Do you know what you did? HMEA thanks you for donating!

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Because of you... ...60 people will enjoy the gift of expressive arts this winter season.  #artforhmea has raised quite the interest as our #GivingTuesday initiative this year. We are truly humbled by the number of donations that have come in over the past few days and by the response we have seen from our supporters via social media. Art therapy is just one of many activities that HMEA offers the people we support. Just like you and me, people with disabilities have a variety of different interests, ranging from art, to gardening, to music, to yoga and so much more. But, arts & crafts seem to be the most popular during the winter months; likely due to the numerous ideas for crafts brought out by the holiday season and the difficulty in getting outdoors.  Your combined donation of $1500 will give 60 people the gift of art.  With over 300 people in our art therapy program, we still have a ways go to give everyone gift of art this holiday season. If you haven't given yet, there is still time. And, if you have already given, we thank you for your special gift.  [DONATE NOW] *WMRC First Class Radio has partnered with HMEA as media sponsor for this initiative and has offered to match funds raised for #artforhmea with an in-kind advertising donation of up to $2,000 to be used for future events benefiting individuals supported by HMEA. HMEA, INC. | 8 FORGE PARK, FRANKLIN MA 02038 | 508-298-1100

Forward this email HMEA | 8 Forge Park East | Franklin | MA | 02038

Franklin Public Schools: MCAS and PARCC results 2015

The presentation scheduled to be used for the update to the Franklin (MA) School Committee at their meeting on Tuesday, Dec 8, 2015.

Franklin School Committee: MCAS and PARCC 2015 from Franklin Matters

the key to learning

Register O'Donnell Reports on November 2015 Norfolk County Real Estate Activity

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Reports on November 2015 Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported increased property sales and mortgage activity for the month of November 2015, but also noted that some statistics were driven by dramatic swings in average real estate price and mortgage indebtedness due to several major commercial sales across the county. Register O'Donnell noted, "The month of November saw a solid 14% increase in the number of land documents recorded compared to the same time period in 2014. In addition, the total number of deeds recorded increased 15%. 1,395 deeds were recorded in November compared to 1,208 in November 2014. This is an indication that the market in Norfolk County remains quite robust as we head to the end of the calendar year." While the number of real estate transactions increased, the total volume of commercial and residential sales in Norfolk County fell 32% coming in at $644 million. Also, the average sales price of commercial and residential property fell 41% to $750,673. "A valid question is how we can have solid increases in transaction numbers, but at the same time show significant decreases in total volume and average sale price. The primary answer was a property transaction that took place in Weymouth in November 2014, the sale of the Fore River Energy Center for $265 million," noted the Register. The mortgage market for the month of November 2015 showed both increases in recordings and a significant increase in total mortgage indebtedness. "The total number of mortgages recorded in November 2015 rose 11% to 2,325 compared to the same time period in 2014. This tells us a combination of low interest rates and a strong economy in eastern Massachusetts are resulting in consumers willing to borrow money to pay for critical expenditures such as housing and education costs," noted Register O'Donnell. November 2015 also saw an enormous 196% increase in total mortgage indebtedness coming in at approximately $2.38 billion. "This increase is explained by 3 separate $550 million commercial mortgages that were recorded against property in Weymouth, Walpole and Plainville," noted the Register. In November, Homestead recordings increased by 11%. "A Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. Details on the Homestead Act can be found on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. I urge homeowners to consider this vital protection." A total of 24 foreclosure deeds were recorded last month compared to 15 filings in November 2014, a 60% increase. Register O'Donnell noted, "Lending institutions continue to work at clearing a backlog of mortgages stemming from the economic 2008 downturn. More troubling is the increase in Notice to Foreclose Mortgage, the first step in the foreclosure process. A total of 86 Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings were filed in November compared to 63 in November 2014. This is a clear indication that while our economy is strong, many people continue to face economic challenges." The Registry continues to work with Quincy Community Action Programs and Neighbor Works Southern Mass to help homeowners who have received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage. Another option for homeowners facing challenges meeting their monthly payments is to contact the Attorney General's HomeCorps program." Register O'Donnell concluded, "Reviewing the Norfolk County real estate statistics for the month of November 2015, I am struck by the solid increases in real estate sales and mortgage activity. This is clear evidence that the overall real estate market in Norfolk County remains on the right path. While there is no reason that we cannot continue on this path, there are a few variables that need to be considered. A rumored interest rate increase by the Federal Reserve has the potential to reduce consumer confidence. I am optimistic the overall health of our economy in eastern Massachusetts will allow us to weather any negative actions." To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street, 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, accessible land record information. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or on the web at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Forward email Norfolk County Registry of Deeds | 649 High Street | Dedham, | MA | 02026-1831 screen grab of Norfolk Deeds webpage

Franklin TV: It Takes a Village

This week on "It Takes a Village...".  Judy Giovangelo shares her son Ben's story.  Tragically, Ben took his own life when the struggles of adolescence were more than he could bear.  

