School Committee keeps leadership, gets update on Middle Schools, and redistricting progress (video)

The Franklin School Committee met on Tuesday, Nov 12 at 7 PM as scheduled. 6 members were present in Council Chambers, one participated remotely (Gallagher)

Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZaZ-akfth8

Agenda for this session ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/events/fps_meeting_1.pdf

Quick recap:

• School committee voted to continue their leadership team. Griffin was nominated as well as Callaghan for Chair but Callaghan prevailed with a 5-2 (Griffin, Gallagher) vote. McNeill continues as Vice-Chair by a 7-0 vote. Both votes via roll call
• Announcement of MASS student awards for Ella Mahoney and Noah Gorgas
• Middle school presentation & update; If we had more money we could have more clubs and reach more students and their interests Hopeful with the single school next year to be able to do more for the whole population of middle schoolers, more flexibility and opportunities
• Update on the district reorganization From Colin & Lucas
• 29 of the 54 possible students for the DT exemption committed to do so, Staff placement being worked, All dependent upon the budget
• Pond St facility (former Kennedy school) would be the site for an expansion for the ECDC not a replacement of, ECDC was purpose built and will remain, but expanding capacity by using space at Pond St is what is being planned
• Clarification on ECDC expansion, it would be done in phases, the focus is to provide the education space for ECDC population, which is growing, and we won't be able to utilize the Middle school space we have used at Horace Mann
• Key stat 97% of the K-5 teachers got their first choice. There is the plus one for 2nd at North and down one on South so it is budget neutral not a $75K cost as might have been in worst case
• Consideration for moving staff and furniture with the teachers where possible, Capital planning underway, don't know enough details yet but as they rise up, they will be shared

Entered executive session not to return to open meeting

Middle school slides (to be posted to web Weds/Thur)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/mJFrSfDhaJYbojfh8

Redistricting update slides (to be posted to web Weds/Thur)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ADsFSJtAkHctX7Rq8

My notes captured in one PDF file ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r6Fpd_A-8cBzKBLdigphSMvcxcy53mfo/view?usp=drive_link

MASS student awards for Ella Mahoney and Noah Gorgas

2024 HockomockSports.com Girls Lacrosse Awards recognize MacCallum, Consigli, Grasso, & Flynn

2024 HockomockSports.com Girls Lacrosse Awards recognize the following Franklin High School athletes:

Norah MacCallum – Franklin – Defense

Franklin senior defender Norah MacCallum was the leader of the back line all season for the Panthers, helping them secure a 14th straight league title and extend the program’s Hockomock League win streak to 122 games (dating back to the 2012 season). MacCallum finished the season with 21 ground balls and caused 30 turnovers. The Panthers were second in the Hock, allowing just 159 goals in 22 games (a little over seven per game) despite playing some of the best teams in the state. MacCallum was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino said, “Norah was the backbone and leader of our defense. She played a key role in our zone this year and really excelled at getting us the ball back.”

Gabi Consigli – Franklin – Attack/Midfield

Franklin junior attacker Gabi Consigli made a big leap this spring and became one of the most consistent attacking threats for the Panthers, helping them bring home a 14th consecutive league title and extend a decade-long league win streak to 122 games. Consigli was one of the team leaders in goals (30), assists (24), and total points (54), as Franklin revamped its attacking unit with several new faces this spring and, despite facing tough competition all season, averaged nearly 10 goals per game. Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino said, “Gabi was a solid attacker for us this year. She made big strides from her sophomore year to this year, and did a nice job setting up her teammates.”

Maeve Grasso – Franklin – Defense

Franklin junior defender Maeve Grasso put in a solid season in the heart of the back line, a crucial part of the Panthers clinching a 14th straight league title and extending their decade-long league win streak to 122 games. Grasso had 16 ground balls and caused seven turnovers this season for the Panthers, who allowed a little more than seven goals per game despite a difficult non-league schedule. The Panthers allowed 159 goals in 22 games, which was second-fewest in the Hock. Grasso was an honorable mention for league all-star. Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino said, “I was excited to see Maeve on this list because our defense was really our strong point this year. Maeve might not have a ton of stats, but without her intelligence, communication, and leadership, our defense would not have worked.”

