Mitzi fills us in on all that is happening at the Franklin Public Library this July (video & audio)

FM #1776 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1776 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

 

We talk about 

• Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month

• Limited services during regular hours on Friday, July 3

• Closed all day Saturday, July 4 for the holiday 

• Library events for July 2026

• In calendar order rather than by category this time around

Note: Updated after we recorded this, the Sunday hours will return in September 2026.

Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages.

The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended.

The recording runs about 33 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1776-franklin-public-library-july-2026-highlights-06-23-26/

Video link -  https://youtu.be/Zj16PPfOylA

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Mitzi Gousie’s email - mgousie@minlib.net 

Franklin Public Library page -  https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Library event calendar - https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events 

July 2026 newsletter - https://myemail.constantcontact.com/July-2026-Franklin-Public-Library-News---Events.html?soid=1142311312837&aid=eSZsKlPO2D4  

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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"

The Within Project: 2 Art Workshops for 3rd & 4th Graders

via Janya Varsani, a member of the FHS Class of '29

"The Within Project is something I started because I believe art can be such a powerful way for kids to work through their emotions. A lot of the time, kids aren't given the space or the words to talk about how they're feeling.

This year, I'm hosting two art workshops for 3rd and 4th graders. Each session will combine fun, hands-on art projects with simple conversations about emotions, so kids can walk away with real tools to understand and express their feelings. It's also a way to bring more attention to children's mental health, which I think doesn't get talked about nearly enough."

Hosted by: @janyavarsani 

July 23 & August 14 | 3:00–5:00 PM

$35 per session

"I am so excited to share that the upcoming workshops will be held at SAFE Coalition Franklin, MA. The Within Project is all about giving kids a safe, creative outlet to explore their emotions through art.

To make things even more special this year, we are holding an art showcase of what the kids created! Every participant will have their artwork featured in our showcase so families can come see what they've accomplished.

We would love to pack the room with creativity, so please feel free to share this with friends, neighbors, or anyone who might want to join!

Spaces are filling up quickly, so head to the link below to register your child. Cant wait to create with everyone!"

Register here: https://forms.gle/rGM1iPkZHt1GZDU56

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Gx3GgfmkK/

The Franklin Food Pantry will match your SNAP benefits at the Franklin Farmers Market

The Franklin Food Pantry is sponsoring the SNAP Match program at the Franklin Farmers’ Market, offering an unlimited, dollar-for-dollar match that doubles the purchasing power for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. Funded through grants and individual gifts, the SNAP Match program is a win-win for the local community. By effectively lowering the cost of farm-fresh produce, households experiencing food insecurity gain greater access to nutritious options. The program also supports local vendors and regional agribusinesses.

The Franklin Farmers’ Market takes place every Friday from 2 PM to 6 PM, June through October, on the Franklin Town Common.

How the SNAP Match Program Works

Any household registered with SNAP, regardless of their resident town or state, can participate in the SNAP Match at the Franklin Farmers’ Market.

Before shopping, SNAP recipients bring their SNAP EBT card to the Franklin Food Pantry booth. Shoppers tell the staff how much they would like to spend from their SNAP benefits. The representative swipes the SNAP EBT card and “matches” the chosen amount dollar-for-dollar in SNAP Tokens. For example, spending $10 results in $20 worth of tokens. 

SNAP tokens can be spent just like cash with any SNAP-eligible vendor at the Franklin Farmers’ Market. Franklin Farmers’ Market SNAP tokens are exclusive to the Franklin Farmers' Market and SNAP tokens from other farmers’ markets cannot be accepted.

For more information on the SNAP Match program, please visit the Franklin Food Pantry booth at the Franklin Farmers’ Market, or contact the Franklin Food Pantry at 508-528-3115 or info@franklinfoodpantry.org.

To apply for SNAP benefits, please visit the Department of Transitional Assistance website. 

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 Distribution, 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.

Dean College Appoints Heidi Bruce as Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Alumni & Family Engagement

Dean College has appointed Heidi Bruce, MBA, CFRM, as Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Alumni & Family Engagement.

Bruce brings more than 25 years of experience in fundraising, alumni relations, donor engagement, and institutional advancement. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions in higher education, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations, helping institutions strengthen advancement operations, increase philanthropic support, and deepen stakeholder engagement.

In her new role, Bruce will provide leadership for Dean College's advancement efforts, including major and planned giving, annual giving, alumni and family engagement, corporate and foundation relations, stewardship, and advancement operations. As a member of the College's senior leadership team, she will work closely with alumni, donors, families, trustees, and friends of the College to support Dean's strategic priorities and strengthen engagement across the College community. 

