This Chalkboard Chat recaps the Superintendent's School Budget & next steps (audio)

FM #1154 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1154 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my recorded conversation with Franklin School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan and Ruthann O’Sullivan. We had our conversation via the Zoom conference bridge on Friday, March 8, 2024. 

The School Committee had their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. We recap that meeting in our discussion as well as get their insights on the Joint Budget meeting as well as the Comprehensive School Facilities Planning work also underway. 

Topics:

• Superintendent Recommended Budget for FY 2025

• Joint Budget Subcommittee meeting March 6 started the formal process to develop the FY 2025 budget including the decision around a possible override

The recording runs about 42 minutes so let’s listen to my “chalkboard chat” with School Committee Chair Dave Callaghan and Ruthann O’Sullivan. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1154-chalkboard-chat-03-08-24

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Contact info for Dave Callaghan  callaghand@franklinps.net 

Contact info for Ruthann O’Sullivan  osullivanr@franklinps.net 

School Committee page => https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee 

Superintendent’s Recommended budget -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/recommended-fy25-budget

03/05/24 meeting Agenda doc  ->  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/3-5-24-agenda 

Meeting packet folder ->  https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/march-5-2024-school-committee-meeting 

Franklin TV video for replay ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sEe-JcCn_k 

The “Chalkboard Chat” image was the result of a joint collaboration with Mickayla Callaghan. Thank you!

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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.

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"

This Chalkboard Chat recaps the Superintendent's School Budget & next steps (audio)

FHS Empty Bowls community workshop a success

Yesterday (03/09/24), Empty Bowls hosted a Saturday Open Studio at FHS. It was a wonderful morning filled with students, parents, and returning EBers who have attended many Saturday Studios over the years. 

Thank you to all who helped EB prepare for the 9th annual fundraiser. The event takes place on Thursday May 23rd and tickets go on sale in early April through the Franklin Food Pantry’s website. 

@franklinfoodpan @franklinmatters.ma @fhs.pantherbook @franklinculturalcouncil02038 @fhs_emptybowls

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C4V3OvAuQEd/

FHS Empty Bowls community workshop a success

Norfolk County Monthly Property Sales Increase for 2nd Month

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reports that Norfolk County recordings in February 2024 show a slight increase in the total number of documents recorded, which includes an increase in property sales and mortgage recordings compared to February 2023. This marks the second month in a row that year over year property sales have increased.

The Registry of Deeds recorded 6,787 documents in February 2024. This was 1% more than in February 2023 and a 10% decrease compared to January 2024.

Norfolk County Monthly Property Sales Increase for 2nd Month

“Looking at the recordings from the past few months indicates that real estate activity in Norfolk County seems to be holding steady with some increases in property sales," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. "It is still very early in the year, and with the traditional home buying season yet to begin, it will be important to continue monitoring these trends and to see how external factors, such as interest rates, may impact the real estate market in the coming months to see if this positive momentum will be sustained throughout the year.”

The total number of deeds recorded for February 2024, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 961, which was nearly equal to the number in February 2023. However, looking at just commercial and residential real estate sales, the number was up 1% from last year.

“Despite some difficult market conditions, the total number of commercial and residential property sales in February 2024 showed a slight increase compared to the previous year,” stated Register O’Donnell. “This year-over-year increase may suggest that the prospects of lower mortgage interest rates, predicted by some market observers to come down by the first half of the upcoming year in 2024, are bringing buyers to the table early.”

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for February 2024 rose to $994,236, a 5% increase compared to February 2023 but a decrease of 2% from January 2024. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is up, increasing 6% from last year but down 11% from last month.

O’Donnell noted, “With a limited supply of available properties on the market, any increase in demand is likely to cause an increase in the average property sales price. Unfortunately, when prices rise without a corresponding rise in inventory, it may result in increased competition among buyers. This makes it harder for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers.”