Julia Flynn – Franklin – Midfield

Franklin junior Julia Flynn excelled in a much larger role in the Panthers midfield this season, showing off an all-around game that was crucial to Franklin winning a 14th consecutive league title and extending its remarkable league win streak to 122 games. Flynn filled up the stat sheet this season. She scored 37 goals and dished out 13 assists, scooped up 28 ground balls, forced 15 turnovers, and collected 92 draw controls. She was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino said, “Julia had a breakout year as a midfielder. We asked her to do more roles than ever before, and she delivered. She is one of the fiercest competitors I have ever coached and I am looking forward to seeing what she can do next season.”

For the full listing of girls lacrosse awards (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-lacrosse/2024-2/

2024 HockomockSports.com Girls Lacrosse Awards recognize MacCallum, Consigli, Grasso, & Flynn

2024 HockomockSports Baseball Awards recognizes FHS' Cinelli, Caccavelli & Campbell

2024 HockomockSports.com Baseball Awards recognize the following Franklin High School athletes:

Rex Cinelli – Franklin – Outfield

Franklin senior Rex Cinelli wrapped up a tremendous athletic career with a strong final spring. Cinelli, who earned HockomockSports.com Player of the Year in the fall for boys soccer, was a great leader for the Panthers this spring, who reached the tournament yet again. Defensively, he was reliable and covered a lot of ground in center field. Offensively, he had 26 hits and finished with a 0.342 batting average, including a pair of doubles, along with 10 RBI, 12 runs, seven walks, and 11 stolen bases. “Rex has been a two-year starter, batted in the middle of our lineup, and was our most consistent run producer,” said Franklin head coach Zach Brown. “He was an elite defender in center field, but more importantly he’s a tireless worker and a great leader.”

Dom Caccavelli – Franklin – Infield

Franklin senior Dom Caccavelli ended his high school career on a high note, emerging into a key piece for the Panthers this season. Caccavelli provided strong defense while playing at second base and primarily hit second in the lineup, helping set the table for Franklin’s offense. During the 2024 season, he hit 0.328 on 19 hits, including a pair of hits. He scored 18 runs and drove in seven runs, also drawing 13 walks and stealing 13 bases. “Dom is a worker and leader and maximized his ability,” said Franklin head coach Zach Brown. “He’s always been steady defensively but this year he made significant strides offensively and led our team in runs scored, stolen bases, and walks. Dom really had a great all-around senior season.”

Austin Campbell – Franklin – Pitcher

Franklin senior Austin Campbell was one of the toughest pitchers to have success against this year and helped the Panthers get back to the state tournament yet again this season. His record (3-5) was not indicative of his dominance on the mound this year as he led the Hockomock League with 88 strikeouts, allowing a total of just 31 hits and 17 earned runs. He finished his senior season with a 2.13 ERA. “Austin has tremendous stuff on the hill,” said Franklin head coach Zach Brown. “Which is evident by his high strikeout totals and low hit totals. Austin is a great competitor who always wants the ball in big games and big spots. He will be greatly missed.”

For the complete listing of Baseball Awards  -> (subscription required)

https://hockomocksports.com/awards/baseball/2024-2/

2024 HockomockSports Baseball Awards recognizes FHS' Cinelli, Caccavelli & Campbell

Two Franklin Public Schools Employees Receive Awards

Superintendent Lucas Giguere is pleased to share that two Franklin Public Schools employees, Carlos Rebelo and Colin Boisvert have recently received awards for their work in the District.

"We are very fortunate to have both Carlos and Colin as part of our Franklin Public Schools community," said Superintendent Giguere. "Congratulations to both on their well deserved recognitions!"

Carlos Rebelo - Highway and Grounds Superintendent

Rebelo received the Professional Manager of the Year for Facilities and Grounds award from the American Public Works Association. Rebelo has worked for the Town, serving the Franklin Public Schools for 15 years. Rebelo oversees all school grounds, including turfs, fields, hardscapes and landscapes.

"I have been fortunate throughout my years to be surrounded by just a great group of professionals that I also consider my work family," said Rebelo.

Colin Boisvert - Food Service Director

Boisvert received the Food Service Director of the Year award from the School Nutrition Association. The Director of the Year award recognizes school nutrition directors for the contributions they have made throughout their school nutrition careers. Boisvert has served in his current role as Food Service Director since 2016 in the Franklin Public Schools. He has grown the program and has an extremely talented staff that is willing to try new products and ideas with the students.

