St John’s Episcopal Church Celebrates 125 years of ministry in Franklin

Join us on Sunday, September 11 at 10 AM for a historical Worship Service (in the style of 1897). You’re even invited to wear period costumes! This will be followed by a festive picnic, viewing of historical artifacts, learning about our connections to the native peoples of the area and the Armenian community in Franklin, creation of a timeline, a scavenger hunt for the kids, and mystery photos to identify. If you’ve ever had a connection to St John’s, or if you think you might like to, please join us for this celebration.

Our community began during the ‘Third Awakening’ of Christianity which followed the civil war. A series of revival meetings held in Franklin by traveling missionaries from the U.S. Army Church during the summer of 1897 inspired a community of local Episcopalians to establish the “St. John's Mission.”  The community held their services in the Baptist Meeting House until 1910 when they succeeded in raising funds to build their own church on School Street.  

The church grew steadily in the early twentieth-century and, by the 1950s, outgrew the School Street sanctuary, which was sold to Dean College.  The mission community formally joined the Episcopal Diocese as a parish in 1961, at which point the diocese recommended that they purchase a larger site out of the town center. 

In 1966, the construction of the present church and parish hall down in the leafy dell at 237 Pleasant St. was completed and celebrated.  Throughout our history, St. John’s has been active in the civic life of the town, particularly in the institution and support of a robust Franklin Food Bank and the success of the interfaith Council. 

The Episcopal Church is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and a branch of the Jesus Movement. We walk the middle way between Catholic and Protestant, seeking God’s presence in Word and Sacrament, as well as in all of Humanity and Creation. 

Our governance is democratic; our priesthood is not restricted to one gender; and many of our priests are married. At St John’s, we welcome all kinds of families: Gay, Straight, Transgender, Single Parents, Divorced, Widowed, Recovering, Seeking, Young, Old, and unsure.

St John’s Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant Street, Franklin

For more information:

Call 508-528-2387 Email Admin@StJohnsFranklinMA.org

Like us on Facebook  and Twitter

See our website at www.stjohnsfranklinma.org  

St John's Episcopal Church

Annual Report Of The Cultural District Committee - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election.

The Franklin Cultural District Committee is a volunteer committee appointed by the Town Administrator and ratified by the Town Council. The committee is comprised of up to seven members, all of whom are town residents. The committee meets as a full group once a month and subcommittees comprised of board members and partners meet as needed.

The FCDC hosts quarterly Partners meetings. These meetings usually rotate among weeknights and locations in town in an effort to provide flexibility in attendance, as work schedules vary throughout the town. During the COVID Pandemic all FCDC meetings have taken place using the Zoom platform. The meetings are publicized through social media, as well as print media. Meeting times, dates and agendas are posted on the Town’s website. All meetings are open to the public.

Members:

Nancy Schoen, Chair John LoPresti, Vice-Chair Pandora Carlucci, Clerk Amy Adams

Jamie Barrett Evan Chelman Roberta Trahan

Mission Statement. 

Our mission is to enrich and inspire our residents and visitors by fostering local cultural, artistic, culinary and historical development aligned with local partners in a defined walkable area, the Cultural District that is easily accessible and serves as the center of economic activity.

Our goals include:

● Actively promoting the arts by attracting local artists and supporting cultural activities within the town;

● Encouraging business and job development;

● Helping to preserve and promote the town’s historical sites and events;

● Building community spirit within Franklin and encourage civic involvement; and

● Helping to create an appealing, attractive, and vibrant destination for tourists.

 

During FY21 the FCDC received a $7,500.00 grant and a $500.00, Festivals Grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The FCDC re-granted the majority of these funds to several Franklin Cultural District Partners through an application review process.

FCDC regularly works to collaborate with Franklin Cultural District’s partners, focusing on supporting and participating in their efforts. In collaboration with many of our Cultural District Partners, FCDC sponsored Franklin’s first ArtWALK Celebration.

