Notes Archive, Oct - Dec 2002This is the archive of previous Norfolk Notes.
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12/31 11:17am Does anyone know if any surrounding towns have fireworks tonight (New Year's Eve)? Thanks and Happy New Year. - PR
12/31 11:03am Re: 12/29 1:01am Can anyone tell me about the future of Norfolk airport? [...]
This was mentioned back on 11/9:11/9 10:51pm I sure hope that PA wasn't actually serious about a casino at the site of the old airport. That being said, has anyone else seen this link? [Norfolk Air Park] I'm fairly new in town and have no idea if this "airpark" thing is new or old news. Has this already happened? - JDand 11/11:11/11 12:34pm to JK - the website discussing the Airpark has been around for many years. I'm pretty sure it was just an idea. Look at the pricing for housing. I remember seeing the exact same site over 4-5 years ago. The key to this was "Opening sales prices will be $190,000 to 250,000". Those are old prices for Norfolk. As far as the recent work at the airport, it looks like they were just cleaning up brush and such. See [norfolkaeroclub.com/events] email the person that runs site. I'm sure he/she could offer more info. - NSYou might ask:11/11 10:37am My family and I live right off the Norfolk airport. I was very interested to learn about the airport being re-opened as an "airpark". Being a neighbor to the airport, we knew something was going on because we could see work being done, but we were not notified of any changes (as I think we should have been). And even after work has begun, we have not been told of things to come. Anyway, does anyone have any more information on the airpark? When will it be completed? What will it look like? How will people such as myself that live very close be affected? The web site (mentioned in the messages below) said something about 2-3 acre homesites? I take it there is going to be more building in the area? I would really appreciate some more information if anyone has any. Thanks, - JK
Norfolk Aero Club Inc.The Planning Board could tell you if any plans for development have been filed for that land. The assessors could tell you who owns the land, and you could ask that person directly.
PO Box 78,
Norfolk, MA 02056-0078
(It looks like they did some land clearing and grass mowing, per their website.)Paul Terrio - Norfolk Aero Club President
Rockwood Rd., Norfolk
Email: pterrio@NorfolkAeroClub.com- AN
12/30 1:42pm Wm., You asked "... how should I handle duplicates?" Just a thought, but you could start "requiring" a 3-letter moniker to lessen the chance that duplication will become a huge problem. In that case, it will be just a "small" problem... but a problem nonetheless in some cases. If only all of lifes problems could be solved so easily... woohoo!!!?? - TK (Oops... only a 2-letter nick...)
12/30 12:31pm BBC Radio in Great Britain is reporting that computer use in the classroom may be harmful to education. A quote from the introduction: Yet disturbing evidence is emerging that computers may harm, rather than help, educational progress. There is still much debate among even the most enthusiastic supporters of high technology about how computers can best be used.A transcript of the program is on-line.- Wm.
12/30 12:15pm SW, I can remember, years ago, waking to 4 inches of "partly cloudy" on the ground. Those old enough to remember might think back to good 'ol Don Kent with his sliding chalkboards and "look out the window" forecasts. Amazingly enough, there's a striking similarity in accuracy of forecast when comparing those chalkboards to the satellites and technology available to the weather prognosticators today. Case in point... this past Christmas Day, while the local weather wizards were predicting 10-15 inches of the white stuff in our area, the Weather Channel was predicting 3-6 inches... go figure. Who was closer? - TK
12/30 12:11pm There must be another JW in town, cause I didn't write that last one, good point, but this JW did not write it. - JW
[That's correct, this is another JW who hasn't posted before. Which raises the question, how should I handle duplicates? - Wm.]
