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Monday, August 11, 2025
Rail Trail Committee: Monthly Meeting scheduled for Aug 12 at Franklin TV
Kaye Kelly Talks About her book "The Modern Creative" (audio)
FM #1491 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1491 in the series.
This session shares my conversation with Kaye Kelly, musician, teacher, arts advocate and now author of her first book; "The Modern Creative: A Practical Guide for 21st Century Artists." We had our discussion on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 in the Franklin TV & Radio Studio.
We talk about
Kaye’s life in Franklin
Teaching at Berklee, raising a family, performing
Leading to her first book
Ear training, a real thing for aspiring musicians
Flexibility and grace in living the artist life
The recording runs about 34 minutes, so let’s listen in.
Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1491-kaye-kelly-talks-about-the-modern-creative-08-05-25/--------------
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| Steve & Kaye in the Studio |
Kaye Kelly’s home page -> https://www.kayekelly.com/
Berklee profile age -> https://college.berklee.edu/faculty/kaye-kelly
Instagram “One Creative Life” https://www.instagram.com/one_creative_life/
Book page (updated 8/25/25) https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=m7dWfcl6RUnVnNweFHZMUQF93WmKKD9tDueEdVZCNxb
A brief Berklee video explaining more about ear training -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOR5AtFhomI
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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
And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do
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"
School Sign updates per Redistricting
On one of my "reporting by walking around" expeditions, I captured a bunch of photos. It really was an expeditions as I drove to some key spots then walked to take the photos. I could not have walked all over town in the same day.
This set of photos shows the school sign changes put in place for the redistricting to be implemented in September.
Washington Street Elementary Complex
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| Washington Street Elementary Complex |
Lincoln Street Elementary Complex
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| Lincoln Street Elementary Complex |
Early Childhood Development Center - Pond St
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| Early Childhood Development Center - Pond St |
Early Childhood Development Center - Oak St
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| Early Childhood Development Center - Oak St |
Franklin Middle School
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| Franklin Middle School |
Additional photos can be found in one album -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZYJEAMVvyAfyPaYbA
SAVE THE DATE: Friends of the Poor Walk - Saturday, September 27, 2025
St. Mary Parish, St. Vincent de Paul Conference is sponsoring its annual fund raiser on Saturday, September 27, on Franklin’s Town Common. Registration begins at 8:30 AM. The Walk begins with a Blessing for the Walk at 9:00 AM.
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| Friends of the Poor Walk |
Participants can collect donations and walk with us beginning at the Franklin Town Common.
Additionally, donations are accepted online at: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=T6EQV6EC25NR6
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| donations are accepted online |
All money raised will stay in Franklin to assist those in need. Thank you.
Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Continued Growth in Summer
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that real estate activity in Norfolk County for the month of July 2025 showed strong growth across several key indicators, including total property transactions and mortgage activity, when compared to both June 2025 and July 2024.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded a total of 10,696 documents in July 2025. This represents a 9% increase from July 2024 and an 18% increase compared to June 2025.
“In July, we saw a continued upward trend in overall recording activity,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “This increase in total documents reflects a robust level of engagement in the real estate market across Norfolk County.”
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| Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Continued Growth in Summer |
The total number of deeds recorded for July 2025, which includes both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,676, up 10% from July 2024 and 14% from the previous month. Looking at just real estate sales, 941 properties were sold in July, representing a 5% increase compared to both the same time last year and the previous month.
“The increase in the total number of deeds recorded compared to last month and last year is a strong indicator of sustained real estate activity,” noted Register O’Donnell. “It shows that buyers and sellers continue to move forward with property transactions despite broader economic conditions.”
The average sale price of commercial and residential properties in July 2025 was $1,353,367, an increase of 41% from July 2024 and 17% from June 2025. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales in July was $1.27 billion, a 48% increase compared to July of last year.
“The continued rise in average sale prices and total sales volume highlights the strength of the market,” noted Register O’Donnell. “These figures suggest that buyers remain active and willing to invest in Norfolk County properties.”
Lending activity also saw a notable increase. A total of 1,695 mortgages were recorded in July 2025, up 17% from July 2024 and a 22% increase from June 2025.
“The sharp rise in mortgage recordings is a clear indicator of increased borrowing,” stated Register O’Donnell. “This trend reflects both the rising property values and the willingness of buyers to secure financing in today’s market.”
Foreclosure activity in July 2025 remained relatively low. There were 2 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down from the 7 recorded in July of 2024. However, 32 notices to foreclose were filed, an increase from the 25 notices recorded in July of last year.
