Franklin Public Schools: Accelerated Dismissal/No Afterschool & Evening Activities for Dec 17

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Accelerated Dismissal Called

Dear Franklin Families and Faculty/Staff,

We continue to monitor weather conditions and the forecast calls for some icing to continue in our area this afternoon and then a brief change to snow again between 6-8 PM.

As a result of the forecast, the Franklin Public Schools will begin releasing high school and middle school students in an accelerated fashion on Tuesday afternoon, December 17, 2019, but it will not be on an early release schedule.

Middle school and high school will dismiss 15 minutes early to get the buses on the road. Elementary schools will dismiss at normal times. The thought behind this is that any delays in travel caused by weather conditions may still allow for the elementary students to arrive at home on time and safely.

All afternoon and evening activities for Franklin Public Schools will be cancelled today, Tuesday, December 17, 2019. There will be no late bus service after school.

Solutions families – The Solutions Program will open as usual. Solutions staff are assessing the weather; if a decision is made to close Solutions early, a Solutions staff member will contact each family to advise them of the early closing time.

Sincerely,

The Franklin Public Schools

Franklin Public Schools: Accelerated Dismissal/No Afterschool & Evening Activities for Dec 17

FPAC brings Broadway Home to Franklin for the Holidays - Dec 20-22

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), Franklin TV, and The Woonsocket Museum of Broadcast Technology will team up this week to bring a special holiday show to THE BLACK BOX. 

Together, they will present the world premiere of Christopher Rice's The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE! based on Rice's viral #TAPPY video series which has been seen by more than 10 million people worldwide. THE BLACK BOX will be transformed into a classic soundstage where Broadway's Christopher Rice (Pretty Woman, Book of Mormon) will bring his Christmas variety show to life and whirl the audience away to a world filled with classic holiday songs, tap dancing feet, and special Broadway guests including Liz Byrne (Baby It’s You!), Clay Thomson (Newsies, Matilda, KING KONG), and Jennifer Johns (Founder of Broadway Artists Alliance).

Christopher Rice

The exciting artistic endeavor is sponsored by Dean Bank , Michael Dunsky of Fairway Mortgage Company, and the Kim Williams Team at Coldwell Banker. “Dean Bank is delighted to play a small role in bringing Christopher Rice’s work to THE BLACK BOX this Holiday Season,” says President and CEO, Kevin Goffe. “The varied elements of nostalgia alongside one of Broadway’s brightest lights makes for an exciting combination. We’re honored for the opportunity and thank the FPAC for their commitment to making the arts accessible to Franklin area residents through THE BLACK BOX.”

Christopher Rice’s The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE! Runs December 20-22 at THE BLACK BOX. 

Tickets are available at 508-528-3370 or www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

Franklin Public Schools: Opening on time; emergency busing in effect - Tues, Dec 17

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Dear Franklin Families and Faculty/Staff,

We have been monitoring the forecast carefully and have been remaining apprised of road conditions in Franklin. Roads and sidewalks in Franklin have been pre-treated and temperatures will remain in a zone where the salt should have an effect, resulting in melting. Snowfall totals have been downgraded in our area.

As a result, Franklin Public Schools will open on time today. As a friendly reminder, parents/guardians may choose to not send a child to school if they feel road conditions are not safe.

Emergency busing will be in effect in the morning and students walking or waiting along routes will be offered rides by our drivers.


Sincerely,

Franklin Public Schools

Franklin Public Schools: Opening on time; emergency busing in effect - Tues, Dec 17

Urban Air Holiday Party - Dec 18

Step out of the cold December air into a Winter Wonderland of fun! On December 18th from 4-8 PM we transform into a park wide Holiday Party for the whole family. 

Those who join us for our party will get:

* $10 off Ultimate and Deluxe passes
* Pictures with Santa Claus
* Shopping with tons of LOCAL vendors to support your community
* There will be fun, games and prizes all night long!