Continue reading the announcement - https://www.dean.edu/news-events/story/dean-college-appoints-heidi-bruce-as-vice-president-of-institutional-advancement-and-alumni-family-engagement/

Aging Boldfully: Sisters United Against Cancer (video)

Aging Boldfully is a new show on Franklin TV's All Access channel hosted by Susan Rohrbach.  Sisters United Against Cancer are Susan's guests for this recent show.

The show description: 

"Aging Boldfully is about living your next chapter outside of your comfort zone—fully embracing the uniqueness of you.

For many of us, the idea of aging doesn’t appear on our radar until we approach our 60s, when retirement begins to loom. During this time, our attention often narrows to one critical goal: ensuring financial independence. While that focus is important, it can distract us from an equally vital question: What am I going to do with the rest of my life? 

Each of our journeys is unique. Rather than clinging to the tired concept of “retirement,” we have the chance to rethink and redesign this new chapter. What will life look like now that we are the CEO of our own story? 

Aging Boldfully will explore the themes that matter most as we step into this phase—purpose, relevance, resilience, physical health, mental well-being, intentional living, and mindfulness. It will showcase members of our community who are finding meaning, living with purpose, and overcoming obstacles—real examples of what it means to age not just gracefully, but boldfully."

Video link -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYHAWR0H9Yw

 

Hey, how about taking advantage of one of these Boston Free Museum Days in July 2026 ??

"Looking for free things to do in Boston this July? 

Save this guide for the best free museum days, free nights, and always-free cultural spots in and around Boston! 📍🌊

🗓️ Key Free Dates

🎨 July 9, 16, 23, 30 — ICA Boston, Free Thursday Nights, 5–9 PM

🔬 July 10, 17, 24, 31 — Discovery Museum, Summer Friday Nights Free, 4:30–8 PM

👨‍👩‍👧 July 12 — Boston Family Days for Boston K–12 / Pre-K students + 2 guests

🖼️ July 16 — MFA Boston, $5 minimum pay-what-you-wish after 5 PM

🏛️ Always Free Spots

📚 Harvard Art Museums

🎭 MassArt Art Museum

💧 Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

⚓ USS Constitution Museum

💰 Museum of American Finance

…and more!

⚠️ Good to Know

🎟️ Some free nights require advance timed tickets

⏰ Always check hours before visiting

📌 Save this post for your summer Boston plans!"

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DaOGm_bgk8X/

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

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

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)  

• This hour features FPS 2025-26 School year wrap up with Supt Lucas Giguere & Operations Director Colin Boisvert    https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/06/lucas-colin-close-out-2025-26-school.html

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)  

• This segment features Episode 319 - Wine Digital Marketing With Molly Bossardt   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/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, July 8, 2026 (Your local Public, Education & Government "PEG" station)

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

7:30 am     Arts Advocacy: Fundraising

8:30 am Franklin Art Association: Katie Kindilien

10:00 am Second Sunday Speaker Series: Wedding Gowns

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Grillin'

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Peppers

12:30 pm Learn to Cook with Linda: Broccoli Salad

1:30 pm     Pizzapalooza: Shrimp, Tomato & Greens Pizzetta

2:00 pm New England Candlepins Summer 2023 Show 5

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 8

3:30 pm ArtWeek: Theater in the Open

4:00 pm Aging Agenda Episode 1

4:30 pm Strawberry Stroll 2026

6:00 pm 4th of July 2025: Midnight Ride

8:30 pm Circle of Friends: Kim Moberg & Jenna Nicholls

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

8:30 am FHS Chamber Music 04-08-26

10:00 am Pickleball Tournament: Pickleball Tournament

11:00 am Lincoln Street 5th Grade Graduation 2026

3:30 pm Tri County Graduation 05-28-26

5:15 pm     25th Anniversary Lions All-State Band

7:00 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v King Philip 05-08-26

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

8:00 am  Town Council 06-17-26

1:00 pm  Town Council 06-17-26

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

Town of Franklin announces: "Scheduled Water Shut-Off on Wednesday, July 8, 2026"

Please spread the word!

Water shut-off tomorrow in the affected areas listed below. Thank you for your patience and please plan accordingly.

• Pine Street
• Stanwood Drive
• Sunken Meadow Road
• John Edwards Circle

Shared from -  https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/162

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Tuesday, July 7, 2026 ???

Tuesday, July 7

12:00pm Community Closet (Franklin United Methodist Church)

5:00pm Tuesday Night Cruise (Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub)

5:00pm Youth Open Track & Field Check-in (Franklin High School)

6:00pm Youth Open Track & Field meet (Franklin High School)

For additional details on Library events -> https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9890

***  Town Meetings today ***

Small Cell Wireless Antenna Petition Hearing - Pond St.

