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Previous Archive, 2011 Q4

3/30 11:47pm   The Easter Egg is canceled tomorrow, March 31 and rescheduled to next Saturday, April 7 at 9am. When we said it would take place rain or shine, we weren't thinking snow or shine! Please note the earlier start time next Saturday. The Hunt is for Norfolk children up to age 11 and is held at the Pond Street Recreation Fields. There is no charge and no registration. Think sunshine! Thank you. - Ann Proto, Recreation Director 3/29 3:05pm   Hi Everyone, I have been caught in one of those email scams going around. Here is what I received. It was from a friend in Fla. who knew nothing about it. Said she was in Athens, Greece and had lost her pocketbook with her passport, credit cards, money, etc. The government was going to fly her home without her passport but she needed money to catch the next flight home and wondered if I could help. Naturally being a school classmate, I was about ready to send her money, when, I investigated a little further. I called her home = no answer, her cell = no answer ~ luckily had another classmate's phone number, no answer. Saw a couple of typographical errors, which was unusual for her, I know her daughter is [comfortable] and asked myself, why she did not call her. I decided No Way should I send money. Called someone else (another classmate) and found he had received the same note, same typos in it and God only knows how many others this person had sent it to. I got a call from her other friend this am and she said Barb had heard about the scam but they were together and Barb is in Ft. Lauderdale and everything is okay. PS I forgot to tell you ~ the party said to email back and they would let you know how to mail the money. BE AWARE. It was so convincing, I almost felt for it. Someone apparently got into her Facebook, got a hold of her contacts. I am assuming. I guess the rule is Never to Send Money anywhere. - MG 3/29 3:04pm   Neighbors, I am looking for a child's medium sized baby grand toy piano to use as a prop for a school play (it's going to be used by Schroeder in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown"). If you have one I can buy or borrow, I'd appreciate hearing from you (cam@legalsale.org). Thank you. - CM 3/29 3:03pm   Does anybody have any shin guards that would fit a 5 year old they're not using any more? Hoping there's a free pair out there somewhere. Thanks forreading. - BP 3/29 3:02pm   Anyone who knows me knows how much I love animals. Last year I came upon a website for Decorah Eagles in Iowa. The eagles have just had 2 of their 3 eggs hatch, the 3rd one will hatch today or tomorrow. It is the most fasinating thing to watch, a camera is sighted on the nest and runs 24-7. They follow the same pair of eagles from about Feb. until late June when the eaglets fledge. Children and adults will find this site hard to leave once you start watching. "ustreamdecoraheagles" will bring you to a lead on the site. - JW 3/29 3:01pm   Any more on the attempted abduction of a child on Rt. 115 this week? - MG 3/29 3:00pm   Hello! My name is Julia Donahue, and I'm currently a senior at king philip regional high school. I play the clarinet, and if you have a child in grades k-10 who plays or would like to learn how to play the clarinet, please contact me at julia.sprinter@gmail.com, and I can send you my resume, and hopefully we can hopefully set up a lesson :) Thanks! - JD 3/29 2:59pm   Thank you to those who contributed dresses and bags for the Belle of the Ball Collection. About 40 gowns were collected at St. Jude and will be distributed to prom goers that may be in need of a beautiful dress. Great effort! - AL 3/29 2:58pm   Hello parents! I am a 19 year old student at Northeastern University in Boston, MA and a Norfolk native. I have had over 9 years of experience in child care. I am looking for a babysitting/nannying position beginning as early as late April and extending until September. I am comfortible with children of all ages and families of all sizes. I am comfortable around pets. In addition to a plethora of babysitting experiences, I have volunteered at an emergency family shelter, a down syndrome center, and a peer mentorship program. I am driven and organized and have great time management. I enjoy indoor play, arts and crafts, walking/running, bike riding, and exploring local attractions. I have a clean driving record, reliable transportation, and am willing to drive kids to/from activities. I would gladly provide references. Feel free to email me at rmstetson@comcast.net - RS 3/29 2:57pm   For AG: The Netniks do it again! You are a good person=2C indeed! Is all your furniture sold? - AB-G 3/29 2:56pm   Take me out to the ballgame. On Friday, April 13th our beloved Red Sox will host the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park for the home opener of this year's baseball season and Norfolk's Senior Center will be broadcasting the game. First pitch is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. and all are welcome to the Center and its big screen as we root for the 2012 team and their brand new manager. Hot dogs and extras will be served. Please call ahead (508-528-4430) if you plan on attending. Incidentally, this year Fenway Park will be open to the public for a special day of celebration on April 19th to commemorate its 100th birthday. If there is enough interest in going, the Senior Center will make the necessary arrangements for a trip into Boston for this event. A number of afternoon Red Sox games will once again be broadcast throughout the season and it is an example of just one activity available at Norfolk's beautiful Senior Center. There are many more events, activities, and services available to all Norfolk residents. To receive the monthly newsletter and a schedule of all Senior Center activities, call (508) 528-4430 or visit the Council on Aging site ([COA website]) The Senior Center is located at 28 Medway Branch Road and is open Mon thru Fri, 9am-4pm. - TM, Norfolk Council on Aging 3/29 2:55pm   Perhaps it would be helpful for people to know the answers to these questions: Why must we meet the state goal for housing? Is there a timetable? What are the consequences of Norfolk not meeting the state goal? The state has not kept its promises to Norfolk, prison mitigation funds-wise, so many residents feel the town should not be forced to spend funds better spent elsewhere, to meet a state goal. - MJS 3/29 2:54pm   LS - I think your math is off: if 1.17% equals $192,000 of the 3%, it would mean that the Town collected over $6 million dollars. The $192,000.00 of "matching Funds" is not a 100% match, and most people realize that. The Town received $191,700 of matching funds for the $437,000 collected in the CPC assessment for a 40% match. Personally, I think you are just arguing semantics. - AB 3/29 2:53pm   Hi, I am researching alternatives to preschool for my 4 year old this summer. Any recommendations on camps or day care programs in the area? She loves being social and will miss the interaction from school. I work two days a week and would like to keep her busy on those days. Thanks! - RK 3/29 2:52pm   MJG, what swamp land did the Town buy with CPA funds? You and others keep mentioning swamp land, please be more specific. - DC 3/29 2:50pm   AG - this is why Norfolknet is so great. You took your time to help out CW with their bounced check problem. I have read the info / State General Law you provided and I am not an attorney so someone please tell me we are not required to learn Spanish and know what 10 point type is to collect what we may be owed. - RJP 3/29 2:49pm   Are you 2-11 years old? Bring a grown-up and hop down to the Pond Street Recreation Complex this Saturday, March 31 for the Annual Egg Hunt! It starts promptly at 11am - it's quick so don't be late! This is a free activity for Norfolk residents and no registration is required. Bring a basket and camera! Areas are segregated by age. Rain or Shine. Happily brought to you by Norfolk Recreation. - Ann Proto, Recreation Director [Update 3/30 11:47pm: The Easter Egg is