Franklin Matters

Monday, January 22, 2024

The Spring 2024 brochure is ready for Franklin Recreation classes & programs

Our Spring 2024 Brochure is HERE!

Read up on all the classes and programs we are offering this spring and mark your calendar for February 5, 8:30 AM when registration will open on Franklinma.myrec.com.

Link to download the Spring 2024 Brochure

https://franklinma.myrec.com/info/default.aspx

Town Council recognizes FISH, hears from Franklin Food Pantry & about the Town of Franklin Crisis Intervention Team (audio)

FM #1139 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1139 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares the Town Council meeting held in Council Chambers on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. All 9 members of the Council participated in the Council Chambers.

Quick recap:

Proclamation: FISH of Franklin, the group was recognized for over 50 years of service providing rides to medical appointments for free by volunteers.
Discussion: Franklin Food Pantry Update - Tina Powderly, Executive Director, provided an update on the operations with the new building, meeting increasing needs, and the generosity of the community in support of their work
Discussion: Homelessness Report - Amy Frigulietti, Deputy Town Administrator and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), highlighted work to coordinate better the response by Town departments for the needs of individuals in some crisis. Caught the ears/eyes of some councilors due to the different definitions of homeless among Federal and State agencies
Resolution 24-05: Termination of the Massachusetts Statewide Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund, as well as Dedication of Revenues Thereto, as Authorized by G.L. Chapter 77 of the Acts of 2023, passed by 9-0 vote

The recording runs about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Let’s listen to the Town Council meeting on Jan 17, 2024. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1139-franklin-ma-town-council-mtg-01-17-24

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The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4koHoGH73g

Town Council agenda doc ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_jan_17_2023.pdf

My full set of notes captured via Twitter during the meeting are collected in a single PDF for easier reading -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1srDHwwmM28LbjTIs5NDNHjVBRDW9dTv3/view?usp=drive_link

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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.

If you have interest in reporting on the various Town and School meetings, let me know. Training and mentoring is available.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

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"

Tina Powderly, executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry, provides an update

Homelessness Report - Amy Frigulietti, Deputy Town Administrator and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)

Mark your calendar for the Chipotle fund raiser for FHS on Feb 3, 2024

"Mark your calendars and help support Connect 4 Cancer by going to Chipotle on February 3rd! This will help us raise money to buy ribbons and fund upcoming events.

Be sure to show the flyer when ordering or use the code KKLW7PK, otherwise the money will not go to us."

Shared from -> https://twitter.com/fhs_c4c/status/1748791357626257559

Mark your calendar for the Chipotle fund raiser for FHS on Feb 3, 2024

FHS Gymnastics reach season high performance in Senior Meet

Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports .com, we share the results of the fall sports competition for Franklin High School on Sunday, Jan 21, 2024.

FINAL Franklin 130.05 vs KP/Sharons 136.85

Via FHS Gymnastics

- Franklin may have been defeated by KP/Sharon tonight but what a personal win for Franklin! This team has been working so hard pushing themselves each practice to add in upgrades and working so hard for fighting for each point. Each meet we have always seem to improve in one area or another, but tonight it all came together for the Panthers! Putting up their season high of 130.05!! I was so proud of them watching them step into their confidence and fight for every point! And we got to achieve this on our senior night while competing against KP/Sharon who we always love going against. Fun team, lots of energy and a great time!!

Top 4 in each event.

VAULT - Shout out to our 2 JV slots who continue to improve each meet! Kiera B 7.65 and Ansley 7.8 Varsity all put up highs as well. SO MANY STICKS! Ciara O'Brien 8.35, Makayla Sanders 8.5, Abby Scotland 8.65, Abby Robillard 8.7, Molly Chandler 8.8 and Ryann Chandler 8.8.
BARS - Makayla 6.2, Kendra Love 7.3, Ciara 7.3, and Abby R 7.7.
BEAM - Molly 7.7, Kendra 8.0, Abby R & Ryann 8.2.
FLOOR - Shout out to everyone putting up their highest on floor Molly 8.0, Ciara 8.2, Abby S 8.3, Abby R 8.65, Kendra 8.7 and Ryann 8.85. Also shout out to Abby R putting up her best AA with a 33.25. So excited for the progress this team has made!

Shared from -> https://twitter.com/fhs_gymnastics/status/1749253280075596200

Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 255: Marilee Bramhall of Iola Wines (audio)

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 255

Marilee Bramhall of Iola Wines interview.

In this episode Kim and Mark interview Iola wines creator Marilee Bramhall.

Marilee Bramhall is doing her part to change the wine world's status quo. Although up to 80% of wine purchases in the U.S. are made by women; only 15% of the winemakers worldwide are women. Her company, Iola Wines, champions women vigneronnes who are every bit as talented as their French and Italian brethren by sharing their wines through the Iola Wine Society Wine Clubs.