Tuesday, July 7 Time: 1:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07072026-2381 

250th Anniversary Celebration Communications Subcommittee Meeting

Tuesday, July 7 Time: 6:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07072026-2393 

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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

Children's Museum of Franklin and MBTA Celebrate New Transportation Exhibit Feature with Ribbon Cutting

Children's Museum of Franklin is excited to welcome the community to a special ribbon-cutting celebration for a brand-new interactive feature in the Museum's Transportation Area, generously designed and created by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, July 8 at 1:00 PM at Children's Museum of Franklin and will feature representatives from the MBTA, local officials, community leaders, Museum supporters, and families.

an early view of the train table
when the Museum opened Sep 2025

“On behalf of the MBTA, I want to thank Children’s Museum of Franklin for partnering with us to bring this customized railroad crossing signal to the Museum,” said MBTA Chief Operating Officer Ryan Coholan. “We hope this hands-on exhibit helps visitors better understand how crossing signals keep people safe and we hope to see it inspire the next generation of train engineers, signal experts, conductors, and other transit professionals.”

"Transportation has always been one of the most beloved themes at the Museum, especially with our incredible view of the MBTA’s commuter rail from the exhibit area" said Erin Gallagher, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Children's Museum of Franklin. "We're incredibly grateful to the MBTA for creating a feature that helps children make meaningful connections to the world around them through play."

Since opening in September 2025, Children's Museum of Franklin has welcomed nearly 60,000 visitors from more than 600 towns across Massachusetts, Rhode Island and beyond. The Museum’s beloved Transportation Area was made possible by the generous support of Vendetti Motors.

About the Children's Museum of Franklin

Children's Museum of Franklin is a nonprofit, hands-on museum on a mission to empower children and families to discover, imagine, and grow together through play and exploration. Through interactive exhibits, engaging programming, and a commitment to accessibility and belonging, the Museum creates opportunities for joyful learning for visitors of all ages.

Visit the Museum online for additional info - https://www.childrensmuseumfranklin.org/

Franklin Matters-Franklin Matters Weekly is proud to sponsor the Falmouth Fund Raiser at La Cantina Thursday, July 9

"Join us for an evening of community and celebration at our upcoming fundraiser:

When: Thursday, July 9, from 6 to 8 PM
Where: La Cantina Winery (230 Cottage St., Franklin, MA)
Tickets: $35 per person

What’s Included? Your $35 ticket includes a complimentary beverage of your choice, delicious small bites, live music and a chance to win fun giveaways.

This event is presented by Franklin Matters. Space at the event is limited. Don’t miss out on a great night an even greater cause.

Purchase your tickets today, cheer on our runners, and help us make a lasting impact."

Tickets can be purchased - https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/falmouthroadrace/

Shared from - https://fb.me/e/4eevEpwlH

Community Closet open Tuesday, July 8 from noon to 2 PM

Need a few new wardrobe pieces for summer? Stop by Franklin UMC (82 West Central Street, Franklin, MA), Tuesday from 12–2 PM!

👕 Free clothing and shoes for all ages (newborn through XXL)

💬 Friendly faces and a warm welcome

💛 Everyone is invited — no cost, no questions, just community care.

Come find something you love and share the word — kindness looks good on everyone!

The Community Closet is currently on our main-level and fully accessible. To learn more about the Community Closet, go to https://franklinumc.org/comunity/closet/.

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DadKmRDDAzV/

Karaoke Night is back on Weds 7/8/26 at La Cantina Winery

Grab your friends, warm up those vocal cords, and join us for an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and great wine!

📅 Wednesday, July 8

🕖 7:00–10:00 PM

📍 La Cantina Winery

Whether you’re ready to sing your heart out or just enjoy the show, we’d love to see you there.

See you Wednesday!

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DaRs6JYuH5O/

“Viva Las Elvis” appearing at THE BLACK BOX, Saturday, July 11

Experience the iconic sights and sounds of The King in concert with New England’s premier Elvis Presley tribute show, “Viva Las Elvis”, starring national award-winning tribute artist Dan Fontaine and featuring the Memphis Sun Mafia Band!

Enjoy the very best of Elvis’ legendary concert tours recreated LIVE with authenticity and flare!

See the tribute show that has New England all shook up, Viva Las Elvis!

This Saturday!

Tickets at THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370!

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DaccSrguJ8g/

Franklin Fire Department shares swimming safety tips

"Stay safe in and around the water this summer!

Whether you’re cooling off at a pool, lake, beach, or backyard, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent water-related emergencies.

The Franklin Fire Department encourages everyone to review these important swimming safety tips before heading out. Remember, drowning can happen quickly and quietly, and constant supervision is the best way to keep children safe around water.

Have fun. Be prepared. Stay safe this summer! "

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DaQtm-Mxdsp/

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Tuesday, July 7, 2026

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 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