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Monday, December 11, 2023
Rail Trail Cmte: Monthly Meeting on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 7 PM
2023-2024 Hockomock Girls Hockey Preview -> Franklin High School
Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the girls hockey preview for the Hockomock League featuring Franklin High School on Monday, Dec 11, 2023.
FRANKLIN
2022-2023 Record: 9-9-3
2022-2023 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32
Coach: Mike Lubin
The Panthers said goodbye to a small but talented group of seniors from last year’s team but that means there is plenty of opportunity for new players to step up in the 2023-2024 season.
While those new players work their way into the lineup, second-year head coach Mike Lubin will lean on his returning players to lead the way. Junior Julia Flynn had a breakout campaign as a sophomore and led the team in points. A captain this season, Flynn’s leadership both on and off the ice will be key to getting Franklin back to the state tournament. Junior Haley Wernig is looking to build off two strong seasons and will be a key piece in the offensive zone. Senior Bridget Haggerty, juniors Maddie O’Brien and Kaitlin Johnson, and sophomore Lily Santiago are all back from a year ago and look to bolster to offense.
There is some familiarity with Izzy Brown back for her third year in between the pipes. The junior has started for the past two seasons and impressed in each of them, and having an experienced netminder will give Franklin a boost. There’s also a lot of experience in front of Brown with senior captains Lindsay Dennett and Nina Iannuzzi anchoring the blue line group. With just four seniors and six juniors, the Panthers will need a couple of their nine underclassmen to step up as the season goes on.
“I like how we’ve practiced so far this year,” Lubin said. “Our focus is on maintaining a consistent effort each day and improving in all facets of the game throughout the season.”
For other girls hockey previews for the Hockomock League (subscription required)
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via subscription to HockomockSports.com |
Girls Basketball: Ten Players to Watch in 2023-2024 - FHS' Chloe Fales
Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the Girls Basketball: Ten Players to Watch in 2023-2024 on Monday, Dec 11, 2023.
CHLOE FALES, JUNIOR – FRANKLIN
Each season, Franklin seems to have someone new step into the varsity lineup and shine. Last year, it was Fales. As a sophomore, she finished with just under 10 points per game for the five-time defending league champs, while grabbing more than five rebounds and two steals per game. A sharpshooter from the perimeter, Fales fit nicely into Franklin’s drive and kick style, helping to spread the floor and open up lanes to the basket. An athletic guard with a good handle, Fales can score off the dribble or in transition and showed the ability to stay with some of the opposition’s top scorers. As Franklin’s top returning scorer, Fales will be the focal point for defenses but should see more of the ball and have more opportunities to score. The Panthers should be fighting for another league title this season and Fales will be a key contributor to make it six in a row.
For other girls basketball players to watch around the Hockomock League (subscription required)
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via subscription to HockomockSports.com |
2023-2024 Hockomock Boys Basketball Preview - Franklin High School
Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the boys basketball outlook for the Hockomock League featuring Franklin High School on Monday, Dec 11, 2023.
FRANKLIN
2022-2023 Record: 19-2 (Kelley-Rex division champions)
2022-2023 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 16
Coach: CJ Neely
Coming off a season in which the Panthers only lost one league game and two games total, expectations remain high for Franklin — and for good reason.
Reigning Hockomock League MVP Sean O’Leary highlights a strong cast of returners for veteran head coach CJ Neely. While there are a lot of familiar faces back in the fold, the Panthers will have to replace the production of a small senior class that featured three regulars in Franklin’s lineup from last year. O’Leary, who also earned HockomockSports.com Player of the Year honors, averaged 20.3 points and 8 rebounds per game a year ago. He will be complemented by returners Andrew O’Neill (6.5 ppg), Bradley Herndon, and Hansy Jacques.
The biggest boost for Franklin is the return of senior guard Henry Digiorgio. As a sophomore, Digrorgio averaged over 16 points per game and was named HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year. After a year off, Digiorgio could provide a massive scoring boost that the Panthers need after losing almost 25 points per game from graduated seniors Geino Scaringello, Justin Allen, and Ben Harvey. Junior Caden Sullivan, who had an injury to start last season, could be poised for a breakout year. Once again, a balanced offense will make Franklin a very hard team to guard, while the Panthers will likely be among the top defensive teams in the Hock.