During the ArtWALK Celebration weekend, eighteen Franklin artists displayed their artwork in fifteen different businesses in the Cultural District. Throughout the ArtWALK weekend there were many performances held in the Cultural District.

The FCDC was pleased to be able to support the following projects offered to the community by our Cultural District Partners. These events were all part of the weekend ArtWALK Celebration.

● Dave Burnham on behalf of LiveARTS for three piano recitals which were held in the Franklin Historical Museum

● Franklin Art Association purchase of sixty easels which the artists used to display their artwork in fifteen businesses throughout the Cultural District

● Caleigh Keating and Bree Comeau, Children’s Librarians at the Franklin Public Library for a performance of the Hodge Podge puppet on the Franklin Town Common

● Raye Lynn Mercer on behalf of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX Theater and the Franklin School for the Performing Arts for a tent that was used for many performances during the summer

● Dale Kurtz, Veterans’ Agent for the Town of Franklin a grant for engraving on the Veterans’ Walkway

● Franklin Public Schools Music Department Master Class for students and a performance on the Town Common featuring violinist Sarah Whitney, accompanied by Franklin High School musicians

● 67 Degrees Brewing for a visual art demonstration and three musical performances during the ArtWALK Celebration 

● Franklin Downtown Partnership for the installation of the Ladybug sculptures.

In the spring of 2021, the FCDC received a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council. With this grant the FCDC was able to sponsor two concerts. The first concert was a cello recital featuring Franklin resident, Brent Selby. This recital was recorded by Franklin TV, was live streamed on Facebook and was also broadcast on the local cable several times for viewing by the entire Franklin community. The second concert was a viola recital featuring Don Krishnaswami which was held at THE BLACK BOX Theater. At this performance Mr. Krishnaswami performed the premiere of Julian Grant’s Suite for Solo Viola. The Franklin Cultural Council also sponsored a concert on the Town Common featuring the Latin, Jazz Band Mark Shilansky and “Join the Group”.

Beginning in June 2020 the FCDC began publishing a monthly electronic newsletter. During the past year, the number of newsletter subscribers has more than doubled. Franklin Cultural District Newsletter highlights include:

● What’s Happening in the District

● Cultural Partners’ Updates

● Cultural District News

● Beyond the Cultural District

The newsletter has enabled the Cultural District Committee to share important Cultural District news and events with a wide audience. All editions of the FCD Newsletters can be found on the Franklin Cultural District website, https://www.franklinculture.org/.

 

● Twitter @franklin culture

● Instagram @franklinculture

The Franklin Cultural District Committee will continue to support and promote the arts throughout the Franklin Community.

Respectfully submitted, 

Nancy Schoen

FCDC Chair

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Register O’Donnell Reports on July Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that the July 2022 numbers relative to Norfolk County recordings indicate a continuing decrease in overall real estate activity compared to the July 2021 numbers but show a marked increase in average sale prices.

“Our data indicates that the Norfolk County real estate numbers in July demonstrate a continued slowdown in the market compared to 2021 and a slight decrease from the month of June,” noted Register O’Donnell. “There were 10,884 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in July, a 35% decrease from July, 2021 and a decrease of 16% from June, 2022”.

“The number of deeds for July 2022, which reflect real estate sales and transfers, both commercial and residential, show a decrease of 26% from July, 2021 and a decrease of 21% from the previous month. However, sale prices continue to rise. The average sale price in July was $1,220,594, a 20% increase compared to July 2021 and a slight 3% increase from June. Total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing 11% from one year ago and decreasing 19% from last month,” noted the Register.

Overall lending activity show a pronounced trend downward for the month of July. A total of 1,886 mortgages were recorded during the month, a significant decrease of 45% compared to a year ago and a decrease of 19% from June. “It appears that the increase in the mortgage interest rates and the fact that many consumers have already refinanced continue to impact mortgage activity,” noted O’Donnell.

