Wednesday, December 9, 2015

News from the Franklin Neighbor Brigade

From Linda Gagnon, Franklin chapter leader of the Neighbor Brigade:
"Franklin Neighbor Brigade (NB) is active in the community presently operating with 203 volunteers. 
With varying month's of busyness, the brigade handled close to 300 requests this year. Additionally, there have been many extra moments that volunteers went above and beyond for their neighbors. What has been heart warming, is the giving focus especially during the holidays and the extra love to check in on recipients after they have moved out of crisis and adjusting to what we have called "the new normal". 
The illustration below shows the kinds of crisis NB takes part in. 
activity breakdown across the full Neighbor Brigade
activity breakdown across the full Neighbor Brigade

"Across the Neighbor Brigade network, we have served 3,210 requests for the year! 
We celebrate the impact this has brought to many of our recipient lives including our volunteers who often share like the following statement 
"I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate being a volunteer for Neighbor Brigade. The feeling that I get when dropping off a meal, a note, and a little extra cheer has left a mark on me. It has been a great experience for me and also for my children."


If you want to help with the Franklin Neighbor Brigade, visit their webpage
http://www.neighborbrigade.org/1-public/chapters/?chapter=FranklinMA


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You can find the full newsletter from the Neighbor Brigade headquarters:


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Newsletter

December 2015

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Director's Letter

As Neighbor Brigade celebrates our fifth anniversary in 2015, we couldn't be prouder of how far we've come since Pam Manikas Washek first harnessed the power of "neighbors helping neighbors" in 2010. From one small band of Wayland neighbors stepping forward with meals, rides, home visits, pet care and more for families in crisis, Neighbor Brigade now boasts 5,000 volunteers in 29 chapters across eastern Massachusetts from Charlestown and Needham to North Attleboro and West Bridgewater. Our chapters not only step forward year-round in times of immediate crisis, but as you will see below many of our chapters have initiated gift-collections and food drives for families and individuals that need a little extra support over the holidays. These spontaneous acts of kindness by our chapters - over and above our core mission - give us further resolve to continue strengthening Neighbor Brigade for many years to come.
We are at an important junction for the organization. In the first half of 2016 we hope to launch new chapters across Massachusetts and beyond, broadening our service area to help neighbors in need. But to do this we need your help. With each new chapter funding is even more critical to sustain and grow our programs: Donations support our software platform, chapter leader support and outreach materials, staffing, and other necessities down to office supplies and technical support. Your donation to our upcoming annual appeal will ensure the continuation of Pam Washek's vision for the growth of Neighbor Brigade as a household name.
We are grateful to the individuals and corporation that stepped forward to support our Pam's Run event back in October, and we hope you consider a renewed gift this holiday season to keep our programs running at full speed.
Wishing you happy and healthy holidays,
Stephanie Lawrence

Contact Us:


Neighbor Brigade
P.O. Box 248
Lexington, MA 02420
781.325.8580

Media Inquiries: press@neighborbrigade.org
General Questions: info@neighborbrigade.org
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Neighbor Brigade  |  P.O. Box 248  |  Lexington, MA 02420  |  781.325.8580
www.neighborbrigade.org  |  info@neighborbrigade.org

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FHS Peer Leaders collecting through Dec 11th


FHS Peer Leaders collecting for Dec 2015
FHS Peer Leaders collecting for Dec 2015
"Attention FHS Parents!

Please consider making a cash or check donation to "Light up a Life"!

Light up a Life is a charity FHS Peer Leaders runs with the Santa Foundation to raise money and purchase Christmas gifts for local families in need.

Every penny counts!

FHS Peer Leaders are collecting from students until this Friday, Dec 11th.
This one last push will help FHS Peer Leaders to reach their total goal!

Checks payable to Town of Franklin.

Thank you!"