"I am so honored to have been awarded Director of the Year for the State of Massachusetts," said Boisvert. "It is such rewarding work to provide nutritious meals for students. I am so proud of our program and the dedicated staff that work hard everyday to ensure every student has a meal."

 

 

Two Franklin Public Schools Employees Receive Award

Carlos Rebelo receives National Award - "Professional Manager of the Year for Facilities and Grounds"

This week is National Public Works Week!

Today (5/22/24) the New England Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) held their Commemorative Scholarship Luncheon, and our own Highway & Grounds Superintendent Carlos Rebelo received a National Award - Professional Manager of the Year for Facilities and Grounds.

🎉 Congratulations to Carlos on this exceptional recognition and a job well done! 🎉

#award #townoffranklin #congratulations #APWA

Carlos Rebelo (left with award) and members of the DPW & Deputy Town Administrator Amy Frigulietti

Shared from ->https://www.instagram.com/p/C7SE3jCpNP6/

Franklin High School Recognizes Students for Recent Art and Writing Achievements

Superintendent Lucas Giguere is pleased to congratulate the Franklin High School students who have been recognized recently for achievements in art and writing.

"Each of these achievements represents our students' skill, dedication and hard work, as well as their unique perspectives and interests," Superintendent Giguere said. "It's amazing to see their creativity and passions come to life and we're excited to recognize their success."

Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation’s longest-running recognition program for creative teens. Students in grades 7-12 can apply in 28 categories of art and writing. All entries are considered for Gold Key, Silver Key, Honorable Mention and other recognitions. The Massachusetts region of the program is presented by The Boston Globe and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University (SMFA).

Hunter Smith, grade 10, for “Determination” (photography)

Franklin High School students received 15 placements, with one Gold Key, two Silver Keys and 12 Honorable Mention awards. 

Gold Key: 

• Hunter Smith, grade 10, for “Determination” (photography) 

Silver Key:

• Christine Tang, grade 12, for a portfolio entitled “Drawing Portfolio” (Art Portfolio)
• Mia Dewsnap, grade 12, (Ceramics)

John Fitzhenry, grade 12, for “Side By Side” (Film & Animation)

Honorable Mention Works: 

• John Fitzhenry, grade 12, for “Side By Side” (Film & Animation)
• Lillian Skinner, grade 12, for a portfolio entitled “Welcome to My World” (Art Portfolio)
• Anjli Rachwal, grade 12, for a portfolio entitled “Sapphire Dreams” (Art Portfolio)
• Annika Swalley, grade 12, for a portfolio entitled “Breakable Takeable Body” (Art Portfolio)  
• Cailyn Bruno, grade 12, for a portfolio entitled “An Ironic Duality” (Art Portfolio)
• Julia Atwood, grade 12, (Ceramics)  
• Ashley Pepin, grade 12, (Ceramics)
• Jenna Cheuvront, grade 12, (Ceramics)
• Taylor O’Neil, grade 11, (Ceramics)
• Lily Avitable, grade 12, (Ceramics)
• Ella Kabat, grade 11,  (Ceramics)
• Cleo St. Vrain Lary, grade 11, (Ceramics)

Each student recognized at any of the three levels receives a certificate, and Gold and Silver Key recipients also receive a pin. 

Massachusetts Amazing Emerging Artist Recognitions Exhibit

The Massachusetts Amazing Emerging Artist Recognitions Exhibit is a juried show for grade 9-12 students of Massachusetts Art Education Association (MAEA) members. Work can be submitted in 10 categories ranging from drawing to fashion. Student entries are selected for inclusion in the year’s exhibit through a blind judging process by a panel of art educators.

Each submission is also considered for various monetary awards.

The following Franklin High School Ceramics students were recognized:

• Ella Kabat, grade 11, Blick Art Award ($100) 
• Mia Dewsnap, grade 12, Davis Publications Media Award ($25)
• Allie Maccalous, grade 12, 
• Kat Rosenberg, grade 11,
• Cleo St. Vrain Lary, grade 11, 

Ryan Jackson, grade 10, received an Honorable Mention

Other Recognitions

• Grace Tucceri, grade 12, was named one of 12 All-State High School Journalists for 2024 by the Massachusetts Scholastic Press Association. Students submitted portfolios of their work, resumes and reflective essays as part of their applications, which were reviewed by a four-member judging panel.
• Ryan Jackson, grade 10, received an Honorable Mention in Anna Maria College’s New England Secondary School Virtual Art & Design Competition for 2024 for his piece entitled "Sleeping Skys."
• The Graphic Design I class has partnered with school administration to create a magnet of the Franklin Public Schools calendar for the 2024-2025 school year to be handed out at upcoming town events. Selected works were created by Athena Watts, grade 10, and Brannon Barba and Yosef Esayas, grade 9. 
• The Digital Photography class is partnering with the Town's Department of Public Works to take photographs to be featured on informational signs around the sculpture park, highlighting the nature and wildlife of the area.

