Since March 10th when Governor Baker declared a state of emergency to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, most of us have experienced some sort of personal or economic upheaval. We do live in extraordinary times. Despite all this upheaval and uncertainty, Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reports one area of our economy has remained viable, the Norfolk County real estate market.
Register O’Donnell stated, “The COVID-19 state of emergency ordered by Governor Baker recently passed the six-month timeframe. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I am proud to report the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has remained open for the recording of land documents. While the Registry of Deeds building remains closed to the general public, Registry personnel have been able to continue recording land documents. At the beginning of the pandemic, we utilized social distancing, split work shifts, remote access, and use of our disaster recovery site to record documents. With the lifting of some restrictions by Governor Baker, continued practice of social distancing and taking all other necessary steps to ensure the safety of our employees, more of our personnel are now working out of our main building in Dedham. Throughout the pandemic, we have also utilized electronic recording for our institutional users such as banks, law firms and title companies. In addition to electronic recording, users have also had the option to submit documents via regular mail, Federal Express or placing documents in our drop-off box located just outside our main entrance at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.”
Since March 10th when the state of emergency was declared through September 10th, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 87,379 land documents, a 14% increase compared to the same timeframe in 2019. Most of this increase can be attributed to a spike in mortgage recordings. Specifically, 23,607 mortgages were recorded, a significant 57% increase. The total mortgage indebtedness dollar amount of these mortgages was $10 billion. From March 10th through September 10th, 8,910 properties, residential and commercial, were sold in the county, a 9% decrease year over year. However, the average sales price actually increased 4% to $833,279. Total sales volume, again both residential and commercial, for the six-month period was $4.7 billion.
“These sales figures,” noted the Register, “are actually encouraging considering the economic upheaval in general and specifically the high unemployment rate seen in Massachusetts during the pandemic. Many real estate observers are reporting buyers, particularly millennials, leaving the city for the suburbs. Low interest rates are also a factor in many considering buying single family homes. Additionally, many are now working remotely from home and as a result can live farther away from their place of business. A factor in the increased average sales price has been the reduced amount of available housing inventory resulting in this being a seller’s market with prospective buyers competing for limited housing stock. Real estate brokers and agents have reported in some cases this intense competition has actually driven real estate sales prices over the original asking price.”
“The increase seen in mortgage recordings has been a direct result of historically low interest rates. Many of these mortgages are refinancing existing mortgages to reduce term, lessen monthly payments or pay for a home improvement or higher education expense,” stated the Register.
During the March 10th through September 10th period, the number of foreclosure deeds recorded fell 30%. Notice to Foreclose Mortgages, the first step in the foreclosure process, have been curtailed due to a moratorium placed on foreclosures and evictions while the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency has been ongoing. The Norfolk Registry of Deeds has been working with Attorney General Maura Healey’s office in monitoring protections afforded to homeowners affected by the COVID-19 state of emergency through Chapter 65 of the Acts of 2020, Act Providing for a Moratorium on Evictions and Foreclosures During the COVID-19 Emergency as well as protections put in place by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, Pub L. 116-136, (the “CARES Act”).
“One area that needs special attention once the COVID-19 state of emergency has been lifted,” noted Register O’Donnell, “is foreclosure activity not only in Norfolk County but throughout Massachusetts. As a result of the economic upheaval seen during the pandemic, many of our neighbors have lost their jobs impacting their ability to pay their monthly mortgage payments.”
“As Register of Deeds, I have been proud to partner with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950. These non-profit agencies can help anyone facing challenges with the paying of their mortgage. In addition, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD), 617-727-8400 can also help. All of these programs are staffed by knowledgeable professionals who provide assistance to those struggling to pay their mortgages.”
Homestead recordings fell 9% during the March 10th through September 10th timeframe. “A Homestead,” noted O’Donnell, “provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. I urge all Norfolk County homeowners to avail themselves of this important consumer protection tool.”