12/29 4:39pm As long as you have paid your taxes, you are allowed to keep cars that are your personal collection. After all, this is America and we do have the right to enjoy our good stuff. - JW
12/29 1:01am Can anyone tell me about the future of Norfolk airport ? I recently discovered a web site claiming it has been recomissioned as an "Air Park" featuring 26 home sites with guest cottages ect... - DM
12/28 9:42pm To: SW - Excellent (and accurate) formula for predicting New England weather. The high-priced TV forecasters might do well to try using it. With all of their sophisticated computer models and Doppler weather radar, they still can't get it right. I'd love to have a job where I can be wrong 90 percent of the time and still get a 6-figure income. Amazing! - RP
12/28 4:13pm Living in New England can be tough when it comes to winter. Especially when it comes to snowfall predictions from the weather stations. So here are the formulas for getting accurate snowfall predictions. Take the snowfall amount they say we are going to get and divide that in half, then [subtract] 2 additional inches - that will get you the correct amount. Now, whenever they predict anything under 3 inches, double that then add 2. Flurries usually mean rain. - SW
12/28 4:11pm Can someone recommend a snowplow service for my driveway? Thanks, - PR
12/27 10:53pm We had a good old snow storm. I just want to say thanks to the highway department; [you] did a great job. Now fix up the plows and get ready for the next one. Thanks, - KC
12/27 10:49pm JT: I guess I'm talking about the motorhomes and campers, they took up much of your comment. I think you're allowed one unregisted vehicle on your property. - JW
12/26 8:17pm To JW... I know what you're saying. But, by the same token, if you know of someone who likes to look at smashed-up, undrivable cars, please let me know... - JT
12/26 7:46am JT, you know the saying, ``One man's eyesore ...'' - JW
12/25 5:15pm Try the old landfill on Medway Branch. It is right across from the Highway Dept. - TB
12/25 10:24am Does anyone know of good sledding places in the area for a boy, 5 years old? - CPL
12/24 5:08pm Merry Christmas to all in the tiny town of Norfolk! - CF
12/24 7:29am Re: 12/23 12:21pm Does anyone know the town's laws on junk cars ... Check with the Building Inspector phone 508 528-5088. The staff in the Building Inspector's office will tell you how to file a complaint. The building inspector is the zoning enforcement officer. There is a copy of the zoning bylaws at the Library. At some point in the future the zoning bylaws may be available at the Town website. - AN
12/23 12:21pm Does anyone know the town's laws on junk cars allowed on a lot? Also, are there any rules about parking motor homes/campers on a lot? In particular, if someone has one parked year-round, full-time and someone is living in it! Please advise. We have lots of eyesores in our neighborhood, and some of us would like to get the place cleaned up! Thank you for any help you can provide. - JT
12/23 12:20pm To DM - are you the guy who walks around saying "can you hear me now?" :) - MJD
12/22 4:45pm We saw the luckiest squirrel today. We were driving south on 95 when this squirrel darted out from the median and tried to race across three lanes of traffic to reach the other side. Half-way across the first lane it paused - the implausibility of beating three cars, one in each lane, must have started to sink in. So it turned, raced back two feet. Too far! Stopped again, about-faced, sprang forward, but too late, oh no!! No bump? In the rear-view mirror I saw it continue the dash, after having paused long enough for my car to pass overhead, just to halt abruptly to avoid running under the car in the middle lane. The car barely missed it, then the wind in the wake of the cars swept it off its feet! I saw it flip into the air, then scrabble with all four legs and tail, hoverig one foot off the ground, twisting this way and that to keep itself aligned head-up and legs-down, maintaining its direction. And when it landed, it landed on its feet, running! It was a very very long three seconds. Merry Christmas, squirrel. - AR
12/22 4:43pm Happy Winter Solstice! Tonight is the shortest day of winter. From tomorrow on, days will be getting longer again, until Summer Solstice, when the cycle starts again. - Wm.
12/21 2:14pm To LAM. The grange pancake breakfast cost for children was $3.00. - KF
12/19 10:13pm The 2003 Little League and Babe Ruth Registration will be held Saturday, January 4th and the 11th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Freeman-Centennial School MacBride Auditorium information is available on their web site @ norfolkbaseball.com. The Next General Meeting of Norfolk Baseball will be January 5th at 7:00 p.m. at the Norfolk Library. - PMC
12/19 3:12pm LAM: If you want an answer from a town official, I suggest that you address your request to [Town Hall]. For instance, the Town Administrator, Dr. Markel, knows a lot about town business. According to the web page for the town administrator, Dr. Markel's phone number is: (508)528-1408 and e-mail is markel@virtualnorfolk.org Check the town web page for office hours. [...] - AN
[I believe there was a proposed bylaw that would have restricted the removal from town of excavated soil, but it was not voted in. Checking with Town Hall is a good idea, however; you'll find the staff knowledgeable and friendly - Wm.]
12/19 3:03pm Town Hall has a new "lock box" system for collecting remittances; here is the announcement on their web page. - AN
12/19 2:38pm To SF and MJD regarding cell phones. I live in Norfolk and keeping tabs on the cell industry is what I do for a living. I can say from both professional and personal experience that Verizon and Nextel have the best coverage in Norfolk. T-Mobile is by far the worst coverage in Norfolk and the greater Boston area, followed closely by Sprint. Regards, - DM
12/18 9:55pm To SF re: cell phone - we had Cingular and Norfolk was a dead zone. Switched to NEXTEL, no problems. Really clear and no trouble with dead spots. - MJD
12/18 11:19am Cahalane Real Estate office collects for toys for tots and they do take care of Norfolk Families. - LAM
12/18 11:18am Is there no town official that can answer my question about the loam at KP North? Still waiting for a reply. - LAM
12/18 11:16am To SF - I have had a cell phone for a least 8 years and having had many dicussions with friends and colleagues about the many different plans. The phone service that we have had the best luck with Verizon. Even if the tower is built by someone else your Verizon or any other service will work through that tower. Norfolk used to have no service in alot of areas; now there really isn't anywhere that I have trouble with reception or in the surrounding areas except Dover. No phone service works there because they won't allow a tower in their town. I have a plan that covers the wole East Coast because that's where I travel the most, and have really never had no reception except in a couple of places in the Carolinas which were in the midddle of nowhere. - LAM
12/18 11:15am Pancake Breakfast - Dec. 21st - at the Grange on rte. 115 (Rockwood Rd.) - Before you go out to do that last minute shopping Christmas shopping, come have a hearty breakfast of 3 pancakes, 2 sausages, juice and coffee for a donation of $4.00. Children $2.00. Come and have your picture taken with Santa Claus. Come and meet your neighbors! Look forward to seeing you there!! - LAM
12/18 9:34am To SF - re: cell phones. I have had through various jobs Cingular, AT&T, Sprint and Nextel. I can say without a doubt Sprint was the worst. I could hardly ever receive or send a call in Norfolk (and other areas). AT&T was slightly better, but still bad. Cingular was decent. I could at least accept and make calls, but I still had trouble at times. In October I switched to Nextel and I have not had one problem with the phone in this area. My signal is very strong and I never miss a call. Hope this helps, even though I did not talk about T-Mobile. - PD
12/17 8:00pm From the Town Hall Page: The Board of Selectmen will hold a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at King Philip High School, in Wrentham. The Warrant is open, and the Board of Selectmen is accepting articles. - Wm.
12/17 9:15am Thanks KM (re: firewood): Actually, I am awaiting a delivery from them (Hultman) as we speak. I used them two years ago and the wood was good quality. Last year they were sold out and this year, they've been so busy, it took them awhile to return my call. Anyways, it's on its way and thank you for the advice. - JM
12/17 9:15am Did folks see the interesting article in the Globe Sunday about our own Daniel Winslow? He was chosen as Mitt Romney's chief legal counsel! Congratulations to Judge Winslow. The story also mentioned the bombing of Winslow's home back in 1990 - allegedly by a developer who didn't like Winslow's decisions as a planning board chairman. Let's hope that we never see that kind of thing again in our town. -DAF
12/17 8:55am OK, my old analog cellphone is about dead and I need to (gulp!) think about replacing it with a new and improved (?) digital phone. My question is what service provider is the best in Norfolk and surrounding towns and are you happy with them? Specifically, I was wondering if T-Mobile (aka VoiceStream/OmniPoint) is any good since they are the one who registered (or plan) the antenna on the water tower and on the Franklin line at the Acorn Animal Hospital. - SF
12/14 9:50pm The Water Commissioners were advertising for a Water Superintendent and a Water Assistant. Was in the Sun Chrono Nov 27. - JO
[Any developments on that front? - Wm.]
12/12 10:21am I was wondering where the construction company for the KP north are taking the loam they are taking out of the front of the school? I hope to the back or somewhere else in Norfolk as I believe it to be true that loam that is not purchased must stay in town. - LAM
12/11 4:59pm The Norfolk Public School kitchens are run by loving and caring mothers, mostly from Norfolk. They have children attending the schools and some of their children have left and they still continue to provide for our children. They take time out of their day to be with our children. There is a possibility that a food service management company will come into the school and replace these mothers. Having volunteered for lunch duty at the elementry schools and I'm sure other parents will agree, that these ladies work hard to provide our children with a good lunch. They also know most of the children by name. Our children mean something to these ladies. Would they mean something to a food service company other than giving them lunch? I can't imagine so. How do parents feel about this? Remember these ladies provide a good service to our children. Please let Marcia Lukon, school superintendent, know that these ladies do a good job and it would be ashame to lose these caring mothers to an outside company. - Name Withheld by Request
12/11 12:01am The holidays are almost upon us, and it's sure quieted down the forum. There are still about 300 daily visits to the page, but traffic is a trickle. So here I am, back to my old routine, writing my own posts :-) I can't get over how beautiful this winter is shaping up to be. It's been lovely white for days now, temperatures chilly enough to keep the snow from melting, nippy enough at night to feel on every inhale. Sunday was so pretty and so warm, I couldn't resist going out for a short motorcycle ride. I didn't see any other riders out there, but I did get several smiles and nods of approval from passers-by ;-) - Wm.
12/10 11:34pm [T]he Federated Church of Norfolk will hold Tuesday evening vesper services during Advent. The 7:00-7:30 pm services will offer a time for meditation and music in preparation for Christmas. [...] On Sunday, December 8, the Church's Music Ministry will present its annual Christmas Concert at 7:00 pm. [...] An Ecumenical Christmas Walk will be held in Norfolk on Sunday, December 22nd from 6:00-8:00 p.m. - LD
[The full holiday schedule is on-line here - Wm.]
12/9 1:16pm I read the article in the Boston Globe about the fees to be paid for the renovations of the King Phillip North Middle School. I have a few thoughts and would entertain any corrections of misconceptions that I may have. As the article noted, the BOS ``disagreed about how much Norfolk should charge the King Philip School District in building-inspection fees for a construction project, which means the much higher price tag will remain in place.'' It appears that ``the King Philip School District will have to pay about $260,000 in inspection fees rather than the $37,000 proposed by school officials for the renovation and expansion of the King Philip North Middle School in Norfolk.'' I winced where the article quotes the BOS as saying ``the $260,000 fee, which is based on size and which uses the standard rate charged for commercial projects, is ''reasonable'' because it represents the town's actual costs and because it's in line with what other communities charge.'' I believe that if the Town's costs are actually $260,000.00 then the Town of Norfolk should have a certified Building Commissioner (see MGL Chapter 1 43, Section 3) From the regulations - ``Every inspector of buildings, building commissioner or local inspector shall be certified by the board of building regulations and standards in accordance with regulations promulgated by said board [of building regulations].'' A review of the BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS (BBRS) website http://www.state.ma.us/bbrs/index2.htm documents that neither the Norfolk Building Commissioner nor any staff in the Building Department is certified by the BBRS as is required by state law. The Town of Wrentham's building inspector wrentham.ma.us/governme.htm is certified (#92-11-611) www.state.ma.us/bbrs/bocert.PDF as is the building inspector in Plainville (92-11-046). So in light of this finding, should the Town of Wrentham and Plainville have their Building Inspectors sign off on this project[? ...] - a WB
12/9 1:15pm Last month I was in Norfolk for the first time with 4 other friends to see a missionary family, with 6 children, I first met in Novgorod, Russia back in June. The reason for the visit was to bring support and friendship to 3 Russians who are here for up to 9 months and living with this family. A little 12 yr old girl came to Boston to get a leg surgery along with her mother and translater. It was a great visit to your town and would like to return. We ate at Basil's and it was good food. Loved the authentic New England clam chowder! Lovely state. - DPW, Hiddenite, NC
12/9 1:06pm To JM, re: firewood - We just got a delivery of great firewood from Carl Hultman Landscaping (in Norwood) -- 781-762-6528; it took a couple of weeks to fit us into the delivery schedule, but they said they're happy to deliver to Norfolk. - KM
12/8 4:21pm At 2 PM Sunday, December 15, students in the King Philip music program will present a Chamber Recital in the auditorium of the King Philip North School in Norfolk. The recital will feature solo and ensemble pieces from the classical repertory. - BW
12/8 4:20pm Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer needs individuals, at least 14 years old to referee games during the Spring 2003 soccer season. All games are played on Sunday afternoons in Norfolk during the 8 week season. Training will be provided. This is a paying position - a great way to have fun and earn some extra money! For more information, contact Helen at 508-520-0163. - HK
12/8 4:19pm The following positions are presently open on the Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer Board; Field Manager, Nets & Goals Manager, Referee Manager, U5 Manager, U7 Manager. This is a great opportunity to become more involved in your childs soccer experience. If you are interested in filling any one of these positions, contact Helen at 508-520-0163 for more information. - HK
12/7 9:11am We learned that the truck route on King Street is for the Middle School construction. The contractors have agreed to approach the school from the Union Street end of King Street and not the westerly end for safety purposes. These were agreed at a meeting on October 25, 2002 between the principals (not at a Selectmen's meeting). There were also several other conditions such as trucking hours etc. agreed at that meeting. There is a six page document dated October 29, 2002 Titled "Temporary Curb Cut/Access Permit King Philip North Junior High School" written by Butch Vito available at the Selectmen's Office summarizing the conditions of the access permit. - Wm.
12/6 10:40am Students in the Norfolk Elementary schools can thank their local businesses the next time they need to look up a word in the dictionary. Through the support and generosity of 14 companies and small businesses in town, new special edition dictionaries were purchased at the recent Scholastic Book Fair, sponsored by the Norfolk TPA. In partnering with the H.Olive Day and Freeman-Centennial schools, these merchants made a significant contribution in promoting literacy at the primary school level. Dictionaries help children to communicate effectively and build their vocabularies. The Norfolk TPA would like to express their appreciation to the following for their support; BREO, Inc., C.A. Millner Calligraphy, COAN Inc., Denise's Dance Academy, Dunkin Donuts, Dunn McKenzie Inc., Elite Food Company Inc., Kaleidoscope Kids, Kathy Ryan Dance Studio, Ripley Greene Chiropractic Wellness, and Sundance Hair Studio. - LD
12/6 10:34am [Correction:] Please note that the [5th Annual Valentine's Dinner Dance and Silent Auction] is on Saturday Feb. 8th, not the 9th. - TS
12/6 10:31am To JM - We don't use firewood so I'm not an expert however I have noticed signs at Jane & Paul's Farm for firewood. - BS
12/5 5:34pm Does anyone have a good recommendation for firewood? I know, I know, I should have ordered before now... I need 1 cord at a reasonable price, delivered. - JM
12/5 5:33pm Is there a town-run "Toys for Tots" program this year? In the past, the Fire Department was a drop-off site, but I haven't heard of one this year. I'd like to find one which takes care of Norfolk families first. Thanks. - RP
12/5 12:15am To SM: Contact Laurie Sullivan, Special Education Dept at the H. Olive Day School. She will be able to give you information about the lottery. I believe that the lottery is done in March or April and then there is an interview thereafter. As my child went in with special needs (speech) I didn't go through all that. Good luck! - AL
12/4 2:43pm To SM: You can contact Pam Mele, director and owner of the Norfolk Children's School at (508) 528-1970. It's located right down the road from the Federated Church at 23 Union Street. - KO
12/4 11:39am To AL: Could you give more information on the Norfolk Children's School? Where is it located and how can I contact someone there? I too have a child who will miss the kindergarten cut-off! Also, do you know when I can sign my child up for the lottery at the H. Olive Day integrated preschool program? Thanks! - SM
12/3 5:10pm To MJD: I have the distinction of having had children at all three preschools in town and I can tell you that there isn't a bad one among them! My two oldest children went to the Norfolk Cooperative Preschool and in fact Sue Skinner was my oldest's teacher! It's a wonderful place and the parents are very involved; in fact, if you really want a "hands-off" type of school you may want to reconsider. Parents can serve on the board and have the option of working in the classroom on a regular basis. The classrooms are sunny and large and although I don't know the teachers there now, I was very happy with the ones my children had. My youngest went two years to the H Olive Day Preschool and I just can't say enough about the quality of education and the availability of services available to the children there. It was just over the top and I would recommend it to anyone. The teachers there are just fantastic. Do put your child's name in for the lottery - you may get it and if you do, grab it! The curriculum is a bit more structured and the second year they work on teaching the kids to write their names and gear them up for kindergarten. You can also work in the classroom, although since the ratio is usually about 1 teacher to 4 students you may feel a bit redundant! Now my youngest is at the Norfolk Children's School (he missed the cutoff for kindergarten). We decided that a change after two years of the same teacher would be good. We are also very happy with this school. They have 2, 3 and 5 day programs based on age (HOD is a 3 day program for both years). It is much more of a child directed curriculum, and again, the teachers are wonderful as is the director of the school, Pam Mele. Again, you can work in the classroom. So, in sum, you won't go wrong with any of the three. I also know people who have sent their children to the Dean College program and to the Montessori program and have been very happy. Just don't delay - all the programs fill up very quickly - as in the day they open for registration! Good luck! - AL
12/3 5:10pm To MJD: I am also new to town (so new that I'm not quite here yet - still waiting for our house to be finished!) but have done lots of research on preschools in the area. The Federated Church has a terrific co-op program and I'm hoping to get both my preschoolers in there for next fall - often a waiting list, but registration is in January! Sue Skinner is the director and she can give you all the details. There is also a home-based program on Noon Hill Ave. (I believe Sue Skinner can give you the name and number) which seems nice but I haven't actually been there. I called the H. Olive Day school directly (ask for the Special Ed department - they deal with the preschoolers) and they furnished me with lots of information on how to be included in the lottery (preschoolers are selected by a large lottery - good luck!) but I didn't learn too much about the program. Another option which isn't too far from Norfolk is the Medfield Children's Center at the Pleasant Street Church. They are WONDERFUL there and the program is superb. Had my son enrolled there for last fall but had to decline as we weren't moving when I'd hoped to. I know several people who have children there and they are extremely pleased. Hope this helps! Good luck and maybe we'll run into one another this fall! - SM
12/3 11:03am Fairly new to town, looking for a pre-school for September. I keep hearing about the Federated Church co-op and the one at H. Olive Day. How do I get more info and are there others to consider. Would like it in Norfolk if at all possible. Maybe some of you could share your expereinces, good and bad on this topic. - MJD
12/3 10:27am I was wondering if anyone had any information regarding the new road sign posted on King St near the Union St entrance. It is marked "Truck Route", which truck route? and to where? Is it for deliveries to the school? Just wondering as I haven't seen many trucks running down King St.. - PK
[Could this be in connection with some new development in the area? - Wm.]
12/3 9:10am To AC, take a look at http://www.norfolknet.com/norfolkserve/ to see if this is something you and your son would be interested in. Volunteers are always needed. Volunteer information can be found on that site. You could also call Jan Moore at the Housing Authority to see if anyone at Hillcrest Village needs any assistance, especially now during the holiday season. Happy Holidays. - PD
12/2 10:32pm Tickets for the Norfolk Community League (NCL)'s 5th Annual Valentine's Dinner Dance and Silent Auction are going on sale December 15th. The Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday, February 8th at Luciano's Lake Pearl in Wrentham from 6:30pm until midnight. [Read more ...] - TS
12/2 10:31pm The Norfolk Community League is having a 5K Jingle Bell Run and 1/4 mile Kids Run immediately following the Santa Breakfast on Saturday, December 14th at the H. Olive Day Elementary School on Main Street in Norfolk. The 3.1 mile Fun Run will begin at 11 AM and the Kids Races will begin at 11:45 AM. [For more information, click to this page] - CH
12/2 8:09pm Does anyone know of any upcoming holiday concerts around our area? (other than the KP Pops concert next weekend). I recall going to a holiday concert that was perfect for kids at a school in Franklin a couple of years ago, but I can't seem to find any on-line links to holiday events in the area this year. Thanks - VR
12/1 10:39pm I want to get my 17 year old son involved in some community service activity, preferably in Norfolk but not limited to. He is wonderful with children. Are there any shelters in the area who would like someone to entertain kids? We would also (I would like to join him) be interested in elderly services or food pantries. I am open to all suggestions. I'm counting on the good hearts in Norfolk to give us some ideas. Thanks. - AC
11/29 8:38pm At 7 PM Saturday a week from now, the King Philip will present its annual Winter Pops Concert. The concert will feature the Chorus, the Concert Band, the Symphony Band, the Percussion Ensemble and the Marching Band in a concert performance of Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5 in the colorfully decorated Field House of King Philip Regional High School. The doors will open at 6 PM to allow concertgoers to sample the culinary creations and beverages which are a traditional highlight of the King Philip Pops Concert. [More info ...] - BW
11/29 4:09pm To MSH - Never say Never. There is a comprehensive, detailed discussion about Norfolk's roads with Butch Vito, Norfolk's Highway Superintendent, being aired right now (3:30pm) on channel 22. Most likely many of your questions and suspicions will be answered if you tune in to watch. It will be on all the rest of this week and next. You might learn a few things that will surprise you. There are lots of other good and informative programing on channel 22 as well as channel 8. Both channels are Norfolk's Public Access Channels and very active and useful (If I don't say so myself.) I hope you tune in and find it helpful. - Paul Guertin, NCTV Station Manager
PS You can find the complete Channel 8 and 22 schedule right here on Norfolknet. Just click on NCTV Schedule on the left side of the home page.
[The NCTV programming schedule is made available courtesy of Paul Guertin, NCTV station manager. Thanks, Paul! - Wm.]
11/29 1:13pm A useful website for Cable Television viewers is: [this one] where by filling in your zip code you can get a list of cable channels, a hotlink to the station being broadcast, and a brief description of the content. Available channels vary depending on your subscription. The URL for Zip 02056 is: [here]. A printable version for Zip 02056 is available, without the hotlinks, at: [here]. - AN
11/29 12:40pm Re: suggest an internet provider: The local cable provider is AT&T. Although AT&T is in the process of merging with Comcast, the AT&T signup website is still the one to use, and you can sign up for cable as well as Internet access through this site: www.attbroadband.com/services/homepage.jhtml, or you may telephone AT&T at 1-888-633-4266, as listed in the yellow pages under Internet Svces. If you wish to sign up with a dialup ISP, you can get a CD for the desired ISP (MSN, AOL, etc.) at a local computer store such as CompUSA or Best Buy, or look in the Yellow Pages under Internet Svces for a local ISP. Unfortunately, DSL is not available, according to a check 11/29 at www.verizon.net. - AN
11/29 11:43am Norfolk Lions' Youth Soccer is now accepting registration for the spring 2003 season. Registration forms are available in the lobby of the Norfolk Public Library or on norfolklionssoccer.com. Registration deadline is March 1, 2003. For more information, contact Helen at 508-520-0163. - HK
11/29 11:42am The King Philip Men's -Over 30- Softball League is now accepting registration for the 2003 season. Games, which are ASA sanctioned, are slow pitch and will be played at Sweatt Fields in Wrentham. Early registration ends on January 1, 2003. Registration deadline is March 1st. Registration forms may be picked up in the library of the Norfolk Public Library. For more information contact League President, Craig K. at 508-520-0163 or email kpsoftball@gis.net - CK
11/29 11:40am ;Just wanted to ask if anyone could suggest an internet provider for me. I'm new to Norfolk and live by the police station... can't seem to find a cable provider though... anyone know where i can turn? Thanks!! - MM 11/27 11:11pm Happy Thanksgiving!