canceled tomorrow, March 31 and rescheduled to next Saturday, April 7 at 9am. - AP] 3/29 2:48pm   I understand there was a robbery on Standish Rd on Saturday. It would be great if Norfolk PD could post here when something like this happens, so that townspeople can be aware. There was a white pickup truck seen at the home. Thank you, - JT (72) 3/29 2:47pm   Does your dog need company and exercise when life gets too busy? Is your pet in need of care while you are away? Let Leashrly Life lend a hand! We will come to your home and care for your best friend while you are away. We offer a number of affordable services from pet sitting to dog walking, hiking excursions and one-to-one personalized obedience trainings. Experienced, loving care by professionals you can trust. References are available. Fully insured and bonded. All animals are welcomed! Call 781-241-2083, visit www.leashrlylife.com or email info@leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life 3/29 2:40pm   Notice of Upcoming Meetings... There is an option to sign up to be notified when Norfolk government meetings are posted, changed, or canceled. From www.virtualnorfolk.org on the left select Meeting Calendar On the left there is the title Boards and Committees with a drop down list below that. From the drop down list, you can select committees that you are interested in. Then you can ``Subscribe to Email Alerts for this board'' and receive notes with XXX Committee meeting day, date, start time, location and agenda. You can watch this calendar for Public Hearings that committees will soon hold to review Town Meeting articles. These hearings are one option where you can share your opinion directly with the committee. - DLJ 3/29 2:39pm   The last, most recent sighting for Shadow was Sunday afternoon half way down Medway street. - HC 3/29 2:38pm   LS, Thank you for the link to the State's CPA webpage. In reviewing the information in the 2010 spreadsheet, I was surprised to see that some towns do get a 1 to 1 match of their CPA contribution. Unfortunately, Norfolk was not one of those towns. Another way to spin the math you provide is to say that the Town's 3 percent CPA contribution amounted $473,616.60. The State contributed an additional $191,007, or 40.33 percent match. - DC 3/29 2:35pm   Does anyone know of any water "event" in town this [Monday] evening--around 6:30/7:00 pm? There were some very loud noises coming from the water lines which we have heard in the past when there has been a water main break and repair in town. Upon turning faucets on and flushing toilets this evening, it sounds as if we have had our water main shut and then turned on again (like when we have had plumbing done in the house). I do not see any residue in the toilet bowls or in the sink water. - EF 3/29 2:33pm   MJG - You must have gone out to buy a snack during the hour we discussed buying Gumps at TM. Perhaps you dozed off? Your comment, "How does the town subsidizing the development of low income housing increase our property values? The low income housing we have on Rt. 115 is more than enough and a strain on town resources!" gives me pause. The subsidized family and elderly housing complexes on Rt. 115 are owned by the state, not the town. Town resources are not used to support that housing. The new housing that is going in on what was the Gump's farm property will be sold to the their new owners. We will not be supporting them. The funds from the sale will go to build new housing. You are spreading erroneous information. Please stop. The state mandates that we achieve a 10% affordable housing rate in Norfolk by 2014 (I think); we are not even close so those new houses will contribute to our stock as will the others that the Affordable Housing Task Force is developing around town. Thanks. - MJD 3/29 2:32pm   LS, the term "state match" was never noted by anyone but you as 100% every year. The match is different every year based on state revenues. It was 100% for quite a few years and the economy dipped so did the match. I was very clear in my post so please do not accuse me of lying. BTW, $192,000 is nothing to sneeze at, you are really making my point. We get that money *because we are a 3% town.* If you vote to drop the CPA down to 1% you vote against your own self-interest and that of the people of Norfolk because you leave state money on the table. AB-G, you are right, it is relative, relative to the assessment of your property. If you think your assessment is unfair, you should contact the assessors. I pay about $12 per month for the CPA and I think it is a bargain. I assume that those who do that math agree with me. Have you figured out what it costs you per month? Is it really that large a burden for historic preservation, open space, recreation and afforable housing. - MJD 3/29 2:30pm   DR: I am very happy to recommend Eric Geiger as a handyman. We have had him to the house twice to fix door locks, cabinets, thresholds and numerous other pesky things that we never got around to. He is in Norfolk, came within a day or two, and is a great guy to boot! - AL 3/26 5:36pm   MJG - November 2010 Town meeting approved the purchase of Gump's Farm. It was Article 12 and the information is on the Town website. Regarding the affordable housing on Route 115 - The current amount of designated affordable housing in Norfolk doesn't meet the State goals. That goal is 10% of the available housing stock. - AB 3/26 5:32pm   Hello, CW. On a personal note, I have only had this happen once, but I contacted the issuer of the check and "played dumb". ..."Hello, Tom... I think there has been an error but the check that you wrote for... hasn't gone through. Could you please look into this and see what may have happened?" If you receive no reply, you can assume that it was probably deliberate. I would send a certified letter, signature required, asking for payment of the amount do within a reasonable period. I again would take the mellow approach, "Hello, Tom. I contacted you 2 weeks ago... but haven't received a reply regarding check # ..... for $..... . I would appreciate a resolution to this within 10 days..." If still no results, then I would go public and put warnings here on NN to other businesses that such and such a company is writing bad checks and does not pay bills. Here is MA policy on bad checks from malawforum.com. Bounced or bad check law in Massachusetts "...for other people with questions about bounced or bad checks, let me direct you to a couple of relevant provisions. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 37 discusses criminal liability for larceny by check. Under this provision, courts may consider a bounced check to be prima facie evidence that the person who passed the check intended to defraud (Knew he had insufficient funds), unless he deposits enough money to cover the check within 48 hours of being notified by the bank that the check has bounced. Writing a bad check is a form of larceny. Larceny of property valued at $250 or more is a serious offense in Massachusetts, punishable by up to five years in prison. Larceny of lessor amounts is punishable by up to one year in prison. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 93, Section 40A creates civil liability for bounced checks: Section 40A. Whoever makes, draws, utters or delivers any check, draft or order for the payment of money upon any bank or other depository which refuses to honor the same because the maker has no account with such bank or other depository or because the maker has insufficient funds on deposit therein and who fails to pay the amount of such check, draft or order within thirty days following a written demand therefor by the payee in accordance with this section and delivered to such person by regular mail and also by certified mail return receipt requested shall, in addition to any criminal penalties which may be imposed in accordance with law, be liable to the payee for the face amount of such check, draft or order, and for additional damages, as determined by the court, but in no event shall the amount of such damages be less than one hundred nor more than five hundred dollars. The written demand for payment required by this section shall be in the following form and shall be printed in at least ten point type in both the English and Spanish languages: DEMAND FOR PAYMENT OF DISHONORED CHECK DATE:_________________________________ TO:___________________________________ NAME OF MAKER WARNING: YOU MAY BE SUED 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE IF YOU DO NOT MAKE PAYMENT _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ LAST KNOWN RESIDENCE ADDRESS OR PLACE OF BUSINESS YOUR CHECK/DRAFT/ORDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $___________ DATED _________ PAYABLE TO THE ORDER OF ________________ HAS BEEN DISHONORED BY THE BANK OR OTHER DEPOSITORY UPON WHICH IT HAS BEEN DRAWN BECAUSE: - THE MAKER HAD NO ACCOUNT WITH SUCH BANK OR DEPOSITORY - THE MAKER HAD INSUFFICIENT FUNDS ON DEPOSIT WITH SUCH BANK OR DEPOSITORY IF YOU DO NOT MAKE PAYMENT WITHIN THIRTY DAYS OF THE ABOVE DATE, YOU MAY BE SUED TO RECOVER PAYMENT. IF A JUDGMENT IS RENDERED AGAINST YOU IN COURT, IT WILL INCLUDE NOT ONLY THE ORIGINAL FACE AMOUNT OF THE CHECK/DRAFT/ORDER, BUT ALSO ADDITIONAL LIQUIDATED DAMAGES OF NOT LESS THAN ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) NOR MORE THAN FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($500.00). PLEASE MAKE PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $_____________ TO: _______________________________________ NAME OF PAYEE _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ADDRESS TO WHICH PAYMENT SHOULD BE DELIVERED " Hope this is helpful. - AG 3/26 5:28pm   LS and HC: Any word on the lost animals? Keep us posted. MJD: "Minor" is a relative term, no? - AB-G 3/26 5:25pm   Relay For Life Egg Hunt! April 6th at 6:30 at the Hockomock Area Y in Franklin! $2 per child, all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society! Email Christine W. with any questions or to RSVP - c4walsh@live.com [Word DOC] Come join the Burnin' It Up and Follow The Leaders Relay For Life teams for an Egg Hunt On April 6th at 6:30pm we will be having an egg hunt on the fields and playground at the Franklin Y! Pay $2 a child to come and enjoy our egg hunt around the Y fields. 100% of the proceeds will go to Relay For Life of Franklin, Bellingham and Wrentham! All children are welcome. We will have different heats so that it is fair to all ages. We hope to see you there! Please Pre-Register at the front desk at the Franklin Y or with Christine Walsh so we can have a general estimate of attendees. You can pay at the door. See/Contact Christine Walsh with any questions! c4walsh@live.com - CW 3/26 5:24pm   MJD - I'm not wrong. I wanted to let people less informed than myself understand that when you posted "the money raised is matched by the Commonwealth" that this was simply not true. People reading your post would assume our 3% turns into 6% and that is not true and has not been true for some time. If you're a reader of NN then you will see I brought up this mistruth of matched funds previously to correct a post by a member of the CPC. If you gave the town 10 bucks and I matched your funds then the town would have 20 bucks. Get it? Go scour the Interwebs to see what we really receive by the State. commpres.env.state.ma.us/content/cpa.asp The State does not match our 3%. The State does not match our 3%. This is fact not opinion. Last year we received 1.17% of our 3% or $192,200. - LS 3/26 5:23pm   Hello, my name is Sophia Raia, and I am a senior at King Philip High School. I have been tutoring kids in Math, Science, and Study Skills. If your child is in 7th grade or beyond, and feels more comfortable learning from another student rather than an adult , please feel free to contact me and I will send you my academic history! Phone: 508-520-8797 Email: s.raia@comcast.net Thank you! - SR 3/26 5:15pm   JHR I do have a suggestion for a makeup for age related damaged skin. I don't necessarily believe you need something with heavy coverage but something to even out your skin tone. Please contact me at 781-492-1728 if you would like to try it. - MKS 3/26 5:13pm   Lopes Inc., Norfolk MA: Walkways, driveways, construction and landscaping. Call 774 291 1888. - EL 3/26 5:09pm   Hello. I am looking for information about a guitar that I have. I would like to know if it is a decent instrument with possible value or just a plain old guitar. This is an Epiphone 6 string acoustic guitar and the match I could online find is the photo and description below. I am not a guitarist, but this one has the 1,2,1,2,1,1 (top to bottom) pearl inlay arrangement under the strings. Similar models have a different configuration. The only difference is that my guitar is missing the "e" at the top of the strings beneath the tuning pins. There is a plain black plaque at that location. This photo below is from a website epiphonewiki.com and is better than the photos I took. I believe there is a 1 photo limit here on Norfolk Net so I can't post others. The condition is absolutely excellent and has been in its unopened case for as long as I have had it... in a non smoking and clean, dry home. The label inside says FT-130 Caballero as in the photo. The serial number on the back is 945319 and says Made in Japan. The color is "Golden Sunburst" I believe. If anyone can help me with value of this or there is any interest, I would appreciate an e-mail to almgl1@verizon.net. Many thanks. - AMG [For posts I enforce an unofficial 3-photos limit; for the ads it's one photo per ad, with text links to the others. - Wm.] 3/26 5:08pm   Hello - can anyone recommend a good handyman? One that will show up, reasonable and local preferred. Also looking for someone to possibly build a retaining wall. Thanks, - DR 3/26 5:05pm   Youth weight set with adjustable weight bench and squat rack. All metal weights with one barbell and two dumbbell bars. Great for junior high and early high school ages. Asking $35. Call 508-528-6569. - DC 3/26 5:04pm   To MJD. How does the town subsidizing the development of low income housing increase our property values? The low income housing we have on 115 is more than enough and a strain on town resources! I pay Federal Taxes and State Taxes which both take my money and redistribute it to people on government assistance. I would prefer to keep that 3% and give it to a charity I believe in and not as another goverment hand out that goes unchecked. Also to all the CPC supporters, you keep saying the CPC does not spend any money without TM approval - if that is the case how did we end up purchasing Gumps Farm? I don't remember voting on that at TM. We ended up with the low income housing at Gumps because we gave the developer a pass for that new sub-division Fox Run, they didn't want low income housing there so someone worked out a deal to put it in the center of town on the other side of the tracks. Our taxes keep going up and that 3% gets larger. The CPC than wastes the money on buying swamp land that was privately owned, never could be built on and created tax revenue. The only people making out on the CPC are the companies they keep hiring for studies and the people they have on their payroll. - MJG 3/26 5:01pm   For anyone considering future renovations or additions to their home or business, I'd like to post a strong recommendation for Dave Smith of Bay State Renovations. Dave just completed the construction of our new home in Norfolk and I can honestly say we have never worked with anyone who has a higher sense of integrity, or greater knowledge of every aspect of home building (from codes to permitting to hiring and managing subcontractors). Dave's a real stand-up guy who came onto a partially completed job after we'd taken a financial bath from a string of unscrupulous contractors. He not only corrected and replaced work done poorly or not up to code, but also worked very hard to help us get the best deals possible with subs and building material suppliers. Dave is also a master carpenter and he and his crew did a *phenomenal* job on all the finish work in our home (see photos). He also had a lot of great creative suggestions to help us stay within budget