For the month of February, lending activity showed an increase compared to the same month a year ago, the first time this has happened in over a year. A total of 916 mortgages were recorded in February 2024, up 1% from February 2023 and 4% less than last month.

“The increase in lending activity this month is likely a product of the increase in the number of property transactions compared to 2023,” stated O’Donnell. “This may suggest that while some homeowners are still hesitant to make moves with average mortgage interest rates above 6%, others are not dissuaded by current interest rates, but time will tell if this trend continues.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In February 2024, there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in February 2023, there were 3 recorded. The total number of notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, increased from last year, going from 26 notices in February 2023 to 43 in February 2024.

“We all experience unforeseen events in our lives. Sometimes these events are beyond our control and can have a devastating impact on our finances. I would urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage or who knows someone who is struggling to contact one of the non-profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org,” said O'Donnell.

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.

O’Donnell concluded, “Real estate activity in Norfolk County is showing some positive trends, which is a good start to the year, but the housing market still has a few hurdles to overcome, including a limited inventory of available properties on the market, which is driving up prices and making it difficult for some buyers to find affordable options. To determine whether this positive momentum will last for the entire year, it will be important to keep an eye on these trends and observe how outside factors may affect the real estate market in the upcoming months.”

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.

Franklin Senior Center has a full slate of events this week. Which one are you going to?

"This is where your adventure begins. There is lots to do, new friends to be made and things to experience. 

Join us at the #franklinseniorcenter this week!"
#franklinma #seniorcenter #whatshappening

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4VcIJkLncd/

Franklin Senior Center has a full slate of events this week

catching up to the Panther News for March 8, 2024 (video)

Catching up to share the Panther News for March 8, 2024. 

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-9pTgdMj7w

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Mar 11, 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: Michelle Palladini

9:00 am Sons & Daughters of Italy: Paolo DiGregorio

12:00 pm Brooke'n'Cookin: Mac'n'Cheese

12:30 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Italian Cookies

1:00 pm Comfort Food: Comfort Food

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Margherita Pizza

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 4

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 1

3:30 pm Veterans' Call: VA Pension

4:30 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: Fire Safety

5:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: The Road to TD Garden

6:00 pm Extended Play Sessions: Season 10 Show 5 - Matt Stubbs Antiguas

7:00 pm Frank Presents: Brian Cousins

9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Joe Jencks

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

10:00 am FHS Jazz Cafe 2024

11:30 am Public School Event: Annie Sullivan Winter Music 2022

2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini

4:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Basketball v Andover 02-29-24

6:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: The Road to TD Garden

7:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Basketball v Boston College High School 03-09-24

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

8:00 am Planning Board 02-26-24

2:00 pm Planning Board 02-26-24

7:00 pm  Planning Board  Live, Chambers  940 2612 4217

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

The next Mobile Museum is March 16 at Annie Sullivan Middle School & features a dinosaur bonanza!!

Tickets available now!

View this email in your browser Our next Mobile Museum is scheduled for March 16! Get ready for a roar-some time as our Mobile Museum rolls into Annie Sullivan Middle School next Saturday, March 16! We're bringing a dinosaur bonanza right to your doorstep. As an update for past visitors, tickets are now required for all, including adults and children above 12 months. The Children's Museum of Franklin is a non-profit organization and your ticket helps cover just a fraction of the costs to keep this mobile wonder moving. Your support and enthusiasm are what fuel our growth journey. We offer discounted entry for EBT and WIC cardholders! For more details, our website is just a click away. Share the joy! Forward event info to your community – you'll make your friends happy AND help us grow! Learn more and get tickets here! Purchase swag for pickup at the event! Grown-up fun is also coming up! The Night at the Museum Gala, our first benefit event, features a world class jazz quartet, exhibit fun, food and drinks, an online silent auction, and a blast of a night out! Learn more and get your tickets. Better together! Buy tickets as a group and get ready for a night out with your friends! Learn more and get tickets here!

