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Tri-Valley Front Runners
PO Box 125, Milford,MA, 01757United States 
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Register now for the 13th Annual FBRTC 5K: Saturday, May 18, 2024
Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Wednesday, April 10, 2024
- wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Wednesday
9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock
Franklin and its local government, services and events (repeats Saturday at 9 AM)
- This slot features the Board of Health meeting held Apr 3, 2024 -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/04/audio-recording-of-franklin-ma-board-of.html
10:00 AM 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone All about wine, its culture, lore and finer point.
- In this episode hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi talk with Kathy McCabe-PBS Dream of Italy -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/03/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode.html
11:00 AM 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock
Franklin and its local government, services and events (repeats Saturday at 3 PM)
- This slot features the new Talk Franklin episode on the budget with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Deputy Town Administrator Amy Frigulietti, School Superintendent Lucas Giguere, and Asst Superintendent Dr Tina Rogers on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/04/in-this-talk-franklin-episode-some.html
- Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = WEDNESDAY
7:30 am Mental Health: Kallie Montagano & Sonja Wagner
8:30 am FPAC: Hamlet
10:00 am Second Sunday Speaker Series: Joe Landry & Scott Mason
11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Ice Cream
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Quinoa
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Marry Me Chicken
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 6
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 3
5:30 pm Veterans' Call: Robert Pierson
6:30 pm Metrowest Arts & Culture Symposium 2023
8:30 pm Circle of Friends: Ellis Paul
- Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = WEDNESDAY
8:30 am Public School Event: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-13-19
10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman
11:00 am Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
12:30 pm FHS Varsity Softball: v Milford 05-22-23
2:30 pm Rec Basketball: 5th & 6th Grade Boys Championship
7:00 pm FHS Track and Field: v North Attleboro 05-09-23
- Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = WEDNESDAY
8:00 am Town Council 03-13-24
2:00 pm Town Council 03-13-24
7:00 pm Town Council LIVE-Chambers 826 9683 9444
Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
Silent Saturdays: "Metropolis" - April 13 at 6 PM
Silent Saturdays start at 6 PM on four Saturdays of the month: Chris Leverone, a videographer and graphics artist from Franklin, has directed promotional and fundraising videos, and is currently a producer at Franklin TV. He developed this program of films in cooperation with the Franklin Senior Center.
- April 13 – Metropolis, is a formative film in the science fiction genre by Fritz Lang. It portrays a convincing, futuristic and totalitarian city complete with creepy robots.
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| Metropolis |
The Franklin Historical Museum is located at 80 West Central Street, Franklin. The museum is open Saturday mornings from 10 AM - 1 PM and Sunday afternoons from 1 PM - 4 PM.
When visiting the museum, please consider donating a non-perishable item for the Franklin Food Pantry. Check their current needs listing here -> https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-involved/pantry-needs/
Visit the Museum online at https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com
Will the Town Council whiff again? or vote to encourage 40b development?
The Town Council gets a chance to lend their approval of a "friendly 40b" on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. They whiffed on their chance last year rejecting the 121 Grove St proposal by a 4-5 vote. (vote & meeting info below)
The chance this time is for the proposal to develop the Stobbart's property bringing 264 rental units, 66 of them would be "Affordable."
The proposal documentation is found here:
a. Franklin Town Council Support for Proposed GL Chapter 40B Affordable Housing Project at 444 East Central Street Pursuant to DHCD’s Local Initiative Program (LIP): Friendly 40B
i. Town Administrator Memo, 40B Process Outline
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a_1_-_presentation_friendly_40b_stobbarts.pdfii. Project Presentation
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a._2_central_st_residences_tc_presentation_041024_v17_pdf_final.pdfiii. Current Project Plans
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a._3_csr_preliminary_plans_update_tc_040324.pdfiv. Town Board/Committee and staff comment letters
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a._4_letters.pdfv. Related articles on the need for housing
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a._articles.pdfThe full Council agenda (including remote participation info)
Meeting notes for March 15, 2023 covers the 121 Grove St "friendly 40b" proposal that was rejected by the Council -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/03/town-council-ratifies-master-plan.html (includes links to the video, audio and my notes)
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| Will the Town Council whiff again? or vote to encourage 40b development? |
FHS girls and boys lacrosse teams post wins on Monday
Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the Spring sports competition for Franklin High School on Monday, Apr 8, 2024.