Concluding his remarks, Register O’Donnell stated, “The last six months have been difficult for individuals, families, employers and employees alike. Despite all the hardship, I am proud of my office’s efforts to keep the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds open for business. The results of these efforts have been a viable Norfolk County real estate market benefiting sellers and buyers of real estate, lending institutions, the real estate legal community and all others with a vested interest in the local real estate economy. By keeping the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds open, recording fees collected have been forwarded to the state and county helping to pay for important public initiatives including education, health care, and police and fire expenses. We are so thankful to our partners in the real estate community and most importantly the citizens of Norfolk County. Their patience with us has been critical to the Registry of Deeds being able to continue its core mission of recording land documents in a safe and secure environment.”
“Unfortunately, we are not done with this pandemic. Please continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask, and take all necessary steps to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Together, we will get through this. Be healthy. Be safe.”
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 and Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, 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 via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Monday, September 21, 2020
COVID-19 and the Norfolk County Real Estate Market
Boston Globe: "Why ranked choice is the wrong choice"
"Though ranked-choice voting has been bruited about for years as a way to improve elections, I never wrote about it because the debate always seemed so abstract. It’s not abstract anymore. Question 2 on the Massachusetts ballot would implement ranked-choice statewide beginning in 2022. If the initiative passes, elections in Massachusetts will change dramatically.
It won’t be a change for the better.
Proponents of ranked-choice voting argue that the current system, in which the candidate getting the most votes wins the election, is unfair. In a two-candidate race, the winner always receives a majority of the votes, but when three or more candidates are on the ballot, it takes only a plurality, not an outright majority, to win. Ranked-choice advocates call that unjust. “Democracy is supposed to be majority rules,” says Evan Falchuk, who ran for governor in 2014 as an independent and now chairs the Yes on 2 Committee. “We should have a system where the majority wins.”
But by definition, ranked-choice voting only applies to elections in which there isn’t a majority winner. On a ranked-choice ballot, voters can list candidates in order of preference, rather than vote for just the candidate they like best. If no candidate gets more than half of the first-place votes, ranked-choice rules trigger a series of automatic do-overs, repeatedly reallocating votes that went to the least popular candidate until an artificial “majority” is created for one of the remaining candidates. Question 2 thus gives some voters multiple bites of the election apple. At the same time, it effectively disenfranchises other voters — those who don’t rank enough candidates for their ballot to last through multiple rounds of tabulation."
Boston Globe: "Why ranked choice is the wrong choice" |
Memory Cafe - September 21 at 2 PM - Invite Link
--
Ariel Doggett
Virtual Program Coordinator
Respite Coordinator
"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll
There is no act of kindness too small
Sunday, September 20, 2020
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 22, 2020
□ Vision Statement □
Pledge of Allegiance
I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments
In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH
A. Personnel Update - Lisa Trainor
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/dip_outcomes_and_preview_2020-2021.pdf
III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy - First Readings
I recommend moving the following Policies to a second reading as detailed:
B. EEAJ - Motor Vehicles Idling on School Grounds
I recommend the Committee appoint Denise Spencer to serve as the Committee's delegate to the annual MASC Annual Meeting of Delegates.
IV. Discussion Only Items
A. None
V. Information Matters
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)
VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items
VII. Consent Agenda
I recommend approval of the minutes from your September 8, 2020 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
B. Approval of Executive Session Minutes for release
I recommend approval of the Executive Session minutes from your September 8, 2020 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA/RN Unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.XI. Adjournment
Franklin Announces Renewable Energy Program To Stabilize Electricity Costs And Lower Carbon Emissions
The Town of Franklin is implementing an electricity program for residents and small business owners designed to reduce the community’s carbon footprint, enhance local control, and achieve more affordable pricing.
The Franklin Community Choice Power Supply Program is an electricity aggregation program that allows for the bulk purchase of electricity for a community on behalf of its residential and small business customers. This type of program was authorized in 1997 by Massachusetts General Law. Electricity customers in Franklin are estimated to collectively save more than $2.0 million over the term of the three-year contract.