A continuing cause for concern in Norfolk County is the number of pending foreclosures. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely watching the foreclosure market. In July, there were 9 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, four more than in July, 2021 and two more than in June.  However, there were 21 Notices to Foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, recorded in July, up significantly from only 5 recorded in July 2021. “The dramatic increase in the number of these notices is alarming. It indicates that more of our neighbors are facing financial challenges going forward”, said O’Donnell.  “We will continue to monitor these numbers.”

For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950 to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Register O’Donnell stated, “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance.”

 

Homestead recordings by owners of homes and condominiums decreased again this month at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.   There was a 23% decrease in homestead recordings in July 2022 compared to July 2021. “The reduction in recorded Declarations of Homestead from July, 2021 is not too surprising where the sales of homes continue to level off, but all homeowners, not just new purchasers, should keep in mind that a recorded Declaration of Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000,” noted O’Donnell. “We want to see folks protecting the biggest asset most of us have, our homes.  I would urge anyone who has not availed themselves of this important consumer protection tool to consider doing so.  The recording fee is only $36. Feel free to visit the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org  to get more information on homesteads and to make sure you have taken advantage of this protection.”

Register O’Donnell concluded, “July real estate activity in Norfolk County continues to show a decline from last year. We still see the increase in sale prices from last year as indicating a continuing lack of available real estate inventory but looking at the numbers from last month, it appears the market may be starting to cool down a bit.”

The Registry of Deeds is open to the public. Registry personnel are processing in-person recordings as well as electronically filed recordings. The volume of documents recorded electronically for many of our institutional users continues to increase. We are also receiving documents in person, via regular mail, Federal Express, UPS and from the outside drop-off box at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.”   

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 Reports on July Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County

Annual Report Of The Town Council - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election.

The Town Council is the holder of all general, corporate, legislative, and appropriation powers of the Town of Franklin. On behalf of the Town Council, I submit our annual report for fiscal year 2021.

Franklin Town Council 

Tom Mercer, Chair
Robert Dellorco, Vice Chair
Glenn Jones, Clerk 

Matthew Kelly 

Deborah Pellegri 

Melanie Hamblen 

Andrew Bissanti 

Brian Chandler
Eamon McCarthy-Earls (Resigned - September 2020) Cobi Frongillo (Elected - December 2020)

Budget Subcommittee
The Budget subcommittee is Chaired by Councilor Matthew Kelly. Subcommittee members are Thomas Mercer, Deborah Pelegri and Melanie Hamblen.

The subcommittee had a total of 4 meetings in FY21 and approved a balanced budget for FY21.

Economic Development Subcommittee

The Economic Development Subcommittee is chaired by Melanie Hamblen. Members of the committee are Glenn Jones, Andrew Bissanti, Eamon McCarthy-Earls (through September 2020), Brian Chandler, and Cobi Frongillo (December 2020 - present).

A special thank you to Councilor Brian Chandler who stepped in to serve on EDC while a special election commenced. As of January 2021 Cobi Frongillo has stepped in to serve on the Economic Development Subcommittee.

Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town Council had a very active and productive year preserving and growing the local economy. As COVID-19 had a devastating impact on many local restaurants, the Town Council voted to give the Town Administrator authority to grant temporary outdoor dining licenses as allowed by the ABCC. This change allowed for restaurants to have outdoor dining in order to comply with COVID-19 regulations. Outdoor dining was further extended into the fall season and eventually extended for the entirety of the declared state of emergency in Massachusetts to give many struggling restaurants the opportunity to keep their doors open.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic the Council approved a Temporary Bylaw Amendment for the Municipal Service Fees Section A to reduce 2021 Annual License Fees by 25% for all Section 12 Common Victualer Licenses for the 2021 renewal period only, after which the full fees shall be reinstated. This was an effort to alleviate some of the financial burdens on local restaurants.

The Council also approved state Farmer Series Section 19 licenses for the first ever craft brewery and first ever craft distillery in Franklin and continues to improve the current bylaw to attract similar businesses. The introduction of Farmer Series licenses to town has provided a much needed economic boost.