Brannon Barba, grade 9, for a Graphic Design I class

Franklin Food Pantry recognized for service to the community with Tree of Life Award by Temple Etz Chaim

From the Franklin Food Pantry Facebook posting: 

"From an idea over 30 years ago, The Pantry has blossomed into a beacon of hope, nourishing over 660 households last year - and Temple Etz Chaim has been there from the beginning. We are humbled by their unwavering support and deeply honored to receive the Tree of Life Award for service to the community.  

Photo: Rachel Flum, Chair, Board of Directors (R) accepts the Tree of Life Award on behalf of the Franklin Food Pantry alongside Isaac Chartoff (L) who was also awarded for his individual service."

Franklin Food Pantry recognized for service to the community with Tree of Life Award by Temple Etz Chaim

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/5wYPW4Cdx1tjYVen/

Franklin Police leadership team receives FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award

On April 18th the President of the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (FBI LEEDA), Chief Donna McNamara of the Stoughton Police Department presented the FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award to Chief Lynch and the FPD Command Staff. 

FBI-LEEDA presents law enforcement agencies across the country with the Agency Trilogy Award when the entire command staff completes the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Leadership series. 

In 2024, 16 agencies across the country received the Agency Trilogy Award.  The Franklin Police Department is the 9th agency in Massachusetts to receive this award. 

Pictured above: Deputy Chief West, Chief Lynch, Chief McNamara, Lt. Zimmerman. Not pictured: Lt. Ryan & Lt. Reilly

For more info on the FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award ->   https://fbileeda.org/general/custom.asp?page=TrilogyAward

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/T2mm7c2wNjpdXVyq/

Kevin Martin of NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass recognized with Sales Achievement & President's Award

NerdsToGo®, a leading IT solutions and technology services franchise, recently held its 2024 NerdsToGo Franchise Convention in Orlando, Florida. Themed "Secure Your Future," the four-day event celebrated franchisee achievements and the growth initiatives of the network.

With an unprecedented number of franchisees in attendance, the conference was a reflection of the managed services industry's robust growth and the brand's growing U.S. presence. The event included networking opportunities for franchisees, roundtable discussions, and a comprehensive vendor show. Recognized leaders in the MSP industry, including Sean Lardo, a ConnectWise evangelist, and Rob Rae, CVP of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8, shared their expertise on growing a successful MSP business.

"Our 2024 convention brought our franchise network together to celebrate and recognize their many achievements, as well as to engage in both networking and educational opportunities," said Jim Howe, President of NerdsToGo. "The excitement from the convention is contagious, and it was the perfect way to begin a successful 2024, especially against the backdrop of significant industry growth. This growth not only highlights the achievements of our franchisees but also opens up a wealth of opportunities for owners to grow revenue and reach new heights in the managed IT services sector."

Highlights from the 2024 Awards Dinner at the Convention include:

• The award recognizing the Highest Volume locations in Sales Achievement were presented to Regis DeVeaux: NerdsToGo of Alexandria, Va.; Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass.; and NerdsToGo of Bellevue, Wash. team led by Michael Santiago.
• The President's Award, which recognizes the top NerdsToGo locations with the highest total sales, was given to Regis DeVeaux: NerdsToGo of Alexandria, Va.; Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass.; Gina and Michael Santiago: NerdsToGo of Bellevue, Wash.; David Alcorn: NerdsToGo of Kemah, Texas; Rory Dunnaback: NerdsToGo of Milwaukie, Ore.; and Erik Nelson: NerdsToGo of Swarthmore, Pa.
• Susan and Don Dally of NerdsToGo of Knoxville, Tenn., were recognized with the Rookie of the Year Award, which honors the franchisee with the highest sales for the first full 12 months of operation.

"NerdsToGo is at the forefront of providing franchisees the support they need to be successful in the growing IT solutions industry," said Regis DeVeaux, franchise owner of the Alexandria, Va. location. "I'm proud to be part of a network that is not only thriving but also embracing new strategies for revenue growth and operational efficiency."