Renewable Energy Program
The Town of Franklin was designated as a Green Community in 2018. Its new renewable energy program, which utilizes 100% National Wind Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and aligns with the community’s efforts regarding the use of renewable energy.
By creating this program, Franklin aims to help displace fossil fuel generation and consumption, increase local control in its energy purchasing, and stabilize electricity costs for local residents and small business owners.
Franklin signed a 36-month contract with energy consultant Colonial Power Group and electricity supplier Dynegy Energy Services to design, implement, manage, and supply its electricity program. The Franklin program is slated to begin with the November 2020 meter reads, which will be reflected in ratepayers’ December 2020 invoices.
“In these challenging fiscal times for all families to pay their bills, this is an opportunity to save on electricity costs this winter and residents do not even need to do a thing” said Jamie Hellen, Franklin Town Administrator. “Also, as a certified Green Community, I know many Franklin residents are concerned about our carbon footprint. This new electricity program will allow us to reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources and decrease our carbon emissions, while also stabilizing electricity bills during a difficult economic period.”
By implementing a renewable energy program for electricity, Franklin is helping to meet the Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act goal of 80 percent emissions reduction by 2050.
Ease of Transition
Most electricity customers never notice that their electricity is being supplied by a new source. There is no change to electric meters; all service and billing questions still go to National Grid; and bills are still paid to and processed by National Grid. The only change is that the name of the electricity supplier on the bill will be Dynegy Energy Services.
Franklin electricity customers currently on National Grid’s basic rate plan will be automatically enrolled in Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program unless they decide to opt-out. Importantly, there are no fees for enrollment or cancellation. Franklin customers can enter and leave the Franklin Community Choice Program at will. However, anyone switching from a contract with a third-party supplier may be subject to penalties or early termination fees charged by that supplier. Ratepayers should verify terms before switching.
There will be no change in electricity service received. Franklin customers will continue to receive one bill from National Grid for both supply and distribution of electricity, and National Grid will process all payments. The selected electricity supplier for Franklin’s energy program, Dynegy Energy Services, will be listed under the “Supply Services” heading on residents’ monthly National Grid bills.
Basic Service rates change twice a year or more, depending on rate class. As a result, the aggregation rate may not always be lower than the Basic Service rate. The goal of the aggregation is to deliver savings over the life of the program against National Grid Basic Service. However, such savings and future savings cannot be guaranteed.
Approximately 150 Massachusetts communities, to date, have chosen to develop community choice electricity programs to benefit their residents and small business owners. Note: Residents and business owners with a supplier block on their account must contact National Grid to request that the block be removed to participate in Franklin’s Community Choice electricity program.
The Town and representatives of Colonial Power Group will hold two Zoom information sessions on Thursday, October 1, 2020 at 7 PM and Monday, October 5, 2020 at 10 AM.
The links can be found on colonialpowergroup.com/franklin and
https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/municipal-aggregation
If you are unable to attend, recordings will also be posted to these sites and will be rebroadcast on Franklin TV and the Town’s YouTube page.
For more information on the Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program, you may visit colonialpowergroup.com/franklin or call (866) 485-5858 ext. 1
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/02/municipal-aggregation-program.html
Link to Municipal Aggregation docs on Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/municipal-aggregation-documents
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/03/live-reporting-legislation-for-action.html
Aggregation Presentation doc - March 9, 2016
https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/franklin-community-choice-aggregation-program
FM #350 Town Council Mtg - 9/16/20 (audio)
FM #350 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 350 in the series.
This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Sep 16, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.
Chair Tom Mercer opened the meeting on schedule. In addition to a set of appointments, approval of prior meeting minutes, a discussion on a possible liquor licenses request for Dacey’s Market, there was one key presentation for the Health Dept.
Cathleen Liberty, Health Director, presents an update on the work the Health department and Board of Health conducts for the town.