The Economic Development Subcommittee held a series of five Business Listening Sessions with Business owners, key stakeholders and citizens to discuss needs, ideas and strategies to improve Franklin's Economic Development, Marketing and communications. These sessions focused on:
● Downtown Franklin, the Crossing, and Franklin Cultural District
● Restaurants, Hotels and Hospitality
● Retail, Personal Services and Fitness
● Industrial Parks and Manufacturing
● Real Estate, Construction and Housing.

Capital Budget Subcommittee
The Capital Budget Subcommittee is Chaired by Councilor Debbie Pellegri and has members consisting of Robert Dellorco, Matthew Kelly, and Brian Chandler.
 
The Capital Budget Subcommittee recommended that the full Town Council appropriated:

Capital Round 1:
● School - Vehicles, Infrastructure, technology & Equipment - $200,000
● Facilities - Infrastructure - $500,000
● Fire - Equipment & Technology - $127,535
● Police - Vehicles, Equipment, Technology - $299,675
● Public Works - Infrastructure & Vehicles - $415,000
● Water Enterprise - Vehicles, Infrastructure, Technology & Equipment - $753,000
● Sewer Enterprise - Infrastructure & Vehicles - $506,000

Capital Round 2:
● Finance - Budget Stabilization - $137,000
● Public Works - Road & Infrastructure, Snow & Ice Personnel/Expenses, Vehicle - $182,058
● Technology - Sonic Firewall Upgrade & Licenses - $219,489
● School - Security Expansion - $32,000
● Treasurer/Collector - Software - 25,000
● Animal Control - Vehicle - $20,000
● Facilities - Police Station Study - $150,000

Ad Hoc Stormwater Committee
The Ad Hoc Stormwater Subcommittee is chaired by Melanie Hamblen and has members consisting of Robert Dellorco, Glenn Jones and Eamon McCarthy Earls. The subcommittee held four Community Information Sessions to educate the community on the facts and financial burdens of stormwater. These sessions were held at various times, days of the week and locations to be able to accommodate all who wanted to attend. However due to the COVID-19 pandemic one session which would have been held at the library was cancelled. A formal recommendation is being discussed in 2021 at the Town Council level about how to finance this unfunded mandate from the federal government (EPA).
 
More information on stormwater can be found here: https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division.

Other
The Franklin Town Council unanimously supported the authorization to add the Community Preservation Act to the November 2020 ballot. The passing of this Act would result in a 2% surcharge on real property to begin in FY21 for the purposes of acquisition, creation, preservation, and rehabilitation of open space, historic resources, land for recreational uses, and support of community housing. CPA previously failed at the ballot in 2007 with a 56.5% voting no. However, 58% voted yes in 2020. Thank you to the citizens of Franklin for investing in your future by agreeing to pay more to protect open space, ballfields, parks, affordable housing, and historical preservation.

The Council established a Community Preservation Committee consisting of one member of the Conservation Commission, one member of the Historical Commission, one member of the Housing Authority, one member of the Recreation Advisory, one member of the Planning Board and four at large citizens.

The Town Council celebrated the completion and opening of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) Prospect Street Tunnel in October of 2020 during a ribbon cutting with supporters, Representative Jeff Roy, Senate President Karen Spilka, Senator Becca Rausch, Town and state officials.

The Town Council continues to work with the Senior Center/ Council on Aging and the Administration on educating the community and increasing awareness and understanding of the Dementia Friendly initiative.

The Plastic Bag Prohibition Bylaw passed and went into effect in July 2020 with the option for local businesses to apply for a three month compliance extension for economic hardship.
 
The Town Council signed a 36 month contract with consultant Colonial Power Group and electricity supplier Dynegy Energy Services to design, implement, manage, and supply its electricity program. This program is designed to reduce the community's carbon footprint, enhance individual homeowner choice for electricity rates and achieve more stable pricing.

