Tracy Grammer with Jim Henry - April 13 - at Circle of Friends Coffeehouse

"One of the finest singers and musicians anywhere in folkdom." (Boston Globe)

Tracy Grammer with Jim Henry, Eric Lee opens View this email in your browser Tracy Grammer with Jim Henry and special guest Eric Lee Apr 13 - 8 PM - $20 Tracy Grammer returns to the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse stage on Saturday, April 13th at 8PM.  Called  "a musician and singer of dazzling versatility", Tracy Grammer is among contemporary folk music's most beloved artists. Renowned for her pure voice, deft guitar and violin work, and masterful storytelling, Grammer has recorded and performed with Joan Baez and Mary Chapin Carpenter, headlined several of the nation's top folk festivals, including Philadelphia Folk Festival and Falcon Ridge, and enjoyed 12 consecutive years as one of folk radio's 50 top-played artists, both solo and with the late Dave Carter.  She is currently on tour celebrating her eleventh release, LOW TIDE, which is the first of her albums to showcase her original songs and has already won numerous awards.   http://tracygrammer.com/ "Her pure voice conveys the simple truths of these songs; her gifts as a musician are like that of a painter who is a master of chiaroscuro, offering light and shadow at every turn." - Mary Chapin Carpenter Tracy will be accompanied by world class guitarist/dobro/mandolin player Jim Henry.  http://www.jimhenry.net/ Western MA singer, fiddler, guitarist Eric Lee will open the show.  Eric shapes songs with stand-alone melodies and rich musical backdrops. From the personal to the sublime, they range from tales of honkey-tonk heartache to anthems of social consciousness and are told with a language of poetic and raw honesty. http://eric-lee-music.com/ The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available.  Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. Upcoming Shows May 11    Ordinary Elephant Sep 7      Abbie Gardner Sep 21    Ellis Paul

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

FHS girls lacrosse - 2019 Hockomock League Preview

HockomockSports.com Staff has published their 2019 HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE GIRLS LACROSSE PREVIEW. We share the FHS portion here. The link to the full league preview is located below


FRANKLIN
2018 Record: 14-6
2018 Finish: Reached D1 East Semifinal
Coach: Kristin Igoe Guarino

"It is a sign of just how far the Franklin program has come that being knocked out in last season’s East semifinal could almost be considered a disappointment. After winning the East title in 2016 and 2017, the Panthers come into the spring with another roster loaded with talent and experience and a schedule loaded with the top teams in the state to prep for a deep tournament run as well as trying to make it eight straight league titles.

Senior Annie Walsh will be the focal point for the Panthers again this year and the player that the offense typically runs through. Her sister Erin, a junior attacker, is one of the best finishers in the league and gives Franklin a dynamic one-two punch on offense. Junior Kelsey MacCallum adds another talented attacker to the forward line, while senior Hailey Toolin adds versatility as either a midfielder or defender and junior Alex Field will be a key piece of a defensive unit that was by far the best in the Hock last season. 

Junior goalie Gianna Cameron is another reason for the Panthers having such a strong defensive record after two straight seasons on the HockomockSports.com First Team. The Panthers haven’t lost a league game since 2012 (more than 70 straight wins) and have added an exciting freshman class with loads of potential, including six players making the instant jump to varsity.

“We have a ton of versatility where a lot of different players can play all positions. I am excited about the athleticism and skill level of our team,” said Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino. “We have a ton of players with high level stick work and IQ that are capable of scoring and feeding. I am looking forward to us becoming a team with a high powered offense!”


Read the full girls lacrosse season preview for the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/2019-hockomock-league-girls-lacrosse-preview/

FHS Panthers

FHS' Haba among HockomockSports.com's "Baseball: Ten Players to Watch for 2019"

HockomockSports.com has published their "Baseball: Ten Players to Watch for 2019" which features one player from FHS.


ALEX HABA, SENIOR – FRANKLIN

"The Franklin Panthers have had a lot of success over the past two seasons, and one constant in that time period has been shortstop Alex Haba. Haba burst onto the scene as a sure-handed shortstop during his sophomore year and has been one of the best defensive players at any positions since then. 

At one of the most important spots on the field, Haba routinely makes difficult plays look easy. And over the past two years, he’s really improved on the offensive end. Last season, Haba batted .328 during the regular season with 22 hits, 12 RBI and 15 runs scored. Haba will be a leader for the Panthers this year, both on and off the field, and could be one of the best overall players in the league."