Here's a partial list of vendors to shop with:

* Homemade pickles, jams, salsa and ribs from Confectionery Creations
* Custom glassware, coozies and more from Just Crafting Around
* Candles from Scentsy
* Homemade scarfs, blankets and pillows
* Homemade Christmas ornaments and lighted signs
* Bags from Thirty One
* Hair Straightners
* Color Street nails
* Homemade Wine Bottles from Sher Creates
* Tupperware
* Disney Travel
* Lularoe
* Paparazzi
* Life Expressions Decor
* Homemade baked goods and more!


Urban Air Adventure Park (Bellingham)
189 Mechanic Street, Bellingham, Massachusetts 02019

Follow the Facebook event for updates: 
https://www.facebook.com/events/466060837385243/

Urban Air Holiday Party - Dec 18

FHS boys hockey game to be broadcast via @MyHockeyLive

Good stuff! This battle will be televised live on @MyHockeyLive if you can’t make it live! 2 great teams going head to head early in the season! LETS GO!! @FHSSports @RattleCity @MetroWestSports @In_The_Slot @FranklinRec @FHS_Puck @PanthersJvPuck @MCLancersHockey https://t.co/oZeOC9wHie

— FHSPantherHockey (@FHSPantherHocke) December 17, 2019

https://twitter.com/MyHockeyLive/status/1206579227040059395

Franklin Public Schools Winter Art Showcase 2019 - video summary

"Check out this awesome video slideshow of K-12 artwork: "Franklin Public Schools Winter Art Showcase 2019"

https://twitter.com/MsDoherty_ART/status/1206584876708900867

Or go direct to Adobe Spark:  https://spark.adobe.com/video/B5ktLpXZGSqLK

Winter Art Showcase 2019 - 1

Winter Art Showcase 2019 - 2

Winter Art Showcase 2019 - 3

Winter Art Showcase 2019 - 4

Winter Art Showcase 2019 - 5

Boys Basketball: Players to Watch - FHS' Chris Edgehill

FHS senior Chris Edgehill was named one of the Boys Basketball: Ten Players to Watch in 2019-2020 by HockomockSports.com.


Chris Edgehill, Senior- Franklin

Franklin senior Chris Edgehill has packed a lot into his high school career: scoring over 1,000 points, reaching the D1 State Championship game twice, named HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year as a sophomore, and the list goes on. And he’s done it all in just three seasons. 

Chris Edgehill (HockomockSports.com photo)

Now a senior, Edgehill is yet again one of the best players in the league and we’re excited to see what he has for his final season dawning Panther blue. He was second in the league last year with 16.5 points per game while grabbing five rebounds and dishing out four assists per game. Not only does he consistently lead the team in scoring, but he’s also impressed with his ability to get teammates involved. 

After Franklin graduated a handful of talented players from last year, Franklin will lean heavily on Edgehill for his leadership on and off the court.


For the nine other boys basketball players to watch
https://hockomocksports.com/boys-basketball-players-to-watch-2019-2020/

New Podcast Episode on FPS Voice! - Franklin Food Services

New Podcast Episode on FPS Voice! - Franklin Food Services

Our latest podcast is now available!! Franklin Food Services Director, Colin Boisvert shares information about the school nutrition program at FPS, new initiatives, plus a Q & A and upcoming events! 

Find the latest episode here:  
https://anchor.fm/fpsvoice/episodes/Franklin-Food-Services-Overview-e9i4uk 


Links:

• Fresh Catch Seafood www.redsbest.com
• Franklin Food Services: www.franklinps.net/district/food-services

Fresh Catch Seafood www.redsbest.com

New Podcast Episode on FPS Voice! - Franklin Food Services

HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer awards for Stowell, Tarpin, O'Neill

Here are the FHS athletes selected for the HockomockSports.com Awards for Boys Soccer 2019.

HockomockSports Editor’s Note: The HockomockSports.com Awards are selected strictly by our staff and have no affiliation to the official Hockomock League all stars.