and make our house more beautiful. We'll be bringing him back again in the near future to add on some decks, as well as to renovate an apartment we have in Jamaica Plain. Dave can be reached at (508) 250-3678 or baystate0@gmail.com. If anyone has any questions or would like to see the great work he has done, please contact us through the Wm. [Use box368@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - JMF 3/26 5:00pm   I am definitely voting to get rid of the CPC tax! It's to bad they want to continue to buy property when the residents in town can't afford to keep their own houses! - MF 3/24 3:45pm   Hi BL - For carpet cleaning I can definitely second any recommendations for George Pasquantonio (cleancarpetsplease.com). We've used him several times and not only is he reasonably priced, but does a very thorough job with environmentally friendly cleaning methods. For us he used citrus-based carpet cleaners though I think he has several to choose from. I also appreciate the fact that he always comes when he says he will and is extremely courteous. George can be reached at 508-316-1926. - JMF 3/24 12:35pm   Anyone have suggestions on what action one would take when a business pays you with a bad check? - CW 3/24 11:39am   Spring is early this year. Our forsythia is in bloom already, 4 weeks sooner than the year I took the top banner photo. - Wm. 3/24 11:33am   Norfolk Gala - you're not too late!! You're not too late to purchase tickets for tonight's Gala, A Night in New Orleans, sponsored by the Norfolk Community League. Tickets can still be purchased on-line at www.NCLGala.com or at the door upon arrival! When: March 24th - TONIGHT!! Time: 6:00 - Midnight. Where: Franklin Country Club, 672 East Central Street, Franklin. Cost: $55 per person, which includes food & entertainment (complimentary beer, wine and hurricanes from 6-7) We also have many wonderful auction items to bid on, including packages for family vacations, sporting events and school and town experiences. Don't miss this chance to join your Norfolk neighbors for a fun night out while supporting our community! We look forward to seeing you there! - CM, NCL 3/24 11:32am   To JA - for front stop and walkway, try Lester Darling--excellent mason! Very creative, neat and reasonably priced. You can't go wrong with him. - EF 3/24 11:04am   Does anyone know of a good fencing company? We installed a pool and now need fencing. - SG 3/23 10:53am   Does anyone out there have suggestions for a specific makeup for age related damaged skin? I need something with heavy coverage, I think... Thanks. - JHR 3/23 10:49am   LOST = REWARD. Bracelet ~ l4 or l8K Gold Nugget ~ Approx. l/2 in. wide. 7-in. 2 side safety locks. 508-384-3966. Lv. msg. - MG 3/23 10:46am   AB-G, thank you for an honest opinion. I totally respect anyone who wants to vote to reduce the CPA tax to lower their tax bill. To many people try to spin false information to convince others to come to their side. - DC 3/23 10:45am   Newest sighting is Lake St for Shadow the beagle. - HC 3/23 10:44am   KJ, if you are looking for a reliable cleaning service call Clean Queens, they are fantastic, you'll love them. 508 317 5431 speak to Beth. - DB, Clean Queens 3/23 10:39am   LS - You are frequently wrong but never in doubt! The funds that we raise as a town are matched by the state. Every year the match is different but as a 3% town we get a biggesr share of the pie than 1% and 2% towns. If we stop contributing to CPC or cut back our contribution, we leave state money on the table. The match percentage is dependent upon state revenues. In good finacial times with high revenues, the match is higher the opposite is true when the economy is sputtering. BTW, the sidewalks on North Street were a state project not a town project, they had nothing at all to do with the CPC. AB-G, I disagree with you about the CPC and with all due respect, would call your view short-sighted. I think the CPC it is a minor, additional tax expense that allows us, as a town, to save for major purchases for recreation/open space, historic preservation and affordable housing. The benefit outweighs the cost, in my opinion, and it allows us to have some things that we would never be able to squeeze out of our town budget, no matter how good the times. Frankly, I think it is sad that people are placing such a low value on the quality of life in Norfolk. I hope that people will support keeping the CPC at its current rate when we go to the polls. It's an important savings vehicle for Norfolk's future. Open space/recreation, historic preservation and affordable housing (especially the way the AFT is building it) all contribute to a strong property value because the high quality of life in town makes people want to move here. It is an investment you are making in the town, its citizens and your home. - MJD 3/23 10:31am   Attention parents of Current or Potential Cheerleaders: I wanted to get the word out about a wonderful new opportunity for cheerleaders in our area. My daughter has been a Pop Warner Cheerleader and this past winter joined an All-Star Cheerleading Squad in Franklin for it's inaugural season. What a great experience and introduction to the All-Star Cheer world! Coach Krissy Connolly has opened a new Cheerleading Club out of Wadsworth Training Center in Franklin. She not only has plans for full-year All-Star Teams but also offers 1/2 year teams (for those who cheer for Pop Warner or High School). She also provides prep clinics for those trying out for high school teams, jump and tumbling clinics, etc. Check out the website www.wadsworthwrestlingclub.com under the All-Star Cheer tab. All inquiries can be sent to coach Krissy at klc0025@comcast.net Please see the attached flyers... especially regarding Try-Outs. They will be held May 19, 2012 from 10 am - 2 pm. [May Clinic 2012 PDF document] - TP 3/23 9:57am   As many of you know, Norfolk Baseball lost a dear friend, Brian Collentro, suddenly last month. Brian held a position on the Norfolk appointed board and has spent many years assisting Norfolk Baseball and helping our children. Additionally, the Collentro family have given countless hours over the past dozen years to many Norfolk youth programs. Brian and his wife Lisa have held positions as coach, league director, elected board members and president of various programs. Brian and Lisa have four children ages 20, 15, 10, & 7. For those us us involved in youth sports we understand the level of commitment and time that is required for one season. The Collentro family have invested this time every season for over 12 years. In honor of their commitment and investment to all of our children, we are inviting and asking you to participate in an event that will directly help the Collentro Family. This event will be held at EXTRA INNINGS (WRENTHAM) on FRIDAY, MARCH 23rd. Our friends at Extra Innings have coordinated this event in honor of our friend, Brian Collentro. First, Extra Innings will be donating 10% of their gross sales on FRIDAY, MARCH 23rd. This includes tunnel rentals, lessons, pro shop equipment and apparel. This is a great opportunity if you have plans host your team in a tunnel, to purchase equipment for the upcoming season, or apparel / jackets / bags / etc.... If you were planning to make purchases already, 10% of any purchases made on MARCH 23rd will go directly to the Collentro Family Second, Extra Innings is holding a SILENT AUCTION and RAFFLE on FRIDAY, MARCH 23rd. Extra Innings has done an amazing job and has found donors for all the raffle prizes and has found sponsors for each silent auction prize. This means that every dollar collected for the silent auction and the raffle will go directly to the Collentro Family. Please view the attached flyer for the items that will be made available for auction. There are some really great items up for bid here, as well as some great raffle prizes - the attached pdf has all of the details. We are asking our Norfolk baseball Families to support this event by visiting Extra Innings on FRIDAY MARCH 23rd. Extra Innings will be donating 10% of gross sales directly to the Collentro Family. 