FHS Boys and Girls Basketball Outlook for 2016-2017 Winter Season

Hockomock Sports has published the outlook for the Hockomock League Kelly-Rex Division for the boys and girls basketball. The Franklin outlook has been shared here. Follow the link at the bottom of each summary to find out about the other teams in the division.

FHS Panthers

FRANKLIN Boys Basketball

2015-2016 Record: 19-5
2015-2016 Finish: Reached D1 Central Final
Coach: CJ Neely

"There is no rebuilding when it comes to Franklin, just reloading. Despite graduating a handful of talent, including the Hockomock League MVP Tim Prunier and a couple other strong players, the Panthers are still in a spot to challenge for the Kelley-Rex title. 

Two big reasons for that are juniors Paul Mahon and Connor Peterson. Both players started last year and were important pieces as the Panthers claimed a division title. With at least year of experience for both, look for both to be key players this season. Mahon has developed as a shooter to compliment his strong defensive game while Peterson continues to be one of the top big men in the league.

The Panthers will look to move the ball as much as possible on offense and hope to have a balanced scoring attack so defenses can’t focus in on just a player or two. Franklin has been on the better teams defensively in recent history and will look to continue that trend for the 2016-2017 season.

“We are very excited about this group of guys,” Franklin head coach CJ Neely said. “Having a good balance of talent has made our practice games very competitive, everyone has really been pushing each other hard. Each year our goal remains the same, we will focus on day to day improvement and let the results take care of themselves. 

“We want to be defined as a hardworking group that plays aggressively and shares the ball offensively. I think if we can stay committed to trusting each other and consistently competing on both ends of the floor we can have a good year.”

https://hockomocksports.com/2016-2017-kelley-rex-boys-basketball-preview/

FRANKLIN Girls Basketball

2015-16 Record: 13-8 (10-6)
2015-16 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Central quarterfinal
Head Coach: John Leighton

"Franklin has been consistently one of the top programs in the league and despite losing a strong group of seniors, the Panthers are once again in the mix for a league title and a return to the Div. 1 Central tournament. 

Leading the way this season is a core of five experienced seniors that offer Franklin a good balance of interior and perimeter scoring. Carli Koffinke is in her third year on varsity and is a threat from the outside, taking advantage of the Panthers’ drive and kick style of offense. Point guard Margaux Welsh will take over the primary ball-handling role and will be expected to get the offense going. 

Izzy Faught and Grace McDermott will add depth in the backcourt and forward Erin Skidmore adds athleticism and quickness in the paint. 

In order to stay consistently competitive, the Panthers have always been able to count on new players coming in to refresh the roster. This winter will be no different with junior forward Kate Morse in her first year on the team as well as sophomore point guard Shannon Gray and three-point threat Bea Bondhus, who had a team-high 11 points in the season opener. Freshmen Ali Brigham and Megan O’Connell will add to Franklin’s front-court depth. 

“With so many younger and newer players, we are hoping to build team chemistry and improve each and every day,” said Franklin coach John Leighton. “We are very encouraged with our depth and will lean on our seniors for leadership.”

https://hockomocksports.com/2016-2017-kelley-rex-girls-basketball-preview/

Franklin Liquors - Holiday Gift Guide

Via Franklin Liquors:

"Happy Holidays!

It's That Crazy Time Of Year And We Are Here
To Help With Your Shopping List.
In This Email Are Some Holiday Gift Ideas And Our Sale Items.

From Our Family To You And Yours
Have A Merry Christmas
And A Happy/Healthy New Year!"

• Click here for the details http://conta.cc/2gx1WkB

Franklin Liquors

The Leadership Profile for the Franklin Schools Superintendent Search

Hello

Attached is the Franklin Leadership Profile developed by HYA, the consultant firm hired for the Superintendent Search for the Franklin Public Schools.