Read the full listing of baseball players to watch 
https://hockomocksports.com/baseball-ten-players-to-watch-for-2019/

FHS Panthers

FHS girls lacrosse and girls tennis teams drop matches on Tuesday

Via HockomockSports, we share the results of the FHS sports action on Tuesday, Apr 2, 2019

Girls Lacrosse = Franklin, 10 vs. Westwood, 14 – Final
– Franklin held an 8-5 lead at halftime but a strong second half from the Wolverines gave Westwood the win. Westwood knotted the score 10-10 with just over 10 minutes left. After taking the lead, Franklin pulled the goalie to try and tie the game but the Wolverines cashed in for some empty net goals. Erin Walsh had four goals and two assists to pace Franklin’s offense while Stella Regan scored twice and had one assist. Freshman Kate O’Rourke had a strong game in the midfield with nine draw controls.

Girls Tennis = Franklin, 0 vs. Hopkinton, 5 – Final

For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/tuesdays-schedule-scoreboard-04-02-19/

FHS Panthers

Brigham, Bondus, Quaile, Leighton recognized for HockomockSports Girls Basketball Awards

2019 HockomockSports.com Girls Basketball Player of the Year

Ali Brigham has been named the 2019 HockomockSports.com Girls Basketball
Player of the Year (HockomockSports.com photo)

"Franklin junior center Ali Brigham has been named the 2019 HockomockSports.com Girls Basketball Player of the Year, the eighth recipient in the site’s history and the first player from Franklin to earn this honor. Brigham, a three-year starter, led the Panthers to their first Kelley-Rex division crown since 2013 and the program’s first-ever sectional title.

“Ali had one of the most dominant seasons we’ve seen,” said HockomockSports.com Managing Editor Josh Perry. “She was in complete control on both ends of the floor, scoring points, grabbing rebounds, and guarding the rim. Everyone in the gym knew where the ball was going but were still unable to stop her once she got it. It’s scary to think (for opponents anyway) that she’s got one more year to go and she’s still developing new parts to her game.”

Brigham averaged 25.6 points per game and reached the 1,000-point mark for her career as a junior. She also pulled down more than 17 rebounds and blocked more than six shots per night. Another season like this one and the George Washington University-commit would become the program’s all-time leading scorer. Brigham was also chosen as the Hockomock League MVP by the coaches and was a finalist for the Gatorade Player of the Year."

Continue reading at link below:

First Team = Ali Brigham – Franklin – Center

"Franklin junior center Ali Brigham continued her remarkable three-year varsity career by helping the Panthers win a league title for the first time since 2013 and claim the program’s first-ever sectional title. Brigham averaged 25.6 points per game this season, reaching the 1,000-point mark for her career. She also averaged 17 rebounds and nearly seven blocks per game, dominating the paint on both ends of the floor all winter, and was named the Hockomock League MVP by the coaches and a finalist for Gatorade Player of the Year. Franklin coach John Leighton said, “Ali is a one of a kind player who nightly faced double teams and found a way to be prolific while also playing team basketball.”

Third Team = Bea Bondhus – Franklin – Guard

Bea Bondhus (HockomockSports.com photo)

"Franklin senior Bea Bondhus wrapped up her career by helping the Panthers bring home a Kelley-Rex division title for the first time since 2013 and clinch the program’s first-ever sectional crown. Bondhus was one of the most consistent shooters and guards in the league this season, averaging right around 10 points per game and making 56 threes overall. She shot 33 percent from beyond the arc and 81 percent from the line, and always seemed to come through in the clutch, including a strong fourth quarter in Franklin’s come from behind win against Westford Academy. Franklin coach John Leighton said of the Springfield College-commit, “A consummate leader, Bea helped to turn this program around and lead us to new heights.”

Basketball Defensive Player of the Year

Franklin sophomore guard Erin Quaile
 (HockomockSports.com photo)

"Franklin sophomore guard Erin Quaile has been named the 2019 HockomockSports.com Girls Basketball Defensive Player of the Year. Quaile is the sixth player to receive this honor in the seven years that it has been given out and the first underclassman to win it.