Baseball = Foxboro, 1 @ Franklin, 0 – Final
– Foxboro scored the lone run of the game in the second inning and that was enough for juniors Nolan Gordon and Ryan O’Leary, who combined for a shutout with just three hits allowed. Gordon helped his own cause in the second with a one-out single and advanced to second (stolen base) and to third (passed ball) before scampering home on a wild pitch. Gordon was impressive on the mound for the Warriors, scattering three hits (all singles) with two walks, striking out five for the win. O’Leary tossed the final two innings with no hits allowed and three strikeouts. Franklin had the tying run on second in the seventh inning after Dom Caccavelli (one-out walk) stole second but O’Leary induced a grounder to third baseman Tom Watts (two hits) for the final out. Franklin’s Austin Campbell was also strong on the mound with one unearned run allowed on six hits and two walks, striking out six in as many innings. Matt Miller (two strikeouts) tossed a scoreless seventh for the Panthers.
Softball = Foxboro, 5 @ Franklin, 3 – Final (8 inn.)
– Franklin rallied for a pair of runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to keep the game going but Foxboro answered right back with two of their own in the top of the eighth for a key extra innings win on the road. Franklin had the lone run of the game through the first five innings when courtesy runner Sophie Arena, who was on third after a leadoff triple from Marley Allen, came home on a dropped third strike. Foxboro orchestrated a two-out rally in the sixth, pushing three runs across to take the lead. Natalia Leach (walk) scored on a two-out single from Vittoria Cuscia to tie the game, and back-to-back singles from Ava Hill and Mia Flanagan loaded the bases for the Warriors. A single to right from Jill Slattery brought two home to put Foxboro ahead 3-1. In the bottom of the seventh, Ella Weston had a leadoff walk, stole second, moved to third on a bunt single from Katie Dowley, and scored after an infield error. Dowley came home on a ground out to tie the game. Franklin had the winning run at third but Cuscia induced a pair of infield fly balls to force extras. In the top of the eighth, back-to-back doubles from Meghan Kelley and Cuscia scored one run, and a double from Flanagan brought another run home. Cuscia (eight strikeouts) retired the side in order in the bottom half to close it out. Sophia Sacramone had nine strikeouts for the Panthers.
Boys Lacrosse = Canton, 5 @ Franklin, 12 – Final – Franklin built a four-goal lead at halftime and limited visiting Canton to just one tally in the second half to earn a win at home. The Panthers took a 3-1 lead at the end of the first and had an 8-4 advantage at halftime. Franklin blanked the Bulldogs in the third to extend the lead to 11-4 going into the final frame. Eddie O’Brien had three goals and three assists to pace the Panthers’ offense while Drew Hansen added a pair of goals and three helpers, and Ryan Grasso had a hat trick and one assist. Brendan Tourgee and Cullen O’Brien each scored twice for Canton while Dillon Albert added one goal. Pat Drury was strong in net with 17 saves for the Bulldogs.
Girls Lacrosse = Franklin, 15 @ Canton, 5 – Final
– A six-goal first quarter helped Franklin build a big lead that it never relinquished on the road at Canton. Emily Carney was dominant on the draws once again, registering 11 controls while getting the offense going with five goals and one assist. Katie Ryan added a hat trick of goals and assists, Sophia Sacchetti also netted a hat trick with one assist, and Julia Flynn scored twice with a pair of assists. Norah MacCallum was strong defensively with two caused turnovers.
Boys Tennis = Franklin @ Bishop Feehan, 4:00
For other results around the Hockomock League (subscription required)
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via Twitter & subscription to HockomockSports.com |
Fallen Hero Recognitions: Sgt. Paulette & Airman 1C Shaw (Vietnam) - April 9, 2024 - 9 AM
There are 2 Fallen Hero Recognition events today (4/09/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Sergeant Joseph Ronald Paulette, Vietnam and Airman 1C Russell W. Shaw.