You can also find this on the Schools Town of Franklin webpage
http://franklindistrict.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinDistrict_News/0251815B-000F8513

Franklin High School

"attributable to debt from the recently completed Franklin High School"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The town has opted to continue with a single tax rate for residential and commercial properties for the fiscal year 2017. 

As a result, the average single-family home will see an estimated $229 increase in its tax bill. 

The Town Council held a public hearing on the rate during its Dec. 7 meeting, during which members of the Board of Assessors gave a short presentation. Board chairman Ken Norman explained that its recommendation would increase the rate by eight cents, rising from $14.50 per $1,000 assessed value to $14.58. 

According to the assessors' data, home values in town have gone up over the past year; the average single-family home in fiscal year 2016 was listed at $398,300, while the 2017 average is $411,800 - a 3.5 percent climb."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161212/franklin-retains-single-tax-rate

For the complete summary of the Town Council meeting Dec 7
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/12/2-police-officers-sworn-in-tax-rate-set.html

construction continues on the Library expansion project

"Franklin will be led in part by its offensive-minded junior class"

In case you missed the GLobe West section Sunday included an outlook on the FHS boys hockey season:

"Franklin also overcame its demons last year, ending a 33-year championship drought with a double overtime win over St. Mary’s of Lynn, 4-3. 

A state title had eluded Franklin in three straight finals appearances from 2011 to 2013. But head coach Chris Spillane is hoping that last year’s win was indicative of a consistent, high standard of hockey for the Panthers. 

“We don’t want to be that team that goes and plays one year in the Garden, wins it, and then doesn’t get back there for 10, 15 years,” Spillane said. “Our goal is to consistently be one of the better programs in the area.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/regionals/west/2016/12/09/nashoba-leads-pack-hockey-teams-set-out-defend-their-titles/IsQSuLMwzNiwfdjfLhNAZL/story.html

Franklin head coach Chris Spillane (standing at left), watches a recent scrimmage against Medfield. (PHOTOS BY BARRY CHIN/GLOBE STAFF)

FHS Peterson, Wolowacki recognized for Hockomock Football

The 2016 Hockomock Sports .com Football Awards were posted by Hockomock Sports .com. The Franklin High School students recognized are shared here. For the full listing follow the link at the bottom.

Peterson, Wolowacki (photos by HockomockSports.Com)

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM HOCK 5 WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS

Connor Peterson – Franklin – Junior

Connor Peterson – Franklin – Junior

Franklin junior Connor Peterson developed into a true threat for the Panthers this season. Under first-year head coach Eian Bain, Peterson was a vital part of Franklin’s passing game. Peterson became a go-to option, hauling in a team-high 35 passes for 559 yards (16.0 yards per catch). The junior was especially dangerous around the end zone, pulling down a team-best seven touchdowns. “Connor has a natural way that he catches the football, he utilizes his rare blend size and speed to catch almost anything thrown in his direction,” Bain said. 

 Jacob Wolowacki – Franklin – Senior

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM HOCK 5 ATHLETES

Jacob Wolowacki – Franklin – Senior

Franklin senior Jacob Wolowacki followed up a strong junior season with an impressive final year for the Panthers. Wolowacki was a two-way threat on offense, taking handoffs as well as catching passes out of the backfield. He rushed for 976 yards on 228 attempts and found the end zone 10 times on the ground. The senior also caught 21 passes for 262 yards and three touchdowns. “Jacob became a focal point of our offense with his quickness, vision, and excellent ability to catch the ball out of the backfield,” Franklin coach Eian Bain said. 

For the complete listing of awards for the 2016 Hockomock Football season
https://hockomocksports.com/awards/football/2016-2/

Photos courtesy of HockomockSports.com

“I’m worried about the density”

"One week after a developer pitched a 21-story apartment building for Coolidge Corner, selectmen have asked state officials to back a temporary moratorium on the review of future projects proposed under the state’s affordable housing law. 

Brookline has 10 separate projects seeking waivers from local zoning that would add hundreds of new units under Chapter 40B. 

