Showing posts with label register. Show all posts
Showing posts with label register. Show all posts

Monday, March 18, 2024

Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell recently delivered donations of food to the Franklin Food Pantry. The contributions came from the Registry staff, title examiners, and the public, who participated in the Registry's Annual Holiday Food Drive which was held from November 14th to December 14th.

 

"On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry's food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Franklin Food Pantry," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season."

 

Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry
Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

The Registry collected more than 280 pounds of food during the drive, including items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, and fruits.

"Community donations are a big help and give us a good deal of variety that we wouldn't otherwise have," said Anne McGillis, Operations Director for the Franklin Food Pantry.

Last year, the Franklin Food Pantry helped more than 1,324 individuals in more than 650 households. Of those who received food assistance, more than one in four were children, and 36% were 65 or older.

 

"The food pantries throughout Norfolk County provide a valuable and much-needed resource for residents facing both long-term and temporary hardships, including children, families, and individuals, and I am grateful to be able to help in this small way," said Register O'Donnell.

 

According to Project Bread, household food insecurity in Massachusetts has been fluctuating between 20 and 26%. Many Norfolk County food pantries have seen a significant increase in demand in the last year. ​

"It is a great feeling to be able to help the community and to know that other members of the community understand that there is a need for this," said McGillis.

Franklin residents in need of assistance can register for services, schedule shopping appointments, or schedule home delivery by contacting the Franklin Food Pantry Client Services Coordinator at 508-528-3115.

 

Register O'Donnell concluded, "Hunger does not stop after the holidays it is a persistent issue affecting many of our neighbors. I encourage residents to consider dropping off food supplies at their local pantry. Pantries are requesting canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products. Dropping off a food donation at a local pantry can make a world of difference in helping a family in need."

To see a list of Norfolk County food pantries, visit the Registry of Deeds website: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/FAQs/where-are-the-norfolk-county-food-pantry-locations-142. Donations are needed all year long.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Franklin PorchFest extends registrations to April 30. More than 24 bands registered so far!

Franklin PorchFest … the momentum is building and we are thrilled with the initial response! We are up to 24 bands and counting. Local businesses are getting in on the excitement; for example, Intermission will be open during the entire event for anyone looking for a bite to eat between performances. Other eateries are hosting musicians and extending service to outside areas. There has also been tremendous interest in hosting musicians.

To accommodate so many requests, we are extending our registration through April 30th for both porch hosts and performers. If you are interested in participating you still have time to sign up.

If you would like to host a band or performer on your Porch or if you have a band or are a performer and would be interested in performing at Franklin PorchFest, go to our website https://franklin.porchfest.info and register for the event. All the information you need to register is on our website. Also on our website you will find links so you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Franklin PorchFest is made possible with funds granted from the Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee. The Franklin PorchFest Committee is thankful for the support it has received from the Cultural Council, the Cultural District and the Town of Franklin.

Franklin PorchFest will be held Saturday, June 1st from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a rain date of June 2nd. Save the date . . . we look forward to seeing you!

Made possible by a grant from Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee
Made possible by a grant from Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee

Saturday, March 9, 2024

New! Yoga Nidra Workshop offered by Lifelong Community Learning


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Try this wonderful new yoga workshop from Lifelong Community Learning!

Monday, March 18th, 6-7 pm.

For information and to register, visit:

Exercise & Wellness Classes

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Lifelong Learning Institute - Franklin Public Schools | 218 Oak Street, Room 137, Franklin, MA 02038

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Monday, February 26, 2024

Register O’Donnell Brings the Registry of Deeds Directly to Norfolk County Residents - Franklin, May 7, 2024

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell announced today that he and his outreach team will resume holding office hours in communities throughout Norfolk County as part of his ongoing efforts to bring the Registry of Deeds directly to the residents of Norfolk County.

 

The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County, cataloging and housing more than 10 million land documents dating back to 1793. The office hours will be held to assist residents in locating their property records and provide them with certified copies of land documents, such as deeds and mortgage discharges.

 

Norfolk County
Norfolk County

The Register expressed his strong belief in the benefits of bringing the Registry directly to residents. "These office hours," noted Register O'Donnell, "allow us to bring Registry services directly to the residents of Norfolk County without the inconvenience of having them travel to the Registry's central office in Dedham."

 

By offering office hours, the Register aims to make it more convenient for residents to access and inquire about real property records. This initiative reflects the Register's commitment to providing efficient and accessible services to the residents of Norfolk County.