About NerdsToGo®:

NerdsToGo® is a growing IT services franchise brand that provides a simple path to overcoming the pain points and complexities of technology. Friendly and approachable Nerds offer solutions for efficiency and security for small to medium-sized businesses, as well as the individual who needs help with personal computers, devices and home networks. NerdsToGo is a service-oriented brand in the Propelled Brands® family. Providing Managed IT Services for business, the Nerds can assess, design and support IT networks while providing remote support and vendor management.

For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit NerdsToGo.com or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679)

Visit the webpage for Franklin to find out more info or schedule service   https://www.nerdstogo.com/franklin-ma/

Kevin Martin of NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass recognized with Sales Achievement & President's Award

HockomockSports.com recognizes FHS' Zub, O'Connor, Horton, Hammad, & Welch for Girls Soccer awards for Fall 2023

Via Twitter and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the fall sports awards for Franklin High School. 

Girls Soccer awards for Fall 2023

HockomockSports.com Best XI

• Kelly O'Connor, Franklin - Forward
• Anya Zub, Franklin - Forward
• Maddie Horton, Franklin - Defense

HockomockSports.com Second XI

• Selene Hammad – Franklin – Midfield
• Rachel Welch – Franklin- Goalie

For complete list and description of the awards, visit

https://hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-soccer/2023-2/

FHS Panther sports results shared via Twitter & subscription to HockomockSports.com

"The work has to be the win"

FANNtastic story!

"On the 27th straight day of filming “Forrest Gump,” Tom Hanks was tired & worried. During a scene on the famous park bench, Hanks stopped & said to director Bob Zemeckis, “Hey, Bob…is anybody going to care about this movie? I don’t think anybody’s going to care.” Bob replied, “It’s a minefield, Tom. You never know what’s good…It’s a minefield! It’s a goddam minefield! We may be sowing the seeds of our own destruction.” Tom Hanks told this story after he was asked, “When I ask for a memory from your career, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?” He said that what Zemeckis said was true of every movie he’s worked on: “There’s never any guarantee...You do not know if it is going to work out.” Takeaway 1: Hanks is the 5th-most highest-grossing actor of all time. And yet, the stickiest memory of his career is the feeling of uncertainty. Rarer than talent or work ethic, the poet John Keats wrote, is the ability to step into and push through doubts and uncertainties. In 1817, Keats wrote a letter to his brothers to share this exciting realization. “At once it struck me,” Keats wrote, “what quality went to form a Man of Achievement … Negative Capability.” Keats explains that “Negative Capability” is “when a man is capable of being in uncertainties, mysteries, doubts, without any irritable reaching after fact and reason.” Takeaway 2: Those who possess Negative Capability, who can sit with uncertainty, who can spend months or years in the minefield that is working on something while knowing that there is a real possibility no one will care about it—they often possess another quality. They do what they do, not as a means to some end (money, fame, awards, etc.), but for the sake of doing it. When asked about one of his movies that commercially failed, Hanks said, "I loved making that movie. I loved writing it, I loved being with it. I love all the people in it." As Ryan Holiday once told me, "The work has to be the win." You control the effort, he says, not the results. "So ultimately, you have to love doing it. You have to get to a place where doing the work is the win and everything else is extra.” - - - “Life is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you're going to get.” — Forrest Gump Follow

@bpoppenheimer

for more content like this!

Shared from Twitter-> https://twitter.com/bpoppenheimer/status/1669038411351482373 

“Life is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you're going to get.” — Forrest Gump

FHS' O'Leary, Allen & Harvey selected for 2023 HockomockSports.Com Boys Basketball Awards

The selections for the 2023 HockomockSports.Com Boys Basketball Awards were announced. The Franklin High School representatives are listed here. Link to the full listing is found below.

Boys Basketball Player of the Year  & HOCKOMOCKSPORTS FIRST TEAM

Franklin junior Sean O’Leary has been named the HockomockSports.com Boys Basketball Player of the Year for the 2022-2023 season. O’Leary was the top all-around player in the league and led the Panthers to their first Kelley-Rex division title since 2016. He was also voted as the Hockomock League MVP by the coaches.