The latest is a proposal from developer Chestnut Hill Realty that would bring 320 apartments in a complex on Waldo Street. Under the plan, 64 apartments would meet affordability rules and the rest would be market rate."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/regionals/west/2016/12/07/brookline-officials-want-moratorium-new-affordable-housing-developments/QKlw5g5xAQq7Ep8mBtpH6H/story.html

For resources on MA.GOV for 40B  http://www.mass.gov/hed/community/40b-plan/

The Zoning Board of Appeals handles the 40B applications in Franklin
http://www.franklinma.gov/zoning-board-appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals

Franklin Public Schools: 2 hour delay - Monday, Dec 12

Due to icy road conditions Franklin Public Schools will open 2 hours late today, Monday December 12th.

Thank you

Fletcher Field in snow

Register O'Donnell "Most County Real Estate Data Remains Solid in November 2016"

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell "Most County Real Estate Data Remains Solid in November 2016" Norfolk County experienced for November 2016 a strong month of real estate sales and lending activity, tempered by a slight decrease in real estate sale prices. Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell noted, "The number of property transactions increased a healthy 12% in November, compared to the same time period in 2015. A total of 1,563 deeds were recorded versus 1,395 in November 2015. "However, what was a little surprising was a small by noticeable 4% decrease in the average sale price of residential and commercial property. The average real estate sale price for the month of November was $721,968. However, total sales volume, again both residential and commercial, increased by 5% to $679 million." Another positive factor was that mortgage activity across the county increased in November by 37% as compared to November of 2015. A key factor in this activity, according to O'Donnell, was the relatively low interest rates still being offered by lending institutions. While the number of mortgages recorded increased significantly, total mortgage financing for November came in at $1.78 billion, a 25% decrease from the previous year. This decrease can be explained by 3 separate commercial mortgage transactions totaling $550 million that were recorded against properties in Weymouth, Walpole and Plainville in November 2015. Further encouraging news was seen when it came to foreclosure activity. A total of 19 foreclosure deeds were filed in November compared to 24 filings year over year. In addition, Notice to Foreclose Mortgage activity, the first step in the foreclosure process, decreased a significant 40% during the month compared to the same time period in 2015. Fifty-two Notice to Foreclose Mortgages were filed in November compared to 86 in November 2015. "These foreclosure figures are encouraging news," noted O'Donnell, "However, we can't simply focus on statistics, without realizing the human impact that results from a foreclosure filing. Clearly, some of our neighbors continue to face economic hardship. My office remains committed to partnering with Quincy Community Action Programs at (508) 598-0950 and NeighborWorks Southern Mass at (508) 587-0950 x-46 to ensure homeowners who have received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage from a lender are getting the help they need. Another option is to call the Massachusetts Attorney General's HomeCorps program at (617) 573-5333." The number of Homesteads recorded, an important consumer tool, increased by 7%. A total of 1,002 Homesteads were filed last month, compared to 939 in November 2015. O'Donnell noted, "A Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000." Register O'Donnell concluded, "While the slight dip in average real estate sale price for Norfolk County in November was a bit surprising, I nevertheless was heartened by the solid 12% increase in the number of real estate transactions compared to year over year at a time of the year where typically there is less real estate activity. Lending activity continues its acceleration, which is good for the real estate market. As I have previously stated, an uptick in interest rates could cause a chilling effect on both real estate sales and lending. For now, however, we will accept the good news seen in the November data while we keep a watchful eye on what the Federal Reserve will do with regards to interest rates." 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/or Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street, 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, accessible land record information. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or on the web at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

"water levels have been declining all year"

"Many fear the impending cold weather will accompany dreaded snowfall, but this winter, many are actually hoping that the white stuff will replenish water sources depleted by the several-month-long drought. 

While some towns are beginning to recover from this year's detrimental drought, others are still facing declining water supply triggered by a lack of rain. 

Every region in the state, with the exception of the Cape and the Islands remains in a drought warning, according to a state Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs statement released Friday. 

