What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, December 6, 2025 ???

Saturday, December 6

8:30am Girl Scout Cookie Sale (United States Postal Service)

9:00am Christmas Fair & more (St John's Episcopal Church)

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9:00am Fallen Hero: Harry R. Bean (Veteran Walkway, Franklin Town Common)

9:30am Wreath and Holiday Arrangement Sale (Daddario’s Hardware Store) 

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am Train Town Franklin #3 - opens (Franklin Historical Museum)

10:30am Mike Bent's Ho Ho Hocus Pocus Magic Show! (Franklin Public Library)

3:00pm Maker Moment Silk Scarf Painting (Franklin Public Library)

7:30pm Ellis Paul, Alice Peacock opening (ticketed concert) (Circle of Friends Coffeehouse)

7:30pm Faculty Dance Works  (ticketed event) (Dean College Main Stage Theater)

7:30pm The Nutcracker (ticketed event)(FPAC, Franklin High School)

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 in Miniature opens today at 10 AM at the Historical Museum

The 3rd HO scale model of Franklin circa 1932 opens today at the Historical Museum. Another piece of amazingly detailed work by Scott Mason.

the three displays in a row, in order of release with the newest further in

An album of pictures that I was able to take in advance of the opening

https://photos.app.goo.gl/6dX8gNB9q3yFfycW8

You can listen to Scott talk about the development of this diorama

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/scott-mason-talks-about-train-town-3.html

3 School Committee meetings on Tuesday, Dec 9, 2025

2 School Committee subcommittees are scheduled to meet at 6 PM in the 3rd floor Conf room (Budget) and the 3rd floor Training room (Policy).

3 School Committee meetings
on Tuesday, Dec 9, 2025

The full School Committee is scheduled to meet at 7 PM in the Council Chambers on the 2nd floor.

I'll "follow the money" and record/report on the Budget subcommittee meeting. 

Franklin TV will broadcast the full School Committee meeting from Council Chambers. I'll participate to report on the meeting.

That provides a detailed update on 2 of the 3 meetings. If someone is willing to take notes on the Policy meeting, I can work with them to share those notes.

Agenda documents include remote participation info:

Budget -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12092025-2047

Policy -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12092025-2046

full School Committee ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12092025-2043

Insights on the new Body Fit Training fitness studio in Franklin (audio)

FM #1602 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1602 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with the ownership team for the Body Fit Training fitness studio here in Franklin. We had our discussion in the studio after the sessions were completed for Saturday, November 29, 2025. 

 

We started with a round of introductions and their role in the development (in order of introduction)

• 

  (L-R) Steve, Tom, Bethany, KP,  Patrick

  KP (Kerry) Peterson

• Bethany Gerry

• Tom Gerry

• Patrick Murphy

Our conversation covers 

• The path to opening, idea, research, decision…

• Open 4 months now, membership continues to grow

• Science based approach to training, progressive 8-10 week planned sessions

• BFT proprietary technology used to inform the training (heart rate monitor, eVolt scan)

• Coaches and members make this a “happy place”

• Want to participate? sign up for a free session to check it out

The recording runs about 40 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio recording -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1602-body-fit-training-studio-11-29-25/

Note: You hear in the recording that I am a member of the studio and on my journey to better fitness. This recording is part of my overall business and cultural discussions to share with the community.

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BFT Franklin ->  https://www.bodyfittraining.com/location/franklin-village 

Sign up for first lesson ->  link to sign up for a free session

Instagram ->  https://www.instagram.com/bft_franklinvillage/ 

Recording with Bethany Gerry of Dec 2024 ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/12/bethany-shares-lessons-from-her-olympic.html

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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"

Tri-County tops Blue Hills 28-6 to repeat as MVADA medium-school Super Bowl winners

via Patriot Ledger

https://mvada.org/

Before the playoffs begin, your particular path to a title can be a mystery. Unless, of course, it's a certainty.

It was the latter for the Tri-County High football team this season because the Cougars had no doubts as to which opponent would present the final hurdle to successfully defending their voke bowl crown.

"It's always Blue Hills," senior quarterback Declan Walker said. "We've been saying that since the beginning of the season. Blue Hills has always been that (big) game on our calendar. It always will be that (big) game on our calendar. I'm just happy that I'm not sitting on the bus with my head down right now."

Continue reading the game recap -> https://www.enterprisenews.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2025/12/04/tri-county-football-caps-dream-season-with-voke-bowl-win-over-blue-hills/87550375007/

More about the Massachusetts Vocational Athletic Directors Association (MVADA), please visit  -> https://mvada.org/

Franklin Police issue scam alert on cryptocurrency related scams

SCAM ALERT

Franklin Police issue scam alert on cryptocurrency related scams


Our department is seeing a rise in cryptocurrency-related scams targeting community members. Scammers often pose as government agencies, utility companies, or even law enforcement and demand payment in crypto.

Remember:

* No legitimate agency will ever request payment in cryptocurrency. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER. EVER.

* Never send crypto to someone you don’t personally know.

* Be cautious of unsolicited messages, urgent demands, or threats.

* When in doubt — hang up, delete the message, and contact us directly. IT CAN WAIT.

Stay alert and help spread the word to keep our community safe!

If you have any concerns regarding these crypto scams please contact Detective Flynn at 508-440-2720.

Finding The Light Year 5 has kicked off! - Week 2

Via Amy Adams/Painting Venus:

Each week starting this Sunday November 30th through the end of December, I’m hiding a piece of original art somewhere in downtown Franklin, wrapped and ready for you to discover. Clues drop mid week, and the treasure appears Sunday mornings in a surprise spot.

Created with silver or gold accents, each piece carries a little glow to share hope and joy. This year, I invite you to share the light: take it, gift it, or pass it along.

Let’s keep kindness alive across town. Here are a few of the things I have done to help Franklin sparkle. Www.PaintingVenus.art

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"Art lovers- this week is the second of five for the Scavenger Art Gift Away - Finding the Light.

Reminder that this is free to play, all are welcome.

The drop is Sunday morning between 8-11am.

Week 2 clues

• I am on wood but have no leaves
• At 55, I celebrate my 150th year of being around in some form
• I am a launchpad for future steps
• My felines champion through seasons and fill empty bowls
• Arrive on time and you might just catch me at the door"

Franklin Agriculture Commission starts series of profiles on the farms in Franklin

via the Franklin Agriculture Commission

"Check in each Wednesday to read a small profile about each of the 11 farms in Franklin! First up is the Franklin Honey Company, Inc.

Franklin Agriculture Commission starts
series of profiles on the farms in Franklin

The Franklin Honey Company, Inc. started in the Spring of 2006. Their honey and wax products are pure and unaltered, just the way honeybees make them! The honey farm is committed to raising its colonies without using harsh chemicals. They started with two initial colonies and have grown quickly to 35+ hives. The hives are located at Spring Street, White Barn Farm, and Fairmount Fruit Farm. Besides the delicious honey, they also produce hand cream, lip balm, soap, and pure candles.

#honeyfarmer #supportlocalfarmers #buylocal

Franklin Honey Company, Inc.

https://www.franklinhoney.com

Ph: 508-507-9684

Email: franklinhoney3@gmail.com"

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1ABg7jkNHj/

You are invited to the Winter Wonderland at the Senior Center, Thursday, Dec 11 from 4:30 to 7 PM

You are invited to the Winter Wonderland
at the Senior Center, Thursday, Dec 11
from 4:30 to 7 PM

The Franklin Senior Center is hosting our 4th annual Winter Wonderland Community Event next week!

It's on Thursday, December 11 from 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM. Come one, come all! The entire community is invited, we hope to see you there! 

This is open to all ages. 

This is a completely free event but be sure to bring a little extra money for the large scale raffle put together by our Friends of Franklin Elders Inc. - FOFE

You can cast your vote for Kim Carney who has been nominated for USA Field Hockey's 2025 Grow the Game Award

We're excited to share that Kim Carney, Deputy Director of Franklin Recreation, has been nominated for USA Field Hockey's 2025 Grow the Game Award. 