The Town Council voted to renew the Comcast Cable License Agreement. The renewal term for this agreement will be from December 2, 2020 to December 1, 2030. In this agreement Comcast has agreed to a discount for qualified Senior Citizens 65 or older as well as $2.00 off its monthly “Extra” Service Level or that Digital Level of Service.

The Council approved a balanced budget and worked with the Town Administration on obtaining a five year capital plan for all departments including the Water and Sewer Enterprise funds.

Several Zoning Bylaw and traditional Bylaw amendments were approved in FY21 consisting of various lot line cleanups throughout town, changes to former bylaws to comply with the towns MS4 Permit and Stormwater management plans, and updates to the Fire Departments ALS/BLS and Mileage rates.

The Town Council determined a water rate increase to prepare for the water treatment plant and the reconstruction of wells 3 and 6. This is a $12 million dollar project that will add 720K GPD for public safety, preservation of the water supply and potential for future economic growth.

The Town accepted over $224,000 worth of donations in the 2021 fiscal year. These donations helped to support various Town Departments.

The Council successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. In the early months of the pandemic the Town Council held remote virtual meetings using the ZOOM platform. Starting July 29th Council members and select staff hosted meetings in the Council chambers and broadcast them over television live streams, citizens were able to participate in the meeting using the zoom platform.
 
Finally, on behalf of the entire Town Council, I would be remiss if I did not thank all of the employees of the Town of Franklin for their tireless dedication, innovation and work during the year of 2020/2021 dealing with the global COVID-19 pandemic. We have been impressed and blessed with the incredible staff we have to keep the organization moving forward on all of the Town’s goals. Thank you!

It is a pleasure to serve my fellow citizens and to submit this annual report on behalf of the Franklin Town Council for your review.

Sincerely, 

Thomas Mercer Chairman, 

Franklin Town Council 

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town Council - FY 2021

Call the Senior Center to participate in the Memory Café Wednesday August 17 at 1 PM

Hello All,

We hope that you will join us at the Franklin Senior Center this Wednesday, August 17 at 1 PM for our "Where's The Toast" Memory Café.  

Our café is free and open to anyone with memory loss, their caregivers, family and friends. Please RSVP 508-520-4945.

We look forward to seeing you,

Ariel

Memory Café Wednesday August 17 at 1 PM

--

Ariel Doggett

Respite Coordinator

Supportive Day Coordinator

"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll

There is no act of kindness too small

Franklin Library: Documentary Film Night on August 16 has been CANCELLED

Documentary Film Night on Tuesday, August 16 has been canceled. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Shared from Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/franklin-library-documentary-film-night-august-16th-cancelled

Documentary Film Night at the Library: August 17 - CANCELLED

Shopping scams are in session for back-to-school shopping

Shopping scams are in session for back-to-school shopping By Andrew Rayo Back-to-school season can be stressful for many kids and their parents — especially when scammers are back to work with online school shopping scams. But there are ways to get your school shopping done while avoiding scams that cost you valuable time and money. Read more ->  https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2022/08/shopping-scams-are-session-back-school-shopping

Shopping scams are in session for back-to-school shopping

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Tuesday, Aug 16, 2022

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Tuesday

9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM  Jazz Journey – with Pamela Hines
2 hours. An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era

11:00 AM 2 PM and 8:00 PM SAFE Radio– Jim Derick and Dr. Anne Bergen Addressing issues of Drug Abuse Disorder 

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = TUESDAY

7:00 am Care For Ukraine

9:00 am It Takes A Village: 40 Percent Club

10:00 am Frank Presents: Kim Driscoll

11:00 am Senior Connection: COVID Updates

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs

12:30 pm Sandhya: Eclairs

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Healthy Pizza Crusts

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 8

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Spring 2019 Show 2

3:30 pm FAA: Art From The Heart

4:00 pm Whole Health Visions: Cheryl Bagangan

4:30 pm Extended Play Sessions: Season 10 Show 1 - Tweed funk

5:30 pm Physician Focus: Alzheimer's

6:00 pm Arts Advocacy Day: Marketing

8:30 pm Electric Youth: Electric Youth: Bon Voyage Show 1

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = TUESDAY

7:00 am Public School Event: Concert Hour Day 1

9:00 am Public School Concert: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-14-19