“The preseason has been very competitive at practice,” Neely said. “With a lot of returning players, we were able to hit the ground running during the tryout sessions. This is a tight group of guys led by a strong senior class and some experienced underclassmen looking to make their mark. We will have consistent battles each day as guys try to earn minutes throughout the year. I have been most impressed with how committed and focused the players have been each day. It will be fun to watch them grow and compete all year.”
For other boys basketball previews for the Hockomock League (subscription required) https://hockomocksports.com/2023-2024-hockomock-boys-basketball-preview/
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via subscription to HockomockSports.com |
Where does the food that we eat come from? New tool models that answer for us!
"What is this and why is it relevant?This is a proof of concept digital twin of the United States food system. Recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have revealed inherent gaps in the way food systems are modeled. Particularly, these events have exposed how these shocks cascade through food systems and impact food security at an individual and community level. Digital twins of food systems hold massive potential to fill the decision making under food crises, including those caused or exacerbated by climate change.What is this tool showing?This tool visualizes a model designed to predict where food is grown and connecting that food to where it is consumed. Each colored point moving on the map correlates to a set number of calories from that food group. In the consumer view the map shows how the food that is consumed in a county travels to that region; in the producer view it shows where food that grows in that county is consumed and how it gets to that region. It shows the roads which that food flows down from fork to fork, and how climate shocks in one region propagate through the supply chain and impact on the availability of food in consumers food baskets."
Shared from -> https://food.theplotline.org/
Set up for Norfolk County, MA (screengrab)
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| Where does the Norfolk County, MA food that we eat come from? New tool models that answer for us! |
Picked up on the radar via Twitter -> https://twitter.com/simongerman600/status/1733623819003113513
Franklin Public Library: All that Glitters is Gold: Gustav Klimt - 7 PM
"Hybrid Program | Register Here for Virtual option
When you think of Austrian painter Gustav Klimt you may think of Art Nouveau or Symbolism, or Gold!
Join Jane Oneail of Culturally Curious for an introduction to this idiosyncratic artist while we review Klimt’s famous gold paintings and his lesser known works. This program is available live in the Library and virtually over zoom.
Brought to you by Ashland Public Library, Belmont Public Library, and Franklin Public Library"
Register for remote participation -> https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8016757062025/WN_zXvOkATxRziOWqKNM3nmig
Franklin Public Library: All that Glitters is Gold: Gustav Klimt - 7 PM
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.”
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| 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.
Reminder - Resume event at Framingham Public Library - Saturday, Dec 16 from 10 AM - 3 PM
Please share this information with anyone who could benefit by attending.
WHAT: Resume Writing event
WHEN: Saturday December 16 from 10 AM - 3 PM
WHERE: Framingham Public Library; Lexington St.; top floor - Learning & Technology Center.
FREE library sponsored-program. Open to all Massachusetts residents. Pre-registration required.
Two-parts: Attend both or just one session!
Part-1: 10 AM - Noon - Presentation - Resume writing and a bit of cover letters
Mostly presentation; with time for for Q&A.
We will prepare you for the afternoon session; cover the basics; present the modern theory; answer questions.
Lunch from Noon - 1 PM.
Part 2: 1 PM - 3 PM - Workshop.
No presentation. Build your resume with help from Ed Lawrence and others.
If you need a new resume or don't have one at all--- use the library computers or bring your own computer.
If you have a resume and just want a review, or have questions, stop by and we will assist.
To register for this event: bit.ly/fpl-resume
About the FPL job services: https://framinghamlibrary.org/services/job-help/
December newsletter with FPL program announcement: https://framinghamlibrary.org/uploads/news/doc/Newsletter-Dec-2023.pdf
Please share this information with anyone who could benefit by attending.