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: Sergeant Joseph Ronald Paulette
Sergeant Joseph Ronald Paulette was born on October 13, 1948, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Preston Daggett, who lived in Franklin before moving their family to New Bedford. As a young man Joseph spent his summers in Franklin with his uncle and aunt, Mr. And Mrs. Roger Villiard of Brook St. Sgt. Paulette had requested that if anything happened to him while in the service, that his funeral and burial take place in Franklin.
Sergeant Paulette enlisted late in 1965 and became a member of the 101st·Airborne Battalion. Sergeant Paulette served two years in the Army with his Vietnam tour beginning on December 13,1967. Sgt. Paulette was killed along with five other casualties by hostile small arms fire on April 9, 1968 leading a combat mission in Quang Tri province, South Vietnam.
Sergeant Joseph R. Paulette was 19 years old at the time of his death in Vietnam.
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| Sergeant Joseph Ronald Paulette |
* Fallen Hero: Airman 1C Russell W. Shaw
Airman 1C Russell W. Shaw was born on June 30, 1952, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Shaw. Russell lived with his parents and four sisters at 561 Lincoln St. A 1970 graduate of Franklin High School Russell enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in July of that year.
Airman Shaw graduated with honors from a technical training course at Sheppard AFB, Texas. He learned to maintain and service turbo-propeller aircraft and was assigned to Clark AFB for duty with a unit of the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service.
Airman Shaw was killed in a motoring accident while serving at Clark Air Force Base, the Philippines on April 9, 1971.
Airman 1C Russell W. Shaw was 18 years old at the time of his death while serving during the Vietnam War.
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| Airman 1C Russell W. Shaw |
For the schedule of Fallen Hero recognitions
For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html
Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway
2nd Annual Comedy Fundraiser benefits the Franklin Rotary Club - Apr 20
“3 Comedian’s Walk into a bar…well, not a bar, but the Franklin Elks Lodge…”
If you want to know how this joke ends, and you’re looking for some great laughs, delicious dinner, while supporting a local non-profit... Franklin Rotary has the just the ticket!
Come join us for our 2nd Annual Comedy Night Fundraiser at the Franklin Elks, 1077 Pond St., Franklin, MA 02038, on April 20. Doors open at 5:30 PM where you will enjoy buffet dinner, cash bar, FREE door prize chance, raffles and the comedic stylings of 3 comic headliners; Jody Sloane, Harrison Stebbins, and the return of Mark Scalia.
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| Rotary Club of Franklin MA 2nd Annual Comedy Night Fundraiser |
“We filled the room last year, and we are looking forward to an even better show this year!” said Joe Collins, incoming President Elect (2024-25). He continued, “We work tirelessly to give back to our community and it’s fundraisers like this, which help to make it all possible.”
Reserve your table of 8 today! Tickets are only $50/pp and may be purchased by calling 508-284-9598, or online (+ $2 processing fee that covers dinner and the show) are available at: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35936/production/1190666
The Rotary Club International is a non-profit organization made up of a diverse group of men and women “who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.” https://www.rotary.org/en/about-rotary
Talkin' TC Episode 4: Student Voices (video)
"On this episode we hear from a trio of students, all seniors, walking us through their TC Journey as their time on Pond Street is coming to a close."
Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZl4cp65kjc
IR-2024-99: Special Saturday help available April 13 at 70 IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide; no appointment needed
As the April 15 federal tax filing deadline nears, the Internal Revenue Service today announced it will open more than 70 Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) around the country on Saturday, April 13, for face-to-face help. This special help is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time.
At TACs, people meet face-to-face with IRS employees to get help with tax account issues, such as authenticating someone's identity, asking about account adjustments and making payments by check or money order. The IRS plans one additional special Saturday opening on May 18.