Ben Speaks

Through her foundation, Ben Speaks.., Judy wants to help young people and their parents understand how to build  resilience and the insight to get through the tough times.  Ben was a creative and sensitive young man.  We can all learn from his story.

• Tuesday 9:00 a.m.
• Wed.     7:30 a.m.
• Sat.       8:30 p.m.

Comcast - Channel 8

Verizon -   Channel 26

Franklin TV

For additional times to view this show, check the show guide updated weekly
http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

Franklin Downtown Partnership Holiday Stroll: Thank You and Photos to Share

Franklin Downtown Partnership  9 E. Central Street, Franklin, MA  02038 (774) 571-3109   downtown.franklin@yahoo.com A Frosty and Fun Time at the Holiday Stroll Thursday's Holiday Stroll was seasonably chilly and bright as Franklin kicked off this festive time of year with a tree lighting ceremony on Dean College's campus common. Strollers were treated to entertainment by Franklin musicians, crafts, shopping options from local businesses, sweets and warm beverages, and appearances by Santa, Mrs. Claus, Post Mark the North Pole Postman, Snow White and the Seven Elves, and Boomer. Thanks to the crowds who came out to enjoy the evening. Thank you DPW and Franklin Police Department for their hard work. Thank you, too, to Dean College for organizing hot chocolate, the carolers and the tree lighting! Thank you to our sponsors for helping make this event a success. And, last but not least, thank you to event organizers Roberta Trahan and Gregg Chalk.  Gold Sponsors DCU, Dean Bank and Dean College Silver Sponsors Franklin Ford, Keefe Insurance and Franklin Local Town Pages Bronze Sponsors Beaux Regards Photographic Arts by Marjorie Sardella, Franklin Health & Rehabilitation Center, Jane's Frames, NEWPRO and Next Step Living. Check out more photos in the slideshow at the top right side of the website and on our Facebook page! Franklin Downtown Partnership | downtown.franklin@yahoo.com | 774-571-3109 | franklindowntownpartnership.org Connect with us:

Forward this email Franklin Downtown Partnership | 9 E. Central St. | Franklin | MA | 02038

FHS representatives on Hockomock Sports Soccer Awards; Victoria Stowell 'player of the year'

Catching up to the news shared from Hockomock Sports where they announced their soccer awards for the boys and girls 2015 season. The earlier awards announced were those voted on by the coaches in each fall sport.

Girls Soccer

PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Victoria Stowell

Victoria Stowell - Hockomock Girls Soccer Player of the Year - 2015 (Hockomock Sports photo)

Franklin senior C. The midfielder was instrumental in the Panthers unbeaten regular season, in which they allowed only a single goal against, and sixth consecutive Kelley-Rex Division title. She was named a Hockomock All-Star by the league’s coaches. 

Stowell finished the regular season with seven goals and 17 assists, many of them in Franklin’s biggest games including three goals in two games against division rival Mansfield and an “Olimpico” off a corner kick in the opening playoff game against Walpole.

Continue reading the highlights on Victoria here
http://www.hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-soccer/2015-2/


2015 HOCKOMOCKSPORTS BEST XI

F – ALEXIS STOWELL, FRANKLIN 

M – VICTORIA STOWELL, FRANKLIN 

D – MEGHAN DIETERLE, FRANKLIN 

GK – DANI LONATI, FRANKLIN

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM 2ND XI

D – Lauren Rudolph, Franklin

For the complete listing 
http://www.hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-soccer/2015-2/

Boys Soccer

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM 2ND XI

M – Austin Kent, Franklin
D – Dan Geraci, Franklin

For the complete listing 
http://www.hockomocksports.com/awards/boys-soccer/2015-2/

FHS representatives on Hockomock Sports Volleyball and Field Hockey Awards

From Hockomock Sports we share the listing of the FHS players on the Volleyball and Field Hockey Award teams. Catching up to this posting from Hockomock Sports on their awards. The earlier awards announced were those voted by the coaches in each fall sport.

Volleyball

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM FIRST TEAM

Dayna McCue, Franklin


HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM THIRD TEAM

Caroline Maguire, Franklin
Beth Neal, Franklin

FHS Panthers

For the full listing
http://www.hockomocksports.com/awards/volleyball/2015-2/

Field Hockey

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM FIRST TEAM

Taylor Reutlinger, Franklin
G – Sam Jones, Franklin

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM SECOND TEAM TEAM

Kenzi Pleshaw, Franklin
Annie Walsh, Franklin


UNDERCLASSMAN OF THE YEAR

Annie Walsh, Franklin

In her freshman campaign, Walsh netted nine goals and had seven assists. Walsh had four game-winning goals for the Panthers, who only lost three games all season.

For the full listing for Field Hockey
http://www.hockomocksports.com/awards/field-hockey/2015-2/