100% of the proceeds from the Silent Auction and the Raffle will go directly to the Collentro Family. Click here for more information on the fundraiser. Cut and paste the link below to view the Silent Auction and Raffle Event in Honor of Brian Collentro. files.leagueathletics.com/Text/Documents/7026/28543.pdf We hope to see you there! - KF 3/23 9:56am   Free pool! Above ground, 15 x 30 oval, complete with pump (5 years old) and filter (three years old), needs liner, good condition and well cared for, you take. Please call 617-513-8960 to see and for more info. - JK 3/23 9:55am   Free pressure treated wood - 700 square foot pressure treated deck needs to come down. Ten years old, just needs power washing. All offers will be considered. You take. Please call 617-513-8960 for more info. - JK 3/22 3:27pm   Dear Cape Cod Estates, Medway St/Br, Myrtle and Dean Street neighbors. There is a 9 year old Beagle that is lost in the woods in your neighborhood. His name is a tri colored beagle named Shadow. He's been missing since Franklin coming upon 2 weeks now. Please call if you have any sightings of him or if he is captured or wanders into your yard, house, or gets in your car. The owner is actively looking for him in the woods. If you see him please contact the Norfolk Police at 508 528 3232 and relay where he was last sighted. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control [Update 3/23 10:45am: Newest sighting is Lake St for Shadow the beagle. - HC] 3/22 12:55pm   The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is working to develop a Statewide Shelter Plan for the Commonwealth. As part of this project, a brief 5 minute survey has been developed to garner feedback from the general public regarding sheltering and mass care needs and preferences during an emergency. Please take the time to complete this survey which can be found here: www.surveymonkey.com/s/3NV569L - BF, Norfolk Board of Health 3/22 12:54pm   The Norfolk Board of Health is sponsoring a spring rabies clinic for dogs and cats of residents of Norfolk and surrounding towns. The clinic will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 9:00 - 11:00 A.M. at the Norfolk DPW Garage, 33 Medway Branch Road. The cost is $12.00 per animal and will be given by Dr. Shelley Sandler, D.V.M. Previous rabies certificates must be presented in order to qualify for a three-year vaccination. All dogs must be leashed and cats must be confined to a carrier. The Town Clerk will be present to issue Norfolk Dog licenses. For more information, please contact the Norfolk Board of Health office at 508-528-7747. - BF, Board of Health 3/22 12:53pm   MJD: Thanks for your polite and understandable explanation, refreshingly free of sarcasm and name-calling, BUT a "tax surcharge" is more money I pay in taxes. "Tax" is tax, and "surcharge" means more money to pay (I ealize it has nothing to do with the rate and hasn't been raised from the 3%, but of course, as the rate rises so does the 3%) and I just don't want to. - AB-G 3/22 12:52pm   One thirteen year old boy is looking to earn some money for an upcoming trip and would like to help out with odd jobs at your house--spring cleanups, mulch spreading, moving porch furniture out. He recently split a whole bunch of logs for us (strong boy scout, knows how to use tools). If you have anything you need done, please connect through the webmaster. [Use box367@norfolknet.com - Wm.] Thanks, - AL 3/22 12:51pm   Attention animal lovers! Spring is here and if you enjoy being outdoors, being around animals and like to stay fit, a part-time dog walking position is now available. Interested individuals must be reliable, have own transportation, be willing to travel to surrounding towns, and have a cell phone. For details, please email junebug1306@yahoo.com. - AW 3/22 12:50pm   A college night to discuss college financing in the context of retirement will be held May 3 at 7 pm at the Norfolk Public Library. www.planforcollegevideo.com - PH, Pre College Prep 3/22 12:49pm   MJD - Do not let FACTs get in your way, the CPA funds are NOT matched by the state and have NOT been matched for years. Period. - LS 3/22 12:48pm   LS: We agree on all points except for one, the existing playground on Boardman Street. It definitely needs some work and is used by many families. It does not need to move, nor be expanded into some massive play land, but new fencing that surrounds the entire play area is definitely needed. Some of the wood is very splinter prone, and may be rotting. The swings make me nervous too. These types of repairs, and some new equipment, should not break the bank like some of the other projects being discussed. - CS 3/22 12:47pm   MJD, The CPC fund needs to go away period! We "as a town" cannot afford the luxury of all this unnecessary building/spending. We now have another school to pay for and our public safety departments NEED a clean, safe efficient facility to work from. I do not know how to go about ending the CPC fund but it definitely needs to go. We need to spend any available money on projects that matter. A new playground is not going to do much to add value to my property; but a modern state of the art school system will. A modern public safety facility will also add to my property value. We do not need to pay for another place to stroll and watch the hummingbirds frolic and bunny rabbits play. If you need to take a stroll use the new sidewalk to nowhere on Pond Street! - MG 3/22 12:46pm   WB - there are good drivers and bad drivers everywhere. The roundabouts have absolutely reduced the number and severity of accidents at the Main Street / 115 intersection. As for the developer of the Gumps affordable housing: yes, he is facing the same sanctions any developer who would. - RG 3/22 12:44pm   Re Norfolk Lions Spring Soccer - Anyone know any details regarding rosters, schedule for this springs league? - MK 3/22 12:44pm   JM: Thanks for the recommendation! BL: Another dedicated follower of the Net recommended a rug cleaner a while back. His last name is Pascuantonio. I spoke to him on the phone and he seemed very accomodating. I believe the first cleaning, or part thereof, is complimentary. If you scroll 'way down you should find it. He is in the business white pages of the phone book. I just haven't gotten around to getting him over here. - AB-G 3/22 12:43pm   The King Philip Parents' Network is holding its annual fundraiser at Roche Bros. supermarket in Millis on Friday, April 6th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. KP volunteers will be available to collect receipts as shoppers exit the store and Roche Brothers will donate 5 percent of the bill to the KP Parents' Network. Also, 5 percent of gift certificates purchased prior to April 1st will be donated to King Philip. Gift certificates can be used at any of the 15 Roche Bros. grocery stores, 3 Sudbury Farms locations, or their home delivery service. All proceeds raised will go towards the All Night Party, an annual tradition that keeps KP seniors safe on the night of graduation. For more information or to purchase a gift certificate, contact Phyllis G. at 508-541-8041 or email pmgovini@comcast.net - GA 3/22 12:42pm   To BL: I highly recommend Green Homes Carpet Cleaning - 774.571.1973. I have used them twice and each time the carpets look great with NO chemical smell. greenhomescarpetcleaning.com - BW 3/22 12:41pm   A really good reason to slow down on North Street!! Could you tell your kids that you ran over Donald Duck and his sweetie 'cuz you were in a hurry and talking on the phone? - PRR 3/22 12:40pm   Anyone willing to share the name/number of their recommended house cleaner? We are looking for a house cleaner to come once every two weeks. Thanks in advance. - KJ 3/22 12:39pm   To all those folks that think recent purchases with CPC funds were a waste of our tax dollars, I have said it before, your beef is not with the CPC. It is the majority of voters at Town meeting that you should be upset with. All CPC funds are spent through Town meeting vote. This past Fall, Town meeting tasked the CPC with hiring a consultant to come up with a plan