Quaile was a dominant presence on the defensive end, shutting down some of the top guards in the Hockomock League and chasing players off the three-point line. She finished the season with 52 steals, 87 assists, and 70 defensive rebounds from her point guard position. Quaile’s ability to shut down opposing guards helped the Panthers win the league title, the Div. 1 Central title, and hold opponents to the third-lowest points per game in the league."


COACH OF THE YEAR – JOHN LEIGHTON, FRANKLIN

JOHN LEIGHTON, FRANKLIN
(HockomockSports.com photo)

"Franklin head coach John Leighton has been named the 2019 HockomockSports.com Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. Leighton guided the Panthers to their first Kelley-Rex division title since 2013, to the program’s first-ever sectional title, and was an overtime period away from reaching the state championship game.

Leighton helmed the Panthers to a near-perfect 15-1 record in the Hockomock League, including a season sweep of title contender Mansfield and a win against Davenport division champion Foxboro. Franklin battled back to beat Westford Academy in the opening round of the playoffs, after a switch of defenses in the second half, pulled away from Concord-Carlisle to reach a sectional final for the fourth time under Leighton, and then beat undefeated Wachusett with a buzzer-beater to become Div. 1 Central champ."

For all the girls basketball awards
https://hockomocksports.com/awards/girls-basketball/2018-2019/

In the News: MBTA looking for better service metric; Finding a baseball team to fill McCoy Stadium

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

MBTA looking for better service metric

"MBTA officials plan to develop a new way to measure service reliability on public transit, saying the metric they have used since 2016 does not fully account for certain types of delays that riders experience. 

The current on-time performance rates track how many passengers waited an amount of time equal to or less than what the MBTA sets as the expected headway between trains. However, MBTA General Manager Jeff Gonneville said that figure fails to cover delays once passengers are already on board and additional wait time if a train is too full to accept new riders. 

“If the trip time is delayed like the Red Line was (Monday) morning, some customers, their initial wait was less than the head time, but they sat on the train,” Gonneville said at a Monday meeting of the Fiscal and Management Control Board. “So we need a second on-time performance metric to capture when people’s trips are running longer than we want them to.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190402/mbta-new-system-to-gauge-reliability


"Finding a baseball team to fill the ballpark"

"Wanted: Professional sports team (or teams) to fill beloved old stadium and bring joy back to down-on-its luck Pawtucket. 

Baseball, soccer, lacrosse — city and state officials are open to all types of athletic competition, as well as music concerts, as their search for new tenants to fill McCoy Stadium and replace the Pawtucket Red Sox begins in earnest. 

On behalf of the city, the state Commerce Corporation on Tuesday morning went out to bid for “individuals, firms and/or organizations who are interested in using, redeveloping and operating McCoy Stadium.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190402/ri-pawtucket-seek-new-team-to-fill-void-at-mccoy-stadium

What is next for McCoy Stadium?

Let’s Laugh Today on Wednesday, April 10

Laugh "for the health of it” at Let’s Laugh Today on Wednesday, April 10 from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin!

Let’s Laugh Today on
Wednesday, April 10

Laughter Yoga is a body/mind practice for well-being that involves deep breathing and a few stretches, playful laughter exercises (no jokes or comedy), clapping and deep relaxation. It has many benefits besides the joy of laughter. It can strengthen the immune system, combat the negative effects of stress, and is a powerful antidote to depression and anxiety. 

Let’s Laugh Today

Any age and any level of physical ability can participate in this uplifting experience! They laugh together on every second Wednesday of each month. 

There is a $5 donation to the church, $10 maximum per family. Please bring your water bottle because laughing can be dehydrating. 

Led by Certified Master Trainers, Bill and Linda Hamaker. See www.letslaughtoday.com for opportunities to laugh in other towns. 

If you have any questions, just call them at 508-660-2223 or e-mail billandlinda@letslaughtoday.com.

Reminder: Franklin Art Association - Meeting - Apr 3

The Franklin Art Association will meet on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 from 6:30 to 9:00 PM at the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street in Franklin.

Refreshments and social time will begin at 6:30 PM, followed by a short business meeting and a watercolor demonstration by Joyce McJilton Dwyer, an artist with thirty years' experience working in watercolors and drawings.

FAA meetings are held the first Wednesday of every month, September through May, and are free and open to the public. For more information log on to www.franklinart.org

watercolor by Joyce McJilton Dwyer

The meeting will also address information about 2 upcoming exhibition opportunities one during ArtWeek and one in June.