"IRS employees have been working hard throughout this tax season to help taxpayers, and the special Saturday hours are one more way we've expanded our services," said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. "With the help of additional funding through the Inflation Reduction Act, we've been able to serve more taxpayers and provide additional assistance. For these special Saturday sessions, we encourage taxpayers to plan ahead so they have the right information. Frequently, taxpayers can get the help they need by visiting IRS.gov."
Before travelling to an office, the IRS encourages everyone to visit the event page IRS face-to-face Saturday help to get current information. The IRS notes representatives can't accept cash payments during the special Saturday openings, and tax return preparation is not an available service.
The IRS has online resources for many common tax situations, including several tools for making payments, getting an extension to file and setting up installment agreements. Taxpayers can make payments using their personal financial accounts, debit or credit cards and even digital wallets using tools on IRS.gov.
Tips for taxpayers planning a visit
Individuals should bring the following documents when they visit IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers:
- Current government-issued photo identification, along with a second form of identification for identity verification services.
- Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification numbers for themselves and all members of their household, including their spouse and dependents (if applicable).
- Any IRS letters or notices received and related documents.
- A copy or digital image of the tax return in question if one was filed.
The IRS noted that because appointments aren't necessary for these special Saturday hours, some locations may see high demand and wait times can be longer than usual. To help with this and avoid delays, the IRS encourages people to plan ahead, review key tips and come prepared with needed information. IRS employees will be working hard to serve as many people as quickly as possible.
Extended office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays
During the filing season, the IRS has also been providing extended office hours at many TACs nationwide. The added hours will end on Tuesday, April 16. To see if a nearby office is participating in the program, check its listing on the IRS/taclocator. Taxpayers can walk in or make appointments for service during extended hours. Cash payments are accepted during the additional office time, but taxpayers must have an appointment at a TAC currently accepting cash.
Normally, TACs are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and provide service by appointment only. To make an appointment, call 844-545-5640.
Services provided
The IRS's Contact Your Local Office site lists all services provided at specific TACs. Tax return preparation is not a service offered at IRS TACs during these events or any operating hours. The IRS will provide information to anyone needing to find free local tax preparation resources. Additionally, File your return on IRS.gov gives step-by-step information on how to file individual tax returns.
If someone has questions about a tax bill or IRS audit, or if they need help resolving a tax problem, they'll receive assistance from IRS employees specializing in those services. If these employees aren't available, the individual will receive a referral for these services. IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service employees may also be available to help with some issues.
Professional foreign language interpretation will be available in many languages through an over-the-phone translation service. For deaf or hard of hearing individuals who need sign language interpreter services, IRS staff will schedule appointments for a later date. Alternatively, these individuals can call TTY/TDD 800-829-4059 to make an appointment.
During the visit, IRS staff may also request the following information:
- A current mailing address,
- Proof of financial account information included on a tax return to receive payments or refunds by direct deposit.
Continue reading the full press release here -> https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/special-saturday-help-available-april-13-at-70-irs-taxpayer-assistance-centers-nationwide-no-appointment-needed
Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Tuesday, Apr 9, 2024
- wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Tuesday
9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM Jazz Journey – with Pamela Hines
2 hours. An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era
2 hours. An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era
11:00 AM 2 PM and 8:00 PM SAFE Radio– Jim Derick and Dr. Anne Bergen Addressing issues of Drug Abuse Disorder
- Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = TUESDAY
7:30 am Joe Landry: Grocery Stores and Markets
9:00 am Mental Health: Kallie Montagano & Sonja Wagner
10:00 am Frank Presents: Corey Shea
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin': Quinoa
12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Marry Me Chicken
1:00 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2
1:30 pm Franklin Fallen Heroes Pt 2
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 6
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 3
3:30 pm Riffin' on Main Street: Jacob Juncker
4:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
5:30 pm Master Plan Committee Open House
6:00 pm Senior Connection: Disabilities Commission
7:00 pm FPAC: Hamlet
8:30 pm Endless Konnections: Introduction
8:34 pm Endless Konnections: Natasha Ward Pt 1
9:30 pm Franklin Art Association: Vincent Crotty
- Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = TUESDAY
7:00 am Public School Event: Concert Hour Day 1
9:00 am Public School Event: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-13-19
11:30 am Rec Basketball: 5th & 6th Grade Boys Championship
1:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1
2:00 pm Mental Health: Kallie Montagano & Sonja Wagner
6:30 pm Jazz Cafe 2019
8:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Lacrosse v Attleboro 04-02-24
10:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse v Stoughton 04-04-24
- Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = TUESDAY
8:00 am School Committee 03-19-24
12:00 pm Town Council Subcommittee for Arts and Culture 04-03-24
2:00 pm School Committee 03-19-24
7:00 pm School Committee LIVE-Chambers 885 7353 6372 Code 249672
Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf
Monday, April 8, 2024
The James Montgomery Band Returns to THE BLACK BOX - Friday, April 12
THE BLACK BOX will welcome back The James Montgomery Band on Friday, April 12 at 7:30 PM with The DayBreakers.
