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| Impact Summary, Grant Report |
Check out what we’ve been up to, the impact we’ve had, and get involved!
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Did you read the Community @FranklinUMC // Impact Summary, Grant Report
Jennifer Tefft schedules back to back performances July 10 & July 11
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| Jennifer Tefft schedules back to back performances July 10 & July 11 |
Two new venues for me this week! If you are in the area, come by and say hi!
Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DLxOhKRMm7c/
The “Panther F Logo” fundraiser returns for 2025
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| The “Panther F Logo” fundraiser returns for 2025 |
The FHS Girls Basketball Boosters are excited to launch our 2025 “Panther F Logo” fundraiser. As in years past, players will come to your house and paint your driveway or basketball court with the Franklin Panther F logo.
Sign up will be open from July 7 to August 15.
Form to sign up -> https://forms.gle/
Once the sign up is closed and all payments have been received the Boosters will establish a schedule for the painting to begin in September and conclude in October (8/1 to 10/15).
The Panther F logo is a great addition to your driveway for all Franklin students and families!
Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DL1JKajtZJY/
24th annual Bill Capen Memorial Golf Tournament, Aug 10
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| 24th annual Bill Capen Memorial Golf Tournament, Aug 10 |
This special event honors Bill Capen, a beloved FYBO volunteer, and all proceeds fund the FYBO/Bill Capen Scholarship Awards for graduating high school seniors. To date, over $60,000 in scholarships have been awarded to deserving students.
The tournament starts at 1:00 PM with an entry fee of $150 per person. The tournament will have a 50/50 raffle and other prizes!
Help us continue supporting local youth and their educational journeys - foursomes are filling up fast! For questions or to register, please contact Larry Pollard at lap7374@gmail.com.
More info online at -> https://www.franklinyouthbaseball.com/page/show/7700410-bill-capen-memorial-golf-tournament
Federal funding by state (chart)
Who really depends on Washington?
Source: Visual Capitalist
https://www.voronoiapp.com/economy/Visualized-Which-US-States-Need-the-Federal-Government-the-Most-5485
Source: Visual Capitalist
https://www.voronoiapp.com/economy/Visualized-Which-US-States-Need-the-Federal-Government-the-Most-5485
Job scammers are looking to hire you
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Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, July 9, 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:
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| 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 repeats my conversation discussion on the Summer Reading Blitz with Ms Caleigh and Ms O'Leary -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/06/talking-about-summer-reading-blitz-and.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 have a captivating discussion about the world of Italian wine with the esteemed Shelley Lindgren -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/07/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-shelley.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 9, 2025
- Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = WEDNESDAY
7:30 am Mental Health: Abigail Drake
8:30 am FSPA: Spring 2025 Show 2
10:00 am More Perfect Union: D. E. I.
11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Lobstah
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 1
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 8
3:30 pm Franklin 4th 2024: Backyard Swagger
5:30 pm Franklin Matters: Electric Youth
8:30 pm Circle of Friends: Abbie Gardner
Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = WEDNESDAY
7:00 am Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22
8:30 am FHS Spring Jazz 2025
10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Overdose Awareness Day 2024
11:00 am Lifelong Music Spring 2025: Strings School
12:30 pm FHS Varsity Softball v Taunton 04-09-25
4:00 pm Tri County Graduation 2025
6:00 pm FHS Graduation 2025
8:30 pm FHS Varsity Baseball v Wachusett 04-24-25
Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = WEDNESDAY
2:00 pm Town Council 06-18-25
Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf
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| Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA |
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
What's happening in Franklin, MA: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 ???
11:30am Free Summer Lunch Program (Bellingham Library)
5:00pm Youth Summer Track Meet (Franklin High School)
7:00pm FBRTC Rail Trail Cmte Mtg (Franklin TV Studio)
7:30pm Smart Phone Trivia (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)
For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->
** Town Meetings today **
Design Review Meeting
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 7 PM
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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
The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar
Dean College Announces Stephen Ursprung as New Dean of the Palladino School of Dance & The School of Arts
Dean College is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephen Ursprung as the new dean of the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance and the School of the Arts. His appointment follows a national search and is effective immediately.
Ursprung has been a member of the Dean College faculty since 2016 and most recently served as interim assistant dean. In this role, he led key curricular enhancements, deepened student engagement, and fostered cross-disciplinary partnerships to strengthen the College’s nationally recognized dance and theatre programs.
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| Stephen Ursprung |
As a seasoned educator and performer, Ursprung brings to his work a dynamic blend of artistic vision, academic leadership, and a deep commitment to student-centered education. He is a long-time champion of innovation in the performing arts and interdisciplinary arts education.