Although many areas of the state experienced some rain and snow this past month, year-long averages are still well below normal."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161210/as-winter-looms-many-reservoirs-still-dangerously-low

U.S. Drought Monitor Map Archive - MA 12/06/16

MBTA: Through Monday: Commuter Rail notice

"The commuter rail is operating on a regular weekday schedule Monday, 12/12/16. Please allow additional time travelling to stations and use caution traversing platforms and parking lots.

With winter weather expected overnight and into the morning,passengers are reminded to take precautions while travelling to their local stations. 

For the latest commuter rail information, follow us on Twitter @mbta_cr, sign up to be a T-Alert subscriber and consider downloading the MBTA Commuter Rail or Transit apps.

Please be on the platform 5-10 minutes prior to departure to ensure timely boarding.

Last updated: Dec 11 2016 06:07 PM"

Franklin Dean Station in the snow

Sign up for T-Alerts  http://www.mbta.com/rider_tools/t_alerts/

2 police officers sworn in, tax rate set, and fire fighter civil service saved among key items at Town Council meeting

For the recap of the Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Dec 7, 2016 I have the following summary and associated details:

Two new police officers were sworn in at the beginning of the meeting; Jack Flynn and Tara Souza.

Chief  Lynch introducing Jack Flynn and Tara Souza

Additional photos can be found here
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10153881960095916&id=162770995915


The tax rate was set at 14.58%. This is a .08 increase over last year and while an increase, the good news within the details is that the overall assessed value of the properties in Franklin is approaching levels not since seen 2006. Beginning in 2008, the total assessed value declined for 6 years. We are now into the 4th year of increasing assessed values.

The annual renewal of liquor licenses was approved. For those businesses with unpaid bills, the license is held until payment is made. This time each year you can get a good listing of which businesses has a liquor license.

After much verbal positioning, the Town Council voted 6-3 to keep civil service for the fire fighters. Civil service came into Franklin in the 1950's and 15 groups were part of it. The fire fighters are the last unit remaining on civil service. The three councilors for removing the civil service were Mercer, Vallee and Kelly. Pellegri, Padula, Pfeffer, Bissanti, Dellorco and Jones voted to keep it. 

The Council declared the Milford Daily News as the newspaper that legal notices will be posted in, as well as the homepage of the town website. While legislation was passed earlier this year creating an online notice portal, the newspaper lobby kept the measure in place for communities to still post in the local papers.

The Council declared Forge Rill Road property as surplus land. Franklin TV will use the land to put their new radio broadcast tower on. The tower will also have space for the Town to move their antennas over to this tower and avoid an annual payment. This is a win-win for all of Franklin. We'll get a radio station next year and the Town of Franklin will save some money.

The Council approved an appropriation to purchase Google Applications for all town staff. With additional records keeping requirements coming, the Town Council will all get new Gmail addresses to conduct their official town business. This is part of the phased effort to bring the town communications technology more to better handle the current needs and be positioned for the future.

The Council approved an appropriation for funds to begin the design of new turf fields at the High School and on Beaver Street. The turf fields have been subject of much discussion regarding the crumb rubber infill. The Council voted to fund the design to use an encapsulated rubber. The rubber is coated which should provide more safety than the exposed crumb rubber currently used. A measure will come back in 2017 to fund the replacements which would likely be conducted during June and July while school is out and before the heavy use of the fields is needed in the fall.

The Council approved an appropriation to pilot E-Permitting software for the Town Clerk’s Office. Dog permit renewals are targeted to be the first enabled for online purchase. Additional departments will be brought on overtime.

The Council approved the first reading of amending a bylaw on delinquent taxpayers to conform to the Governor’s Municipal Modernization Act. The measure brings the language into conformance with the current requirements.