 

Although Registry staff cannot provide legal advice, they will be on hand along with the Register to answer basic questions, transport documents for recording, and assist in the filling out of a Declaration of Homestead form that provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. They will also assist a person in signing up for the Registry of Deeds Consumer Notification Program, which alerts a homeowner when a transaction has been made against their property to alert them against potential cases of fraud.

 

Register O'Donnell concluded by stating, "I understand that not everyone has the ability to travel to the Registry. By offering office hours in different locations throughout Norfolk County, we hope to accommodate those who may have difficulty making it to our main location. Additionally, residents can also utilize our online services at www.norfolkdeeds.org to access and request real property records from the comfort of their own homes. Our goal is to ensure that all Norfolk County residents have convenient and flexible options for accessing and inquiring about their real property records."

 

2024 Winter and Spring Scheduled Office Hours
2024 Winter and Spring Scheduled Office Hours

 

 If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.

 

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.


Monday, February 19, 2024

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: President's Day Quiz

GOOD DEEDS: Quiz in Honor of Presidents' Day

By William P. O'Donnell

Norfolk County Register of Deeds

One of the many prominent reasons that Norfolk County is considered a destination community to live and work can be attributed to its rich history. It is one of the oldest counties, founded in 1793, in the United States just five years after George Washington became president.

Talking about presidents, did you know that Presidents' Day is Monday, February 19th?  And that Norfolk County is known as the County of Presidents?  That's right, four Presidents of the United States of America were born here: John Adams and John Quincy Adams (Braintree or Quincy depending on what community you are from), John F. Kennedy (Brookline), and George H.W. Bush (Milton).

So, I thought a great way to salute these four Norfolk County Presidents was to know a little bit more about each of them. This is a fun quiz, so everybody gets an "A" for taking the time to learn more about these four Norfolk County-born leaders who held the highest office in our land.

Presidents' Day Quiz

1.) He was considered by some historians to be the "Father of the Navy."

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H. W. Bush

2.) He is the only U.S. president to have won a Pulitzer Prize.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

3.) He was the only U.S. president to serve in the Congressional House of Representatives following his presidency.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

4.) He was the only president of the four who picked a "Chief Justice" of the U.S. Supreme Court. Hint: It was considered by historians as a great selection.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

5.) He enrolled in the service on his 18th birthday, immediately after graduating from high school, and was the recipient of multiple medals at the age of 20.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

6.) He was the U.S. president who uttered the famous line, "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country."

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

7.) He was the only U.S. president to head a spy agency.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

8.) He said, "Liberty once lost is lost forever."

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

9.) He was the second-youngest U.S. president to be elected to office.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

10.) He created the U.S. Marine Corps Band.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

11.) He was famous for his work and advocacy of the Monroe Doctrine.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

12.) He was the only president among the four not to attend Harvard.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

13.) Famed historian David McCullough won a Pulitzer Prize for his biography.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

14.) He once said, "Read my lips: no new taxes."

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

15.) Daily, he read six newspapers at his morning breakfast.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

16.) He stated, "The four most miserable years in my life were my four years in the presidency."

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

17.) He was the President during the reunification of Germany.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

18.) His administration was known as the "New Frontier."

A.) John Adams B.) John Q Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

19.) He was Secretary of State before his presidency and is considered a great one.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

20.) This president and wife exchanged more than 1,100 letters from the time of their courtship to the end of his presidency.

A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush

 _________

Answers: 1A,  2C,  3B,  4A,  5D,  6C,  7D,  8A,  9C,  10A,  11B,  12D,  13A,  14D,  15C,   16B,  17D,  18C,  19B,  20A

 

four Presidents of the United States of America were born in Norfolk County
four Presidents of the United States of America were born in Norfolk County

If you would like to stay up to date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs and real estate information you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.  Our Customer Service Center is also available to assist you at (781) 461-6101.

 

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Tri-County Children's Center Preschool Registration To Open February 1

Registration and Open House for the Tri-County Children's Center preschool program for 2024–2025 will begin on Thursday, February 1.  Applications can be found on the preschool's website, TCChildrensCenter.com.

Open Houses will be held on Thursday, February 8 from 12:15-1:45 PM and Friday, February 9 from 9-10:30 AM at the Tri-County Regional High School in Franklin at 147 Pond Street.  Parents will be able to view the laboratory preschool while children engage in developmentally appropriate activities.

Tri-County Children's Center Preschool Registration To Open February 1
Tri-County Children's Center Preschool Registration To Open February 1

Placement is limited to residents of the 11 towns within the Tri-County District, Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole and Wrentham.  Admission is decided through a lottery system.  Registration will be made open to other towns if spaces are not filled by residents within the district.

