–7 PM
• Rowboat 8–11 PM

Bring your friends, raise a glass, and be part of the celebration 🥂

We couldn’t have done it without you!

Saturday, May 16 - Open 12–11 PM

Let’s celebrate together"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JFj26NwSr/

Franklin Fathers schedule the Inaugural Eddie Grant Kickball Tournament - June 14

via Franklin Fathers:

Franklin Fathers schedule the Inaugural
Eddie Grant Kickball Tournament - June 14

"Take us out to the Ballgame!

We’re thrilled to announce we’ve opened team registrations for the Inaugural Eddie Grant Kickball Tournament, a family-friendly event coming to Beaver Pond on Sunday, June 14th!

We’ll be posting more about Eddie’s incredible story, our fundraising efforts, and our wonderfully gracious community partners soon, but we’d love to have you join us.

Scan the QR code or find the registration link ->   https://forms.gle/LqbaRKZz3kHYKZ9D7!"

#community 

#franklinma

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

FHS Class of 1976 Reunion Tickets

FHS Class of 1976 Reunion Tickets

"Please let any one you know who graduated in 1976 that our 50th Class Reunion tickets and info can be found here: https://fhs-class-of-76.org/fhs-class-of-76-page?"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BznQsH59W/

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Sunday, May 3, 2026

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a schedule full of 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 Sunday

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 for Sunday

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, May 2, 2026 ???

Saturday, May 2

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

10:00am Horace Mann Birthday Party - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am    Windphone Pebble Paint (Franklin Public Library)

10:30am    Weekend Wiggles!    (Franklin Public Library)

10:30am Jane Jacobs Walk (Franklin TV and Radio 102.9 FM)

12:00pm Post Walk Gathering (Franklin TV and Radio 102.9 FM)

7:00pm Rob Bellamy (live music) (La Cantina Winery)

7:30pm Electric Youth & The Bost Show Band (THE BLACK BOX)

8:00pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House)

***  NO  Town Meetings today   ***

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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

Franklin Food Pantry Celebrates Volunteers at Annual Appreciation Luncheon

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, the Franklin Food Pantry hosted its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on April 29, honoring the dedicated individuals who drive the organization’s mission. Amidst a year of record-breaking demand for food assistance, the event recognized the team of volunteers whose commitment ensures that The Pantry remains a steady resource for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

The luncheon featured motivational speaker and local author Ali Rheaume who offered a moving account of how Pantry volunteers’ support has made a difference in the Franklin community.

(L-R) Tina Powderly, Ali Rheaume

"Franklin Food Pantry volunteers do more than provide food—they provide dignity," said Ali. "Volunteering to clean isn't just maintenance; it’s creating a welcoming, safe space. Stocking shelves isn't just labor; it's providing nutrition. Opening the door isn't just a task; it's an invitation to connection. And a smile from a volunteer tells a shopper, 'You are seen.'"

Each week, more than 150 volunteers ensure The Pantry remains stocked, operating, and ready for clients. Their dedication makes it possible to offer essential programs including in-person and walk-in shopping, curbside distribution, mobile pantries at four Franklin locations, the Weekend Backpack Program, holiday meal distribution, the Community Garden Program, and more.

some of the many volunteers recognized

"Volunteers are the foundation of everything we do, and we are truly honored to recognize their important contributions at this year’s Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry. "Our volunteers create a supportive community that fosters genuine hope and belonging, and helps ensure that every neighbor who seeks food assistance is served with dignity and compassion. We are truly grateful for their hard work and commitment.”

The luncheon was made possible by G&C Plumbing and Heating which sponsored the event, New England Chapel which provided the space, Vicario Studio which provided photography, 495 Rental which provided the tables, and Starbucks on E Central Street, The Rome, Elizabeth’s Bagels, and Board members who provided food, beverages, and desserts. Special thanks to Franklin High School’s JV and Varsity Softball teams for setting up the luncheon, and to Franklin Fathers for breaking down and cleaning up. 

For more information on the Franklin Food Pantry, volunteer opportunities, or receiving food assistance, please visit the Franklin Food Pantry website www.franklinfoodpantry.org.

About Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.

The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance, household necessities, and resource referrals to more than 1,880 individuals per year. The Pantry relies on donations and grants to purchase items and pay for daily operations, and partnerships with The Greater Boston Food Bank, Spoonfuls, and local grocery stores to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. Programs include Inside Shopping, Curbside Pickup, Emergency Food Boxes, Mobile Pantries, Home Delivery, Kids’ Snack Bags, Weekend Backpacks, Holiday Meals, and the SNAP match at Franklin Farmers Market. 

