Voices of Franklin: Councilor Ted Cormier-Leger advocates for voting Yes (video)

Town Councilor Ted Cormier-Leger advocates for voting Yes on the FY 2026 ballot question on or before June 3, 2025.

Video link -> https://youtu.be/gQn957VCHRI

If you have something to say, you can find the guidelines here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html

Voices of Franklin: Councilor Ted Cormier-Leger advocates for voting Yes (video)

Franklin Resident to Attempt Record-Breaking Ultra Trail Run to Support SAFE Coalition

Franklin resident James Flannery will attempt a record-breaking 100-mile run across the northernmost leg of the Appalachian Trail on June 20, 2025, to raise awareness and support for mental health. Fundraising proceeds will support Franklin area nonprofit SAFE Coalition.

“The goal for me is to make it end to end, raise money for SAFE, and have a good day,” says Flannery. 

James Flannery

Known as the “Hundred-Mile Wilderness,” the leg runs from Monson to Abol Bridge in Maine and is considered the most remote and rugged part of the entire Appalachian Trail with a total elevation gain of 18,000 feet. The trail often takes hikers 8–12 days to complete. Flannery plans to traverse it in under 30 hours.

“It’s about stepping into the unknown,” Flannery says of why he’s drawn to the challenges of distance trail running. “I like not knowing how my mind and body are going to respond. You get to the second 50 miles, that part you’ve never done before, and you think, ‘This is new, this is fun.’ I could definitely go out for a 30-mile run with friends and it would be a good time. But there’s no mystery, no butterflies in my stomach. The unknown is what does it for me.”

What he calls his “B-goal” is to achieve a Fastest Known Time, or FKT, on the course. The current FKT for the Hundred-Mile Trail is 29.5 hours nonstop. “If I have a remarkable day, an FKT might be a cherry on top,” he says. 

Adding to the challenge, Flannery is planning a rare southbound route, taking him across the trail's highest elevation gains in the second half of the race. “The first 50 [miles] will be kind of casual,” he says, laughing. “Then, I’ll have enough in the tank to do the mountainous sections. That’s more exciting for me.”

An active trail hiker, trail runner, and ultramarathoner, Flannery has “yoyo hiked” the 272-mile Long Trail in Vermont, summited 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, and hiked the Hundred Mile Wilderness route. 

“I used to take longer trips, but I don’t have the time to take one to two months here and there anymore,” Flannery says. “Trail running packs the same bit of adventure into just one to two days.”

Beyond the personal challenge, Flannery is committed to raising mental health awareness and increasing access to resources. As such, he chose to fundraise for SAFE’s support services like teen programming, support groups, one-on-one counseling, and more, which are all available at no cost.

Franklin Resident to Attempt Record-Breaking Ultra Trail Run to Support SAFE Coalition

Flannery knows of SAFE’s work from the support his loved ones have received. “As someone who has struggled with mental health at times myself, I can definitely see why SAFE’s work is helpful to folks,” says Flannery. “I am inspired to help the cause, and I don’t have a ton of money to donate. But I can do this adventure run and raise money, and I hope it will be as helpful.”

Knowing his love of nature often buoys him, his route will put him at the summit at daybreak to watch the sun rise over Mt. Katahdin before he faces the final 50 miles of his journey. “This way, I’ll be hitting the mountains, maybe struggling, and the sun will be breaking on the horizon,” he says. “It should be enough to keep me going.”

Learn more about James Flannery’s run and cheer him on at https://www.safecoalitionma.org/100run or text 100run to 50155. SAFE can be contacted at info@safecoalitionma.org or (508) 488-8105. 

School Committee recognizes musicians, biliteracy students, and retirees on Tuesday (video)

The Franklin, MA School Committee met as scheduled on Tuesday, May 27 at 7 PM in Council Chambers. 6 of the 7 members participated, 1 absent (Gallagher).

Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBa7M7YI4A4

The agenda doc -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05272025-1761

The meeting folder where other docs will be posted after the meeting ->

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/may-27%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/806450

Quick recap:

• In the Superintendent's Report, Supt Giguere used some time to recognize the FHS students who won MICCA awards
• The students who achieved the State of MA Biliteracy certificates were recognized. 13 were present
• In the Guests/Presentations segment, the school district personnel retiring this year were recognized
• Civics Presentation by Students featured Mrs Ambrose from Remington MS and Kayla who share her project on autism awareness (photos of the presentation below)
• The District Improvement Plan/School Improvement Plan Update featured a portion on MS Math which was provided earlier this year
• No discussion action or discussion only items tonight
• Subcommittee updates
• Supt evaluation June 3 to prepare the draft review for discussion then
• Budget no meeting, pending result of June 3 may need to meet
• Policy awaiting override results to review fees
• Community relations preparing for Strawberry Stroll June 13; Meeting on 5/29 to prep
• Joint PCC met on the 20th, Facebook group set up, spirit activities
• May have PCC info for Strawberry Stroll distribution
• High school start time, a 5 minute shift to handle transportation
• Mental health prepare for Stroll
• Reorg no updates recently, will need clarity from the vote June 3
• Consent agenda: Motion to approve as detailed, second, passes 6-0-1 (6 for, 1 absent)

Retiree recognition -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/fLJf4boDFr6S9MvE7

Civics Project presentation -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/oAh2AdNrLoE1Exu89

DIP/SIP presentation -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/6ipuwvmfph7khgNF8

FHS music students who won MICCA awards

students who achieved the State of MA Biliteracy certificates

My full set of notes in one PDF ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CMp9pP040uUMF-aEHLahg3-LSN3ErBDV/view?usp=drive_link

Franklin English Language Education Department Hosts Family Event at Franklin Public Library

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning and English Language Director Dr. Tina Rogers is proud to announce that Franklin Public Schools' English Language Education Department recently hosted a family event at the Franklin Public Library.

On May 21, students and families joined together to connect with each other and learn more about community and school programs, including Franklin's English Learner Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC).

English Language Education
Teachers made this event possible

ELPAC serves as a bridge to bring families, schools and communities together in meaningful ways and encourages family engagement. The program fosters a shared commitment to student success.

“Through open communication, translation support and culturally inclusive practices, Franklin Public Schools is committed to creating welcoming environments where families feel valued, connected, and empowered to support their children's education,” said Assistant Superintendent Rogers.

During the event, students taught someone else how to say “hello” in their native language and learned how to say “hello” in another language.

"My favorite part about teaching is connecting with my students and their families," said Sonia Vaz-Brune, English Language Education Teacher. "I loved being able to see everyone smiling, talking, and making new connections. These events always remind me how much I love this job!"

Attendees played games, colored bookmarks, took pictures in a photo booth, and decorated notebooks.

Every student went home with at least one library book. Franklin Public Library also donated books for students to take home.

Youth Service Librarian Caleigh Keating shared exciting student events happening at the Library during upcoming school half-days on June 13, 16, 17 and 18. All students and community members are welcome to attend.

“I’m grateful to be part of a district that not only values equity and inclusion but also demonstrates these principles through real action,” said English Language Education Teacher Johanna Townsend.

On May 21, students and families joined together
with Franklin Public Schools educators and community leaders
 to connect with each other and learn more about town
and school programs. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

“We’d like to thank Laura Doherty, Associate Director of the Franklin Food Pantry, and Laura Du, Client Service Manager, for joining our event and sharing information and resources with families,” said Assistant Superintendent Rogers. “And a tremendous thank you to Library Director Felicia Oti and Youth Services Librarian Caleigh Keating from the Franklin Public Library. We appreciate the support and collaboration. This event would not have been possible without their help.”

“We had an amazing time at this fun-filled event for families,” said Franklin Public Schools Superintendent Lucas Giguere. “Everyone who attended shared laughs and learned about one another. Franklin Public Schools is committed to creating an inclusive and safe environment for our students and families.”

Additional photos can be found -> https://www.franklinps.net/article/2237683

Winning Ways with the MIAA: Bracket Release - Volleyball & Rugby (video)

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOKqZ7ye3bY 

The MIAA Bracket release show for baseball & softball is scheduled for 2:30 PM Wednesday, May 28  -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pj6DCeCN_AM

FPAC Golf Tournament | Register by June 1st

FPAC Golf Tournament | Register by June 1st

Last chance to register for the FPAC Golf Tournament! 

Registration and payment must be completed online via https://fundraiser.support/FPACGOLF2025 by June 1st.