to develop recreational opportunities for Gumps Farm. Based on input from a group of Town residents that's the consultant developed. The proposed improvements to Gumps Farm are a lot of money and Town meeting will decide whether it is appropriate. Rather than hiding behind your keyboard and casting out criticism, I would suggest you get involved. CPC can only evaluate and work with proposals that it is presented with. Lend your sense of fiscal responsibility to the process to help shape the future of this Town. - DC 3/20 12:49pm   We are looking to replace our front stoop and walkway. Does anyone have any recommendations on who to use? - JA 3/20 12:48pm   I know that PC, AB-G and PRR are all bright folks so what I do not understand is their insinuation that our taxes are being raised to fund the projects on Gump's Farm. The money to pay for the development of a park and park lands as well as a community garden on the property has been raised for the specific purpose of funding the following three areas: recreation, historic preservation and affordable housing. That money comes from a tax surcharge that is the same this year as last year and the year before. It has not been raised. The money raised is matched by the Commonwealth and the whole kitty sits in a fund until we decide as a town that we want to invest some in our recreation propoerties, affordable housing stock, or the history of our little town. The CPC is the group that makes the recommendations to town meeting as to how we as a town spend this money. Phases like CPC being "out of control" or " over zealous" are ridiculous. Opportunities to purchase property to build affordable housing, develop new recreation venues or preserve history in town come to the Committee, they vet the info, see that they paperwork is filled out properly, order wetland surveys and real estate appraisals and decide, based on the many factors, including clearly published guidelines, whether or not the project should be recommended to town meeting. Simple, the CPC makes no decisions without your approval and those who would have you believe otherwise are misrepresenting the truth. - MJD 3/20 12:43pm   RG - It's all in how you spin it. While you may not have had complaints about the roundabouts, there are still drivers including Town employees - DPW, police and a few others in Town vehicles that have cut me off on more than one occasion. It is my understanding that according to "the rules of the road" when approaching a roundabout one is supposed to yield to traffic that is entering or already in the roundabout. I guess it doesn't apply to some. As far as Gump's Farm, please enlighten us about the fact that the developer who is working on the affordable housing cleared land before getting a building permit. Since this is a "Town project" is the Town going to hold him to a different standard or is he going to be fined per the Town bylaws? - WB 3/20 12:43pm   Freeman-Kennedy School tour and proposed plan for Gump's property videos are available. A video tour of the Freeman-Kennedy School is available for viewing. It is being shown on the Norfolk Public and Government channels which are Comcast channels 8 and 22 and Verizon channels 41 and 42. Please check www.NorfolkCable.com for the full television playback schedule. It can also be viewed online at [video link] A proposed plan for the Gump's property was part of the March 6 Selectmen's meeting. It can be viewed online at [video link] The Gump's segment starts about 2 hours into this meeting. - Donna Jones, NCTV Program Coordinator 3/20 12:42pm   Correction: There are just four new houses going up on North Street next to and behind the yellow "horse farm" house. The rumor had been that there were thirteen or so houses, but after discussing the facts with the exiting owner of the land who has sold it to a developer from Medfield, it seems that just four houses are going up. That is a big relief since the traffic/speeding issues are so out of control on North Street these days. - PRR 3/20 12:41pm   The Norfolk Community League GALA is this Saturday night! What are 200+ of your neighbors and friends doing this Saturday night? Partying at the NCL Gala, that's what. It's not too late to purchase tickets for a night of New Orleans style food, great entertainment, and fun in support of the Norfolk community. Don't wait. Get your tickets at: www.NCLGala.com March 24, 2012. 6pm - Midnight. Complimentary Beer, Wine and Hurricanes, 6-7pm. Franklin Country Club, Franklin, MA. For more info and tickets, visit www.NCLGala.com. - NH 3/20 12:40pm   AB-G: There is a groomer at Medfield Veterinary Clinic at the intersection of Route 27 and West Street. I can't remember the woman's name, but I've brought my long haired cat there and it seemed reasonable priced. - JM 3/20 12:39pm   MG - Norfolk has two fence companies down by 115 and 1A or if you have cash burning holes in your pockets call Walpole Woodworkers or when all else fails pick up some at Home Cheapo. - LS 3/20 12:38pm   I am offering rototilling and pressure washing. My # is 508-520-1459. - CR 3/20 12:35pm   No Foxboro Casino announces Information Open House to be Held March 22nd, 2012. Following the positive response to our previous Information Open Houses, members of No Foxboro Casino invite you to join us for another of these informative events. If you are undecided on whether a casino is right for the town of Foxboro and the surrounding communities, we encourage you to visit us at our upcoming event to learn more. Get accurate information and have an opportunity to ask questions, give your opinion and have your voice heard, pick up a lawn sign, learn how you can help as a volunteer, and be part of the petition "Mr. Kraft: Please Do The Right Thing." Complimentary coffee and other refreshments will be served and non-Foxboro residents are welcome. Thursday March 22nd, 2012 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the Union Church of South Foxboro, Fellowship Hall, 384 South St, Foxboro, MA (on the corner of South St. and North Grove St.) For information on this and other information open houses and events which are to be planned please contact No Foxboro Casino volunteer coordinator Chris Lowey at chrislowey@verizon.net or call (508)698-3939. No Foxboro Casino (www.nofoxborocasino.org) is a grassroots group of residents of Foxboro and surrounding towns who are working together to preserve the character of our small New England town by opposing the development of a casino in our community. - CL, No Foxboro Casino 3/20 12:32pm   Happy Spring! Today is the Vernal Equinox. 3/19 4:43pm   Can anyone recommend reputable carpet cleaners? Preferably one that uses p= roducts safe for pets and kids? Thanks. - BL 3/19 4:42pm   Spring is right around the corner and time to get those lawn mowers, tractors and yard tools in working order. Call for repairs and/or tune ups. Reasonable rates and quick turn around. Will pick up if you are in Norfolk. Call Mike at (508) 400-2836. - MV 3/19 4:41pm   Yes, another great example of why we need to eliminate the CPA. They used $1 million dollars to buy Gumps, (which I still miss dearly!!) tear it down, give part of the land away to another Norfolk entity so they can build affordable houses, and now they want to spend another $300K to move the playground less than 1000 feet. This is total laugh-out-loud funny and such a big waste. What is wrong with Children's Place playground area now? Anyone? The location and size is perfect. The leadership the selectman play in this is horrible as well. We need some real leadership. What about the brand new playground we just built behind HOD, walking trails are great behind HOD as well. We have walking trails behind the police station as well. Tell the CPA we have a huge playground and walking trails at Pond Street. The CPA is like giving my 4 year old 1000 bucks cash and saying to him, go buy stuff. Eliminate the CPA, it's a sham. - LS 3/19 4:40pm   I have about seven to eight sections of fencing that need to be replaced around my pool with new vinyl fencing. Any recommendations? - MG 3/19 4:35pm   EM has a good