The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts, recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four-Star Charity, and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. The Pantry is located at 341 W Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140. Please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org, or on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more information.

FY 2027 Budget Narrative: Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC)

From the Town Administrator's FY 2027 Budget narrative, each department's story is worth sharing.

General Purpose

The Town of Franklin, Wrentham, Norfolk, Plainville, Mendon and Millville (In FY21 the Mendon-Millville Regional Center signed a merger with the MECC to consolidate costs. After this merger, the MECC still has additional capacity for another 10-20,000 in population) have joined together to establish a regional district to operate and maintain a consolidated District-wide public safety communications/dispatch center that will be known as the Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (MECC).

Core Functions

● The MECC has a Board of Directors which serves as the governing and administrative body and has overall responsibility for the District. The Town Administrator serves as the Chair of the Board being the largest community in the district.

● The District employs a MECC Director who has overall responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the MECC and serves as the Chief Administrative and Fiscal Officer.

● There is an Operations Committee that comprises the Chiefs of the Fire and Police Departments (or their designee) of each member town.

 

Staffing

● One (1) Executive Director

● One (1) Deputy Executive Director

● One (1) Administrative Section Chief

● One (1) Operations Section Chief

● One (1) IT/CAD/GIS Administrator

● Five (5) Shift Commanders (supervisors)

● Twenty-five (25) full-time Public Safety Telecommunicators

● Two (2) part-time Public Safety Telecommunicators

Strategic Initiatives & Accomplishments

● The MECC Board of Directors have been having active negotiations with the Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communications Center (SEMRECC) with the towns of Foxborough, Mansfield, Norton and Easton. This would provide a broader set of public safety services, enhanced technology, greater economies of scale, and eligibility for lucrative state grant programs for regionalization. This is a large project and expected to be worked on over a five year period and will include state involvement.

The PDF of this section - 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/14Y2ZuyQFid_2NsIk6xOW0gZuiz9AR6aD/view?usp=drive_link

For the full FY 2027 budget narrative -  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8912/FY27-Budget-Narrative-FINAL-1

The FY 2027 budget information can be found 

https://www.franklinma.gov/Archive.aspx?ADID=577

FM #1737 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1737 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Rion James and Evelyn Rossing to talk about the 5th Annual Franklin Celebrate With Pride. We had our discussion in person at the Franklin TV Studio on Monday, April 27, 2026.

 

We talk about 

• Celebrate With Pride - Saturday, June 27 from noon to 4

• Rain date, Sunday, June 28, same time frame

• Vendor, non-profit table and volunteer sign up open now

• Some of the highlights of those confirmed

• T-shirts to be available at the Strawberry Stroll 

The recording runs about 13 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1737-5th-annual-celebrate-with-pride-04-27-26/

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Main website: https://franklinlgbtqalliance.com

Celebrate with Pride: https://franklinlgbtqalliance.com/pride-2026

Volunteer signup: https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/10C084DACA82FA1FCCE9-62955030-celebrate

Exhibitor signup: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdvBVtBF2ZZtXP9LVDkTFeey91ZJplACUadlwZWqKynqQGc6g/viewform

Questions: franklincwp@gmail.com 

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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"

AICUM Recognizes Representative Roy As Legislator of the Year

The Association of Independent Colleges & Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) has named State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) a Legislator of the Year, honoring his sustained leadership and advocacy for higher education. The award was presented at AICUM’s annual meeting at Bentley University and the award portion can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/5ea3wwfu

Representative Roy was recognized alongside Senator Barry Finegold (D-Andover) for his strong support of Massachusetts’ private, nonprofit colleges and universities—an essential sector represented by AICUM’s 58 member institutions.

(L-R) Rob McCarron, State Rep Jeff Roy

“Chair Roy has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the critical role private colleges and universities play in driving the Commonwealth’s economic vitality,” said AICUM President and CEO Rob McCarron. “From the local impact of Dean College in Franklin to the world-class research that fuels Massachusetts’ competitive edge, he has been a steadfast champion for higher education.”

McCarron emphasized the importance of leaders who recognize the far-reaching influence of higher education—not only on campus communities, but on regional economies, workforce development, and the success of students and families across the state.

Over his 14 years in the Legislature, Representative Roy has been a leading voice on education policy, including serving as Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education from 2019-2021. His commitment is rooted in personal experience: as a first-generation college graduate and former member of the Franklin School Committee. He understands firsthand the transformative power of education. In Massachusetts, where more than 70% of jobs require education beyond a high school diploma, that perspective has shaped his work to expand access and opportunity.