--
Ed Lawrence
Substitute Reference LibrarianOn behalf of the Framingham Public Library
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| Reminder - Resume event at Framingham Public Library - Saturday, Dec 16 from 10 AM - 3 PM |
Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Dec 11, 2023
- wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday
9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Nick Remissong
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews
11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, and Nick Remissong hold a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States.
- Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY
9:00 am SAFE Coalition: New Facility
10:30 am Physician Focus: Winter is Coming
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs
12:30 pm ArtWeek: Theater in the Open
1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Fish
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Margherita Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 6
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 8
3:30 pm Veterans' Call: VA Pension
4:30 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: Vaping Education
5:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Districts
5:30 pm Extended Play Sessions: Season 10 Show 4 - Dicenso Clark
8:00 pm Frank Presents: Jay Elias Pt 1
9:30 pm Circle of Friends: Cheryl Wheeler
- Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY
8:00 am FHS Girls Varsity Soccer: v King Philip 10-13-23
10:00 am Public School Event: Annie Sullivan Winter Music 2022
11:30 am All-Town Showcase 2022: Band
1:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman
4:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Soccer: v Milford 10-26-23
6:00 pm Critical Conversations: Social Media
8:30 pm High School Football at Fenway Park: Franklin v King Philip
- Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY
8:00 am Planning Board: 11-20-23
12:00 pm Davis Thayer Re-Use Advisory 11-28-23
2:00 pm Planning Board: 11-20-23
Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf
Sunday, December 10, 2023
FPAC to present Steve Martin & Edie Brickell’s Bright Star - January 5-7, 2024
The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is excited to present the musical Bright Star January 5-7 at THE BLACK BOX. Featuring the Tony-nominated bluegrass score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s Bright Star tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past.
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| (L-R) Ali Funkhouser, Robbie Rescigno, and Kyle Dalsimer |
The production stars NYC actors Ali Funkhouser as Alice Murphy, Robbie Rescigno as Jimmy Ray, Kyle Dalsimer as Billy Cane, and University of Tampa Musical Theatre Junior Kelsey Breslin as Margo. Boston Conservatory Voice Professor Dan Callaway (The Phantom of the Opera) appears as Daddy Cane/Dr. Norquist. The cast also features Shenandoah Conservatory Musical Theatre student Tzintli Cerda as Lucy, NYC’s Brennan Stefanik as Daryl, and FPAC’s Nick Paone as Mayor Dobbs, Kellie Stamp as Mama Murphy, and Tim Ayres-Kerr as Stanford.
Rounding out the cast are Emiliano Morales (NYC), Gia Chessa (Dean College), Blas Cerda (Ballet Teatro del Espacio, The National Classical Dance Company of Mexico, Ohio Ballet), Xochitl Tejeda-Cerda (Mexico National Ballet, Ohio Ballet), Takaaki Matsumoto (Boston), DJ Ormond (Boston), Julia Ormond (Dean College), Hannah Rezendes (Salve Regina University), and Lindsay Tomas (FPAC). Joining them are FPAC Student Apprentice performers from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts Elena Baker, Hannah Connors, Devin Curley, Devin DeAngelis, and Mason Sanford.
With beautiful Bluegrass melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds audiences tightly in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful. Directed by FPAC Artistic Director Raye Lynn Mercer, with music direction by Hallie Wetzell, and choreography by Hannah Rezendes.
FPAC is an Actors’ Equity Small Professional Theater company based at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Ali Funkhouser, Robbie Rescigno, Kyle Dalsimer, and Dan Callaway are all members of Actors’ Equity. Each season, FPAC produces musicals, plays, ballets, and more featuring Broadway stars, professional actors, local artists, and students of the arts. Follow Franklin Performing Arts Company and THE BLACK BOX on Facebook and Instagram for updates on programming.
Tickets for FPAC’s Bright Star and other shows are available at FPAConline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370.
This Chalkboard Chat recaps the School Cmte MASC Workshop & the Nov 28 School Cmte Mtg (audio)
FM #1113 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1113 in the series.