“The reduction in foreclosure deeds is encouraging, but the increase in notices to foreclose reminds us that some homeowners are still facing financial challenges,” said Register O’Donnell. “We urge anyone struggling with mortgage payments to reach out for help.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to partner with local non-profits such as Quincy Community Action Programs (617-479-8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (508-587-0950), as well as the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400, to assist residents in need.
Register O’Donnell concluded, “The July 2025 data reflects a robust and active real estate market in Norfolk County. As we move through the summer, we remain optimistic about continued growth and stability in the months ahead.”
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.
Election Collection - 2025
The collection of posts and information leading to the Biennial Election for Franklin, MA scheduled for November 4, 2025. Most recent up top, older posts as you scroll down.
6380 6387 voters, 24.5% of the 26,126 registered total (per official results, no change in percent)
- The YouTube playlist for all 25 videos can be found -> bit.ly/2025-ElectionCollection
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Board of Health write in results
- ***** DIANE DADDARIO - 1980
- CHRISTINE MUCCIARONE - 462
- BOB MYERS - 201
New Town Council
Griffith 3614
LeBlanc 3397
Callaway-Tripp 3293
Ojukwu 3282
Grella 3092
Cormier-Leger 3004
Malloy 2983
Morrongiello 2953
Dellorco 2898
Town of Franklin: Official Results of the Biennial Election, Nov 4, 2025
Updated 11/5/25 3:00 PM with Official results ->
(Updated 11/5/25 9:30 AM) The winds of change have landed in Franklin -> Unofficial results of Biennial Election, Nov 4 2025 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/the-winds-of-change-have-landed-in.html
Town Council Candidate Summaries (photo album)
2025 Biennial Election: Planning Board Candidate Discussion with BEN4Franklin (audio) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/planning-board-candidates-discussion.html
2025 Biennial Election: Planning Board Candidate Discussion with BEN4Franklin (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/2025-biennial-election-planning-board.html
Scott Mason shares his insights on the work of a Town Councilor (audio)
2025 Biennial Election: Audio - Video Candidate Interviews in Ballot Order (updated)
Audio recordings of the Board of Heath Write-In Candidates: Mucciarone, Daddario https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/audio-recordings-of-board-of-heath.html
Prepared Statement from Town Council candidate Brian Bosley
Voices of Franklin: Cass's offer "kudos and thanks to the councilors for a job well done"
Ken Ojukwu: Council Candidate Coffee Chat - Sunday, Nov 2 from Noon to 2 PM
Planning Board Candidate Discussion - Oct 30 at 8:30 PM (virtual only)
Voices of Franklin: Kit Brady urges school families to vote on or before Nov 4
2025 Biennial Election - Board of Health - write in candidate Diane Daddario (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/2025-biennial-election-board-of-health_01244880490.html
Voices of Franklin: "votes have very real consequences"
Voices of Franklin: State Rep Jeff Roy encourages "vote for stability, experience, and continued progress"
KP Sompally: "Why I'm seeking reelection to Franklin school Committee"
80% of the Franklin (MA) registered voters don’t care https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2025/10/80-of-franklin-ma-registered-voters.html
Franklin TV broadcast schedule for Biennial Election Candidate Interviews - Oct 27 to Nov 1 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/franklin-tv-broadcast-schedule-for.html
Voices of Franklin: Stephen Karunakaran encourages active engagement in the upcoming election https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/voices-of-franklin-stephen-karunakaran.html
Voices of Franklin: "please know who you are voting for, and understand why you are voting for them" https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/voices-of-franklin-please-know-who-you.html
2025 Biennial Election - Board of Health - write in candidate Christine Mucciarone (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/2025-biennial-election-board-of-health.html
Building Equitable Neighborhoods for Franklin (BEN 4 Franklin) is proud to endorse six candidates for Franklin Town Council
Voices of Franklin: "elect a Council that will lead Franklin toward a more stable and prosperous future"
Frank Presents: Joe McGann, Ken Ojukwu (video)
2025 Biennial Election Info for Franklin, MA
Franklin TV: All Access Broadcast of Candidate interviews 10/20 to 10/24/25
Franklin TV: Citizen Steve & Franklin Matters Radio
Early voting begins Friday, October 17 !!!