point. Norfolk Center cannot fill vacancies that have existed for years (including the storefront at the corner of Boardman and Main). Rather than building a bridge to nowhere, the town's focus should be on funding the schools and maintaining the roads. If Norfolk can begin to fill the available commercial real estate, perhaps our residential taxes "might" begin to level off someday. Wishful thinking, I know. - CS 3/19 4:34pm   Can anyone recommend a groomer for cats other than the Village Groomer? Thanks, - AB-G 3/19 4:23pm   AB-G- Forgive me if I don't lose too much sleep over Medway and Wrentham being put on a highly arbitrary "14 Best Places to Live" piece by Boston Magainze. Medway's on there because of their "sustainability", which includes their becoming a Green Community. Well, Norfolk had the opportunity to pursue Green Community determination, but decided not to go that route at a Town Meeting. (I'm not putting a value judgement on that, I'm just saying Town meeting decided that wasn't the right thing for Norfolk at the time.) Medway's also noted for having a school-based solar power array. The landfill solar array will produce two hundred thousand kilowatt-hours of electricity, coming online in a couple of months -- dwarfing anything Medway's putting out (not to mention the Freeman Kennedy School's system). Medway actually does have the Community Preservation Act, and is at the 3% level Norfolk is currently at. They mention the Medway Community Farm, which is locally-supported agriculture -- which is one of the proposals on the board for Gumps (by the way, the Medway Community Farm was bought with CPA funds). I don't know if you'd call their CPC "aggressive", but they actually do come up with ideas on how to use the money to serve the community, the same way Norfolk's CPC is currently doing. And, important to note, Medway's tax rate is a full dollar per thousand higher than Norfolk's. So I don't think you'd be too happy there. As for Wrentham, they're cited primarily (four out of the six sentences) for King Philip. Which, last time I checked, was Norfolk's High School too. The other point they made was that home values were on the rise, and the recently approved Fox Run subdivision would continue that trend. Ironically, Wrentham can't claim that all to it's own either, as Fox Run is located in both Norfolk *and* Wrentham. And while their "homes prices are on the upswing," over the last four years Norfolk has retained better value than Wrentham. There have been a lot of questions about downtown development, and Gumps, and roundabouts. Rather than make this post too long, there will be an update at Monday night's Board of Selectmen's meeting, which will naturally be on cable and then archived on Norfolk Cable's (really cool) on-demand video site (nctvondemand.pegcentral.com). Yes, I just called local access really cool. I'm a dork.. - RG 3/17 4:57pm   PRR and others: It couldn't have been said any better. It is imperative that we go to TM and vote according to our likes and dislikes. The TM is always very poorly attended, and this needs to change. Otherwise the alternative for those with the money and the energy is simply to move. Apropos of this, Boston mag came out with their list of the best places to live and... wait for it... we're apparently not on it (someone correct me if I'm wrong)! They made special mention of Wrentham and Medway, however. Maaybe one of the criteria wasn't very high taxes and an zealous CPC?? - AB-G 3/17 4:56pm   If anyone has seen an orange and white cat in the area of Myrtle St. and Medway St. please let us know. Our cat has been missing for 2 days. Any info would be greatly appreciated. He is about 22 lbs and answers to the name Pumpkin. Thanks. - ML [Update 3/19 4:22pm: Pumpkin is all orange with a white bib and weighs 25 lbs - ML] 3/17 12:33pm   Happy St. Patrick's Day! 3/17 12:32pm   That is a housing development going in on North St?? Is that true?? YIKES!! - JHR 3/17 12:31pm   $650,000 ... $650,000 the CPC is out of control and this is the reason the rollback should be to zero. The Board of Selectmen better find some new members and quick. Also, why are there "extra" members - shouldn't that have changed with the precincts? - PC 3/16 9:37pm   Happy St. Patrick's Day, everyone, from your local Model A lady! - CR 3/16 9:35pm   6TH Annual Norfolk Runs - 5K Road Race & Kids' 1K Fun Race. Sunday 4/29 at 9 a.m. Sponsored by Dunkin Doughnuts and the Norfolk Lions Club. Certified course, Professionally Timed, BBQ, Prizes, Awards, Raffles. All money collected goes to Norfolk Charities. Register online @ www.norfolkruns5k.com or pick up a registration from at Norfolk Dunkin Doughnuts. - CW 3/16 9:33pm   NMM Vikings registration for 2012 football/cheerleading season will run March 26-April 21. Visit www.nmmvikings.org starting March 26 to register online. - JO 3/16 9:30pm   Years ago I was in a National Guard engineer unit that, for training, built some recreation fields for a local town at no cost to the town. Surveying and layout was done by a town resident, and personnel and equipment (front-end loader, chainsaws, dump trucks, and other equipment) was provided by the unit. Some of the unit members had civilian jobs working in earthmoving and landscaping, so the result was a professional job. Cost to the town was zero, but the value was thousands of dollars. I don't know if Guard units still do this sort of thing for training, but inquiries could be made to National Guard or Reserve units, etc. Certainly no significant amount of money should be spent at Gump's Farm before checking that out, as well as checking with local service organizations (Lions, Rotary, Scouts, etc.) - BH 3/16 9:27pm   To RK: I highly recommend Mark Sweeney, a local licensed contractor, who has done several projects for us over the years including new windows and two renovated bathrooms. Very professional and reasonably priced. You can reach him at 774-291-9528. - EAW 3/16 9:26pm   The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library will hold its annual Book and Bake Sale on Saturday, April 28, 9 am to 3 pm. 2012 Friends of the Library are welcome at the Friends-Only Preview and Sale on Friday, April 27, 6-9 pm. Friends memberships starting at $20.00 are available at the door beginning at 5:00 pm. The Saturday sale is open to all. For more information: www.norfolkbooksale.com - JR 3/16 9:23pm   WC, Regarding plastering call Steve at S&S, phone 508-958-5659. He has been doing work for us for over 20 years and is very reliable - NG 3/16 9:20pm   Who makes the decisions? Why?... why do we need to spend so much money to develop Gump's?? Many of us cannot afford the increased tax burden already. If we just paid the Norfolk Police Dept. enough to afford coverage for more traffic control perhaps the streets would be safer and people could actually walk around this town, their neighborhoods, safely! ( ..and of course if people slowed down and stopped talking on their cell phones while they were driving, that might help too!) Also, why is there no dog park in the mix? Why more playground space...? and what IS the rec center... soccer fields, baseball, playground, etc.. oh and walking trail? Can't we just have open space...? Who makes these irresponsible decisions? We cannot afford them, or the ongoing maintenance!! Who is making money from these deals anyway!!!? Oh, and what about the new development going in on North Street? There has been no discussion with the neighbors as far as we have heard... lots of new homes on a dangerous street! Seems that's pretty irresponsible as well. Like I said, who is making money on all these decisions that will impact an already under funded town? And... we supposedly cannot even afford to give the police a decent building; we have town water that tastes disgusting; we have to pay to have our garbage dealt with; we tear down perfectly adequate housing that people would be more than happy to call home in order to build "affordable housing" so developers can get better sweetheart deals; we make it really difficult for businesses to get established here in Norfolk in order to have