Franklin, MA News

07/18/2025

Visit wandering Cheers at the Farmers Market today, July 18 and help the Franklin Food Pantry

"Headed to the on Friday, July 18?
Be sure to stop by . $1 from every purchase of a favorite beverage will be donated to support The Pantry."

07/18/2025

Economic Development Subcmte spends 3 hours in discussion on Wednesday (video)

The Economic Development Subcommittee met on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 in the 3rd Floor Training room. 3 members were present and participated in the first agenda item. Once that was complete, the 4th member, Cobi Frongillo joined them for the remainder of the session. He had recused himself from the Crossing Neighborhood District discussion to avoid a conflict of interest. His father's business is located in that potential district.

Franklin TV vide replay is available -> https://www.youtube.com/live/6hKdQIw9rpQ

The EDC agenda and supporting documents
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07162025-1818

Quick recap:

Item 1 - Crossing Neighborhood
TA Jamie Hellen provides the overview of the background on the proposal for the Crossing Neighborhood. Multiple zoning bylaws make up the "package" to work together. Direct link to the memo providing the overview https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6226/1a-DPCD-Memo---Crossing-Neighborhood-Zoning-District---71625
Hamblen looks at this as a "mini downtown commercial". She raises an issue on 3 family by right, J Halligan notes that the current bylaw actually includes the proper language; apparently in the draft, the section language got left out. It can be included (and should) without vote to modify this. An oversight on version control. This identifies a couple of updates to the online zoning codes as they were changed just not reflected in the current versions
After much discussion
Motion to amend 2.3 8a from no to planning board special permit Passes 3-0
Motion to move to Town council as amended, second passes 3-0
Item 2 - Use Variances
Discussion on Recommendation on eliminating “Use Variances” from the authority within the Zoning Board of Appeals
Discussion on elimination of use variance from approval by the ZBA, which in those cases tend to overstep their authority; the restriction was intentionally made by the zoning bylaws with PB and Council approval and then the ZBA can act on their own...
After much discussion, Motion to move to council for further discussion (Jones)
Not seconded, hence the move does not take place. There will be some discussion overall on this topic in a positive manner per Hamblen
Item 3 - update on World Cup
FIFA requirements will host the fan center in Boston. We arestill figuring out what we can do. Artificial Turf fields are not used by international games (Gilletteis redone with real grass for international games)
Lots of other events at the same time; Highland games, Tall Ships, etc
Marketing via MetroWest on the benefits of Franklin. Hotel outreach, transportation planning needed; Porchfest, 4th of July also in similar time frames... Found in Franklin market for goods, crafts

Item 4 - EDC goals
On the one hand, given the length of the meeting and discussions there seemed little interest in this item; only one member Frongillo was prepared with a short list of priorities
Recognition from TA Hellen that until B Taberner's replacement is hired, there is very little staff to do the additional work
Motion to adjourn, passes 4-0

My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ME-F_qCpL61vAQz0NeBnFDIakEXX3mzO/view?usp=drive_link

07/18/2025

What vendors and activities are at the Farmer's Market today - July 18, 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/

07/18/2025

Fallen Hero Recognitions: Petete & Ristaino - World War I - July 18, 2025 - 9 AM

5Memorial event today (7/18/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Alesandro Patete, Pvt, U.S. Army and Patrick Ristaino, Pvt, U.S. Army.

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that veteran. This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Alesandro Patete, Pvt, U.S. Army - WWI
Alesandro was born in Pescolanicano, Italy in 1893, son of Vincent and Michela (Padula) Patete.

He was a baker by trade and lived in Franklin for 8 years before joining the Army. He was inducted into the Army on October 16,1917, joining Company I 309th Infantry. He went overseas on May 18, 1918, and 3 months later died from his wounds on this date 1918 on the height's northeast of Sergy, France at the Battle of the Argonne.
He is buried in Meuse-Argonne Cemetery.

On January 7, 1968, Alesandro was posthumously honored with a Purple Heart at a large ceremony at the Oddfellows Hall in Franklin. His certificate was received by his brother Domenic Patete.

Patrick Ristaino, Pvt, U.S. Army - WWI
Patrick was only 23 when he died in combat. He was born in August of 1895 of Michael and Silvia Ristaino. He was one of three brothers. Patrick had risen to the position of foreman of Franklin's rubber factory when he was called to join the Army on October 4, 1917.
After serving with the 76th Division for a time, he transferred to Co. K 165th Infantry of the 42 Division and went overseas on March 12, 1918.