2025 Biennial Election: Audio - Video Candidate Interviews in Ballot Order
Candidate Interview Audio Recordings: O'Sullivan, Karunakuran, Mausolf, & Griffith (audio) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/candidate-interview-audio-recordings_0339559414.html
Candidate Interview Audio Recordings: Dellorco, Sheridan, & Jones (audio)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Nadia Mausolf (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Paul Griffith (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Glenn Jones (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Patrick Sheridan (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Ruthann O'Sullivan (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Robert Dellorco (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council - Joe McGann (text)
Candidate Interview Audio Recordings: Mucciarone, Lee, & Steltzer (audio)
Candidate Interview Audio Recordings: Callaghan, Charles, & Sompally (audio)
2025 Biennial Election: Links to video and audio Candidate interviews
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Stephen Karunakaran (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/2025-town-of-franklin-candidate-for_01677120660.html
Ballots received and sent to those who requested to vote by mail
Candidate Audio Recordings: Malloy, LeBlanc, Callaway-Tripp, Cormier-Leger, & Mercer (link to be added)
Election 2025 - Candidate Interview TV Broadcast Schedule for week of Oct 6, 2025 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/election-2025-candidate-interview.html
Voices of Franklin: Why Are We Losing Candidates Night?
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Planning Board - Associate William Lee (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/2025-town-of-franklin-candidate-for_6.html
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Planning Board Mark Mucciarone (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee KP Sompally (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Planning Board Eric Stelzer (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Al Charles (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Tom Mercer (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Ted Cormier-Leger (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Jane Callaway-Tripp (video)
Candidate Audio Recordings for Griffith & Grella
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee David Callaghan (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Stephen Malloy (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Michael LeBlanc (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Gene Grella (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Caroline Griffith (video)
Candidate Audio Recordings: Ojukwu, Morrongiello, Hansen
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Max Morrongiello (video)
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for School Committee Henry Reis Hansen (video) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/09/2025-town-of-franklin-candidate-for_0210900752.html
2025 Town of Franklin Candidate for Town Council Ken Ojukwu (video)
Town of Franklin: Biennial Ballot for Nov 4, 2025 - Proof Copy available
2025 Biennial Election: Candidate Interview Questions
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Sep 15, 2025
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Sep 12, 2025
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Sep 10, 2025
Early Voting - In Person - Begins Oct 17 - Full Schedule released by Town Clerk
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Sep 5, 2025
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Sep 4, 2025
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Aug 28, 2025
What "one" question would have for a candidate in the Town of Franklin Biennial Election Nov 4, 2025 ???
Number of School Committee and Town Council candidates for Biennial Elections from 2003 to this year (as of 8/22/25)
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Aug 22, 2025
Franklin Town Council Candidate Max Morrongiello to Host Pizza and Ice Cream Taste Test Events
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing as of Aug 15, 2025
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing - Aug 12, 2025
Voices of Franklin: Jane Callaway-Tripp calls for School Committee Candidates
Biennial Election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing - Aug 8, 2025
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin Board of Health - FY 2024
Voices of Franklin: Melanie Hamblen calls out misinformation
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin Board of Assessors - FY 2024
Biennial election Candidate Nomination Papers Filing - Aug 6, 2025
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin Planning Board - FY 2024
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin School Committee - FY 2024
Franklin Town Clerk walks us through the timeline for the Biennial Election Nov 4, 2025 (audio)
Nomination papers available
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin Town Council - FY 2024
Annual Report of the Town of Franklin Town Clerk’s Office - FY 2024
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| Election Collection - 2025 |
Franklin gets additional ARPA funds via Norfolk County
The Norfolk County Commissioners voted at their regular weekly meeting today held in Dedham to approve two (2) ARPA awards to the Town of Franklin and to the city of Quincy as part of the second round of ARPA grants.
Under the Second Round of ARPA, towns that had an excess leftover from any grant in the first round could re-apply to use said funds on projects for their town in round two. To qualify for a second round grant, towns had to complete and file an application with the county no later than Dec. 31, 2024.
Franklin was awarded a grant in the amount of $86,000.00 for additional stormwater management improvements. This excess money came from a previous award to Franklin for Mental Health.
Quincy was awarded a grant in the amount of $12,900 for additional infrastructure improvements. The excess money came from a previous grant in the amount of $2,300,000.00.
Several other towns are currently under review at this time.
Congratulations to the Franklin and Quincy for their diligence and efforts in obtaining additional funds for their community.
Shared from Richard Stati's Facebook post -> https://www.facebook.com/richard.staiti.71/posts/pfbid0aj22K7CKtrGcktGeVQjR64ZJGwso6b4jGdTBseXtvYw5xVH2RLUzX26ev1nWb1xcl
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