HockomockSports.com Best XI

Sam Stowell – Franklin – Defense

Sam Stowell (HockomockSports.com photo)

Franklin senior Sam Stowell concluded his four-year varsity career with another strong season in the heart of the Panthers defense and helped them finish second in the Kelley-Rex and reach the Div. 1 South quarterfinal. A physical and dominating presence in central defense, Stowell was part of a unit that held opponents to the fourth-fewest goals allowed in the league (20) and he was selected as an all-star by Hockomock League coaches for the first time. He also scored once and assisted on two goals. Franklin coach Fran Bositis said, “Sam had a great career at Franklin High. He was a four-year varsity player and was the unquestioned leader of our defense for the last two seasons.”

HockomockSports.com Second XI

Donny Tappin – Franklin – Forward

Donny Tappin (HockomockSports.com photo)

Franklin senior forward Donny Tappin was involved in half of the goals that the Panthers scored this season, emerging as one of the league’s top playmakers and helping the team reach the Div. 1 South quarterfinal. Tappin scored three times and assisted on 14 goals this fall, finishing the regular season with the second-most assists in the league. He was selected as an all-star by the Hockomock League coaches for the first time. Franklin coach Fran Bositis said, “Donnie had an outstanding senior season. He was the individual who created many opportunities for us offensively. His ability to take the defenders on in one-v-one situations was key. He’s a very unselfish player.”

Underclassman of the Year

Franklin sophomore Terry O’Neill has been selected as the 2019 HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer Underclassman of the Year. In his second year with the Panthers, O’Neill was a reliable and steady option in the center midfield for the Panthers.

A center defensive midfielder for head coach Fran Bositis, O’Neill’s consistency made him of the top players in the league. While O’Neill isn’t a flashy player, his work ethic is among the best in the league and his decision making and high soccer IQ separate from others in the league.

“Terry played as our holding center midfielder and very rarely came off the field,” said Franklin head coach Fran Bositis. “He is a very talented and knowledgeable player and I believe his best days are ahead of him.”

Terry O’Neill (HockomockSports.com photo)

Continue reading about Terry and the other Hockomock awards for Boys Soccer
https://hockomocksports.com/awards/boys-soccer/2019-2/

HockomockSports.com: FHS girls hockey season preview

We share the Franklin preview here. The link to the other Hockomock League girls hockey team previews is shared below.


Franklin
2018-2019 Record: 17-3-2
2018-2019 Finish: Reached D1 Quarterfinals
Coach: Margie Burke

It’s been back-to-back very successful seasons for the Panthers, and head coach Margie Burke is looking for that success to continue in 2020. Franklin won 14 games two years ago, and then went unbeaten in Hockomock League last year and finished with 17 wins overall.

The defending Hockomock champs have a lot of experience back on the defensive end. Junior goalie Gabby Colace is back between the pipes for Franklin and will be one of the top netminders in the area. She posted a 0.905 save percentage in the regular season a year ago, allowing just 1.77 goals a game while making 242 saves. She will have some familiar faces in front of her with seniors Tina Pisano, Gina Vignone, and Gianna Cornetta all back playing defense. Franklin was tough to score against last year and that will likely be the case again this year.

The biggest question mark offensively will be trying to replace the production of Regan Paterson and Cassi Ronan, who were two of the top three point producers in the entire league last year. But Franklin has a good cast of players ready for expanded roles this year. Juniors Libby Carter (five goals, three assists), Amanda Lewandowski (eight goals, 10 assists), Katelyn Brown (five goals, three assists), and Maddy Dolan, give the Panthers plenty of options on the attacking end. The Panthers will be looking to get some production out of the eight underclassmen on the roster as well.

“We are looking forward to building on the successes of last year and to be competitive in a very strong Hockomock League,” Burke said.


For other Hockomock girls hockey team previews
https://hockomocksports.com/2019-2020-hockomock-girls-hockey-preview/

HockomockSports.com: FHS girls hockey season preview

In the News: Menorah lighting Dec 22; liquor license renewals and changes up for Town Council

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

"On Sunday, Dec. 22, the first night of Hanukkah, Kivman will be joined by 29 other drivers with a menorah on top of their cars as part of the Chabad House Jewish Community Center’s “Mobile Menorah Car Parade.”

The parade starts at the Lowe’s store at 34 Fortune Blvd. in Milford at 2:30 p.m. From there, drivers, escorted by area police and fire departments, will head to Holliston Town Hall, where they will light the town’s menorah, dance and eat doughnuts. They will continue to the Franklin Town Green, where they will do the same. Finally, they will head to the Chabad Center on 34 Cedar St., Milford, where there will be traditional Jewish treats for people to enjoy.

In preparation for the event, families painted their menorahs at Milford’s Lowe’s location."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191215/building-on-tradition-families-build-menorahs-ahead-of-menorah-parade-in-milford-holliston-and-franklin

"Town councilors this week will consider a liquor license modification for Acapulcos Mexican Restaurant.

The restaurant’s ownership, according to town records, is planning a move to 371 Union St., the former location of the Union Street Grill. Acapulcos has long been located in the heart of downtown, at 13-25 Main St. The reason behind the move is not known. Management could not be reached for more details.

Union Street Grill closed without notice last summer.

The owners of Acapulcos entered a 10-year lease agreement for the Union Street location, according to license modification documents filed with the town. The agreement, effective Nov. 1, has options to renew up to an additional 50 years in 10-year increments."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191216/franklin-council-to-consider-restaurant-move-plastic-bag-waste-reduction

FTC Consumer Alert: Getting bombarded by scam calls? You’re not alone.

Getting bombarded by scam calls? You're not alone. by Jim Kreidler, Consumer Education Specialist, FTC The Social Security Administration (SSA) scam is the number one scam reported to the FTC right now. As soon as a caller threatens you, or demands you pay them with a gift card or by wiring money.  It's a scam.  Even if the caller ID tells you otherwise. Read more https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2019/12/getting-bombarded-scam-calls-youre-not-alone?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

FTC Consumer Alert: Getting bombarded by scam calls? You’re not alone.

Cheryl Wheeler at Circle of Friends Coffeehouse - Jan 4

Cheryl is back! A gorgeous voice and lots of laughter.

Cheryl Wheeler Jan 4th with Samantha Tracy View this email in your browser CHERYL WHEELER with special guest Samantha Tracy January 4 -  8 PM $30 Cheryl Wheeler tickets make great holiday gifts. Visit http://circlefolk.org/ Cheryl Wheeler returns to the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse on Saturday, January 4th at 8 PM. Cheryl is known for her brilliant, often hysterical, performances and beautifully crafted songs. She'll have you rolling in the aisles one minute, then she'll take off her glasses, close her eyes, and sing a heart-breakingly lovely song that may bring you to tears.   Her entire concert is an emotional roller coaster. "Rare artist...strong poetry, complex melodies, clever wit." -SingOut! Cheryl's songs are often emotional portraits of people, leaving you with the impression that you know the characters. You find yourself being dragged into the song rather than standing outside and observing. Other songs by Cheryl are hilarious situation comedies.  This is always a sold-out show, so order your tickets soon. http://www.cherylwheeler.com/  New Hampshire performer Samantha Tracy will open the show. She is a 21 year old singer and multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, mandolin and banjo. She previously appeared at the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse with her band, The Starlight Honeys. 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 visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. Upcoming Shows Feb 8         Small Potatoes Feb 29       Pesky J Nixon presents Tribal Mischief Mar 14       The Squeezebox Stompers Apr 4          Tom Rush Apr 18        Matt Nakoa May 9         Red Molly

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

Franklin Police Awarded Traffic Safety Grant

FRANKLIN POLICE AWARDED GRANT TO REDUCE IMPAIRED DRIVING

The Franklin Police were awarded a grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security's (EOPSS) Office of Grants and Research (OGR) to increase the number of impaired driving patrols during the holiday season. Franklin Police will join other departments across the state and the State Police in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over (DSOGPO) enforcement mobilization.

"Impaired drivers are a risk to everyone on the road. Both the operator as a risk to themselves, and every other person traveling the roadways" said Chief Thomas J. Lynch of the Franklin Police Department. "These grants allow us to increase the number of targeted patrols on the streets looking for impaired drivers and making it safer for everyone."