Franklin, MA: Town Council Agenda for the March 13, 2024 Meeting

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL

Agenda & Meeting Packet

March 13, 2024 - 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

2nd floor, Council Chambers, 355 East Central Street

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 9 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

c. Upcoming Town Sponsored Community Events

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three 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. February 28, 2024   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/february_28_2024_tc_meeting_minutes.pdf

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS - None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS - None Scheduled

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM - None Scheduled

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION - None Scheduled

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-905: Zoning Map Changes From Single Family Residential III To Business, An Area On Or Near King Street

(Motion to Refer Bylaw Amendment 24-905 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/zoning_bylaw_amendment_24-905.pdf

b. Resolution 24-14: Direction for Issuance of Request for Expressions of Interest for Purchase / Lease and Redevelopment of Former Davis Thayer Elementary School, 137 West Central St. (Motion to Approve Resolution 24-14 - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/resolution_24-14.pdf

c. Resolution 24-15: Gift Acceptance - Franklin Public Library ($4,817.48) (Motion to Approve Resolution 24-15 - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-15-_gift_acceptance_library_0.pdf

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

a. FY25 Budget Update  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/webforms/fy-25-budget-materials

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Economic Development Subcommittee

c. Budget Subcommittee

d. Master Plan Committee

e. Davis-Thayer Reuse Advisory Committee

f. Police Station Building Committee

g. GATRA Advisory Board

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCILOR COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION

a. Exemption #1:To discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health, rather than professional competence, of an individual, or to discuss the discipline or dismissal of, or complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or Individuals. 

b. Exemption #3: Collective Bargaining (Police, Fire, Public Works, Facilities, Library) - To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the public body and the chair so declares.

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

Agenda doc contains remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/2024-03-13_town_council_agenda_0.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council Agenda for the March 13, 2024 Meeting

FHS boys basketball get past BC High to take a place in the Final 4

Boys Basketball = Division 1

#6 BC High, 49 @ #3 Franklin, 66 – Final

Twitter updates via Josh Perry, HockomockSports.com

• D1 boys quarterfinal on tap this afternoon, #3 Franklin (23-1) hosts #6 BC High (15-7), both teams have cruised through the opening two rounds, Franklin yet to lose to an in-state opponent has won 19 in a row and has won last four games by at least 21 points #hockomock
• End of 1Q: Franklin 15, BC High 9, Panthers not shooting well in the first but a 13-1 run gave them the lead before a late basket cut it down to 6, Bradley Herndon with 7 points to lead all scorers after one #hockomock
• Halftime: Franklin 28, BC High 24, Panthers continue to struggle from the outside but are playing great D, had the lead up to 10 before an 8-0 run by the Eagles, Hansy Jacques with 9 and Herndon with 7 to lead the hosts, Dan Civello 9 points and 4 fouls for BC #hockomock
• End of 3Q: Franklin 42, BC High 39, Civello (who is frankly kind of fortunate not have picked up his fifth foul) with 11 of his 20 in the third, Jacques still leading Franklin with 14 and Justice Samuels with 6 in the third #hockomock
• Herndon with a steal and lead pass to Caden Sullivan for a layup, Franklin leads 56-49 with 2:29 to play and they’ve got the ball and fresh shot clock #hockomock
• Hansey Jacques (9 in first half) and Bradley Herndon (7 in 4Q) led the Panthers with 14 points apiece, Sean O’Leary (9 in 4Q) and Caden Sullivan (6 in 4Q) each finished with 11, Dan Civello finished with 22 and Julian Sustache added 9 for the Eagles #hockomock
• Final: Franklin 66, BC High 49, Panthers with 24-10 fourth quarter to seal the win in a game that was a lot closer than the final score, Franklin heading to the Final Four to face Catholic Memorial #hockomock

Franklin TV video of the game -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B09AV87CgNw

https://twitter.com/FranklinMatters/status/1766623923980980364

Next Rise Up comes along March 16 with featured guest - Franklin Police Dept

Hey friend!!