11:00 am Battleship Cove: 3D Print Lab

12:00 pm Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22

2:00 pm It Takes A Village: 40 Percent Club

3:00 pm Cultural District: Brent Selby

6:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Soccer: v King Philip 10-06-21

8:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Soccer: v Milford 10-25-21

10:00 pm FHS Varsity Volleyball: v Lynn Classical 11-05-21

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = TUESDAY

8:00 am School Committee 08-09-22

2:00 pm School Committee 08-09-22

7:00 pm Planning Board: LIVDE, Chambers, 879 5525 9633

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse says "Welcome back" with free Pamela Means concert - Sep 24

Free concert Sep 24 with Pamela Means

Pamela Means September 24th View this email in your browser PAMELA MEANS - Power of the Protest Song Saturday Sep 24 -  8:00 PM  FREE with reservation It has been quite a while since our last concert in February 2020!  There is still a lot of uncertainty to be sure but we are welcoming the community back to the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse with a free concert on Saturday, September 24th, supported by grants from the Mass Cultural Council. "POWER OF PROTEST SONG: OUR SHARED HISTORY & PRESENT DAY" Part performance and part presentation, this family-friendly public event will explore the origin stories and lineages of protest songs, how their meanings and impacts continue to transform through time and space, and how they have inspired – and continue to inspire – movements and cultural shifts within the realms of racial and social justice. Pamela Means is a multi-talented performer, singer, songwriter, composer and producer,. Her multiple honors include being named Falcon Ridge Folk Festival's "# 1 Most Wanted New Artist," "Wisconsin Folk Artist of the Year," "Wisconsin Female Vocalist of the Year," and her politically provocative album, Single Bullet Theory, was voted 2004's "Outmusic Outstanding New Recording." Pamela Means was twice voted "Best Acoustic Act" of the year in her hometown of Milwaukee, WI; and after setting up shop in the bustling 'burbs of Boston, Mass., Pamela was nominated for an "Outstanding Contemporary Folk Artist" Boston Music Award. Means's latest album, Precedent, elegantly addresses a range of themes from the state of the union to the state of the heart. Curve Magazine calls her "one of the fiercest guitar players and politically-rooted singer-songwriters in the music industry today."  She performed at the last Franklin Cultural Festival and has appeared at the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse.  https://www.pamelameans.com/ Proof of vaccination required. Masks strongly suggested. This is a FREE concert but seating is limited. Please email coftix@gmail.com to reserve seats. The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society.  Please visit http://www.circlefolk.org/  for more information.

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

Annual Report of the Treasurer Collector - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

In Fiscal Year 2021, the Treasurer Collector’s office had many staff changes. The first change was our new Assistant Treasurer Collector, Marina Malamud. Marina has demonstrated her ability to learn quickly and has made several improvements since she started. Also, Patti Wyllie retired after 33 years with the Town of Franklin.

The Treasurer Collector’s office went Green! We now offer our residents the option to go paperless and for the residents’ convenience the Town is waiving the ACH fee when paying by electronic check.

Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services, a municipal credit rating agency, affirmed the Town’s AA+ bond rating again this fiscal year.

Standard and Poor’s stated “The rating reflects our opinion of Franklin’s history of balanced finances and strong reserve levels, supported by a very strong, growing and affluent property tax base, in addition to a strong management team that maintains several formalized financial policies and practices.”

During FY 2021, $209,381 was collected in back property taxes, interest and fees. Eighteen (18) property owners paid off all outstanding taxes and redeemed their properties out of tax title. We continue to pursue delinquent taxes through the foreclosure process and there are currently 20 properties in Land Court.