This session of the radio show shares my recorded conversation with Franklin School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan. We had our conversation in the Franklin TV & Public Radio studio on Monday, December 4, 2023.
Two key topics for this conversation were recapping the MASC Workshop on Monday (11/27/23), and then the School Committee meeting on Tuesday (11/28/23).
The recording runs about 28 minutes so let’s listen to my “chalkboard chat” with School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1113-chalkboard-chat-with-dave-callaghan-12-04-23
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Contact info for Dave Callaghan callaghand@franklinps.net
School Committee page => https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee
MASC Presentation document -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iS3oQAk96xVk-SKYLo8iAgashzFASHvT/view?usp=drive_link
Audio recording of the workshop -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/11/school-committee-participates-in-masc.html
11/28/23 meeting Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/11/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda-for_0289625050.html
Meeting packet folder -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/november-28-2023-school-committee-meeting-packet
Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J9NdQCWqlM
My notes captured during the meeting via Twitter can be found in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dKDfMFeUK43g70Li6XbLlhdVssSKLZAv/view?usp=drive_link
The “Chalkboard Chat” image was the result of a joint collaboration with Mickayla Callaghan. Thank you!
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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
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"
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| This Chalkboard Chat recaps the School Cmte MASC Workshop & the Nov 28 School Cmte Mtg (audio) |
Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Agenda for meeting Dec 13, 2023
Finance Committee Meeting
Agenda & Meeting Packet
Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building
2nd floor, Council Chambers
355 East Central Street
Agenda
1. Call to Order
2. Public Comment
3. State budget update
a. FY23 Supplemental Budget and FY24 budget revenue projections
4. Future Agenda Items & 2024 Meeting Schedule
5. The Bill Dowd “Deep Dive” Series
a. Public Property & Building, aka “the Facilities Department”i. FY24 Public Property & Buildings Budgetii. List of Town Owned Buildingsiii. December 2020 Kaestle Boos study on school facilities current conditionsiv. Franklin School Department Redistricting Analysisv. Comprehensive School Facilities Planning Subcommitteevi. 10-year Capital Facilities Planb. Grants discussioni. Ten-year municipal grants historyii. Ten-year school grants history
6. Recurring Business:
a. Approval of Minutes
i. September 13, 2023ii. November 08, 2023
b. Stabilization Account Balance
7. Adjourn
The agenda doc includes supporting materials and covers 38 pages (also includes remote participation info) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/dec_13_2023_fin_com_agenda.pdf
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| Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Agenda for meeting Dec 13, 2023 |
FHS Wrestlers get a Top 10 finish at Ashland Tournament to start their season
Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the fall sports competition for Franklin High School on Saturday, Dec 9, 2023.
Wrestling
Ashland Tournament (Franklin, North Attleboro) –
Both Franklin and North Attleboro finished inside the top 10 at the Ashland Early Bird tournament to begin the 2023-2024 campaign.
North Attleboro took third overall with 177 points after sending five grapplers to the finals. Jayden Mendes claimed the individual title at 113, clinching the win in the finals with a 13-0 major decision while Drew Mingo took first at 150 by landing a third round takedown to win 7-5. Braxton Ferro (138), Joseph Brucato (144), and Zachary Haffner (165) all finished second, Alexander Robin (132) was fourth, and Yamaan Abdalla (120) and Masen Oyola (157) finished fifth.
Franklin’s Weyland O’Connoll took second overall at 175 to help the Panthers finish ninth overall as a team. Riley Carlucci (138) was third and Roman Caccacelli (126) took fifth.
Franklin Wrestling (@FHSWrestle) posted on Sat, Dec 09, 2023:
https://twitter.com/FHSWrestle/status/1733625687074894133
Great season opener in Ashland finishing in 9th as a team with 87 points. Placers, Weylan 2nd, Carlucci 3rd, Caccavelli 5th, Pritoni 6th, Large 6th
https://twitter.com/FHSWrestle/status/1733625687074894133
For other results around the Hockomock League (subscription required) https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-12-07-23/
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via subscription to HockomockSports.com |
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