It's so exciting to realize that our next Rise Up is just a week away: Saturday, March 16, at 10 AM.

We'll be meeting at the same location as last time: 

Franklin United Methodist Church

82 West Central Street, Franklin

*Entrance on the left, with a ramp available

We will be joined by Franklin Police Dept, who will hang out with us, have open discussion and Q&A time, and also talk to us about personal safety with disability. 

PS, You'll really want to save the date for April 20's Rise Up because I've collaborated with some town personnel for an amazing social opportunity... more info to come!

See you next Saturday!

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This one-hour social meet-up is intended to be a safe space for:

• individuals navigating life with disability to meet others they can relate with
• community partners to learn more about the population and share resources
• support persons to meet other support persons

For additional information about this event, please visit ->  https://alirheaume.com/rise-up

Next Rise Up comes along March 16 featuring the Franklin Police Dept as guest

Franklin TV: Shelley Otis; Harp Beats – in our studio

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 03/10/2024

Shelley Otis and Harp Beats, launched our first ‘Musical Mastery’ studio session last week. The result will be a full CD album of contemporary music featuring Shelley on harp.

Harp Beats: Fabio, Rich, Sandy and Shelley Otis

There are few instruments that are as moving and emotionally rich than the harp. And there are few harpists as accomplished as Shelley.

In the weeks ahead watch for our new music series on Franklin TV’s All Access channel.

Harp

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   

2 of Franklin's Fallen Heroes recognized today, March 10

There are two ceremonies today as 2 of Franklin's Fallen Heroes fell on the same date. This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Private First Class Marshall E. Rollins, U.S. Marine Corps

Private First Class Marshall E. Rollins, the son of Carl and Bessie Rollins, was born on May 23, 1925. Marshall lived with his parents and sister at 51 Crescent Street. 

Marshall E. Rollins attended Franklin High School but left high school at the end of his junior year to join the Marine Corps. 

Private First Class Marshall Rollins served in the Fourth Marine Division for nearly three years, participating in the Battles of Roi, Namur, Tinian, Saipan and Iwo Jima. His division received a Presidential Unit Citation for their efforts in the Saipan battle. PFC Marshall Rollins sustained an injury in this battle but later returned to active duty on Iwo Jima. 

Private First Class Marshall E. Rollins was severely injured on March 10, 1945 in the fighting at Iwo Jima, was evacuated to the U.S. Hospital in the Mariannas and subsequently succumbed to his battle injuries in the Guam Hospital on April 2, 1945. 

Private First Class Marshall E. Rollins, U.S. Marine Corps, was 19 years old at the time of his death while serving in the service of his country in World War II.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/fallen-hero-private-first-class.html

Fallen Hero: Private First Class Rollins

Fallen Hero: Second Lieutenant John A. Schur, U.S. Army Air Corps

Second Lieutenant John A. Schur was born on July 26, 1922, the son of Mr. and Mrs. August Schur. John lived at 124 Beaver Street with his parents while attending the Franklin Public Schools. John graduated from Franklin High School in 1940 as Class Valedictorian. John was also very active in scouting and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. 

Following graduation from high school, John entered Northeastern University to study chemical engineering and was on the Dean’s List for his 3 years there. John left Northeastern to enlist in the U.S. Air Corps on October 17, 1942. 

In raids over Tokyo Second Lieutenant Schur was highly commended for his outstanding ability and courage when he left his post as navigator to repair and put back into operation radio and radar equipment which had become inoperable during the flight. In a later raid over Tokyo, 2nd LT John H. Schur was aboard a B-25 bomber loaded with bombs when the bomber sustained a direct hit and disappeared in a burst of an explosion over the heart of the city on March 10, 1945. 

Second Lieutenant John A. Schur, U.S. Army Air Corps, was 22 years old at the time of his death over Tokyo while serving his country during World War II.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/fallen-hero-second-lieutenant-john.html 

Fallen Hero: Second Lt Schur