The random drawing to determine which of the children registered will be enrolled will take place on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.  The number of children registered has traditionally far exceeded the number of spaces available so the random drawing was established.   Those names not selected in the drawing are placed on a waiting list.

Birth certificates for children being registered must accompany all registration forms.  Registration is limited to those children who are at least age 3 years by September 15, 2024 for the three-day program. A $25.00 non-refundable registration fee is due at registration time.  Enrollment is limited to two years or part of two years for the preschool program, as long as the child is age eligible.

Preschool sessions are Tuesday-Thursday from 8:50 -11:20 a.m. for the three-day program. Tuition will be $45 per week and class size is limited to 30 children.

Three instructors in the Tri-County Early Education Program supervise the preschool program, and are assisted by students in the Early Education Major.

 For more information, please visit TCChildrensCenter.com.


Monday, January 22, 2024

The Spring 2024 brochure is ready for Franklin Recreation classes & programs

Our Spring 2024 Brochure is HERE!  

Read up on all the classes and programs we are offering this spring and mark your calendar for February 5, 8:30 AM when registration will open on Franklinma.myrec.com.

Link to download the 
Spring 2024 Brochure


Register O'Donnell Reports on 2023 Annual Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reports that Norfolk County recordings for 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity as compared to 2022 with decreases in both the total number deeds and mortgages recorded. However, seasonal trends remained consistent, with a decrease in activity during the winter months and an uptick in the spring and summer months.

In 2023, there were 102,188 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, a 21% decrease from 2022.

Norfolk County recordings for 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity as compared to 2022
Norfolk County recordings for 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity as compared to 2022

"Looking at the 2023 real estate market, I think most would agree that it was a slow year especially compared to 2021 and 2022's busy home sales. Consumers have been facing a limited inventory of available properties along with rising mortgage interest rates. As an example of these indicators property sales in Massachusetts have dropped 22.5% in 2023," remarked Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "However, Norfolk County's decline was less than the statewide average for the year."

Overall, the County's lending activity showed a continued downward trend. A total of 14,598 mortgages were recorded at the Registry in 2023, 37% less than a year earlier.

According to numbers from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the median interest rate of a 30-year fixed-rate conventional loan started at 6.42% in January 2023 and grew to 7.79% by October 2023.

Register O'Donnell noted, "Those who locked in lower interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are less inclined to refinance or buy property at current mortgage interest rates, leading to fewer mortgages being recorded and fewer existing homes on the market. Furthermore, buyers looking for new property may be hesitant to take on a new mortgage with average interest rates still above 7%."

The number of deeds for 2023, which reflect real estate sales and transfers, both commercial and residential, was 15,253 a decrease of 12% from 2022.

"The scarcity of available real estate due to fewer existing homes on the market and new construction not being able to keep pace with demand is making it more challenging for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers who must now deal with the added cost of higher interest rates," stated Register O'Donnell.

Sale prices for 2023 appear to have decreased slightly compared to 2022. The average sale price for all of Norfolk County, both commercial and residential, this year was $1,083,609 an 8% decrease from 2022. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is also down, decreasing by 26% from one year ago.

"I can understand the frustration some homebuyers may be feeling because right now it is a more complicated process for individuals looking to purchase a home and, especially, first-time homebuyers," said Register O'Donnell. "It is more expensive for home buyers because prices are still high relative to 2021 and 2020 values, and to add to this difficulty, there may be multiple people competing for the same property as well as higher interest rate costs."

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In 2023, there were 73 foreclosure deeds recorded, as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in 2022, there were 68 recorded. Also concerning is in 2023, there were 339 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, compared to the 308 recorded in 2022.

"The increase in the number of foreclosure deeds and notices to foreclose is troubling. This could suggest that more of our neighbors may have financial difficulties in the future," said O'Donnell. "We will continue to monitor these figures in 2024."

For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs (617-479-8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (617-770-2227) to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400.

"If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance," said O'Donnell.

Register O'Donnell concluded, "A limited inventory of properties for sale and buyers who have been facing rising interest rates resulted in an overall slow year for the housing market. While current market conditions may be frustrating to some, especially for first-time homebuyers, it may be comforting to know that Norfolk County's real estate market is doing better compared to state and national averages and remains a desirable place to both live and work in." 

Follow this YouTube link to watch the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Year in Review segment on Quincy Access Television:  https://www.youtube.com/watch/bHXIGI-HAHg

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success" Program Donates to Boston's St. Francis House

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell donated a carload of smart casual clothing, business attire, and wool coats totaling more than 100 articles of clothing to St. Francis House in Boston through the "Suits for Success" program.