“I am honored to step into this role as we look to the future of performing arts education at Dean College, where innovation, inclusivity, and artistic excellence guide all that we do,” said Ursprung. “We have an incredible opportunity to reimagine how we train, inspire, and engage the next generation of artists. I look forward to supporting and guiding our students toward successful careers.”
In addition to his work as dean, Ursprung has chaired the College’s curriculum committee, served on the liberal arts academic program review team, and mentors the Dean College chapter of the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA). His influence also extends nationally, as the co-chair of DANCE 2050, an initiative of the National Dance Education Organization that envisions the future of dance education in America.
Ursprung remains an active artist as a member of SAG-AFTRA and the Actors’ Equity Association, with credited roles in the movies “Hocus Pocus 2” and “Little Women,” recent performances in “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Oklahoma!” at Trinity Repertory Company, and choreographing productions for Bridge Repertory Theatre of Boston. Ursprung also completed a research fellowship at Jacob’s Pillow in 2024, one of the most prestigious institutions in American Modern Dance. As a performer and educator, he continues his involvement in Dancing Legacy, the NilsSprung Dance Project, and Reject Dance Theatre.
“Stephen’s expertise, experience, and deep commitment to student-centered learning make him the ideal choice to guide our performing arts schools into their next chapters,” said Dr. Scott Sibley, Provost. “We are excited for the vision and momentum he brings to this role.”
Ursprung holds a B.A. in Economics and Italian Studies from Brown University and an M.F.A. in Dance from Smith College.
Dean College is a private, residential New England college grounded in a culture and tradition that all students deserve the opportunity for academic and personal success. A uniquely supportive community for more than 160 years, Dean has woven together extensive student support and engagement with exceptional teaching and innovative campus activities. Our graduates are lifetime learners who thrive in their careers, embrace social responsibility and demonstrate leadership. This is The Dean Difference.
Tina Powderly Honored in MA Women's Commission, Commonwealth Heroine Class of 2025
Franklin resident Tina Powderly was recently elected to the 22nd Annual Massachusetts Women's Commission "Commonwealth Heroine Class of2025." Nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (Franklin-D), Ms. Powderly was honored alongside over 125 other distinguished women from around the Commonwealth at the State House in the Great Hall of Flags on June 26th, 2025.
Tina serves her community by working as the Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry. It is thanks to her that a new facility was built, leading to the feeding of over 25,000 people in 2024 alone. Tina holds experience in various fields, such as healthcare consulting, and hospital strategy, allowing her to receive leadership positions at AMN Healthcare, Milford Regional Medical Center, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She holds a Bachelors Degree from Georgetown University and a Masters Degree in Health Policy Management from Harvard. Tina has served on the YMCA's Board of Managers, and as Vice Chair of the Franklin Town Council. Living with her husband and five children in the community, she has served the Town of Franklin with honor and distinction.
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| (L-R) T Powderly, J Roy |
"I'm honored to nominate Tina Powderly as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine," said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy. "Her selfless work in the healthcare industry, service to her community, and her leadership at the Franklin Food Pantry cement her status as an upstanding pillar of the community and display a perfect representation of a Commonwealth Heroine."
"The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don't make the news, but make all the difference in their communities," said Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) Chairwoman Mary-dith Tuitt. 'Thousands of women in every community across the Commonwealth perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators - they are the glue that keeps a community together."
Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities. Each legislator is encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service, who are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news.
Free summer lunch menu for kids available at the Bellingham Library: Tue-Wed-Thu
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| Free summer lunch menu for kids available at the Bellingham Library: Tue-Wed-Thu |
Come for one day, two days, or all three!
For more information, visit: https://www.hockymca.org/summer-lunch-program/
Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Cihrihu8v/
FSPA Senior Voice Recital Aug 3 at THE BLACK BOX
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| FSPA Senior Voice Recital Aug 3 at THE BLACK BOX |
- Elena Baker (student of Tim Ayres-Kerr)
- Devin Curley (student of Tim Ayres-Kerr, April Ball, and Anissa Perona)
- Devin DeAngelis (student of April Ball and Hallie Wetzell)!
All are welcome to attend August 3rd at 4:00pm at THE BLACK BOX!
Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DLuPinyunnG/
Franklin Public Library: "the first library in Mass to team with the American Heart Association on a self-monitoring blood pressure station"
The oldest public lending library in the country is embracing a thoroughly modern mission: protecting the heart health of its community.