The published Actions Taken document

For the link to my notes taken live during the meeting Wednesday

• Live Reporting: Closing
• Live Reporting: Legislation for Action
• Live Reporting: Fire Dept civil service discussion...
• Live Reporting: Franklin Advisory Committee
• Live reporting: Annual License Renewals
• Live Reporting: Tax Hearing
• Live reporting: Town Council - Dec 7, 2016
• 
  

FHS Brahimi, Asmath recognized with Hockomock Sports Com Soccer Awards

The 2016 Hockomock Sports .com Boys Soccer Awards were posted by Hockomock Sports .com. The Franklin High School students recognized are shared here. For the full listing follow the link at the bottom.

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM BEST XI

Hatim Brahimi – Franklin – Midfield

 Hatim Brahimi – Franklin – Midfield

Franklin senior Hatim Brahimi was once again one of the top playmakers in the Hockomock League. From his central midfield position, Brahimi was quick to make decisions and was the catalyst for the Panthers’ attack. His vision and skills with the ball at his feet made him one of the top players in not only the league, but the area. A three-year varsity player, the senior captain scored once and had one assist in 2016. “He is technically and tactically one of the best players that we’ve had in Franklin over the last few years,” Franklin head coach Fran Bositis said.

HOCKOMOCKSPORTS.COM SECOND XI

Farley Asmath – Franklin – Forward

Farley Asmath – Franklin – Forward

Franklin senior Farley Asmath garnered a lot of attention during his final year with the Panthers. The speedy Asmath, who was a handful for opposing defenses, led Franklin with seven goals and two assists. “Farley has worked very hard to make himself into a very good player,” Franklin head coach Fran Bositis said. “I feel that he has made great strides as a player when you consider he had never played organized soccer until he came to this country four years ago. I believe that he is only going to get better if given the opportunity to play at the next level.”

For the complete listing of awards for the 2016 Hockomock Soccer season
https://hockomocksports.com/awards/boys-soccer/2016-2/

FHS wrestling and indoor track results from Saturday

From Hockomock Sports .com we share the results of  the winter sports action on Saturday. The FHS wrestling team split into A and B squads. The A team finished 3rd at Mt Hope; the B squad finished 16th. 

On the Indoor Track at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston, FHS ran against Oliver Ames with the girls team winning and the boys team losing.

FHS Panthers

Wrestling

Mt. Hope Tournament (Foxboro, Franklin, Stoughton) 

– Foxboro finished first at the Mt. Hope Holiday Tournament with 180 points. Franklin’s “A” team finished third with 171 points, Stoughton finished eighth with 91 and Franklin’s “B” team was 16th with 26 points. 

Foxboro’s Matt Kelley earned his 157th career win, making him the winningest wrestling in Warrior history. Other winner’s included Foxboro’s Brian Kelley (138), Franklin’s Ed Cropper (152) and Stoughton’s Lino Azul (285). 

Second place finishes included Franklin’s Jordan Carlucci (106), Ian Bakalars (113), Mike Racca (120), Foxboro’s Max Dorman (152), Matt Mullally (160) and Dave Dow (170).

Indoor Track (@ Reggie Lewis Center)

• Boys = Franklin, 46 vs. Oliver Ames, 54 – Final
• Girls = Franklin, 72 vs. Oliver Ames, 28 – Final

For all the results on Saturday around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/saturdays-schedule-scoreboard-121016/


For the complete track and field results
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/16/ma/Dec10_Hockom_set1.shtml

• Boys

http://www.coolrunning.com/results/16/ma/Dec10_Hockom_set2.shtml

• Girls

http://www.coolrunning.com/results/16/ma/Dec10_Hockom_set3.shtml

United Regional Chamber of Commerce: Holiday Show on Sunday!

Rick Adams - One Man Parade

We are holding our annual Holiday Show on Sunday, December 11, at Attleboro High School!

Sponsored by generous donors, and the United Regional Chamber of Commerce, this fun show is FREE to the public.

Join us, December 11th at 1PM, at Attleboro High School, 100 Rathbun Willard Drive in Attleboro.

If you have any questions, please call the chamber office at 508-316-0861.

www.unitedregionalchamber.org

www.unitedregionalchamber.org