“Sean really did it all for the Franklin this season,” said HockomockSports.com Editor-in-Chief Ryan Lanigan. “He is such a talented all-around player and his fingerprints were all over the Panthers’ success this season, which included winning the Kelley-Rex division title. He can score in a variety of ways, including shooting the three, but his old-school like post game really separated him from others in the league. He is the first junior to be selected for this award in the 11 years of its existence.”

Sean O’Leary has been named the HockomockSports.com Boys Basketball Player of the Year for the 2022-2023 season

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS THIRD TEAM = Justin Allen – Franklin – Guard

Justin Allen

Franklin senior Justin Allen had a terrific season for the Panthers, helping the program win the Kelley-Rex division title — the program’s first since 2016. After getting some valuable experience during his junior year, Allen became a true leader both on and off the court as a senior and emerged as one of the most lethal shooters in the league, as seen by his eight three-pointers in a win over Weymouth. Allen was second on the team in scoring at 11.8 points per game on a very impressive 44.5% three-point shooting percentage. He added 5.7 rebounds and 3 assists per game. “Over his career, Justin may be the most improved player from freshman to senior year that I have ever coached,” said Franklin head coach CJ Neely. “He is such a hard worker and amazing leader who made big shots all year and I am really proud of him.”  

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS ALL-DEFENSIVE TEAM = Ben Harvey, Franklin

Ben Harvey

Franklin senior Ben Harvey was once again one of the top defenders in the Hockomock League during the 2022-2023 season. He’s the first All-Defensive team repeat selection since the 2018 season after earning a spot on this team as a junior. His commitment to the defensive end is contagious and helped make the Kelley-Rex division Panthers one of the top defensive teams once again this year. He averaged 6.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. “It is always great to go into a game and know that you can put Ben on the opposing team’s best player and they will have an off night,” said Franklin head coach CJ Neely. “He competes at such a high level every time he takes the court.”  

For the full listing of boys basketball awards ->

https://hockomocksports.com/awards/boys-basketball/2022-2023/

FHS' Peterson, Fales, Leo recognized with 2023 HockomockSports.Com Girls Basketball Awards

The selections for the 2023 HockomockSports.Com Girls Basketball Awards were announced. The Franklin High School representatives are listed here. Link to the full listing is found below.

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS FIRST TEAM - Katie Peterson – Franklin – Forward

Katie Peterson

Franklin senior forward Katie Peterson was one of the league’s top all-around players this season, helping the Panthers earn a fifth straight Kelley-Rex division title and nearly upset No. 2 seed Bishop Feehan in the Div. 1 Sweet Sixteen. The UMass lacrosse commit led the team in scoring with 357 points, which was good for 15.5 per night. She also grabbed eight rebounds and dished out two assists per night, while shooting 55% from two-point range. She was selected as an all-star by the league’s coaches. Franklin coach John Leighton said, “Katie was a wonderful leader for our team and led us in nearly every statistical category. Her athleticism and compete level was the key to her success on the court. She will be dearly missed next season.”  

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS THIRD TEAM & HOCKOMOCKSPORTS ALL UNDERCLASSMEN TEAM - Chloe Fales – Franklin – Guard

Chloe Fales

Franklin sophomore guard Chloe Fales had a breakout first season on varsity for the Panthers, helping them secure a fifth straight league title and a return to the Div. 1 Sweet Sixteen. Fales was able to stretch the floor with her shooting and came up with important baskets in some of Franklin’s biggest games. She finished with just under 10 points per game and grabbed more than five rebounds and had nearly two steals per night, making an impact on both ends of the floor. She was selected as a Hockomock League all-star by the coaches. Franklin coach John Leighton said, “Chloe was a key to our success with her timely shooting and great defense. I am very excited to watch her develop her game over the next few seasons.”  

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS ALL DEFENSIVE TEAM - Bridget Leo – Franklin

Bridget Leo

Leo, a senior guard, was the latest in a line of tough Franklin defenders. The point guard dished out 79 assists, with a plus-26 turnover margin, and helped lock down opposing guards with 42 steals and 47 deflections as the Panthers won the Kelley-Rex division for the fifth year running. Franklin coach John Leighton said, “Bridget was a natural leader for us and her focus on defense set the tone for the team. She is a wonderful mix of being an unselfish player while also being fiercely competitive.”  

For the full listing of girls basketball awards ->

https://hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-basketball/2022-2023/

This year's Franklin High School DECA accomplishments are many!

