What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, August 30, 2025 ??

Saturday, August 30

** Play Music On the Porch Day  **

9:00am Thrifty Threads (closed for the holiday weekend) (Franklin Federated Church) 

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am Walking Group (St John's Episcopal Church)

10:30am Summer Reading Wrap Up!( Franklin Public Library)

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

** 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

Franklin Police with a message in advance of schools opening Sep 2

Gather around let’s have a chat

Our Franklin Public Schools are starting up next week. Let’s have a refresher on some of the school zone driving rules.

1. The speed limit during school hours is 20 MPH…not 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, etc.

Franklin Police with a message

2. When the big yellow school bus or small white school bus stops and extends that red octagon that says STOP, that means stop. If you are behind the bus, this means stop. If you are driving next to a bus in the same direction of travel and this octagon comes out, it also means to stop. If you are traveling in the opposite travel lane and a bus is approaching you, stops, and extends the red octagon…you guessed it, you must STOP.

3. Crosswalks are those painted walkways in the road connecting sidewalks. These help people cross the road safely. Some are high-tech with flashing lights. If someone is standing next to the sidewalk clearly trying to cross the road, you must stop. If you think someone is standing next to the sidewalk and might be crossing, you should probably stop.

PSA: not stopping for someone in a crosswalk, realizing this, and waving and mouthing “sorry” to someone you almost hit on a sidewalk is not a get out of a citation free card. It’s impossible to get stopped and cited for a crosswalk violation if you just stop for someone at a crosswalk. Waiting 10 seconds for someone to cross the road will always be quicker than getting pulled over.

Traffic and school zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. Officers will be a constant presence in our school zones this year ensuring everyone’s safety. Here’s to a safe and successful school year! If you need us, we’ll be there!

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1AHSiz7SyU/

Voices of Franklin: ZBA term expired?

To the Editor:

As a longtime Franklin resident and engaged community member, I've been closely following the Zoning Board of Appeals meetings. While I initially found the Chair's tone and treatment of residents to be troubling, what concerns me even more is the procedural lapse that has gone largely unaddressed.

The Chair's term expired on June 30th. Since then, he has neither stepped down nor been officially reappointed. This raises a serious question: if he has not been formally reappointed, how can he continue to vote on matters that affect our town's future? In my view, any vote cast since June 30th should be considered invalid. The legitimacy of these proceedings is compromised, and that should alarm every resident who values fair process and accountability.

Equally troubling is the silence from our Town Administrator, who is responsible for appointments. Why has this lapse been allowed to continue? Why hasn't the Town Council been asked to weigh in on the Chair's reappointment? These are not minor oversights—they speak to a broader issue of transparency and respect for the people of Franklin.

When residents see officials operating without proper authority, and when those in charge fail to correct it, trust erodes. We deserve better. We deserve leadership that respects the rules, honors the public's voice, and upholds the integrity of our town's governance.

Sincerely,  

Jane Callaway-Tripp  

Franklin, MA

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: ZBA term expired?

FHS Theater Co schedules Kickoff Meeting Sep 4

FHS Theater Co schedules Kickoff Meeting Sep 4

WELCOME BACK T-CO!

Getting ready to kick off another wonderful year of theater starting with our fall musical.

From returning members to incoming freshman we can’t wait to see you all there. Be sure to join the Google classroom for more info and updates

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CXyDtp5aV/

Starting Tuesday (Sep 2, 2025): Franklin/Foxboro Line schedule change (again)

A new Franklin/Foxboro Line schedule will be in effect starting on Tuesday, September 2. 

Starting Tuesday (Sep 2, 2025): Franklin/Foxboro
Line schedule change (again)

Some morning inbound trains will serve Forest Hills, Ruggles, and Back Bay. View PDF Timetable on the MBTA website.

Learn more: https://www.mbta.com/sites/default/files/media/route_pdfs/9-02-2025-cr-franklin-line-amtrak-repair-schedule.pdf

Last Updated: Aug 29 2025 03:53 PM

Note: Until the Amtrak issue is completely resolved there will be as the work progresses.