The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.
This meeting runs just about 1 hour and 45 minutes, so let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of Sep 16, 2020
Audio file: https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HV9TwkVK
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Town Council agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/september-16-town-council-agenda
Health Dept presentation
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8a._board_of_health_presentation_1.pdf
My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/town-council-meeting-recap-sep-16-2020.html
--------------
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/
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"
FM #350 Town Council Mtg - 9/16/20 (audio) |
Franklin Fire Department awarded $138K grant by FEMA
"The Franklin Fire Department is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a @fema #AFG grant in the amount of $138,034. This grant will be used for training." https://t.co/QjEIsLKKvW
https://twitter.com/FranklinMAfire/status/1307393948651081730?s=03
Franklin Fire Department awarded $138K grant by FEMA |
Franklin Senior Center: Email Blast - Sep 18, 2020
Happy Friday!
Karen Alves, thank you for your dedication, passion and drive to help make the Franklin Senior Center into a truly wonderful and welcoming place for our Senior community. You will be missed and the legacy of the incredible space you helped shape will continue to flourish and grow. We hope you come back and visit us all as a guest to enjoy the other side of all the wonderful events you helped create! Wishing you happiness and adventures in your retirement!
Tips
Sleep meditation video https://youtu.be/SoON2W5y0V4
Reduce Caregiver stress with positive self talk
https://dailycaring.com/3-ways-to-reduce-caregiver-stress-with-positive-self-talk/
Tiffany Haddish interviews Dr. Fauci - Uncut full interview not clips. Thank you Steve Sherlock for sharing this wonderful video! https://youtu.be/_FZXfgT_IRg
Music
Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" remix with bottles
Robert Gupta - between Music and Medicine - A TED talk about how music affects us.
Biography Channel - Documentary - The Rat Pack. 2+ hours
Frank Sinatra Spectacular - The Rat Pack Live 1.5 hours of music!
Just for Fun
Eagle Creek Trail https://youtu.be/T5DzGrDp5Xw
Carolyn Scott & Rookie - Dancing with your dog!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqbVbPvlDoM
Here is a wonderful website with links to dozens of Live cams featuring everything from animals to nature to zen cams. Explore and let me know your favorite live cam!
Amazing street art https://youtu.be/K0N4LVynvvM
Humor
Jeanne Robertson - Don't underestimate a 5 year old.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTJM6TsPQ1I
Jamie Lissow - You should never marry a crafty woman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4eH-bak6sg
Kindness Matters
10 animals who showed gratefulness to the humans who saved them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tN4R9_CylI
Saving a dog in Romania. A rags to riches story of happiness and kindness
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZJpkz_oA8o
Attached you will find:
Rat Pack activity page https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dOaRam-ec1qU9BwLAbohqWuX_o1EMhqe/view?usp=sharing
Mind Benders - You have a chance to win a prize! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zAEXbiEOUui8eD-3BXSQGSLenm-p2uo6/view?usp=sharing
Junk Drawer Detective - Can you find all the items mentioned in the poem? https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QIZHq8xYBsgumPhHRMvSbr2bMppjyhLs/view?usp=sharing
Happenings in September
Every Tuesday at 5:30pm Join us for Quarantini time. A fun social hour filled with friendly discussions. Bring your favorite beverage, sit back and chat. Email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the zoom link to attend.
Memory Cafe - Sept. 21 at 2pm and Sept. 30th at 11am.
Tues. Sept. 22nd at 10am (note date change)- TALK FRANKLIN MATTERS with our favorite Franklinite, Steve Sherlock. Discuss Franklin and what is going on in our town. Via zoom, email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend.
Wed., Sept 23rd at 4pm - Caregivers support group - email elaine.owens@verizon.net to attend.
TUES., SEPT 29: 50+ JOB SEEKERS NETWORKING presents: TURN YOUR RESUME INTO A MARKETING TOOL at 10am email susan@sdkelly.com
Wed., Sept 30th at 11am - Memory Cafe - via zoom, email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend.