He was mortally wounded on the height's northeast of Sergey France, in the Ainse-Marne offensive and died on this date in 1918.

He too, was honored posthumously with the Purple Heart at a large ceremony at the Oddfellows Hall in Franklin, on January 7, 1968. His certificate was received by his cousin, Patrick M. Ristaino, on behalf of Patrick's brother, Raymond Ristaino of Falmouth.

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway
https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

07/18/2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, July 18, 2025 ???

9:00am Fallen Hero: Alesandro Patete & Patrick Ristaino (Franklin Town Common, Veterans Walkway)

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)
1:00pm Library Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)
1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)
2:00pm Farmers Market (Franklin Town Common)
3:00pm Kimberlee O'Brien (live music) (Franklin Town Common)
5:30pm The Strumdawgs (live music) (Franklin Town Common)
8:00pm Jennifer Tefft (live music) (Quarterdeck, Falmouth, MA)
9:00pm Steven Fritzsche’s Jukebox Gold (live music) (3 restaurant)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->
https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

07/17/2025

The Franklin Cultural Council wants you! Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

FRIDAY, JULY 18 DEADLINE!

Have you seen the way Franklin bursts with energy when arts programming happens? Do you want to be a part of this energy?
If yes, the Franklin Cultural Council wants you and is currently seeking additional members. Here is the link to the Town of Franklin Volunteer Application:
https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php
Please make sure that you select the Franklin Cultural Council and not the Franklin Cultural District Committee. The cultural council is seeking new members. The cultural district is not as it it at it’s member capacity.
The Franklin Cultural Council wants you! Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18
The Franklin Cultural Council wants you!
Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

Many exciting arts and culture offerings are on the horizon. We are seeking additional members to the Franklin Cultural Council to help with these planned future events and to assist in building new opportunities. The 250th birthday of our country and commonwealth happen in 2026 and our town will celebrate 250 years of incorporation in 2028. Volunteer to help the arts be vibrant threads in these celebrations!
Please direct any questions via email to:
[email protected]
Here are some photos of what we have funded and/or assisted with this past year!
FRIDAY, JULY 18 IS THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR THE COMING YEAR
Arts and Culture create Community!

07/17/2025

Franklin Public Schools Superintendent Lucas Giguere Earns National Credential in Educational Facility Planning

Franklin Public Schools is pleased to announce that Superintendent Lucas Giguere has earned the prestigious Accredited Learning Environments Planner (ALEP) designation from the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).

The ALEP designation is the highest standard of professional achievement in the field of educational facility planning. It recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional knowledge, skills, and leadership in designing and managing school environments that support student achievement, wellness, and community connection.
Superintendent Lucas Giguere
Superintendent Lucas Giguere

Superintendent Giguere was the only sitting superintendent selected to participate in this year's A4LE Academy cohort. He completed the program as the recipient of A4LE's annual national scholarship, which is awarded to just one participant each year in recognition of their leadership potential and commitment to educational innovation.

"We're incredibly proud of Superintendent Giguere for earning the ALEP designation, a prestigious national recognition of his expertise and leadership," said Franklin School Committee Chair David Callaghan. "His achievement is a testament to the forward-thinking vision guiding our schools, especially as Franklin undertakes a transformative district-wide reorganization. This credential affirms his deep commitment to designing learning environments that truly support all students now and into the future."

The ALEP designation enhances Franklin Public Schools' strategic planning efforts, including districtwide reorganization, equity-focused space design, and capital improvement planning. It equips the District with the tools and best practices to approach future building and renovation projects with confidence and purpose.

The ALEP credential must be renewed every three years and requires ongoing professional development in the areas of educational facility planning and design.

Shared from the FPS page ->

FRANKLIN — Franklin Public Schools is pleased to announce that Superintendent Lucas Giguere has ear...

07/17/2025

Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Cmte has Opportunities to Give Back

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee is seeking volunteers to join in its leadership roles. If you're passionate about the outdoors, making a difference in our community and connecting with others, we want to hear from you!

What's the Mission?
The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group dedicated to the development, maintenance, and financial support of the Southern New England Rail Trail as a multi-use, universally accessible recreational path.

Here's what some of our volunteers say about being involved!
"The FBRTC has been an outlet for me--a chance to be in the community, doing meaningful things, with great people beside me. The committee's advocacy is a bright spot, and not just for me. I've had several people tell me how important it is for them to have a good, clean, usable trail available. I have a friend that walks it every day, rain or shine, and she thinks about me and 'Cliff's Trail'. I like that. I see the value of that, and the passion that good, outdoor spaces can engender. These are the spaces where life happens!" – Cliff W.