Cereal, one of the most requested items, is in short supply at the Franklin Food Pantry

We need cereal, please!

Cereal, one of the most requested items,
is in short supply at the Franklin Food Pantry

Cereal is one of the most requested items at The Pantry, and right now our supply is running low.

We would love Cheerios, Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, Kix, Special K, Chex or any flavor you love! Please do not send boxes larger than 29.5 oz.

Send directly to The Pantry via our Amazon Wish List

link -> https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2SIL7UR08ZZUC

- or -

drop donations off at The Pantry, 341 W Central St. Franklin, Mass. (please place in the purple donation bin on loading dock in the rear of the building).

Together, we can turn these empty shelves into full ones!

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DN3NdyZ3PGX/

Support Haymakers For Hope for Pediatric Cancer - Sep 18 at La Cantina Winery

Support Haymakers For Hope for
Pediatric Cancer - Sep 18 at La Cantina Winery

Via Danielle Gillette

"Start of the school year already driving you crazy?

Come drink, sing, and dance all the while helping me KO pediatric cancer.

Raffles and karaoke contest- Message me for details and to purchase tickets.

Can’t wait to see you there!"

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/16mUCvFR9v/

Media parent sought for Franklin Youth Football

Media parent sought for Franklin Youth Football

Media Parent Opportunity

We are looking for a Media Parent from each team this season!

This volunteer role allows one parent/guardian to access the field (in designated areas) to capture photos and videos of games. You’ll need to bring your own camera/equipment.

All recorded footage will be uploaded to the Franklin Panther Youth Football & Cheer media depository for future program use on our social platforms.

As the Media Parent, your role is to help capture wonderful moments of all the players on your team so we can preserve these memories for the kids, families, and program. The role may be shared among a few selected volunteers, but one person will be assigned per game.

If you are interested in volunteering, please submit a formal request to your Head Coach, who will then forward names to the Board for consideration.

Thank you for supporting the Panthers and helping us capture great memories for our players and families!

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN5zbKckXn_/

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth RE Welcomes Experienced Broker Kelley Byrnes-Benkart to Franklin Office

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate, a leading full-service real estate brokerage renowned for operational excellence, market expertise, and exceptional customer service throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island, is proud to welcome accomplished broker Kelley Byrnes-Benkart to its Franklin office.

Kelley Byrnes-Benkart

With nearly two decades in the industry, Byrnes-Benkart has built her career on providing expert guidance to buyers and sellers across residential real estate, while also expanding into commercial transactions. Licensed since 2003 and a broker since 2005, Byrnes-Benkart brings not only extensive knowledge but also proven leadership, having owned and operated her own successful real estate company for 19 years. During that time, she was honored twice with the Broker/Owner of the Year award and earned multiple accolades across the firms she has represented.

Byrnes-Benkart's professional credentials reflect her commitment to excellence. She holds the ABR (Accredited Buyer's Representative), GRI (Graduate, REALTOR® Institute), CBR (Certified Buyer Representative), and C2EX (Commitment to Excellence) designations. Among her proudest career achievements is mentoring and training numerous agents who have gone on to thrive in their own real estate careers.

"Real estate is about relationships and community, and that's why I'm thrilled to join the Franklin office," said Byrnes-Benkart. "For me, real estate is more than a transaction; it's about helping people make one of the most important investments of their lives. I believe in giving my clients the full picture, from today's value to tomorrow's potential resale, so they can move forward with confidence."

Beyond real estate, Byrnes-Benkart is deeply engaged in the Franklin-area community. A longtime Bellingham resident, she has coached local youth sports for years. As a personal trainer and coach, she is passionate about empowering women and girls through fitness, nutrition, and confidence-building. A proud mom of two, she is also a graduate of Stonehill College and a Boston native.

"We are excited to welcome Kelley to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate," said George Patsio, Managing Partner. "Her impressive track record, leadership experience, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission to support Forever AgentsSM and deliver exceptional service to our clients. We're confident she will be a tremendous asset to our Franklin office."