If you are unable to attend, please consider a $100 hole sponsorship (17" x 11" sign on tee with your name/ logo) to support FPAC programming and THE BLACK BOX operations.

Thank you for your consideration, and we'll see you in two weeks!

Join us for bowling Thursday at PINZ Milford 7-9pm!

Please open for sign-up information

Franklin LGBTQ Alliance Join us for a bowling night at PINZ!   When: *This Thursday* May 29th from 7-9pm   Where: PINZ in Milford at 110 South Main St   Note: Shoe rentals are $5 (If this cost will prevent you from attending please email us or include it in the form and we will cover your cost) To sign-up please click here or email us at franklinlgbtqalliance@gmail.com View this email in your browser .

Recovery Fest - FREE FAMILY EVENT - Saturday, June 14

June 14th

Norfolk County Recovery Fest  Saturday, June 14th | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Braintree Public Safety Complex, 2015 Washington Street Free Admission and Free Food! Join us for the Norfolk County Recovery Fest — a day filled with live music, community, and celebration. Enjoy performances by Justin Clancy, Christian Champagne & The Kind Souls, The Glow, and our hosts Mathematics with Exitfame & Mike Dinatale. Special Guest Appearance: Steve Sweeney The event also features: A competitive cornhole tournament Zip line experience Interactive graffiti wall Recovery resources and community partners on site Presented by the HOPE Center, a program of Sheriff Patrick McDermott and the Norfolk Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the Wey of Life Peer Recovery Center. For full details, visit hopecenterma.org. Let's come together to support recovery and community in Norfolk County. We hope to see you there.

Norfolk County Sheriff's Office | 200 West St | Dedham, MA 02027 US

No, FTC “agents” with badge numbers aren’t calling you

No, FTC "agents" with badge numbers aren't calling you By BCP Staff Scammers impersonating the government — including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — is nothing new.  But here's a twist: scammers are now calling themselves FTC "agents" and supplying fake badge numbers and ID cards to try to convince you they are who they say they are. (…They're not who they say they are. The FTC doesn't have "agents.")  So how do you avoid scams like this? Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/05/no-ftc-agents-badge-numbers-arent-calling-you?utm_source=govdelivery

No, FTC “agents” with badge numbers aren’t calling you

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, May 28, 2025

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 features our Town Clerk Nancy Danello with updates in advance of the Special Election June 3, 2024 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/town-clerk-nancy-danello-provides.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)  

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi discuss An Italian Wine Journey with Alessia Botturi   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode_0493186571.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, May 28, 2025

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

7:30 am Mental Health: Max Morrongiello

8:30 am The Black Box: T3

10:00 am Franklin Art Association: Christine West

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Grillin'

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Scones

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Mac 'n' Cheese

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

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 7

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 5

3:30 pm ArtWeek: Airmen of Note

5:30 pm United Methodist Church: Michael Rivelis

8:30 pm Circle of Friends: The Kennedys

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

7:00 am Parmenter School Memorial Day Celebration

8:30 am Lifelong Music Spring 2025: Band and Glee

10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Overdose Awareness 2024

11:00 am FHS Spring Jazz 2025

12:30 pm FHS Varsity Softball v Milford 05-19-25

3:30 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v Taunton 05-12-25

8:00 pm FHS Senior Awards Night 2025

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

8:00 am Town Council 05-21-25

12:00 pm Economic Development 05-21-25

2:00 pm Town Council 05-21-25

6:00 pm Town Council 05-22-25

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

Town of Franklin, MA: Memorial Day Ceremony - May 26, 2025 (audio)

FM #1455 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1455 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the audio of the Town of Franklin Memorial Day ceremony held on the Town Common at the end of the parade on Monday, May 26, 2025. The day was sunny, a few passing clouds with a gentle breeze. 

Veterans Service Officer Shannon Nisbett is the master of ceremonies and introduces each speaker, and walks us through the program. 

The ceremony runs about 47 minutes. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1455-town-of-franklin-ma-memorial-day-ceremony-05-26-25/

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My photos (for both the parade & ceremony) are found in one album -> 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/w7AdGvP6PDGimFT88 

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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"

Commander Carruthers and a girl scout placing one of the wreaths