There were 1,615 Municipal Lien Certificates issued by the Treasurer-Collector’s office generating revenue of $80,350. Also collected was $4,673 in fees for duplicate bills and files that we supplied to tax services and escrow agents. During FY21, the Treasurer- Collector’s office printed and mailed 11,841 Real Estate Tax bills and 668 Personal Property Tax bills four times a year. We also sent out 34,152 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax bills, and 42,411 Utility bills. The following Demands were also printed and mailed, 541 Real Estate Tax, 110 Personal Property Tax, and 4,199 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax. There were 2,860 Motor Vehicle warrants issued in FY20. There were one (1) Betterment release (water, sewer and road). We also collected $110,432 for backflow testing and $59,496 for Sprinkler/Hydrant charges.

The Treasurer also acts as the town’s parking clerk. Our deputy collector, Kelley & Ryan Associates of Hopedale, handles the billing and collection of parking tickets. During FY21 we collected $5,163.70 for parking violations.

I would like to thank all town departments for the timely and accurate turnover of fees to the Treasurer-Collector’s office. I also would like to acknowledge my team, I am constantly impressed by your performance. Thank you for using your remarkable talents and skills to fuel our mutual efforts. I am really proud to be part of this team. Finally, I like to thank the residents of Franklin for their kindness and support.

Respectfully submitted,

Kerri A. Bertone 

Treasurer-Collector 

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Franklin Performing Arts Company Casting Children for "The Sound of Music"

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is accepting video auditions from local children for their October production of The Sound of Music through August 19. The Franklin Performing Arts Company at THE BLACK BOX is a professional Equity theater producing musicals, plays, and more, featuring Broadway stars, professional and regional performers, and emerging artists. 

FPAC is casting the seven von Trapp children in the classic musical:  Liesl– female to play 16, Friedrich- male 13 to 14 years old with unchanged voice, Louisa- female 12 to 13 years old, female, Kurt- male 10 to 11 years old with unchanged voice, Brigitta- female 9 to 10 years old, Marta- female 7 to 8 years old, and Gretl- female to play 5 years old. All kids must be strong singers/actors with movement ability. Liesl must be a strong dancer. 

Auditioning children are asked to submit a video of a brief cut of a musical theater song to the submission form found on FPAConline.com under “Auditions.” FPAConline.com also provides a “Self-Tape” guide for those new to video auditions. Audition submissions are due by August 19. In-person invited callbacks will be held on August 23 and 24. Questions can be directed to FPACcasting@gmail.com. 

The Sound of Music runs October 14-23 at THE BLACK BOX. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world's most beloved musical. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," "My Favorite Things," "Do Re Mi," "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," and the title number, The Sound of Music won the hearts of audiences worldwide, earning five Tony Awards and five Oscars. The inspirational story, based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Trapp, follows an ebullient postulate who serves as governess to the seven children of the imperious Captain von Trapp, bringing music and joy to the household. But as the forces of Nazism take hold of Austria, Maria and the entire von Trapp family must make a moral decision. 

FPAC looks forward to viewing auditions from local young performers for these classic roles. To submit auditions, visit the “Audition” page of FPAConline.com through August 19.   https://www.fpaconline.com/auditions-list.php

Franklin Performing Arts Company Casting Children for "The Sound of Music"

Annual Report Of The Franklin Cultural Council - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

The Franklin Cultural Council (FCC) is a grant-making body that allocates funds for projects and programs in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences. The FCC has also chosen to conduct a number of arts-related programs and events throughout the year to support and encourage arts and culture within Franklin.

For FY2021, the FCC again successfully lobbied the Town of Franklin for a steady and level grant- disbursement budget, to support additional programming within the newly demarcated Franklin Cultural District. This additional funding was combined with state- allocated Mass Cultural Council funds—which also saw an increase—allowing the FCC to award a total of

$25,000 in grants supporting 30 arts and cultural events for Franklin residents. These programs included many annual favorites such as performances at the schools and Senior Center, the Middle School Authors Series as well as children’s entertainment at the library. In addition, new programming included hosting weekly music for the Franklin Farmers Market. This was by far one of the most visible representations of our funding this year. The response from the community regarding the new and improved market was overwhelming. Our town common was brimming each Friday with happy community members shopping and enjoying live music.