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate

Commonwealth Real Estate is a full-service real estate brokerage providing high-performing agents with expert industry knowledge, cutting-edge tools and technology, comprehensive marketing and training programs, and local and worldwide relocation support to improve their services and experience. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate is a division of Commonwealth Realty Group, LLC. Visit www.commonmoves.com.

About Commonwealth Realty Group, LLC

Commonwealth Realty Group, LLC is the parent company of Boston-based Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Robert Paul Properties. With 31 offices and more than 667 agents, the firm serves home buyers and sellers across Greater Boston, Cape Cod, the South Coast, South Shore, and Rhode Island. At Commonwealth Realty Group, we believe people are the difference. Through trust, experience, and meaningful relationships, and with the strength of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand, we create value beyond real estate and build lifelong partnerships, guiding our clients through every step of their real estate journey. The company is currently ranked in the top 5% of brokerages in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global network.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a global real estate brokerage franchise with a bold focus on building a personally connected future through relationship-driven business, supported by best-in-class leadership, mentorships, business tools, and a worldwide network that is committed to making a lasting impact through lifelong relationships. With approximately 45,000 real estate professionals and more than 1,400 offices with locations spanning North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia, the network completed more than USD$127.7 billion in real estate sales in 2024. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com.

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, August 30, 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:

 

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday

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 Saturday

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, August 29, 2025 ??

Friday, August 29

Library & Senior Center events

10am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

1pm Thrifty Threads (closed for the holiday weekend) (Franklin Federated Church)

2pm Farmers Market (Franklin Town Common)

2pm Brain GYM demonstration with Kymberlee O'Brien (Franklin Town Common)

3pm The Bad Apples (live music) (Franklin Town Common)

8pm Jamie Barrett (live music) (Citizen Crust)

9pm Eddie J (live music) (3 Restaurant)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->        

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

** NO Town Meetings today   **

------------

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

What vendors and activities are at the Farmer's Market today - August 29, 2025 ??

Farmer's Market today - August 29, 2025

We are glad you asked.  

Thanks to the good folks operating the Franklin Farmer's Market, we have the answers to share. 

For additional info, you can also check the Farmers Market page  ->     https://www.franklinfarmersmarketma.com/

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DN4Ln5zjM7r

Police Station Building Cmte hears of progress on project, site selection info, initial cost estimates, sets meeting for Oct 27 (audio)

FM #1500 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1500 in the series. 

This session shares the Police Station Building Cmte Mtg held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. One member (G Premo) was absent.  

Quick recap:

• Joe Lynch, Owner Project Manager, (OPM) provides an overview, then the other members of the team walk through the presentation doc shared here

• Starting with 200 in Franklin they whittled down to 36, then to 8, then finally to 2; Davis Thayer and Parmenter

• Compiled the listing of deficiencies and needs for the current and future department operations, lead to preliminary building design requirements

• In turn, these requirements lead to initial placement on the final 2 sites (DT & Parmenter) and a discussion on the pros and cons of each

• An initial estimation of the building cost and total project cost was provided. For Parmenter site it could be about $48M, the DT site would be more as it would also require demolition of the existing building and that was not calculated at the time

• Next steps were outlined

• open houses scheduled for the community to view the existing facility on 911 Panther Way

• Tours of 3 recent police buildings done for other communities are being scheduled for the Committee

• Next meeting scheduled for Oct 27 at Council Chambers

• Site selection is likely to be either at that meeting or the next one in order for the remainder of the project timeline to continue to move forward (i.e. more detailed design, and cost estimations, etc.)

The recording runs about 1 hour & 30 minutes

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1500-police-station-bldg-cmte-mtg-08-27-25/

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Police Station Building Cmte hears of progress on project

Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/EWVb7O-b_ag?&t=67 

Meeting agenda ->  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 posted 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 

My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/14VB3GuDdCAG-U80a3pT3nIp5GSZZhUSJ/view?usp=drive_link 

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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"