The Franklin Public Library — founded in 1790 with books donated by Benjamin Franklin — has become the first library in Massachusetts to team with the American Heart Association on a self-monitoring blood pressure station, a new initiative aimed at expanding access to preventative health care in trusted community spaces.
Located on the second floor of the library at 118 Main Street, the station features an automated blood pressure monitor available for public use, along with educational materials from the American Heart Association about how to interpret results and why managing high blood pressure is essential to preventing heart disease and stroke.
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| Franklin Library Director Felicia Oti takes her blood pressure |
“Knowing your blood pressure is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health,” said Sullivan. “Not everyone owns a reliable monitor at home or knows how to use one. This gives people another option—one that’s free, walk-in friendly, and located in a place they already visit for other reasons.”
Library officials say the initiative aligns perfectly with their vision of the library as a “third space”—a place that isn’t home or work, but is open to everyone without any expectation to spend money.
“We still offer books and DVDs, of course,” said Allison Smith, the library’s assistant director. “But we’re also expanding the idea of what a library can be. This is a space for community connection, lifelong learning, and now even preventative health.”
The Franklin Public Library serves residents of all ages, from young families and high schoolers to older adults. Smith hopes that the sight of a blood pressure cuff nestled among the stacks will encourage people to take a quick health check, even if it wasn’t on their to-do list when they walked in.
“You might come to pick up a book or use the computer, and as you’re walking by, you think, ‘I’ve been meaning to check my blood pressure,’” she said. “It’s a subtle, accessible reminder to take care of yourself.”
For Franklin’s director of public health, Cathleen Liberty, the initiative is personal. She lost her father to heart disease and has long championed early detection and community education as pillars of prevention.
“I’ve seen programs like this in other states, and I immediately thought: We need to bring this to Massachusetts,” Liberty said. “We’re so proud to be the first town in the state to partner with the American Heart Association on a library-based station.”
Liberty said the program fills a critical gap in Massachusetts, where public health departments often operate with limited resources.
“Not everyone has easy access to a doctor, and not everyone understands what their numbers mean,” she said. “This station makes it easier to know your health status and take action if needed.”
From the American Heart Association’s perspective, the program is all about meeting people where they are.
“The path of least resistance is our strategy,” said Worthington. “We want to make it as easy as possible for someone to check their blood pressure. And where better than a library, which people already trust, already visit, and feel comfortable in?”
In addition to the in-library station, the American Heart Association is donating three portable blood pressure monitors that library patrons will be able to check out and bring home. Each monitor will come with easy-to-follow instructions, educational materials, and a multi-week blood pressure tracking log that users can keep, helping them monitor their readings over time and share results with their health care providers if needed.
The Association is supporting this initiative through a gift from a local philanthropist. Over the next year, the organization plans to expand the program to additional libraries across Massachusetts, with the next self-monitoring blood pressure station set to launch in Brockton later this summer.
The Association has used a similar model in Boston-area churches, training faith leaders and volunteers to run monthly blood pressure screenings. Worthington sees libraries as the next logical step in bringing hypertension education into the everyday lives of residents.
“Whether it’s a house of worship or a public library, it’s about building a culture of health in spaces where people feel they belong,” she said.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Shared from the American Heart Association press release -> https://newsroom.heart.org/local-news/massachusetts-library-expands-role-as-community-hub-with-blood-pressure-station
Franklin Cultural District Guide available for download
NEW Cultural District Guide |
Your art. Your words. Your Franklin. Be part of the story
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| Franklin Cultural District Guide |
You might have seen these floating around at Franklin Porchfest and the recent Strawberry Stroll - We're excited to introduce the Franklin Cultural District Guide — your go-to resource for discovering the heart of arts, culture, and community in downtown Franklin! Inside, you'll find local landmarks, public art, creative businesses, and cultural experiences that make our district unique. Guides will be created twice a year, next up is our Fall/Winter issue!
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| Franklin Cultural District Guide 2 |
Click here to see the digital version -> https://www.franklinculture.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif596/f/uploads/franklin_cultural_district_springsummer_vol1.pdf
Pick up printed copies at the Franklin Municipal building, Franklin Public Library, Senior Center and other downtown Franklin locations!
We want to feature YOU!
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| Susan Pratt Sheridan |
Deadline for consideration is August 1st - click here for more details! -> https://www.franklinma.gov/1107/Call-for-Visual-Artists
Congrats to Susan Pratt Sheridan for being our FIRST featured artist!
Join us for our next meeting: July 10th on the Town Common!
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