11/27 12:10pm Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful... Let it snow... Let it snow... Let it snow. Ah, did I say that out loud? - JW
[You did, and it's very pretty, too! Looking at it, it's hard to believe that just yesterday I rode the motorcycle in to work - Wm.]
11/26 11:50pm TO CF: You will never find information on road work because the money to repair the roads can be used for other projects and is used this way quite often. - MSH
11/26 4:21pm Why cant I find any info about what Norfolk is doing now and in the future. I checked Norfolk's web site for road work and didn't find anything. It looks like the (town) not the residents are hiding some thing from the people. Other town web sites tell the people what road work is going to go on. We wanted to move into Norfolk but after looking into it and how quiet the Town Hall is about their business and not telling the people anything. People at a local restaurant told me about a rotary going in the center when asked the town they stated road work. [...] - CF
[We don't normally post messages from non-residents, but the reminder about relevant, timely information being made available on-line is a valid one. In their defense, the town hall page is fairly new, and perhaps not yet a primary means of communication - Wm.]
11/26 4:15pm To KM: Rocky's Autobody on Route 115 (right before 1A). These folks are a local treasure. I have used them many times and have never been disappointed. They do most types of repair and maintenance work, in addition to their main function which is body work - TEM
11/26 11:38am Thank you, TW and AN, for your info on Lake St. - HPK
11/26 9:09am Serve new England now has a few new prices and new packages. Serve also now accepts orders on-line. Payment may be made in the form of an e-check or credit card. Learn more details here or on our web page. - Roselle Dull, Norfolk Serve
11/26 8:53am After demanding judging in the Southeastern District Auditions last Saturday, 12 King Philip music students won invitations to participate in the Southeastern District Concert Festival at Bridgewater State College January 10 and 11, with a Festival Concert for the public 2 PM Saturday, January 11, 2003. Students who will perform at the MMEA District Festival are Sondria Hall, soprano, chorus, and all in the band: Kara Davey, second clarinet, Michael Butler, Jennifer St. Amand, and Nicole Hoyceanyls, all third trumpet; Charles Sherwin, second trombone; and Sebastian Zervos, tenor saxophone. Five King Philip students were chosen for the MMEA State Auditions, in addition to performing at the District Festival: Matthew Murphy, bass, chorus; Emily Loughlin, bass clarinet, band; Jeff Jacobson, first French horn, orchestra; Erik Saras, bass trombone, orchestra; and Stephen Dacko, drum set, jazz band. - BW
11/26 8:50am Many Thanks to RP for the NCTV plug. Not only is there an interesting program with Highway Supt. Butch Vito describing the town's road projects, but members of the Norfolk School Committee and Supt. Marcia Lukon answer some serious questions on another Conversation Corner edition being aired this week and next. Plus there is an informative discussion with Town Administrator Dr. Robert Markel regarding issues ranging from the early retirement of some town employees to age restricted housing. These programs, and many others like it, are part of the channel 22 programing that complement the weekly live showing of the Board of Health and the Board of Selectmen. If you are also interested in what is happening in town regarding Pop Warner football; school trips to (i.e.) Plimoth Plantation; The Hockey Show, a great show produced by Paul Altmeyer a Norfolk resident; trips to far away lands; the Army Newswatch; or Cooking Greek food with Georgia or learning how to make holiday breads and cookies with Liz Davey then tune in to channel 8, Norfolk's Public Interest station. The good news is that anyone from Norfolk has access to all the NCTV equipment and expertise so that you can produce your own show. Just call me at 508-384-4448 and I'll give you the details. So, stay tuned. - Paul Guertin, NCTV Station Manager
11/26 8:49am Girard's Bistro (508-520-1511) is located at 447 East Central Street in Franklin. It is open Tue through Sat 5:00-9:00 PM. Weekend seatings on Fri and Sat are at 6:00, 6:30, 8:00 and 8:30 PM. They will be closed from 11/26/02 through 11/28/02. - BD
11/26 8:48am Can anyone recommend a good and honest auto mechanic in the Norfolk/Medfield/Millis area. If possible, someone that specializes in Jeeps. Thanks. - KM
11/25 2:02pm To the curious HPK - Here is my limited history of Lake Street. I believe most of the land on the street was part of the Cress Brook Farm. The farmhouse( the Samuel Dunton House) is mentioned and discussed further at the Town of Norfolk Historical Commission website. As far as why the road is not paved the whole way, I'm not quite sure but I have been told that if it was paved, the old tree in front of the farmhouse would not survive and that the tree has historical significance. I have also heard it is a private way. Being a resident of the street, I for one, like the fact that it isn't paved...if you drive too fast, you risk loosing your transmission!! Hope this helps a bit. - TW
11/25 2:01pm Re: 11/24 10:22pm - Lake Street - Does the colonial house at the pond have any historical significance? Check the webpage of the Historical Commission and look for structures on Lake Street. - AN
11/25 12:19pm To K.C.: Google is your friend. See: http://chefmoz.org/United_States/MA/Franklin/Girard's_Bistro954312383.html - AL
11/24 10:22pm Does anyone know the history, if any, behind Lake Street? Why is only part of the street paved? Does the colonial house at the pond have any historical significance? - HPK, just curious
11/24 10:15pm To RS - you told us about Girard's Bistro, but did not tell us where it is. Thanks, - K.C.