From the Franklin DECA Twitter account (https://twitter.com/FranklinMA_DECA)   we share the good news as follows:

• A big congrats to our outgoing state officer, Aradhya Garg! Your leadership and guidance for our program has been invaluable. Your advisor can safely say that you have helped me out more times than I can count. We are so proud of you!!
• Congrats to our state officer candidate, Zeina Alshawabkeh, for a wonderfully run campaign and all her hard work and effort. We are so proud of you, as we are every day. You make our DECA chapter a better place and you have a very bright future ahead of you.
• We got our first finalists! Top 10 finishers Ryan Martin, Matt Cacciapaglia, and Sam Munitka. As Stuart Scott used to say, “Winner winner, chicken Parmesan dinner!!”
• Boston ➡️ Sunshine State. Congrats to our winners in IMC-product, Jack Hagerty, Kieran Mitchell and Anurag Kavishwar
• Gimme, gimme, gimme ANOTHER finalist!! Congrats to Aradhya Garg (not pictured) and Max Tobin on placing in Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making!
• El Presidente is heading to Orlando!! Congrats to our chapter president, Nihara Lijan, for winning her event Innovation Plan.
• Antonio Marzoratti and Arav Tyagi get top 10 on Business Growth Plan. We’re gonna need another trophy case!!
• Kavya Dave, Zeina Alshawabkeh, Haasini Sabbella are top 10 finishers in Finance Operations Research. Proud of these ladies!!
• More top 10s! Kelsey Maguire, Jenna Simone (not pictured) and Ava Davies take home medals for sports and entertainment marketing operations research. Kasey Brady and Sabrina Tierney also place top 10 in their event as well (not pictured)
• Sid Chandra, Jay Gorgas, Aayush Srinivas are Florida bound! These gentlemen won their event and qualify for ICDC in April #Booya
• Andrew Colford, Nikki Murali, Taylor Lacerda are top ten finalists in SEOR! Going back to back like Drake, these students are state finalists two years in a row
• Congrats to Brendan Collins for placing top 10 in his event!
• That concludes our SCDC Conference. Your advisors can’t say enough how proud we are of our competitors and how hard they worked to get here this weekend. Whether you advanced to ICDC or not, be proud of yourselves for coming this weekend and competing!

Welcome to awards season

Congratulations Commissioner Jeff Livingston - Conservation Commissioners of the Year Award 2023

Congratulations Commissioner Jeff Livingston - Conservation Commissioners of the Year Award 2023

Commissioner Jeff Livingstone has selflessly served on the Franklin Conservation Commission (FCC) for over 13 years and throughout the years has become a cornerstone of the FCC. Commissioner Livingstone has been described as having an "institutional knowledge", not just of the Wetlands Protection Act, but more importantly of the people in the community. He has proven himself time and time again to be fair, pragmatic, and committed to providing a service not just to the residents of Franklin, but to its natural resources. He is as much of an advocate for climate resiliency, wetland restoration, and natural resource protection as he is for the residents he serves. 

Commissioner Livingstone has made a career in the biochemistry and IT world, but also has a great passion for wetlands, conservation commissions, and the environment. While having a technical background in the life sciences and holding a PhD in Biochemistry, Dr. Livingstone has been heavily involved with Conservation Commission work for 13 years and was even the chair of the FCC for five. He participated in the 2016 Open Space and Recreation Plan, assisted with the master plan development for the DelCarte Recreation and Conservation Area, and is currently on the Community Preservation Committee. In his spare time when not working or hiking, Commissioner Livingstone participates in the Franklin Keystone Cooperative, which focuses on preservation of native forests and woodland. In conjunction with serving as past Chair of the Franklin Conservation Commission, Commissioner Livingstone continues to be a leader in advocacy for community outreach and has unwavering devotion to building the relationship between the Town, its people, and the Conservation Commission. Commissioner Livingstone is truly the epitome of a dedicated and involved community volunteer.

Congratulations on your award, Commissioner Livingstone. Well done, well earned, and well deserved - the FCC and Town of Franklin is lucky to have you!

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/congratulations-commissioner-jeff-livingstone-conservation-commissioner-year-award

Conservation Commissioners of the Year Award 2023

Congratulations to Escape into Fiction for winning a "Patterson Holiday Bookstore Bonus" for 2022

"We are so excited to announce @escape_into_fiction was awarded @jamespattersonbooks Holiday Bookstore Bonus! 

We are so #grateful for the award and plan on putting it to good use! 