"Arranging for a sober ride home before celebrating should be a part of everyone's plans this holiday season," said Jeff Larason, Director of Highway Safety at Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, Office of Grants & Research. "We want all drivers to recognize the responsibility they have to drive safely and to avoid getting behind the wheel if they're impaired. Remember - If you feel different, you drive different."

Massachusetts Data (2013-2017):

• Marijuana was the most prevalent drug found in drivers involved in fatal crashes.
• 11 percent of drivers involved in fatal crashes were found with both alcohol and drugs in their system.
• 78 percent of impaired drivers in fatal crashes were men.
• 35 percent of drunk drivers involved in a fatal crash were 21-29 years old.
• The number of drivers involved in a fatal crash who were alcohol-impaired (BAC .08+) and had drugs in their system increased by 63 percent (35 to 57).
• From 2016 to 2017, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities decreased by 19 percent (148 to 120).

National Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers. On average, more than 10,000 people have died each year (2013 to 2017) in drunk-driving crashes. To put it in perspective, that's equal to about 20 jumbo jets crashing each year, with no survivors.
• In 2017, one person was killed every 48 minutes by a drunk driver on our nation's roads.
• In 2017, almost one in five children (14 and younger) killed in traffic crashes were killed in drunk-driving crashes. Fifty-four percent of the time, it was the child's driver who was drunk.
• Drugs were present in 43 percent of the fatally-injured drivers with a known test result in 2015, more frequently than alcohol was present.
• NHTSA's 2013–2014 roadside survey found drugs in 22 percent of all drivers both on weekend nights and on weekdays.
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—the chemical responsible for most of marijuana's psychological effects—slows reaction times, impairs cognitive performance, and makes it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady position in their lane.
• Mixing alcohol and marijuana may dramatically produce effects greater than either drug on its own.

For more information on the Office of Grants and Research's impaired driving enforcement grant program or to view the accompanying "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" TV ads, please visit http://www.mass.gov/drivesober.

This was shared from the Town of Franklin Police Dept page
https://www.franklinma.gov/police-department/news/franklin-police-awarded-traffic-safety-grant

Franklin Police Awarded Traffic Safety Grant

HockomockSports.com: FHS boys hockey season preview

We share the Franklin preview here. The link to the other Hockomock League boys hockey team previews is shared below.


Franklin
2018-2019 Record: 12-10-4
2018-2019 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South Final
Coach: Anthony Sarno

"A new chapter begins in Franklin boys hockey with Anthony Sarno taking over on the bench after longtime Panther coach Chris Spillane stepped down following last season. While the Panthers might have a bit of a new look, expectations are still high inside Pirelli for the defending Kelley-Rex champs.

Sarno is hoping that momentum will carry over from the Panthers’ impressive playoff run from a year ago when Franklin upset Mansfield in overtime and knocked off Catholic Memorial in the semifinals. But there won’t be any nights off for Franklin with a loaded schedule that features Malden Catholic, Pope Francis, and a loaded Mt. Hope tournament — and that’s just December.

“It will be a work in progress and we will look to develop a solid team chemistry with a relentless work ethic, staying true to consistency, and discipline in an environment where effort and attitude is paramount, and not up for discussion,” Sarno said.

Up front, the Panthers will be leaning on seniors Shane McCaffrey, Kevin O’Rielly, and Shea Hurley to lead the way. McCaffrey is the team’s top scorer returning from a year ago so it will be vital for new players to step up and contribute. Juniors Conor O’Neil and Declan Lovett are also going to be important pieces to the Panthers’ offense. Senior Ray Ivers returns between the pipes are stepping in last season and playing well. In front of Ivers, Franklin will have two of the best defensemen in the league with senior Tom Tasker, a HockomockSports.com First Team selection last year, and junior Joe LeBlanc, who had a breakout sophomore campaign. "

For other Hockomock boys hockey team previews
https://hockomocksports.com/2019-2020-hockomock-boys-hockey-preview/

Pat Dolan concentrates on the puck (HockomockSports.com photo)