FHS Music Department Winter Concert - Dec 9 - 7:00 PM


Wednesday, December 9th at 7:00pm in the Auditorium 
Close to 200 students performing in Chorus, Select Chorus,Orchestra, Concert Band and Wind Ensemble

FHS Music Department Winter Concert - Dec 9 - 7:00 PM
FHS Music Department Winter Concert - Dec 9 - 7:00 PM


The link to the FHS Daily News feed as shown in the screen grab can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1REiMQYV0i_jZ7LY_0haAy4_un1oa-sbf1gg-37BLzxk/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Franklin, MA: School Committee - agenda - Dec 8, 2015

Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

AGENDA
"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which
may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed
and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent
permitted by law."


1. Routine Business

the key to learning
the key to learning

  • Citizen’s Comments
  • Review of Agenda
  • Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the October 27, 2015 meeting, the November 10, 2015 Organizational meeting and the November 30, 2015 training session.
  • Payment of Bills Dr. O’Malley
  • Payroll Mrs. Douglas
  • FHS Student Representatives
  • Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman


2. Guests/Presentations


  • Best Buddies Grants – Sue Streeter
  • Snow Presentation – DPW
  • PARCC / MCAS Update – Joyce Edwards


3. Action Items

1. I recommend approval for the Parmenter Elementary School 5th Graders to travel to The Vets in Providence, RI on Tuesday, April 12, 2016 for a concert.
2. I recommend approval for the Kennedy Elementary School 3rd and 5th graders to travel to the Vets in Providence, RI on Thursday, April 14, 2016 for a concert
3. I recommend approval of the following FHS Sports Trips:

1. FHS Boys Ice Hockey Team to Woonsocket, RI for a 3- day competition 12/28, 29 and 30, 2015 at Mount St. Charles.
2. FHS Wrestling Team to Bristol, RI on 12/12/15 for the Mount Hope Invitational Tournament.
3. FHS Boys Ice Hockey Team to Providence College on 12/18/15 for a game vs. Canton.
4. I recommend the recommendation of Mrs. Minkle to declare 13 broken music stands as surplus.
5. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.00 from BJ’s Wholesale Club for districtwide in-house enrichment.
6. I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000.00 from Alma R. DeBaggis for a scholarship.
7. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,079.26 from O’Connor Studios for supplemental supplies at Davis Thayer Elementary School.
8. I recommend acceptance of the following checks for Keller Elementary School:
1. Samuel Winer Family - $2,000.00 Supplemental Supplies
2. O’Connor Studios - $2,244.57 Supplemental Supplies
9. I recommend acceptance of the three checks totaling $4,547.00 from Oak Street PCC for Field Trips/in-house enrichment.
10. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from Westat for in house enrichment at FHS.
11. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Kennedy PCC for field trips.
12. I recommend acceptance of two checks, totaling $2,175.00 from the Parmenter PCC for Field Trips.
13. I recommend approval of the request of Peter Light for Strive students to travel to the Stadium Theater in Woonsocket, RI for a viewing of Peter Pan on February 21, 2016 as detailed.
14. I recommend approval of the request of Mr. Light for new clubs with associated activity accounts as detailed.


4. Information Matters


  • Superintendent’s Report
  • School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
  • School Committee Liaison Reports


5. New Business


  • To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.


6. Executive Session


  • Purpose of negotiation strategy with FEA


7. Adjourn

Senior Center: Memory Cafe - Dec 17th

December's Memory Café will be held on December 17th from 3:00-4:30 at the Franklin Senior center. This month's cafe will feature two singer/guitarists. Lance Tribe and Tim Sawyer will be playing some popular and some original tunes!

The Memory Café is open to the public and is free of charge. It is offered to Caregivers and their loved ones living with dementia. We offer a safe, supportive environment where we socialize, have refreshments and just enjoy each other's company!

Please call the Senior Center at 508-520-4945 to let us know you would like to attend. We need to have a count for this café! The memory café meets from 3:00-4:30 p.m.


Franklin Senior Center
Franklin Senior Center
For additional information on other services and events at the Senior Center, visit them online  http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index

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. 

*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
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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.




the key to learning
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

phone: 781-234-3336

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Norfolk County Registry of Deeds | 649 High Street | Dedham, | MA | 02026-1831



screen grab of Norfolk Deeds webpage
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
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
Franklin TV
For additional times to view this show, check the show guide updated weekly
http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf