Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Franklin Historical Museum: December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale

The Franklin Historical Museum is open once again with a limited schedule.  We will be open on Sundays only until further notice, 1:00PM-4:00PM.  
 
In keeping with the present COVID-19 protocols masks are required and social distancing is monitored. 
 
We invite you visit our newly revamped Gift Shop with many new items with a Franklin theme.  Our popular tree ornaments are back, this year with two designs. Don't miss your chance to purchase the Franklin Library ornament and the Downtown Water Trough ornament before they sell out. 
 
From all of us at the Franklin Historical Museum we wish you an your families safe and Happy Holidays. Visit us at 80 West Central Street, Franklin MA. The museum is ADA compliant and admission is always Free. Donations are gratefully accepted.
 
 
December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale
December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale


FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season

Via HockomockSports.com, we share the fall sports results for Franklin High School on Monday, Nov 16
 
Girls Soccer = Consolation Rounds = Mansfield, 1 @ Franklin, 0 – Final 
– Cathryn Cooney won the game and completed a season sweep for the Hornets, scoring from the penalty spot with 12 minutes left in the game. Franklin coach Tom Geysen called it a well-played, physical game from both teams. 

For other results around the Hockomock League  


FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season
FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season

Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters

With the 20552 votes cast, this was the largest single total in Franklin, MA history. However, they represent 83% of the registered voters and in the Presidential election of 2016, we turned out 86%.
 
 
or below

  ...  

 

Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters
Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters

 

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

Keep an eye open for the new Keep It Local signs in the windows and on the doors of many Franklin businesses. The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) has been distributing the signs to remind people of the importance of continuing to support our local establishments who have been hit so hard by the pandemic. Residents and businesses are invited to take photos with the signs and post them on Facebook and Instagram. Tag the FDP on those posts and the FDP will share them on its social media.

"We need to keep the focus on our local businesses, not only during the holiday season, but throughout the winter,” said FDP Executive Director Lisa Piana. “The Partnership reminds members of the community to spend locally whenever possible.“

If you would like to support local Franklin businesses, join the FDP as a resident member for only $25 a year. Visit the FDP website or email downtown.franklin@yahoo.com for more information.

The FDP is a non-profit 501©3 organization made up of nearly 300 residents, business owners and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org

 
Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses


Simplicity and Differentiation Workshop for job-seekers - discount code

Via Ed Lawrence:

I have an update for the workshops I previously posted; a discount code for you.
==============================================

More details and to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/simplicity-and-personal-brand-for-job-seekers-tickets-128648026711

Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers
by Stephen Melanson, President of Melanson Consulting

In this 2-session package, learn Simplicity, Personal Brand, Differentiation, and the confidence that comes from focus and clarity.

Thursday December 10th;  1pm - 2pm EST

*****Save $10 - At registration, use Code:  December     ********

Stephen Melanson, the corporate branding specialist, has announced a two-session workshop for job-seekers.

Dec 10 and 17 - 1-2:00 PM ET


If you're looking for your next professional role, you have to break away from the pack and be clear about your value. And if it's not simple enough, it won't work as well as you need.

Why would an employer be crazy to not hire you? Do you know? Can you verbalize it in about 5 seconds, or describe it in a few words?

In this two-session package, we'll cover:

  • The rules for 'Simplicity' as a business tool
  • What 'Verbal Branding' is, and how to use it
  • How to differentiate and not commoditize yourself
  • Building a strategy for job seeking that works
  • Viewing the effort to sell yourself
  • How to be more effective in less time
  • The scary, critical truth about being memorable
  • Confidence and a little courage
Register via Eventbrite:

TESTIMONIAL QUOTE: Conference Speaker for Top 5 Asset Management firm worldwide: Annual Summit, 2019 "Yours was the only session to get a perfect score from the audience."

NOTE: There are no refunds for this package. Please be sure you can attend before signing up.

To learn more about Stephen Melanson:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmelansonconsulting/

 

Job Search Workshop: "Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers"
Job Search Workshop: "Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers"

Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2

Legal Notice
Franklin Tax Hearing
Notice Of Public Hearing
Property Tax Classification


The Franklin Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Council Chambers in the Municipal Office Building, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA on Wednesday evening, December 2, 2020 at 7:10 P.M. on the issue of allocating the local property tax levy among the 5 property classes for the Fiscal Year 2021. The hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion of local property tax policy. Interested taxpayers may present oral or written information on their views.

Prior to the setting of the tax rate, the Town Council must adopt a Residential Factor following which the Council selects the percentage of the levy to be borne by Commercial and Industrial and Personal Property.

This meeting will be done remotely via the “ZOOM” platform. Residents can visit the Town Website (Franklinma.gov) and click on the Town Calendar for up to date information on how to access the meeting. If you have any questions, please call the Town Administrator’s Office at (508) 520-4949.

 

Submitted by,

Alecia Alleyne
Licensing Administrator

 

Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2
Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2

Monday, November 16, 2020

Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th

Business Listening Session for Monday - 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th

Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th
Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th


Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29

Due to the pandemic we are changing the format of Santa on the Common. A Drive By is planned where you can see Santa in your car. You must follow these simple rules:
  1. Santa will be on the corner of Main and High St. 
  2. You family must enter by Union St. and exit Main St.
  3. You and your family must wear masks
  4. Before you see Santa give your Christmas list to the person before Santa
  5. When you are in front of Santa you can wave and greet him and he will give you a souvenir of the event
  6. After you have greeted Santa you will be given a gift certificate for a treat 
  7. We hope you join us, for Santa wants to be able to see  you before his magical flight
When?
Sunday - November 29, 2020 - 4:00 PM



Download a copy of the flyer as a reminder

Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29
Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29


Watch "Finding Easy Walks Wherever You Are: Episode 4" on YouTube

Marjorie Turner Hollman asked me to join her in exploring the Franklin Sculpture Park and our walk was recorded. You can join us for the about 30 minute conversation while leisurely walking around the Sculpture Park.

Her blog post about our walk and the video


The Boston Globe featured her in a recent article

In September, we shared a conversation with Marjorie that you can listen to here

Other videos in the Easy Walks series can be found   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRF7rPOnQu8LcznPFbScrPA


 



A photo of the Dean College dance group performing in 2015
A photo of the Dean College dance group performing in 2015


The Sculpture Park decorated for Halloween in 2019

Photos from 2014 when the Sculpture Park opened

Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM with focus on Retail, Personal Services & Fitness Industries

Thank you for your interest in joining our upcoming Business Listening Session on Monday, November 16th at 6:30 PM.  Our focus for the evening will be the Retail, Personal Services & Fitness Industries.  We are looking forward to hearing from you and learning ways in which the Economic Development Committee and the Town of Franklin can help support your businesses during these difficult times.  We are also looking to the future and hoping to hear feedback and ideas to plan for 2021 and beyond.  

Our goal is truly to listen and learn from our businesses.  We encourage you to come with questions, ideas, strategies, and feedback.


Please reach out with any questions.  

Thank you
Anne Marie 

Anne Marie Tracey
Marketing & Communications Specialist 

The business listening flyer can be found here

Recordings of the prior listening sessions are available


Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM
Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM


FHS cross country individual results for Hockomock Championships 2020

The individual results for the FHS cross country teams at the Hockomock Championships. Both teams finished 2nd to Oliver Ames. 

Franklin Boys Cross Country

1 2. 12 Nicholas Calitri 16:07.48 Franklin
2. 8. 11 Griffin Sieczkiewicz 17:46.05 Franklin
3. 10. 12 Declan Walmsley 18:00.74 Franklin
4. 17. 12 Alex Towle 18:10.91 Franklin
5. 18. 12 Joshua Anderson 18:11.98 Franklin
6. 27. 11 Clancy Golden 18:23.20 Franklin
7. 37. 12 John Attinello 18:41.73 Franklin
8. 45. 12 Joseph Zercie 19:01.58 Franklin
9. 56. 11 Connor Kucich 19:24.84 Franklin
10. 61. 12 Alec Hanley 19:34.66 Franklin

Franklin Girls Cross Country

1. 8. 12 Angelina Perez 21:20.11 Franklin
2. 16. 11 Charlene Peng 22:09.04 Franklin
3. 17. 12 Sydney Hawkins 22:10.07 Franklin
4. 20. 9 Alexandra Batla 22:14.65  Franklin
5. 28. 10 Ashley Tighe 22:41.18  Franklin
6. 31. 11 Tarah Agati 22:52.28  Franklin
7. 35. 11 Liliana Duffy 23:09.64  Franklin
8. 36. 11 Caitlin Casey 23:10.34  Franklin
9. 43. 10 Emma Nelson 23:37.93  Franklin
10. 55. 10 Ruth Ann Mulvey 24:15.92  Franklin

Via HockomockSports.com


FHS cross country results for Hockomock Championships 2020
FHS cross country results for Hockomock Championships 2020


Annual Community Thanksgiving Service - Nov 22 - 7:00 PM

Join us on Sunday, November 22 at 7 PM for our Annual Community Thanksgiving Service, “How We Give Thanks.”

All are welcome. The event will be live-streamed:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5085285348

May the blessings of Thanksgiving be yours in abundance!



Annual Community Thanksgiving Service - Nov 22 - 7:00 PM
Annual Community Thanksgiving Service - Nov 22 - 7:00 PM


Register O’Donnell Promotes Foreclosure Assistance Programs

Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reminded Norfolk County homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage or facing foreclosure that there are consumer programs available to help them out.

Register O’Donnell stated, “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great deal of upheaval in all our lives. Some more than others. Some of our neighbors have been furloughed or lost their jobs all together due to the economic impact resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In the beginning of the pandemic, policy makers at the state and federal levels recognized the impact the pandemic was having on the ability of many to pay their mortgages and rents. A moratorium was put in effect which suspended foreclosure and eviction proceedings. However, this moratorium expired on October 17th.”

“While the pandemic has been ongoing,” stated O’Donnell, “The Norfolk Registry of Deeds has been working in close cooperation with Attorney General Maura Healey’s office 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”). We are very sensitive to how this pandemic has caused upheaval in people’s lives, and want to do our part to ensure compliance with the CARES Act.”

To help those facing issues paying their mortgage, the Registry of Deeds has partnered with upstanding non-profit agencies by promoting their services when it comes to mortgage modification and foreclosure programs. Homeowners can contact Quincy Community Action Programs, (617) 479-8181 x-376 or NeighborWorks Housing Solutions at (508) 587-0950 x-46. Another option available is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at (617) 727-8400. O’Donnell stated, “All of these agencies provide a range of assistance from helping with the mortgage modification process, providing legal services, and offering credit counseling. For more information on these and other support options, go to the Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org, click on the Support tab and then click on the subtab that mentions Foreclosure Assistance.”

Register O’Donnell also warned homeowners against falling prey to for-profit companies who offer loan modification and credit counseling services but charge an exorbitant fee. “Even in these times of COVID-19, unscrupulous for-profit foreclosure relief and mortgage modification companies are in some cases preying on vulnerable homeowners. They make unrealistic promises and charge a lot of money for doing so. If one of these companies is telling you something that is too good to be true, it probably is. Please check out any for-profit foreclosure relief and mortgage modification company before entering into a contract with them,” noted O’Donnell.

Concluding his remarks, Register O’Donnell stated, “There are important discussions ongoing at the State House surrounding the foreclosure and eviction moratorium issue. Hopefully, state officials and stakeholders can come to a resolution that satisfies all parties. With the foreclosure and eviction moratorium rescinded, many individuals and families are faced with some very difficult decisions. It is truly tragic that so many are having issues paying their mortgages and facing foreclosure through no fault of their own. If you or a loved one are in this situation, it would be prudent to sit down with a reputable non-profit agency such as Quincy Community Action Programs, NeighborWorks Housing Solutions or the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office to discuss what options are available. The Registry is always glad to help those facing a mortgage delinquency or foreclosure crisis by directing them to one of these fine agencies. Each of these organizations are there to serve your needs in a professional and honorable manner.”

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.

 

Register O’Donnell Promotes Foreclosure Assistance Programs
Register O’Donnell Promotes Foreclosure Assistance Programs

Sunday, November 15, 2020

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 18, 2020

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS    
a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29.This meeting may be recorded by others.
b. Nancy Danello, Temporary Town Clerk

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS   
Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES   

a. October 7, 2020
b. October 21, 2020
c. November 4, 2020

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS   
None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS   
a. Council on Aging - Janet Jewett

6. HEARINGS - 7:10 PM   
Shaw’s Supermarkets, Inc. d/b/a Shaw’s, amendments to a §15 Retail Package Store License, 255 East Central Street, Franklin, MA.

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS   
a. Shaw’s Supermarkets, Inc. d/b/a Shaw’s: Application for multiple amendments to a §15 Retail Package Store License - Change of Officers/Directors and Change of Ownership Interest, for their location at 255 East Central Street, Franklin, MA.

b. La Cantina Winery Company, Farmer Winery, Farmers Market

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS   
National Grid - Ann Malley 

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS   

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION 
  
Resolution 20-65: Request For FY21 Supplemental Appropriations (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-65 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._20-65_sup_app.pdf

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Resolution 20-66:  FY21 Budget Stabilization Transfer (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-66 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/20-66_town_council_fy21_budget_stabilization_transfer_resolution.pdf

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Resolution 20-67: Gift Acceptance - Fire Department, $5,000 (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-67 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10c._gift_fd_dcu_5000.pdf

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-861: Zoning Map Changes on or near Oak Street - First Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-861 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10d._20-861_oak_street.pdf

10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-862: Zoning Map Changes on or near Longhill Road and Pleasant Street - First Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-862 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10e._20-862_zba_longhill_and_pleasant.pdf

10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Bylaw Amendment 20-864: To Amend The Code of the Town of Franklin to Add A New Chapter 16 Community Preservation Committee (CPC) - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 20-864 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10f._20-864_cpc.pdf

11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT  

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS   

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION   

a. To investigate charges of criminal misconduct or to consider the filing of criminal complaints.
b. Discussing Strategy with respect to litigation, because an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigation position of the Board.


ADJOURN   

Note:
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting 

The meeting packet can be found online
 
The agenda can also be found in one PDF file
 
old South Meeting House on Washington St could be a future Community Preservation Act project
The old South Meeting House on Washington St could be a future Community Preservation Act project

 

Celebrating Downtown Franklin and Beyond This Winter

On Saturday, Nov. 21, members of the Franklin Downtown Partnership, Franklin Garden Club, and resident volunteers will decorate downtown Franklin for the holidays with wreaths, greenery and bows provided by Hillside Nurseries. Volunteers will work from 9 AM to noon. The rain date is Nov. 22. Please email emason4234@gmail.com if you are able to volunteer to dress up the downtown for the holidays!

All volunteers will wear masks and maintain appropriate social distancing, said Eileen Mason, chair of the beautification efforts in downtown. 

“We really appreciate the efforts of all our volunteers and the DPW to decorate the area,”  said Mason. “Please come to downtown Franklin to shop for your holiday presents and enjoy the decorations,” said Mason. 

In addition to downtown decorations, the FDP is inviting everyone to participate in “Light Up Downtown Franklin and Beyond” with lights and winter decorations in downtown businesses and beyond from Nov. 21 to March 1. Thank you to the sponsors of this event: Platinum Sponsor Dean Bank, Gold Sponsors Fenton Financial Group and Keefe Insurance Agency, and Silver Sponsor Station 117 Apartments.

“We want to emphasize the importance of shopping local and supporting Franklin businesses this winter season,” said Roberta Trahan, vice president of the FDP. “Our local businesses are so important to our town and we want to make sure they thrive during these difficult times.”

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a nonprofit, 501©3 organization made up of nearly 300 business owners, community leaders and residents working to stimulate economic development downtown and create a positive impact throughout the area. Go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/ for more information.

The Town Common decorated in Dec 2019
The Town Common decorated in Dec 2019