11/23 7:35pm Our town cable station, NCTV Channel 22, has been broadcasting a very informative interview with Highway Superintendent Butch Vito explaining with charts and video the road changes going on in town center and beyond. Tune in to learn the difference between a "Rotary" and a "Roundabout". I was surprised to learn that sidewalks will be installed from the center along Rt. 115 all the way to the Lafayette House and that the railroad abutments near Everett Street will be removed. Check out the broadcast schedule <here> - RP
11/23 7:33pm Serve New England, Norfolk Serve's parent company, now takes orders online in their online store. Go to servenewengland.org and click on the online store; you may pay with credit cards and e checks. Being that the economy is rough right now i'm sure this will be a big help to those who do not wish to be restricted to cash payment only. Hope to have many new orders for the Christmas season. - Roselle Dull, Norfolk Serve
11/23 7:29pm Just wanted to pass along the sad news that Einar Elbert died this week. He was a dispatcher for the Norfolk Police and Fire Dept. for many years. If someone out there knows a bit of his history, please share. He was a very nice man and had quite a history, but not knowing the ins and outs of it, I don't want to try to tell it. He went back to his home country, Sweden, a few years ago. We have missed him since then and mourn his passing. - JW
11/22 3:58pm If you're looking for a place to take your out of town guests for Thanksgiving, try the Horse and Carriage on 115 and Dedham Street. I have lived in Norfolk for 5 yrs and we always take friends and family there for dinner when we have visitors. Their prime rib is excellent, as well as their chicken parm, and my husband being the seafood guru loves their seafood dishes. The atmosphere is very casual,the employees are extremely nice and very friendly. I suggest making a reservation for Thanksgiving, though, because they are always pretty busy; but on a holiday i'm sure they'll be swamped. - RD
11/22 9:45am Can someone tell me how a town worker can save up NINE WEEKS vacation - maybe five weeks after 20 years, but nine weeks? I don't think so. Maybe we should not go there. Right, Jack? - KC
[Save up, as in accumulate total, or get yearly? - Wm.]
11/21 4:59pm I am looking to hire someone to remove the leaves from my lawn. Any recommendations? Thanks! - EB
11/20 5:57pm, 11/21 9:00am Kick off the holiday season at the annual Norfolk Community League Santa Breakfast! Join NCL on Saturday, December 14th from 9-11 AM at the H. Olive Day School on Main St. for breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. [...] [ m o r e . . . ] Following Breakfast with Santa is a 5K Jingle Bell Run and 1/4 Kids Run. The 3.1 mile Fun Run will begin at 11AM and the kids race begins at 11:45. [...] [ m o r e . . . ] - GH
11/20 11:39am It seems that the only way to know about how much lead is in your house's drinking water is to have it tested. The MWRA has a list of certified labs that can do the test (costs between $15 and $40) at [on this list] - DAF
11/20 9:20am I suggest James' Roadside Cafe in Wrentham, Phone: (508) 384-0089. The name is deceptive, because the food is high end and fantastic, yet the atmosphere is casual. Good wines, desserts etc. - PR
11/19 4:28pm I have often wondered about the Lafayette House (restaurant) on Route 1, but have yet to try it. Seems like a decent place to bring out-of-towners over the holidays. Anybody have good (or bad) experiences with them? - TEM