Speak Out!

By Jenny C. Kafas. About a year ago, I moved back to Franklin Township after graduating college feeling like I needed to start actually being the change I want to see in the world. I have always prided myself on being informed, reading the news, and not shying away from having convictions about issues I care about, but with all …

By Bill Connell. I cycle a fair amount , and have made an observation.  The fact is though, I didn’t have to leave my front porch to make it.  1 out of 10 E bikers don’t wear helmets.  I have ridden multiple variations of these from pedal assist to high power bikes. In fact, I drove a high powered bike  into a knee …

By Elizabeth Hucul. The Franklin Reporter published an article on April 2, 2025 about the redevelopment and demolition of the Ukrainian Cultural Center on Davidson Avenue by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA (UOC of USA). I would like to voice a few of my concerns regarding the content of the article. I write both as a central New …

By Bill Connell. I just spent a fine but windy day riding for the Tour De Franklin Food Bank.  I didn’t say another fine day because two years ago I got wet; very, very wet.  Still , at the end of the ride I knew I supported a good cause. A short-term loss for a longer benefit.  I say longer, not long, because …

By Bill Connell. Democracy was at work Saturday, April 5, at the Municipal Gazebo with the “Hands Off” rally. They had a fairly decent attendance despite the yucky weather. We are in truly unusual times. I also know after last week’s stock market performance, I will be working till I’m 90 years old.  While watching the rally, a thought crossed …

By Mayor Phil Kramer. I read Mr. Bill Connell’s letter to the editor on March 19, 2025 regarding the Open Space budget. Before I begin, full disclosure—Billy and I are friends. That doesn’t stop him from holding my feet to the fire when he thinks it’s important, as it should be. Readers should also know that beyond his role as …

By Bill Connell, Somerset. I am a citizen member of the Open Space Committee, and I would like to talk to the good citizens of Franklin.    Tuesday night, March 18, the Township Council reviewed the 2025 budget for Open Space.  While discussing increasing the Public Works burden on the fund by more than 50 percent, Mayor Phil Kramer implied that the …

By W. David Burns Franklin Township residents and folks all across central New Jersey are paying increased attention to the impact that the proliferation of enormous warehouses and the armada of out-sized tractor-trailer trucks that service them are having on our daily lives.  Paying close attention is essential.  Why?  Because it is no exaggeration to claim that the very character …

By Township Councilmember Ed Potosnak. Likely by now you seen, or heard, about a sign with a picture of a child and the words “penis” and “vagina” on DeMott Lane.  Once again, the zebra has shown its true stripes. Hate. The statement they are making on DeMott Lane ignores basic biology and the fact that many people are born intersex. …

By Bill Connell. The passing of legendary Board of Education member and president Eva Nagy put me in a reflective mood.  I am slowly fading into the woodwork, but when she was president you could not turn a corner without seeing my ugly mug. I was an avid supporter of the Middle School theater program and an antagonist ( I like …