Attached you will find a copy of the prospectus for the ArtWeek Small Works Exhibition & Sale to be held at the Hayward Manor on Saturday, April 27 from 4-8 PM. Members are invited to exhibit 3 framed pieces 11x14" or smaller in addition to bins work. In order to participate members are asked to please complete this form by Thursday April 18 at midnight. (If you have technical difficulties with this form you may email your entry to FAAsecretary@gmail.com.)

Prospectus Form
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sKMkvZcrvZm_SMdIBc5y13hKhCb9rpYoYZ_kfqzIIsE/edit?usp=sharing

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSecD1AYXd2iEkMsH-grwyNWVn9uJM0Ag-G0XJu-jtZIFTjY7Q/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1
Also the Franklin library is looking to have an artist host an evening art workshop on Mon, April 29. Interested people can contact the library director, Felicia Oti, at foti@minlib.net.

Finally our Spring Show will be held Friday, June 14 in conjunction with the Franklin Downtown Partnership's Strawberry Stroll members are need to help hang, man and tear down the show etc.

Thanks and hope to see you at Wednesday's meeting!

School Start Times proposal gets petition "In Opposition"

Along with the news of the proposal on School Start Times, there is a petition to gather names against the proposal.
https://www.ipetitions.com/petition/franklin-residents-opposed-to-the-proposed-school?

There is also a Facebook group to discuss ways to plan against the proposal.
In Opposition to the School Start Time Change Proposal (Franklin, MA)

or
https://www.facebook.com/groups/333799380817742/


School Start Times Background Information:

The School Start Times presentation to the School Committee was March 26, 2019. The audio of the presentation was posted here on Wednesday:
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/03/fm-161-school-start-times-report-32619.html

The Summary document was released on Friday and published here on Saturday, March 30
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/03/school-start-times-advisory-committee.html

The recap of the full School Committee meeting was posted here on Sunday
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/03/school-committee-recap-march-26-2019.html

Additional info on the work of the School Start Times Advisory Committee 
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-start-times-advisory-committee

School Start Times Advisory Committee

Try Music Together FREE - Friday - April 5

Join us this Friday April 5 and see what all the smiles are about! 

Try Music Together FREE this Friday at Franklin Music, Movement & Mindfulness 10 AM. 

Sign up required- please email jennifer@swalley.net

Try Music Together FREE - Friday - April 5

In the News: Supermarket group backs plastic bag ban

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

"A group representing supermarkets and other food stores offered its conditional support Tuesday to a bill that if approved would make Massachusetts the latest U.S. state to outlaw single-use plastic shopping bags viewed by environmentalists as a major source of pollution and a grave threat to marine wildlife. 

The proposal would prohibit retailers from providing customers with single-use carryout bags at the point of purchase. Stores would be required to make recyclable paper bags available to customers for a charge of 10 cents, and food stores would have the option of making reusable grocery bags available for 10 cents or more. 

Nearly 100 cities and towns, including Boston, already have local plastic bag ordinances in place, though the specifics of those bans vary among communities. 

In testimony prepared for the Legislature’s Natural Resources, Environment and Agriculture Committee, the Massachusetts Food Association said it could support a statewide ban on plastic bags to replace the patchwork of local rules and create an “even playing field” for supermarkets and grocery stores."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190402/supermarket-group-backs-plastic-bag-ban

FHS students discussing the proposal with the EDC Nov 30, 2016

From the archives

A petition online had been created in May 2016
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/05/petition-to-franklin-town-council.html

FHS students brought their plastic bag proposal to the Town Council in Sep 2016
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/09/town-council-recognizes-helen-huang-and.html

After the Town Council presentation in September, the Economic Development Committee picked up the matter for their meeting Nov 30, 2016 (audio file of the meeting available)
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/12/fm122-economic-development-committee.html

Spring Kindergarten Registration - Apr 3

Spring Kindergarten Registration Night

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street, 3rd Floor

Click to access the required Kindergarten Registration Forms
https://www.franklinps.net/district/kindergarten-registration-2019-2020/pages/kindergarten-registration-forms-2019-2020

Please fill them all out and bring them with you to register your child



Editor's Note: Kindergarten registration is a key planning factor for the School District concerning the elementary schools. Especially with this budget cycle (starting July 1, 2019) which affects the new school year starting in September, getting your child registered for kindergarten now, rather than waiting for August is really important.

Spring Kindergarten Registration - Apr 3

School Start Times: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The School Start Times Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page has been posted and will be updated as needed.

Go to 
https://docs.google.com/document/d/10XbvWjFn5bRgmnxTP2hRUa5apdfIQsnQVi4VKowzL-Q/edit?usp=sharing

School Start Times web page

Additional info can be found on the School Start Times page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-start-times-advisory-committee

FHS softball - 2019 Hockomock League Preview

HockomockSports.com Staff has published their 2019 HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE SOFTBALL PREVIEW. We share the FHS portion here. The link to the full league preview is located below.


FRANKLIN
2018 Record: 9-11
2018 Finish: Missed Playoffs
Coach: Kate Fallon

Franklin has consistently been right behind perennial league leaders Taunton and King Philip in the Kelley-Rex division standings but has narrowly missed out on the playoffs by a single win in each of the past two seasons. This year, the Panthers have eight seniors coming back with the goal of getting the team back into the postseason and use a typically tough schedule to prep for a tournament run.

Pitching will be a strength for the Panthers this year with seniors Jackie Cherry and Emily Valentino giving the team depth and different options in the circle. Throwing strikes will be the key for both and limiting opposition base runners. Behind the plate, Franklin has plenty of experience as well with seniors Ally Shea and Maggie Hobby both capable of stepping in and handling the pitchers as well as providing power at the plate. 

Senior Tara Hartnett will be back at shortstop and provides strong defense up the middle. Junior Anna Balkus will be in centerfield and will set the table for the offense as the lead-off hitter. Junior Maddie White will be at third base and joins Shea and senior Kylie-Jade Bouzan as the team’s primary run producers.

“We are excited to see the Panther players on the field again,” said Franklin coach Kate Fallon-Comeau. “Overall our tough league and non-league schedule will keep us focused for tournament and we will rely on our solid pitching and defense.”


Read the full softball season preview for the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/2019-hockomock-league-softball-preview/

FHS Panthers

FHS' Alexander, Morrison - Boys Lacrosse Players to Watch

HockomockSports.com has published their "Boys Lacrosse: Ten Players to Watch for 2019" which features two players from FHS.

JACOB ALEXANDER, SENIOR – FRANKLIN

Franklin senior Jacob Alexander hasn’t led the league in any offensive category before but he might be the most dominant player returning this season. Alexander has been the best faceoff man (83.6% career win percentage) in the Hockomock League over the past three years, and was one of the best in the entire state last year. His ability to give Franklin extra possessions gives the Panthers an incredible advantage. If they have the lead, they can quickly add onto it. If they are trailing, its likely Alexander can get them the ball right back and start a comeback. Over the last two seasons, we’ve seen Alexander really expand his game and get more involved with the offense beyond just the faceoff, scoring five goals and adding 15 assists last year. He was named first-team All American in 2018.


PATRICK MORRISON, SENIOR – FRANKLIN

There aren’t too many players in the league this year that are as experienced as Franklin senior Patrick Morrison. Morrison, who is committed to play lacrosse at Boston University, has been a big part of the Panthers’ lineup since he was a freshman. Now a senior, this season could be Morrison’s best. His size (6’3) gives him an advantage on opposing attackmen, and over the past couple of seasons, his speed and strength have both increased allowing him to be a lockdown defenseman. He has no problem playing physical but his ability to read and anticipate plays along with strong stick work often results in cause turnovers. He will certainly be a key part of the Panthers turning defense into offense.

Read the full listing of boys lacrosse players to watch 
https://hockomocksports.com/boys-lacrosse-ten-players-to-watch-for-2019/

FHS Panthers

FHS boys and girls tennis teams top Milford

Via HockomockSports, we share the results of the FHS sports action on Monday, Apr 1, 2019

Boys Tennis = Milford, 0 @ Franklin, 5 – Final
– Franklin had an impressive win to open the 2019 season, winning four out of the five matches in straight sets. Liam Marr didn’t lose a game in a 6-0, 6-0 win at first singles, Rohan Herur won 6-0, 6-2 at second singles, and Saket Gandham picked a 4-7, 6-4, 8-6 victory at third singles. The team of Saketh Saripalli and Vayshnav Malhotra won 6-3, 6-0 at first doubles while Shoyaib Shaik and Shournik Sompally won 6-0, 6-1 at second doubles for Franklin.

Girls Tennis = Franklin, 3 @ Milford, 2 – Final
– Franklin swept doubles play, winning both by tiebreaker, and got another win in singles to get a 3-2 decision over Milford. The team of Ashvika Boopathy and Vagmi Kantheti won 6-4, 7-6 (7-1), 10-6 at first doubles while Tessa Cacioppo and Krissy Stoyanova picked up a 6-2, 7-6 (7-3) win at second doubles. Frankin’s Sarah Schiavo won 6-3, 6-4 at first singles for the third point. Milford’s Juliana France won 6-3, 6-1 at second singles while Olivia Marshall notched a 6-4, 6-3 victory at third singles for the Scarlet Hawks.

For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/mondays-schedule-scoreboard-04-01-19/

FHS Panthers

Lizotte, Tasker recognized for 2019 HockomockSports Boys Hockey Awards

The Franklin High School boys hockey team has two representatives on the 2019 HockomockSports Boys Hockey Awards

Tom Tasker – Franklin – Defense 1st Team
Franklin senior defenseman Tom Tasker was both a physical presence at the blue line and in the corners and capable of popping up with an important goal or outlet pass for the league champion Panthers. He was one of the reasons for Franklin’s run to the Div. 1 South final, despite the Panthers entering the playoffs as the No. 11 seed. 

Tasker scored three goals this year and had 10 assists, and showed off one of the hardest shots from the point in the league. Franklin coach Chris Spillane said, “Tom Tasker has been the backbone of our defensive group for the last two years. He is an extremely gifted offensive defenseman, who has one of the heaviest shots in the league. Tom has the ability to play a finesse brand of hockey or play a physical style.”

Joe Lizotte – Franklin – Forward 2nd Team

Franklin senior forward Joe Lizotte was the spark plug of the Panthers attack with his energy, hustle, and speed driving the team forward and creating scoring opportunities, sometimes out of nothing. He led the team with 14 points and was second on the team with eight goals and could be counted on to come up with big plays in big moments, such as his game-tying goal that sent the playoff game with Mansfield into overtime. 

Franklin coach Chris Spillane said, “Joe has been an offensive leader for our team over the last two years. His breakaway speed north and south puts him on a different level than anyone else on the ice. Joe was an offensive threat every time he stepped on the ice.”


For all the HockomockSports boys hockey awards
https://hockomocksports.com/awards/hockey/2018-2019/

Photos courtesy of HockomockSports.com

Chili & Chowder Challenge - April 14

Chili & Chowder Challenge to support the Relay For Life of Western Norfolk County on April 14 from noon - 4 PM at the Medway VFW Post 1526. Some of the best restaurants and fire departments around will be presenting their version of chili and chowder for you to vote on. 

There will be a DJ, Raffles, Silent Auctions, Free Ice Cream and more Chili and Chowder than you can eat. Tickets are on sale now and are $10.00 with advanced purchase or $20.00 at the door. Contact me if you would like a ticket, have any questions or would like to help support the Challenge. We are still accepting donations for the raffle.

Tickets can be purchased in advance by making a donation directly to my Relay For Life page or contacting me directly. There is a link on our Facebook page below. We look forward to seeing you there.

Please take a moment to support these local business and fire departments that will be at the Challenge this year. (in no particular order)

• T.C. Scoops
• PJ's Smoke "N" Grill
• PJ's Bar & Grill
• The Alumni Restaurant
• Napper Tandy's Millis
• The Raven's Nest
• Jimmy D's Bar & Grill
• Pollard's Texas Que
• J & L Catering
• The Moonlight Chef
• Medfield Fire Department
• Medway Firefighters Local 4602
• Westwood Fire
• Hose Heads Chili Team
• Wrentham Fire Department
• Norwood Firefighters Local 1631
• Needham Firefighters - Local 1706
• Sherborn Fire

Follow the event on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/events/312734096267458/

Chili & Chowder Challenge - April 14 (Facebook event photo)

In the News: State can't keep covering Federal cuts; FCC rule change threatens local cable access; Culinary Cabaret - Apr 5

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

State can't keep covering Federal cuts

"The Legislature and Gov. Charlie Baker last week appropriated $38 million to offset federal spending cuts, but House Speaker Robert DeLeo says the state can’t keep replacing federal money. 

“We can’t continue to pick up all of the slack,” DeLeo told CBS-Boston’s Jon Keller during a TV interview Sunday morning. “So when we’re talking about funding, that’s something we have to keep in the back of our mind.” 

In the interview, DeLeo, a Winthrop Democrat who led the push in 2009 to raise the sales tax to 6.25 percent, seemed to show openness to further tax increases. 

“Looking at the needs of transportation, we’re going to probably have to take up, when I say everything and anything, I mean everything and anything,” he said. “I’m not ruling anything out.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190401/deleo-warns-of-further-tax-hikes-amid-federal-spending-cuts

FCC rule change threatens local cable access

"Blasting a proposed rule change as an “existential threat” to community television, Sen. Ed Markey on Monday urged other states to follow Massachusetts’ lead and push back against the Federal Communications Commission. 

“We’re the revolutionary state and this is where the revolution begins against the Federal Communications Commission,” Markey said after holding a public discussion in his Boston office with nearly 100 representatives of cable access channels across the state. 

The FCC, Markey said, is considering a plan allowing cable operators to assign a value to public, educational and governmental access channels, and then subtract that value and the value of other in-kind contributions from the franchise fees they pay cities and towns. 

Markey said local governments would be forced to decide between supporting cable access channels and schools and public."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190401/markey-rips-fcc-rule-seen-as-threat-to-community-access-tv

http://www.franklin.tv/

Culinary Cabaret - Apr 5

"The Franklin Performing Arts Company will present Culinary Cabaret 2019 from 7-10 p.m. on Friday at The Black Box, 15 W. Central St. 

The 8th annual food and wine event will showcase the culinary and performing arts, featuring creative dishes and gourmet specialties. The evening also includes a culinary-themed silent auction and entertainment by FPAC special guest artists and the international touring ensemble Electric Youth. 

Partners for this year’s event will include 3 Restaurant (Franklin), Tavolino (Foxborough), Intermission (Franklin), Alumni Restaurant (Franklin), JP Fuji Group (Quincy), The Curry House (Franklin), DAVIDs Tea (Wrentham), J & L Catering (Medway), The Gavel (Wrentham) and more."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190401/franklin-culinary-cabaret-features-food-music-auction

FSPA Students to Perform at Walt Disney World

Students from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will travel to Walt Disney World during the April school break to perform for Disney audiences and participate in master classes with Disney performers, choreographers, and directors. FSPA musical theater troupes Broadway Light, Broadway Ladies, and Broadway Bound, as well as the senior dance company, CenterStage, will entertain at Disney Springs’ Waterside Stage.

FSPA performing troupe and dance company members are selected at the beginning of each academic year by audition. The ensembles offer outstanding training and performing opportunities throughout the year.

The Disney-bound students will present their 25 minute sets at the annual Disney Showcase on Saturday, April 6 at THE BLACK BOX at 2 and 7 pm. Audiences will enjoy Broadway Light, Broadway Ladies, Broadway Bound, and CenterStage, along with Lite Brites, BLT2 and Next Step ensembles.

For tickets to the Disney Showcase and more information on FSPA performing ensembles, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

FSPA Students to Perform at Walt Disney World

Portrait of a Graduate -- Invites to the Community

From School Superintendent Sara Ahern's report to the School Committee on Mar 26, 2019:

"We are excited to be engaging with community members in a VISIONING process, designed to define our Portrait of a Graduate and the essential skills we need to develop among all of our high school graduates in order for them to thrive today and in their futures. An invitation recently went out in the district’s newsletter, but we’d be delighted if additional individuals would join us, as we still have some spaces."

Thursday April 4, 2019 OR Monday April 8, 2019 at 7 PM

This is a PreK-12 experience and is not limited to those affiliated with Franklin High School.

We are asking for RSVPs for planning purposes:
Please join us! https://goo.gl/forms/pF5HU5Rou7SxWl3x2

If you are interested in learning more about Portrait of a Graduate, this background article may be of interest to you:
https://www.nsba.org/newsroom/american-school-board-journal/asbj-august-2018/what-shouldyour-graduate-know

At one time Davis Thayer was Franklin High School, what does a FHS graduate
need to look like to be successful in our changing world?

FHS baseball - 2019 Hockomock League Preview

HockomockSports.com Staff has published their 2019 HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE BASEBALL PREVIEW. We share the FHS portion here. The link to the full league preview is located below.


FRANKLIN
2018 Record: 21-5
2018 Finish: Division 1A (Super 8) State Champions
Coach: Zach Brown

"Coming off the program’s first-ever Super 8 state championship, Franklin is going to have a big target on its back — and the Panthers know it.

Franklin lost its top three pitchers in Jake Noviello, Bryan Woelfel, and Jason Ulrickson. Those were the only three pitchers to play during the Panthers’ Super 8 run. This season, the Panthers will turn to the experience of Ben Guzman, Brennan Rivera, and Will Pacheco. All three made appearances a year ago with Guzman and Pacheco registering wins. Guzman is currently recovering from an injury suffered in the preseason but the Panthers are excited for his contributions when he returns. Juniors Liam Dailey and Cody Trotin will also be in the mix after starting for JV last season.

While the pitching staff gets settled in, the Panthers will rely on its defense and offense. After an up-and-down regular season last year offensively, Franklin will be trying to carry over the success it had in the state tournament. Senior Alex Haba is back at shortstop and is one of the best two-way players in the Hockomock. Jake Macchi had a terrific postseason and will be looking to carry that over into his final year starting at catcher for Franklin. Scott Elliott will be the veteran in the outfield for the Panthers as well as a top offensive weapon. All three players — Haba, Macchi, and Elliott — are committed to playing baseball at Merrimack.

Cooper Ross is coming off a strong postseason and will start at third base while junior Jack Nally had a standout sophomore campaign in center field and will move up to the top of the order to set the table for the Panther offense. JB Floris will move from the designated hitter spot to first base and brings an experienced bat with him. Senior Joe Lizotte should see time in the outfield while senior Shane O’Neil’s versatility gives Franklin a lot of options defensively.

“We know this isn’t last year, this is a totally different team with different dynamics,” said Franklin head coach Zach Brown. “We like the makeup of our team, with guys working hard and the seniors being good leaders. I think we could be pretty good defensively, and we’ve shown at times in the preseason to be pretty versatile on offense.”

Read the full baseball season preview for the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/2019-hockomock-league-baseball-preview/

FHS Panthers

FHS Girls Lacrosse: Players to Watch for 2019

HockomockSports.com has published their "Girls Lacrosse: Ten Players to Watch for 2019" which features three players from FHS.


GIANNA CAMERON, JUNIOR – FRANKLIN

"Franklin junior goalie Gianna Cameron has been a standout for each of her two seasons in net for the Panthers, earning HockomockSports.com First Team honors both years. Cameron, a University of Oregon-commit, has been a rock for the league’s top defensive unit, showing off quick hands and the ability to read the intentions of opposing attackers. 

She led the league in goals against average with just a little more than six per game. The Panthers only allowed 127 goals last spring, which was almost 30 goals fewer than the second-best defense in the Hock, on their way to another perfect league campaign, another Kelley-Rex division title, and another trip to the D1 East semifinal. Cameron has that knack for making the big saves in big moments and will be a key figure if Franklin wants to regain its sectional title."

ANNIE WALSH, SENIOR –
ERIN WALSH, JUNIOR – FRANKLIN

"Franklin has dominated the Hockomock League for the past seven years, having not lost in 71 straight league games dating back to 2012, and the Walsh sisters have been a primary reason why the Panthers have continued that run in the past few seasons. Annie, a senior midfielder, and Erin, a junior, are both Boston College commits and have both been named HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year (Annie in 2017 and Erin last year). 

Annie has been the quarterback of the Panthers’ offense, setting things up, and getting the Panthers into the right spots. She scored 56 goals and had 15 assists last year and is an all-around threat with her ability on the defensive side of the ball and on draws. 

Erin is one of the league’s most creative finishers, pulling off highlight-reel shots even in the biggest moments. She was sixth in the league in scoring during the regular season with 77 points in 2018, scoring 53 goals and dishing out 24 assists. Playing against one of the state’s most difficult schedules, the Walsh sisters have continued to put up big statistics and will be key to Franklin’s run at another D1 East title this spring."

Read the full listing of girl lacrosse players to watch 
https://hockomocksports.com/girls-lacrosse-ten-players-to-watch-for-2019/

FHS Panthers