In 1970, while attending Boston University, Montgomery formed The James Montgomery Band. His inimitable harmonica playing combined with his incredibly energetic live shows led to the band's quick ascension on the New England music scene. Within two years, The James Montgomery band was among the hottest acts in Boston along with J. Geils and Aerosmith, and they were quickly signed to a multi-album deal with Capricorn Records.
Since that time, James has recorded six albums. His first, "First Time Out" has been remastered and re-released by MRG/Capricorn. Other include "James Montgomery Band" on Island Records which was number nine on Billboard's national playlist, "Duck Fever" with members of the David Letterman Band, "Live Trax," with the Uptown Horns (the Rolling Stones' horn section), and his release on Tone-Cool, "The Oven Is On."
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| James Montgomery Band Returns |
Montgomery has toured with many major artists, including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, Steve Miller, and others. He has jammed on stage with B.B.King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Jr. Wells, James Cotton, Charlie Daniels, Bonnie Raitt, Greg Allman, Laverne Baker, Patti LaBelle, and Peter Wolf among others, including an impromptu session with Mick Jagger at New York's "Trax." Over the years, Montgomery's band has been a springboard for many musicians. Members of his band have included Billy Squire, Wayne Kramer (MC-5), Jeff Golub (Rod Stewart), Jim McCarty (Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels), Nunzio Signore (Bo Diddley), Jeff Pevar (Ray Charles Orchestra, Crosby, Stills & Nash), Bobby Chouinard (drummer with Ted Nugent, Squire and Robert Gordon), Jeff Levine (Joe Cocker), Aerosmith's Tom Gambel, and many others.
Fueled by two songwriters with contrasting approaches, The DayBreakers craft their distinct sound through a blend of folk rock melodies, blues guitar muscle, and rock and roll grit. The five piece band, led by lead singer/guitarist Kyle Murphy, and bassist Matt Schairer has played many of New England's most revered rooms (The Middle East, TT the Bears, Thunder Road, Cape Cod Melody Tent) and shared the stage with some of the region's best roots rockers (Entrain, the Silks, Frank Viele), while also supporting national touring acts Christian Lopez and Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band. In August of 2018, the group was nominated for "Rock Act of the Year" by the New England Music Awards.
Tickets are available at www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. Follow THE BLACK BOX on social media to stay updated on the venue’s offerings.
This Old Thing? - An Antique Appraisal Adventure with Jim Johnston - May 5
Who hasn’t been intrigued by something old... and who hasn’t stopped to wonder, ‘what’s it worth’? On Sunday, May 5, 2024 from 1:00-5:00 PM, local expert, James C. “Jim” Johnston, will dazzle and inform the audience and those seeking knowledge about family heirlooms and garage sale finds alike with An Antique Appraisal Adventure with Jim Johnston.
Appraisals are ‘on-the-spot’ and oral and are $5 for the first appraisal and $3 for additional items, up to an event maximum of three items and $11. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Franklin Historical Museum, a 501(c) 3 non-profit that raises funds to benefit the Historical Museum. All proceeds benefit the museum.
The Friends can accept cash or check. There will also be an option to “watch at home” via Google Meets. To learn about payment options, how to participate virtually, or to reserve a contact alan.r.earls@gmail.com. Handicapped Access Available.