"Since joining the Committee, I've established local connections with like-minded people looking to improve the trail and encourage others to enjoy the outdoors. We work together to make improvements to the trail, and currently, I am advocating for benches on the trail! Being part of the FBRTC team has been a rewarding experience." – Sue F.

"I first got involved with the FBRTC to help develop the local rail trail and offer outdoor recreation opportunities for myself and my kids. What I received back was much more! Serving on the committee has connected me to neighbors and leaders in my community and has led to friendships both professionally and personally. I feel good giving back, and at the same time helping to create opportunities for people to improve their health and connect with nature." - Marc K.

How You Can Help
Each year, the committee selects volunteer-leaders to maintain and advocate for the Southern New England Trunkline Trail, and your help is critical at this time. Prior experience in nonprofits is important but not required!

To get involved and make a difference, please complete the form. You can also reach out for information by email at [email protected].

Thank you for your interest in the rail trail effort. We look forward to hearing from you!

Powered by citizen journalism, your daily source of information about what matters in Franklin, MA.

07/17/2025

Fallen Hero Recognition: Gerald M. Parmenter - World War II - July 17, 2025 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (7/17/25) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, U.S. Army Air Corps.

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that veteran. This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, U.S. Army Air Corps

First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter, son of Ernest and Maud Parmenter, was born on October 18, 1917. Gerald lived at 466 King Street with his parents and a twin brother. He attended the Franklin Public Schools and was graduated from Franklin High School in 1935 and from Hill College in Woonsocket in 1937. Gerald did accounting work at local businesses and was associated with his father at the Red Mount Poultry Farm here in Franklin.

Prior to the war Gerald, who was very enthusiastic about aviation, obtained his license as a civilian pilot. Gerald enlisted in the Army Air Corp in August of 1942 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1943 at Yuma, Arizona. First Lieutenant Parmenter served as a pilot in the air transport ferrying command, piloting planes built in this country to the British Government in Nassau.

First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter died from injuries received in an air crash while in the line of duty near Ramsar, India in the Asiastic Theatre.
First Lieutenant Gerald M. Parmenter was 26 years old at the time of his death on July 17, 1944 while serving his country during WWII.

Powered by citizen journalism, your daily source of information about what matters in Franklin, MA.

07/17/2025

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Thursday, July 17, 2025 ???

8:30am State & Town Officials Office Hour (Franklin Senior Center)
9:00am Fallen Hero: Gerald M. Parmenter (Franklin Town Common)
5:00pm Board Game Night (Pete's Nerd Emporium)
7:00pm 350 Mass Greater Franklin Node Meeting (First Universalist Society Franklin)
7:00pm BEN 4 Franklin Mtg (Franklin TV Studio)
7:30pm Musical Bingo (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)
9:00pm Good Thomas (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 **

07/16/2025

Senior Story Hour - WFPR: Episode 081 - Children's Book, The Thousand Hour Lesson, Hotdog vs Hamburger, Love, Old Friends, and much more (audio)

In this episode, The Franklin Senior Center Writers Group share stories, poems, and writings about alpha writing, love poems, old friends, empty bowls, a peanut butter jelly direction exercise, Bo gives us an update on his children's book, Bob gives us another chapter in The Thousand Hour Lesson, and Joe conducts his summer survey on the hotdog versus the cheeseburger.

Audio link ->

In this episode, The Franklin Senior Center Writers Group share stories, poems, and writings about alpha writing, love poems, old friends, empty bowls, ...

07/16/2025

A conversation with Raye Lynn Mercer & Electric Youth 2025 (video)

Before Electric Youth 2025 left for their European Tour, we had the opportunity for them to visit the Franklin TV Studio for a conversation and recording. We get to share the performance and discussion with you.

My thanks to Raye Lynn Mercer and Electric Youth and to the Franklin TV studio crew for the work recording and preparing the video to share.

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH0YtOwSaok

After Electric Youth returns from Europe, they are scheduled for a performance at the Farmers Market/Concerts on the Common on August 1. Be sure to stop by and catch their performance.

You can also check out Electric Youth's webpage -> https://www.electricyouth.com/

The "38 Years at 38 Main" audio interview mentioned can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/09/raye-lynn-mercer-shares-some-stories-of.html