WED., SEPT 30: POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY with NURSE TRISH at 1:00 p.m. Positive emotions are linked with better health, longer life and greater well being. Learn ways to become more positive! This discussion will take place out-doors at the Center. Space is limited, call to sign up.
Curbside Cafe - Open M-F for curbside pick up lunches. (call ahead or order online)
SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES:
MONDAYS:
BOREDOM BAG PICKUP: We can send you games, books, puzzles, dvds, embroidery kits, yarn or fabric!
TELE-BINGO on Mondays and Thursdays at 1:00 p.m., starts Sept. 14, by conference call. We will send you what you need to play Bingo over the phone. Prizes can be picked up or mailed to you. Conference call-in number is: 508-208-8603. Just call to sign up.
TUESDAYS:
CHAIR EXERCISE with Judith at 10:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CARDIO, STRENGTH & BALANCE CLASS with Judith at 11:00 a.m. on ZOOM. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP (Conference Call) 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m. Call the Senior Center for details to attend.
AUDIO BOOK CLUB (Conference Call) at 1:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Email mgunderson@franklinma.gov or call the Senior Center to attend
QUARANTINI HOUR at 5:30 p.m. with Ariel on Zoom. Email: adoggett@franklinma.gov
WEDNESDAYS:
BLOOD PRESSURE & SUGAR TESTING with Nurse Trish by appointment only.
ZUMBA GOLD with Judith at 11:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION & DONATIONS at 1:30 p.m. Please call to arrange pickup/drop off.
FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. Call for more info.
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom. Link to Caregivers guide email Elaine Owens to attend elaine.owens@verizon.net
THURSDAYS:
CHAIR EXERCISE with Judith at 10:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CARDIO, STRENGTH & BALANCE CLASS at 11:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION GROUP at 10:00 a.m on Zoom. Email Matt Rovendro at:
FRIDAYS:
TOPS (TAKING OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS at 12:30
p.m., via Zoom. The group provides support and encouragement. Join us by emailing: pat-amour@yahoo.com
Metrowest Memory Cafe schedule We are excited to be able to bring you a Memory Cafe EVERY MONDAY starting Sept. 14th! What better way to start off your week then with friendship and music!
Monday Sept. 21st at 2pm - "Grateful Moments Cafe" hosted by Right At Home Boston metro West and Seniors Helping Seniors - email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend. Sing along to your favorite 70s songs! Musician Pam Steinfeld recreates the age of the singer/songwriter. She brings the songs of James Taylor, Carole King, Carly Simon, Eagles, etc. to life - on guitar, piano, and vocals. An award-winning singer/songwriter herself, Pam peppers the show with anecdotes about the artists, songwriters, and often lyrical meaning behind the songs. Come join the party!
Wednesday Sept. 30th at 11am - Memory Cafe hosted by Franklin Senior Center. Featuring the engaging, toe tapping, get up and dance, sing along with us music of Howie Newman. Email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend ALL memory cafes if you aren't already on the list. (date changed due to Yom Kippur)
Staying Connected
Link to the Senior Center - https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc
Link to the Senior Center Calendar -https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/day/2020-07-07
Link to Franklin Matters - https://www.franklinmatters.org/
Link to the Town's webpage - https://www.franklinma.gov/
Love, virtual hugs and good health to you all! We are still here for you! Please feel free to email Donna and I with questions, concerns or just to check in!
Ariel & Donna
Please feel free to share this email with anyone you think might enjoy it. If you want me to add someone to the email blast list just send me a message with their email in it.
REMEMBER:
When searching for information about the Coronavirus, COVID-19 please use caution! Unfortunately there are many false sites that contain viruses and malware that can threaten your computer. Many look like real sites. Your best bet is to go directly to the CDC, WHO or your local government page (links below).
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here
Franklin Senior Center: Email Blast - Sep 18, 2020 |