The idea of Iola Wines came to Marilee Bramhall after years of working in the Washington and California wine industry, studying and traveling the wine regions of Europe, and completing with Highest Honors certifications for French and Italian Wine Scholar and WSET L3 with Merit.

The brand is set apart by a sophisticated style of old-world wines from France and Italy, made with little to no intervention. You’ll often find Marilee hosting wine tastings and educating attendees about the history and stories behind the wines.

You can find Marilee and her wines at www.iolawines.com

Cheers

Kim and Mark

Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 255: Marilee Bramhall of Iola Wines (audio)

#podcast #thewonderfulworldofwine #wine #iolawines #wineeducation

https://soundcloud.com/user-492543397/episode-255-marilee-bramhall-of-iola-wines-interview

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) · Episode 255-Marilee Bramhall of Iola wines interview

Register O'Donnell Reports on 2023 Annual Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reports that Norfolk County recordings for 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity as compared to 2022 with decreases in both the total number deeds and mortgages recorded. However, seasonal trends remained consistent, with a decrease in activity during the winter months and an uptick in the spring and summer months.

In 2023, there were 102,188 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, a 21% decrease from 2022.

Norfolk County recordings for 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity as compared to 2022

"Looking at the 2023 real estate market, I think most would agree that it was a slow year especially compared to 2021 and 2022's busy home sales. Consumers have been facing a limited inventory of available properties along with rising mortgage interest rates. As an example of these indicators property sales in Massachusetts have dropped 22.5% in 2023," remarked Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "However, Norfolk County's decline was less than the statewide average for the year."

Overall, the County's lending activity showed a continued downward trend. A total of 14,598 mortgages were recorded at the Registry in 2023, 37% less than a year earlier.

According to numbers from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the median interest rate of a 30-year fixed-rate conventional loan started at 6.42% in January 2023 and grew to 7.79% by October 2023.

Register O'Donnell noted, "Those who locked in lower interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are less inclined to refinance or buy property at current mortgage interest rates, leading to fewer mortgages being recorded and fewer existing homes on the market. Furthermore, buyers looking for new property may be hesitant to take on a new mortgage with average interest rates still above 7%."

The number of deeds for 2023, which reflect real estate sales and transfers, both commercial and residential, was 15,253 a decrease of 12% from 2022.

"The scarcity of available real estate due to fewer existing homes on the market and new construction not being able to keep pace with demand is making it more challenging for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers who must now deal with the added cost of higher interest rates," stated Register O'Donnell.

Sale prices for 2023 appear to have decreased slightly compared to 2022. The average sale price for all of Norfolk County, both commercial and residential, this year was $1,083,609 an 8% decrease from 2022. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is also down, decreasing by 26% from one year ago.

"I can understand the frustration some homebuyers may be feeling because right now it is a more complicated process for individuals looking to purchase a home and, especially, first-time homebuyers," said Register O'Donnell. "It is more expensive for home buyers because prices are still high relative to 2021 and 2020 values, and to add to this difficulty, there may be multiple people competing for the same property as well as higher interest rate costs."

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In 2023, there were 73 foreclosure deeds recorded, as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in 2022, there were 68 recorded. Also concerning is in 2023, there were 339 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, compared to the 308 recorded in 2022.

"The increase in the number of foreclosure deeds and notices to foreclose is troubling. This could suggest that more of our neighbors may have financial difficulties in the future," said O'Donnell. "We will continue to monitor these figures in 2024."

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 (617-770-2227) 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.

"If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance," said O'Donnell.

Register O'Donnell concluded, "A limited inventory of properties for sale and buyers who have been facing rising interest rates resulted in an overall slow year for the housing market. While current market conditions may be frustrating to some, especially for first-time homebuyers, it may be comforting to know that Norfolk County's real estate market is doing better compared to state and national averages and remains a desirable place to both live and work in."

Follow this YouTube link to watch the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Year in Review segment on Quincy Access Television: https://www.youtube.com/watch/bHXIGI-HAHg

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and 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 at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Entries for "The Sowell Man Essays" open until Saturday, March 23, 2024 no later than 5 PM

Two Awards Totaling $1,500

Essay submissions should be submitted by Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 no later than 5 PM. Details below:

1st Place Award - $1,000
2nd Place Award - $500

First and second place winners will have their essays published online.

The mission of The Sowell Man Essays is to introduce students to Thomas Sowell and learn about people who use facts to challenge the orthodoxy of mainstream social, cultural, and other narratives - those who often stand alone and are “putting truth above popularity”.

The Sowell Man Essays is sponsored by some residents of Franklin.

The contest is open to Franklin, MA residents currently attending any high school grades 9-12, including public, private, and home schools. We are limiting this to Franklin residents this year and will consider opening this up next year.

The winners of the essay contest will be contacted on Saturday, April 9, 2024.