He will also discuss “Purpose” of evaluation such as: probate, inheritance, divorce, and insurance, as well as insurance evaluation and replacement value, with the idea of choosing a fearless appraiser with experience in dealing with insurance companies, and with “Court Experience” and experience in delivering “Expert Testimony.”
Mr. Johnston performs written appraisals by arrangement, starting at $125.
Children’s Museum of Franklin Gala is happening Thursday, April 11 at THE BLACK BOX. Will you be there?
The first benefit event for Children's Museum of Franklin, the Night at the Museum Gala, is coming up Thursday, April 11!
This will be a celebratory evening of friends, exhibit play, live jazz music, food, and conversation! Beyond a fun night out, your attendance is instrumental to the Children's Museum of Franklin.
Just another reason to plan to attend with friends – group ticket packages are available. If you are unable to attend on April 11, please consider supporting us in the following ways:
- Donate to the Children's Museum of Franklin. Donations of every amount add up and will be what opens our doors full-time!
- Spread the word. Encourage your friends, family and neighbors to attend the Gala or to donate to this cause.
- Bid on amazing packages in our Online Silent Auction. The auction runs through April 11.
Get your tickets for the Gala -> https://www.childrensmuseumfranklin.org/gala
It is community participation and support that will bring the Children's Museum of Franklin to life full-time.
We hope to see you on April 11!
Cheers!
Erin Gallagher & Meg Hagen
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: Available Property Inventory Tries to Catch Up
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reports that Norfolk County recordings in March 2024 show a decrease in the total number of documents recorded, which includes a decrease in property sales and mortgage recordings compared to March 2023. This decrease can be attributed to a variety of factors, including high competition, high property prices, and a limited inventory of available property.
The Registry of Deeds recorded 7,664 documents in March 2024. This was 10% less than in March 2023, but a 13% increase compared to February 2024.
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| Available Property Inventory Tries to Catch Up |
“The number of deed recordings and mortgage recordings are significant contributors to overall real estate activity, and whenever either or both of these numbers decline, there will be a substantial decrease in the total number of recordings,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell.
For the month of March, lending activity also showed a decrease compared to the same month a year ago. A total of 1087 mortgages were recorded in March 2024, down 15% from March 2023 but up 19% from last month.
“The decreasing trend in mortgage recordings has significantly slowed, but total recordings are still lower than last year, likely because those who locked in lower mortgage interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are less likely to refinance at current rates and some may be holding out for lower mortgage interest rates, predicted for later this year.” stated O’Donnell.
The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for March 2024 rose to $1,043,639, an 18% increase compared to March 2023 and an increase of 5% from February 2024. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is up, increasing 8% from last year and up 36% from last month.
O’Donnell noted, “With a limited supply of available properties on the market, any increase in demand is likely to cause an increase in the average property sales price even with the increase in listing moving into the home buying season.”
According to the Massachusetts Association of Realtors, since the start of 2024, new listings have increased each month compared to the previous month.
The total number of deeds recorded for March 2024, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,176, down 6% from March 2023, but up 22% from February of last month.
“I think many would agree that it is a difficult market for buyers, especially first-time home buyers, due to the limited inventory of available property and an increase in property prices compared to previous years,” said Register O'Donnell. “As we move into the traditional home buying season, there are some signs of improvement in regards to the number of property listings, which may help alleviate some of the pressure on buyers. However, the overall trend of a lack of inventory and increasing prices is still a concern.”
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In March 2024, there were 12 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in March 2023, there were 4 recorded. The total number of notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, decreased from last year, going from 30 notices in March 2023 to 28 in March 2024.
“We all experience unforeseen events in our lives. Sometimes these events are beyond our control and can have a devastating impact on our finances. 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,” said O'Donnell.
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.
O’Donnell concluded, “Overall, the real estate market still has a few hurdles to overcome and continues to be highly competitive due to the high demand to live and work in Norfolk County communities and the inventory of available property. We will need to wait and see if the increase in property listings is enough to overcome the demands for housing here in the communities of Norfolk County.”
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
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