As was the case for everyone across the Commonwealth and indeed the country, the COVID-19 pandemic had a dramatic impact on the FCC’s programs and events for the fal1 of 2020. The FCC carefully considered the needs of the community and for safe and socially distanced programming. In September and October, the FCC hosted a number of live music performances outside at the Senior Center. Musicians were brought in from the prestigious Berklee College of Music and entertained some of the most vulnerable in our community. Seniors were able to watch from their car, or get up and dance, as many did. Because of the State limitations on large gatherings, two shows were held on each event day to limit the number of participants.

In October, the FCC created a Halloween House Decorating Contest in Franklin. The goals were to offer a distraction to the ongoing pandemic and perhaps some levity and creativity to our community. A surprising 52 houses signed up to compete in the contest and FCC board members drove separately to judge each house. A virtual community map was created and shared far and wide over social media. Winners were chosen and our State Representative, Jeff Roy, kindly handed out awards personally at the winner’s doorsteps. The contest was covered by The Boston Globe and the community has insisted on a “2nd Annual” Halloween House Decorating Contest for 2021.

Once November brought colder weather, all programming moved online. Between November 2020 – April 2021, the FCC hosted ten online “Monday Night Masterclasses”. The masterclasses were hands-on demonstrations of cooking, flower arranging, meditation and paint nights given by professionals in the area. The online classes were given for free to the community and were meant to offer levity and opportunities to be creative during the dark months of a pandemic winter.

We were unable to run the popular spring “Arts Advocacy Day” due to Covid-19. And “ArtWeek”, another well- known statewide event was cancelled indefinitely by the Boch Center.

In September of 2021, the FCC will host the first “Franklin Cultural Festival”. This has been planned on the back of the successful 2019 “Taste of the Arts Festival”. We hope to fill the common with 5,000 participants to enjoy live music and dance, artisan vendors, food trucks and a wine and beer garden. Our late spring plans revolved around getting the parts and pieces of the festival in place.

The FCC continued to grow their social media presence significantly over the past year with regular posts to Facebook and Instagram and by hosting popular online events. Our Facebook page has 1,700 followers and we have worked hard to nurture an engaged audience.

The FCC is looking forward to FY22 and leveraging the momentum we have built over the past few years to serve the community in greater and new ways. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our lives, we are confirmed in our belief that the arts and culture offer a way through fear and anxiety and toward our shared humanity.

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Monday, Aug 15, 2022

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Todd Monjur
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – with Dr. Michael Walker-Jones,
Representative Jeff Roy and Dr. Natalia Linos

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

7:00 am     Battleship Cove: 3D Print Lab 

8:00 am    SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports 

9:00 am     4th of July 2022: Mo Bounce 

12:00 pm    Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs 

12:30 pm    Sandhya: Eclairs

1:00 pm     Cooking Thyme: Apple Crisp

1:30 pm     Pizzapalooza: Healthy Pizza Crusts

2:00 pm    New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 8

3:00 pm    Candlepin New Generation: Spring 2019 Show 2 

3:30 pm     Physician Focus: Alzheimer's

4:00 pm    ArtWeek: Ed Iannuccilli

5:30 pm     Senior Connection: COVID Updates 

6:30 pm     Veterans' Call: Monuments

7:30 pm     Frank Presents: Kim Driscoll

8:30 pm    Concerts on the Common: Northeast Groove

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

7:00 am Public School Concert: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-14-19 

10:00 am Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22

12:00 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18 

2:00 pm SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

3:00 pm Battleship Cove: 3D Print Lab

4:00 pm FHS Varsity Field Hockey: v Central Catholic 11-09-21 

6:30 pm FHS Girls Varsity Soccer: v Milford 10-25-21

8:30 pm Cultural District: Brent Selby 

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 08-08-22

12:00 pm Economic Development 08-10-22

2:00 pm Planning Board: 08-08-22 

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)