“My higher education journey changed the trajectory of my life,” said Representative Roy. “I’ve made it my mission to ensure every student has access to that same life-changing opportunity. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to expanding access, affordability, and opportunity across the Commonwealth. I’m grateful to AICUM for this honor and for their continued work on behalf of students.”

Santa Foundation: Transparency, Gratitude & Our 2026 Gala Plans

Dear Friends and Supporters, Like all nonprofits, raising funds is essential to sustaining our work—but just as important, is maintaining the trust of our community. We are proud to share that Santa F Dear Friends and Supporters, Like all nonprofits, raising funds is essential to sustaining our work—but just as important, is maintaining the trust of our community. We are proud to share that Santa Foundation has earned Platinum Transparency on Candid, reflecting our commitment to openness and accountability in everything we do. Candid is a nonprofit organization that collects and provides trusted data and insights about nonprofits. It helps donors understand organizations’ missions, finances, and impact so they can make more informed giving decisions. You can view our profile here: https://app.candid.org/profile/7055151/santa-foundation-inc-20-5564341/?pkId=a67f3638-081e-4144-9701-6ed780943c50&activeTab=4 We hope this recognition strengthens confidence in our mission and helps open doors to new donations, grants, and fundraising opportunities. Looking ahead, we’re excited to share that our Annual Gala is scheduled for October 2, 2026 — our largest fundraising event of the year. Planning is already underway, and we are currently seeking support for raffle and live auction donations. If you, your business, or someone you know may be able to contribute an item, experience, or service, we would truly appreciate hearing from you. Some examples include: ~$150 items Themed gift baskets (coffee, self-care, local favorites) Family activity packages (mini golf, bowling, arcade) Local restaurant or business gift certificates $400–$500 items Photography sessions Spa or wellness packages Concert, theater, or sports tickets $2,000+ experiences Weekend getaway or Airbnb (on or off season) Private chef or curated dining experience NYC/Boston show, dinner, hotel package Many of our most successful auction items come from community connections and simple acts of generosity—often sparked by someone asking, “How can I help?” If you would like to donate, sponsor, or talk through ideas, please reply to this email. Every contribution, large or small, directly supports Santa Foundation programs and the families we serve. Thank you for your continued support and for being such an important part of our community. We look forward to connecting with you and hope to see you at our upcoming events. With gratitude, Santa Foundation 275 Washington St, Franklin MA, USA Powered by Squarespace

Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens - June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

SAFE is throwing a free prom night celebration for all high school students in Norfolk County.

Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens
June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

Night to Remember is a glow-and-neon themed dance party at SAFE's Franklin office, open to all teens (ages 14 to 18). 

The night includes a live DJ, dance floor, mocktail bar with custom drinks, photo booth, games like cornhole and oversized Jenga, glow bracelets, temporary tattoos, and prizes and giveaways.

Prom season is one of the highest-risk times of year for teen substance use, and free, teen-centered weekend events are rare in our area. Night to Remember gives high school students a genuinely fun alternative—a low-pressure way to dress up, celebrate, and have a great time with their friends, while reinforcing the kind of community SAFE is known for building.

Spots are limited and registration closes on Thursday, June 11. If you know a high school student in our community, please share this with them.

Register: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/EVyVNMRZay

This event is made possible with support from Lawson Charitable Foundation, Community Health Systems Foundation, and Rockland Trust.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18W98BaiL8/

Second Sunday Speaker Series: Phillip Balkus on Horace Mann - Sunday, May 3 at 1:15 PM

Educator and Franklin resident, Phillip Balkus, who recently completed an academic thesis on Horace, will be exploring the less famous role of Horace Mann as a citizen of Franklin, where he returned to rescue the fortunes of his brother and manage other investments -- in the process also helping the town of his birth. 

Doors open at 1 and the program begins at approximately 1:15. 

The event is free but donations are always greatly appreciated.

Where: Franklin Historical Museum

Franklin Police Annual Golf Tournament - Aug 31, 2026

Mark your calendars for August 31, 2026 and join us at Franklin Country Club for a great day of golf, community, and giving back!

This isn’t just a tournament—it’s our ONLY annual fundraiser, and it directly supports so much in our community, including:

• Scholarships for Franklin High School seniors
• Local youth sports teams
• Events like the annual luncheon at the Senior Center
• Supplemental support for our holiday toy drive
• …and more

Scan the QR code OR register here:   https://birdease.com/35204

✔️ Register your foursome

✔️ Explore sponsorship opportunities

✔️ Make a donation if you’d like to support the cause

Whether you’re playing, sponsoring, or donating—every bit makes a difference right here in Franklin.

Grab your friends, swing for a cause, and help us continue giving back to the community we’re proud to serve 

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BVK9VG3wV/