The often-taken-for-granted suit or dress clothes hidden away in the back closet and only occasionally seeing the light of day may seem to some like an unfortunate necessity. However, for those looking to regain self-sufficiency, quality clothing can be that extra push they need and help them on the path to success. 

"These clothes will be put to good use and appreciated by the thousands who come to St. Francis House each year for a fresh pair of clothes in times of need," said Keri Thomas, St. Francis House Vice President of Programs and Services. "It is so valuable and necessary in getting individuals ready for the next step and help them to become more independent."

St. Francis House's mission is to rebuild lives by providing refuge and pathways to stability for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty. They aim to transform lives using a holistic approach to understanding and addressing behavioral health, housing, and employment needs.

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"
Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"

 

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"
Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"


Register O'Donnell remarked, "It is my great pleasure to deliver these clothing donations to Boston's St. Francis House on behalf of the residents of Norfolk County. I thank all those who donated to our 'Suits for Success' program, and I hope other local residents and businesses will consider making a clothing donation to their local nonprofit organization. Organizations like the St. Francis House are truly needed and are a great resource for the community."

St. Francis House has been aiding the community since 1984. They provide a range of services, including clinical care, behavioral health services, and job counseling. They also offer food, clothing, and affordable and low-threshold housing to those in need.

"Donations like this help ensure the physical and emotional safety of our guests and assist in the process of changing the trajectory of their lives and moving beyond homelessness," said Thomas. "It offers choices to people who have had total control of their lives taken away, and this is the final touch that can help individuals land a job and help them on their path to becoming self-sufficient.  

Since the Registry started the "Suits for Success" program in February 2009, it has distributed more than 11,200 articles of clothing to local charitable organizations.

The "Suits for Success" program, developed by Register O'Donnell, partners with groups like Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill's & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish's Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville, St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, InnerCity Weightlifting and New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts in Walpole to assist those who are in need of clothing as well as household items. The mission of "Suits for Success" is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals who may need appropriate attire for employment interviews.

"During the past decade, we have learned that programs like 'Suits for Success' work," said O'Donnell. "This program has given many people a valuable resource to help them on the path to success and may ultimately help them achieve self-sufficiency. It is rewarding just to help others in our community who may be looking to take that next step in a search for a job or just have a suit to go to a wedding or other event."

If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Franklin Fire schedules a free hands only CPR class for Jan 16, 2024 - register now!

Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) posted on Thu, Dec 21, 2023:
We are offering a free hands only CPR class on January 16, 2024.  
Registration is required as there are only a limited amount of spots available:  https://t.co/XZfrphxPOc

 


Shared from -> https://t.co/ZbazYVNdzE

Franklin Fire schedules a free hands only CPR class for Jan 16, 2024 - register now!
Franklin Fire schedules a free hands only CPR class for Jan 16, 2024 - register now!

Saturday, December 16, 2023

Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz

By William P. O’Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds


It’s that time of season. So, let’s admit. We all love a good Christmas movie! And there are plenty of good ones.  

Now I’ll let you in on a little secret, some of my favorite Christmas films deal with the home and the holidays. Maybe that is because here at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds my fine staff and I are handling land record documents for the biggest asset most of us have - Our home. Or maybe it’s just a coincidence!

Anyway, “Home is where the heart is.” A memorable holiday movie can make you laugh and pull on your heartstrings. Here are two of my favorite classic Christmas movies. Although I must say the Christmas movie “Elf" is one of my favorite Christmas films. It is uplifting and funny.

So, pour yourself an eggnog, munch on a holiday cookie, sit by a roaring fire, and take this year’s holiday movie quiz.

Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz
Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz


It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

1  George was going to be an adventurous bachelor and travel the world, but instead, he wound up with a wonderful family and lived life in the old….
A.) Bedford House    B.) Granville House   C.) Hatch House  

2  What was the name of the fictional town in It’s a Wonderful Life called?    
A.) Breading Hills   B.) Seneca Falls   C.) Bedford Falls  

3  What’s the bank’s name that was a thorn in the side of the villain Potter?
A.) Bailey Bank B.) Bailey Brothers Building & Loan   C.) Bank of Bedford Falls 
 
4  What was George Bailey’s wife's name?
A.) Mary   B.) Charlotte   C.) Martha

5  What was the fixture in George Bailey's house that always came unglued?
A.) A picture falling off the wall   B.) A knob of a banister   C.) Kitchen tile

6  What was the first name of the angel sent to help George?
A.)  Peter   B.) Gabriel   C.) Clarence

7  At the movie’s end, the townspeople sing what song in George’s parlor?
A.) Joy to the World   B.) Auld Lang Syne   C.) Jingle Bells