This national recognition highlights the incredible work Kim has done in building and running the Commonwealth Field Hockey League, which has become a model for growing the sport across Massachusetts.

Kim Carney - nominated for USA Field
Hockey's 2025 Grow the Game Award

This nomination is not just an honor for Kim—it shines a spotlight on the Town of Franklin and our commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for youth. Under Kim's leadership, the league has experienced tremendous growth, helping establish Massachusetts as a rising field hockey powerhouse.

We would love your support in helping bring this award home to Franklin.

Please take a moment to cast your vote here:
https://www.usafieldhockey.com/news/2025/december/04/vote-now-people-s-choice-voting-now-open-for-usa-field-hockey-s-2025-annual-awards

Your vote helps highlight the positive impact recreation programs can have on our community and beyond. Thank you for supporting Kim and the Franklin Recreation Department!

Girls Youth Hockey clinic scheduled for Dec 30

"CALLING ALL GIRL HOCKEY PLAYERS!

Girls Youth Hockey clinic scheduled for Dec 30

We are very happy to confirm that we will field full Lady Flyer teams next season for both U12 and U10 (potentially 2 to include U8 ages)!  

We've seen a great increase in girls hockey interest this season and as a result we have created a partnership with the Franklin High Girls Ice Hockey team for special events and a development bridge from Learn to Skate --> Lady Flyers Travel --> Franklin High School!

Our first event is Dec. 30th - come join us for a FREE girls-only skills clinic led by the varsity girls players!  This is open to ALL players no matter where you currently play, who are in an In-House, U8, U10, and U12 program.  

Come have some fun and learn more about our evolving Lady Flyers travel teams!"

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/1A2HdBEtnX/

Banker & Tradesman: Why 2026 Could Be the Turning Point for Housing in Massachusetts

"After decades of stalled reforms, entrenched local resistance, and a political culture that treated housing scarcity as an unfortunate inevitability, Massachusetts appears poised to enter a new phase.

Banker & Tradesman: Why 2026 Could Be
the Turning Point for Housing in Massachusetts

The conversation on Beacon Hill has become sharper and more candid, new polling shows voters want deeper, faster action on housing affordability and local elections are sending pro-housing candidates into office. For the first time in decades, political leadership and public sentiment are aligned, creating a rare moment where transformational housing reform doesn’t just seem possible, but increasingly expected by voters.

Multiple recent opinion polls point to this public shift. A November survey from WCVB and UMass Amherst and a September poll from Abundant Housing Massachusetts both found that housing is now the most important issue for voters statewide."

Continue reading the article By Jonathan Berk ->   https://bankerandtradesman.com/why-2026-could-be-the-turning-point-for-housing-in-massachusetts/

R.I. launches launches first-time homeownership program touting ‘affordable’ mortgage options

“RI AnchorHome” will allow families in search of a primary residence in the Ocean State to obtain 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with a starting interest rate of 3.99 percent, officials said

"A new Rhode Island homeownership pilot program will expand access to “affordable, sustainable mortgage options” for first-time buyers, state officials say.

Rhode Island General Treasurer James A. Diossa on Thursday announced the launch of “RI AnchorHome,” telling reporters the initiative will allow qualifying families in search of a primary residence in the Ocean State to obtain 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with a starting interest rate of 3.99 percent.

R.I. launches launches first-time homeownership
program touting ‘affordable’ mortgage options

The program comes as Rhode Island, like many states, has struggled to slow the rising cost of housing. In October, the median sale price of a single-family home reached $505,000, while multi-family home sales prices reached a new high of $600,000, according to data released last month by the Rhode Island Association of Realtors."

Continue reading the article via this 'gift' link -> 

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/05/metro/rhode-island-homeownership-pilot/?s_campaign=sharetool_copypaste_view

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, December 6, 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