The Essay

Each contestant will write an essay showcasing Thomas Sowell’s story and contributions. For example, but not limited to:

Who is Thomas Sowell? What should we know about him?
How does he challenge the orthodoxy of social and cultural mainstream narratives?
What does it mean to be “A man alone”?
Examples of his contributions

The essays will be judged for quality of content, grammar, writing style, and how well you understand and describe Thomas Sowell to the reader. Each contestant must cite references. There is no length restriction. AI generated content will disqualify you from the contest.

Additional details from the organizer of this essay contest ->

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hmj_DcJkbQi5Fhvt2Dmhldo2c6pWMDtMkH6x-2LrySA/edit#heading=h.vs44wg13b4k9

"A gathering of ladybugs is called a loveliness"

Via JK Kennedy School's Ann Williams we find:

"I did not know this! How about that
@jfkladybugs
? #LadybugTeacher"

"A gathering of ladybugs is called a loveliness. A loveliness of ladybugs . This very idea makes the world seem, somehow, a little more gentle"

https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/status/1748180947717992756

Read a full article online about the "loveliness of ladybugs"

https://www.animalkeen.com/what-is-a-group-of-ladybugs-called/

A gathering of ladybugs is called a loveliness

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Jan 22, 2024

wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

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

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, and Nick Remissong hold a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States.

Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Task Force

9:00 am Ben Gardner's Boat

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Waffles

12:30 pm The Only Cure Is Education

1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Appetizers

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Healthy Pizza Crusts

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 1

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 10

3:30 pm Veterans' Call: Steve Crouteau

4:30 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: Safety on the Roads

5:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith

5:30 pm Extended Play Sessions: Acoustic X

7:30 pm Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 1

9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Seth Glier

Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

8:00 am Girls Varsity Hockey

10:00 am Public School Event: Lifelong Music Pt. 1 01-28-19

11:30 am Public School Event: Concert Hour Day 1

1:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Pete Smith

2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: Task Force

4:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Basketball v Canton 01-15-24

8:30 pm FHS Boys Varsity Basketball v North Attleboro 01-11-24

Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 12-18-23

11:00 am Finance Committee 01-10-24

2:00 pm Planning Board: 12-18-23

7:00 pm Planning Board: LIVE, Chambers 963 4655 3909

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

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Sunday, January 21, 2024

Franklin TV: Just Hangin’ Out

Yep. They’re Hangin’ in the House.

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 01/21/2024

Franklin TV: Just Hangin’ Out

Nick Remissong, Frank Falvey and Jim Derick – just hangin’.

Don’t you wish you could find something to do that’s easy, fun, interesting - like just go hang out and have a great conversation with friends who get you? I mean, a real convo – one that you could record, and – BOOM! – a radio show and podcast happens.

Yes, it could happen. (If you want to come and hang out with us.)

And, it does happen. (We make it easy. We train you, and it’s all free.)

That’s just part of what we do at wfpr, Franklin Public Radio. It’s local citizen radio. How local? It’s literally YOU in the first person local. It’s your voice – your program, on the air and online as your very own podcast. You get to share your thoughts and interests – speak your piece. Team up with a buddy or two, and it’s even more fun. When you make radio happen you also get to do a good thing – a public good. Bonus!

So, what do you have to say about that? Email us: info@wfpr.fm

Thanks for listening to 102.9 wfpr●fm.

And – as always –

thanks for watching.

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

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Beaver St Interceptor construction detour alert for week of Jan 22, 2024

With last week’s weather causing slight delays, construction crews will now be advancing further onto Old West Central St. and traffic will be detoured to Tri-County Drive beginning Monday January 22nd.

Residential traffic only on Pond St., Rolling Ridge Rd., Hilltop Rd. and part of Old West Central St.

The detour will be in place Monday thru Friday from 7:30 AM until 3:30 PM.

During this construction phase, the adjacent medical building remains accessible, though Starbucks will be accessible via 140 only. Access to this area may look different as work continues. We are working with school staff to ensure safety.

Please visit our interactive construction map for details https://apexmapping.maps.arcgis.com/.../sid.../index.html...

We will update and communicate regularly via social media, our dedicated email list, and the construction map. #onefranklin #franklinmassachusetts #franklinbsi #keepfranklinflowing

Beaver St Interceptor construction detour alert for week of Jan 22, 2024

Shared from -> https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02t9SMEhKjvTLZCo1ehUCroUJ3UpJ2wSuhk1ShiXy8ph9HKisNeSe9zySofKkEVTCQl&id=100064487150311&mibextid=2JQ9oc

Town of Franklin, MA: Jamie Hellen selected as MMA Association Vice-President

Town of Franklin, MA (@TOFranklinMA) posted Sat, Jan 20, 2024:

"Congratulations to our Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen, on being selected and elected by municipal colleagues as the 2024 @massmunicipal Association Vice-President! #MassMuni24"