8  For helping George through his crisis what did the angel earn?
A.) Wings   B.) Halo   C.) His own cloud
 
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

9  What’s the one present the little girl in the movie wished for that would
make her believe Kris Kringle was the real Santa Claus?
A.) Doll   B.) Pony   C.) House

10  Who played the little girl Susan in the movie?
A.)  Shirley Temple   B.) Natalie Wood   C.) Doris Day

11  What was the department store's name where Kris Kringle worked?
A.) Macy’s   B.) Gimbels   C.) Bloomingdales

12 When a sad little girl sat on Kris Kringle’s lap who couldn’t speak English, he made her happy when he was able to converse with her. What was the language?
A.) French   B.) Polish   C.) Dutch

13 When Santa (Kris) got into a confrontation with Macy’s psychologist where did they send him?
A.) Bellevue Hospital   B.) Jail   C.) North Pole

14 What government agency declared Kris Kringle, Santa?
A.) FBI   B.) U.S. Treasury   C.) Post Office

15 When little Susie ran into a house for sale on Christmas Day believing it was her new home, what made the viewer think Santa was there?
A.) A cane left   B.) A half-filled glass of milk   C.) Santa’s stocking

As Buddy the Elf says “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” From all of us here at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds a happy holiday season and a healthy new year to all.

 

Answers 1.) B   2.) C   3.) B    4.) A.   5.) B   6.) C   7.) B   8.) A   9.) C   10.) B   11.) A  12.) C   13.) A   14.) C   15.) A

 

Note: if you got at least 12 correct answers you’ve earned your wings, 6 to 11 correct answers there’s a gift under the tree for you, 3 to 5 correct answers a Christmas cookie is on your plate.

Monday, December 11, 2023

Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for November 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity. However one real estate activity on a steady trend compared to November 20222 recordings was an increase in the number of deeds recorded.

“Despite the challenges posed by limited inventory and higher interest rates, the Norfolk County housing market has managed to maintain steady activity,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “Notwithstanding a slight dip in the number of recordings this month, the housing market in Norfolk County remains resilient, with steady demand from buyers and stable property values.”

Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023
Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023


The Registry of Deeds recorded 8,587 documents in November 2023. This was 5% less than in November 2022 and a 7% decrease compared to October 2023.

Register O'Donnell noted, “Higher mortgage interest rates have an impact on the number of mortgages and deeds recorded at the Registry. Higher interest rates affect seasoned homebuyers' eagerness to refinance, which means fewer mortgages. It also affects a homeowner’s willingness to sell, which results in fewer homes on the market that can be bought. Higher interest rates also impact a buyer’s ability to find a potential home within their budget.”

The total number of deeds recorded for November 2023, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,266, up 3% from November 2022 but down 3% from October.

“The slight increase in the total number of deeds this month compared to last year shows that despite difficult market conditions and a housing market that has been slow for over a year, Norfolk County and its communities remains a desirable place to both live and work in,” noted Register O’Donnell.

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for November 2023 was $959,272, a 1% decrease compared to November 2022 and a decrease of 1% from October 2023. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing 2% from last year but showed less than a 1% change from last month.

“For the second month in a row, prices have remained close compared to last year's property values, and compared to 2021, costs are down 36% and down 8% from 2020,” stated Register O'Donnell. “While prices have come down compared to previous years, high interest rates, relative to what they were in 2020 and 2021, make it difficult for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers looking to purchase property.”

For the month of November, lending activity overall continued to decline from last year. A total of 1,175 mortgages were recorded, which is 13% less than last year but 1% more than last month.

Register O’Donnell noted, “Those who locked in lower interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are less inclined to refinance at current mortgage interest rates, and buyers looking for new property may be hesitant to take on a new mortgage with average interest rates still above 7%. These are some of the factors that have resulted in decreased mortgage recordings.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In November 2023, there were 5 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in November 2023, there were 4 recorded. There were 27 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which was less than the 30 recorded this month last year.

“These numbers suggest that a significant number of our neighbors are struggling, and more may have financial difficulties in the future," said O'Donnell. "We will continue to monitor these figures, and I would urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage or who knows someone who is struggling to contact one of the non-profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org.”

For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs (617-479-8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (508-587-0950) to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400.

Register O’Donnell Concluded, “The current housing market climate that the country is in has a ripple effect on several aspects of the local real estate market, impacting buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and others whose livelihood is tied to the real estate sector of our economy. However, Norfolk County has shown a high level of resilience this month and saw some positive market indicators despite these challenges.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.