Thank you Mr.@jamespattersonbooks !!!

Thanks also go to the community of #franklinma, #franklin @franklindowntownpartnership, @franklinculture for all of the everyday #smallbusiness support you show us! Continue to #shoplocal and #supportsmallbusiness"

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

Full listing of Award Recipients ->  https://bookweb.org/james-patterson-2022

Congratulations to Escape into Fiction for winning a "Patterson Holiday Bookstore Bonus" for 2022

Encore Music Academy: 5 Students awarded Regional Gold Medals of Excellence

It is with great pride and excitement that we announce that five Encore students have been awarded Regional Gold Medals of Excellence for the academic year 2021-2022 with the Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate Program. 

These students attained the single highest score for their level on their instrument in the region which includes the following states: MA, RI, CT, ME, VT, NH, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, and WV. We extend heartfelt congratulations to the students and their instructors for the talent, hard work, dedication, and perseverance it takes to achieve such a tremendous honor. 

Congratulations go out to:

• Samyuktha Chaganti, Franklin, student of Lisa Ostrow, Level 7 voice
• Ava Piercy, Franklin, student of Carl Scheinman, Level 2 clarinet 
• Timothy Reda, Millis, student of Lisa Ostrow, Level 5 voice
• Chloe Regan, Franklin, student of Rebecca Abalutzk, Level 1 voice
• AJ Trull, Franklin, student of Rebecca Abalutzk, Level 3 voice

In addition, we would like to extend a special congratulations to Matthew McGuirl, Millis, student of Rebecca Abalutzk, Preparatory Level voice, for having achieved the highest score in the state of Massachusetts!

We are so very proud of each and every one of you! 

Stay tuned, as our five Gold Medal winners have been invited to perform at the annual Celebration of Excellence, March 11, 2023 in New York City!

Program Director

Encore Music Academy and Recording Studios

508-533-7700, Ext. 104

www.encoremusicacademy.net

Encore Music Academy: 5 Students awarded Regional Gold Medals of Excellence

Manufacturing Caucus Hosts 7th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Polar Park

TE Connectivity of Medway, Massachusetts received the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the 7th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held in the DCU Club at Polar Park in Worcester. 

TE Connectivity was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  “TE Connectivity was one of 55 manufacturers and honorees from across the state who are truly ‘making it’ in Massachusetts, exemplifying how government and industry can work together to have a meaningful impact on society,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), who nominated TE Connectivity. “For more than 75 years, TE Connectivity has helped to solve tomorrow's toughest challenges with advanced connectivity and sensor solutions. Their solutions power electric vehicles, aircraft, digital factories, and smart homes as well as enabling life-saving medical care, sustainable communities, efficient utility networks, and the global communications infrastructure. These represent great contributions to the Massachusetts economy and ecosystem and I was delighted that we could honor TE Connectivity’s work.”

Left to Right  -    State Senator Eric P. Lesser (D-Longmeadow), Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus, TE Quality Manager Sid Jayaraman and State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus

The Legislature, under the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka, has spearheaded several major economic development packages which focus on improving the renaissance of manufacturing, with the goal of making Massachusetts the best place to build things. 

Rep. Roy noted during his opening remarks that Massachusetts is an ideal ecosystem for manufacturing. “Our world class universities, highly skilled workforce, availability of venture capital, and strong government support all come together to create a pro-business atmosphere that fosters a system that encourages manufacturing,” he said.

The event was the state’s 7th Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony hosted by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Sponsored by MassMEP and MassTech Collaborative, this was the second time the event was held in the DCU Club at Polar Park. 

Group photo of the awardees and legislators at Polar Park, Worcester

Christine Nolan, Director for the Center of Advanced Manufacturing and Kathie Mahoney Killam, President and CEO of MassMEP offered remarks at the ceremony.  In addition, House Speaker Ronald Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka and Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy addressed the audience via pre-recorded video.  

After the successful event Rep. Roy added, “Manufacturing output here is at its highest level in history and accounts for about 11 percent of the state’s economy. It is the sixth largest employment sector here and $26 billion in manufactured goods are exported from the Commonwealth each year.  We celebrated some truly great companies who make our economy roar and contribute to those statistics. We offer heartfelt congratulations to all the outstanding Manufacturers who were honored for excellence.”

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

Visit TE Connectivity online to find out more about what they do ->     https://www.te.com/usa-en/home.html