a stronger tax base; oh gosh, what did I forget? ...garbage left on the sides of the road, storm drains left clogged up; dead trees that need to be taken down along the sides of the roads... etc. This may very well sound like a rant, but think about it. To fund or not to fund "decisions" have ramifications. They affect the quality of life here in Norfolk. We don't all have 6 figure incomes! But we all want a peaceful, safe and pretty place to live in and, if we have children, raise our families. Please, to those who are "the decision makers", some more reasonable as well as affordable priorities are in order! Take care of what we already have that needs maintenance before adding more projects! Oh and... As long as I've your attention... speed bumps on North Street; re-engineer the dangerous curve at Diamond and North; clean up the trash on the streets and clear away the poison ivy on North St. after Marshall on North St. so pedestrians have somewhere safe to jump out of the way of all the speeding cars!!!! I am as serious as a heart attack! - PRR 3/16 9:19pm   DH, I have a couple high chairs we could give you. You can contact me via the Wm. [Use box366@norfolknet.com - Wm.] Thanks. - UG 3/15 5:21pm   Looking for a recommended front entry door installer. Thanks - RK 3/15 5:20pm   The King Philip Music Association is hosting their annual Spring Scholarship Concert on March 21st at the King Philip High School Auditorium at 7pm. The concert will feature the KP Symphony Band and Concert Band. Proceeds from the concert go to fund seven scholarships awarded to KP senior music students. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the door. - SM, KPMA 3/15 5:19pm   WM you need to add a "like" button lol god bless MON. - DV 3/15 5:17pm   Did you know... NCL's spring Gala is open to the public and we have sold nearly 200 tickets? Don't miss a nice time with friend and neighbors. Come for New Orleans style food, great entertainment, and complimentary Beer, Wine and Hurricanes for the first hour. Take your chance in our casino or on over $30,000 worth of auction items like: * 7 Night Aruba Vacation * Samuel Adams Beer for a Year * 10 Bruins Luxury Box Tickets The Gala is NCL's biggest fundraiser. All the money raised will be disbursed back into the Norfolk community to groups and organizations like, KP and Norfolk Public School, Norfolk Rec Dept, and the Norfolk Fire Department, among others. Support our community and have a great time. Win-win! Date: March 24, 2012. 6pm - Midnight. Location: Franklin Country Club, Franklin, MA. Buy tickets online: www.nclgala.com/rsvp--tickets.html - NH 3/15 5:16pm   Looking for anyone that has a highchair (could really use 2) and a pack'n play that they would like to donate to a church nursery. - DH 3/15 5:15pm   Looking for an electric fireplace? See my ad below. [Notice Board] I am selling a Symphony Dimplex Electric fireplace from Jordan's. It has Oak wood with a light finish. - BP 3/15 12:37pm   Save the Date!!! Are you interested in saving money while helping a good cause at the same time? Plan to come to The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library 2012 Book and Bake Sale. Over 30,000 books in good to excellent condition will be offered with most priced at $1.00 or $2.00. The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that uses all of its funds to support the programs and services of the Norfolk Public Library. The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library annual Book and Bake Sale will be held Saturday, April 28 from 9 am to 3 pm inside the massive Norfolk Department of Public Works garage, 33 Medway Branch Road, Norfolk. 2012 Friends of the Library are welcome at the Friends-Only Preview and Sale on Friday, April 27, 6-9 pm. Friends memberships starting at $20.00 are available at the door beginning at 5:00 pm. The Saturday sale is open to all. For more information go online at www.norfolkbooksale.com It's worth the trip to Norfolk, the small town with the very BIG book sale! - KG 3/15 12:32pm   Thank goodness for the Norfolk Boomerang's article regarding the Community Preservation Committee's plans for spending more of our money. Could someone please take away the keys to the candy store before we all end up toothless! Gumps Farm Improvements Pegged At $650,000 Turning town-owned Gumps Farm into a place for a children's playground, walking trails, and a community garden would cost about $650,000, a consultant told selectmen this past week. Construction of walking trails, includ -- ing boardwalks over wetlands, and other items would cost about $370,000, said landscape architect Kyle Zick during the selectmen's meeting Tuesday, March 6. Building a new playground at Gumps to replace Kids' Place on Boardman Street would cost about $280,000, he said. Project supporters are planning to bring a request for an appropriation to Town Meeting in May. The money would come from the town's Community Pres -- ervation Act account [...] [Boomerang article] - JC 3/15 12:31pm   Where's MON when you need him? I'm sitting in a hot tub on the deck of my new home in Park City, Utah, watching skiers in shorts across the valley zigzagging down the slopes, while I am sipping Cape Codders. Anyone in Norfolk know how to change a fuse on a SaunaFin Swedish sauna? Probably not. And RW, Don't lose sleep over the train crossing, but the tax rate should put you in a state of sleep-deprived mania, in Norfolk it is now 16.4$/1000$. LOL! Those numbers would look good as tramp stamps on the contingent that caused it! - MON 3/15 12:30pm   An alternative to moving the train station is to revise the signal system for the trains. Downtown Framingham's street/track/station layout is similar to ours. They have a system that works as follows: When a train approaches from Boston, it stops at the station and the back of the train clears the street completely. The gates go up in a few seconds. When a train approaches from the west, one of two things can happen. 1. If it is a through train, the gates operate as you would expect and they will go up a few seconds after the train passes. 2. If the train is to stop at the station, the dispatcher sets the signals so that the train must stop before reaching the street. The gates and lights do not operate as the train approaches the station. When the train has completed its station stop, the conductor pushes a button on the platform, the gates go down and the train is then given the proceed signal. The gates will go up a few seconds after the train passes. This might cost less than moving the station and should solve the traffic delay problem. - JEB 3/15 12:29pm   I'm looking for a good plasterer, your help greatly appreciated. - WC 3/15 12:28pm   New: Watch this short video on a leadership blog, by a Norfolk resident, for teens, parents and CEOs thedefinitionofleadership.com/why-this-blog/ - PH, Pre College Prep 3/15 12:27pm   Hi All, Thanks for your good words about us! We are always grateful for your referrals, and strive to stay worthy of them. - Marcia Silvestri, Rocky's Auto Body 3/15 12:26pm   Has anyone had Copeland Contracting out of Blackstone for roofing/gutter work? If yes, please provide feedback. Thank you. - DMG (2) 3/15 12:25pm   RW: I also found It interesting that the town officials are considering roundabouts at these locations. What makes it more interesting is the fact that the building committee for the new school commissioned a third party study to determine whether traffic signals should be built at the Rockwood Road/Boardman St intersection. The third party reported that traffic was so light at that intersection there was no need for any changes except to prune a few trees to enhance sight lines. They even projected traffic flow into the future and came to the same conclusion. According to the Sun Chronicle article, the town is looking to "spark retail development" in the area near the lots. What about the two vacancies next to Walgreen's that have never been occupied, or the vacancies next to Norfolk Food Mart that have not been occupied for quite some time. If those locations can't be filled there is no need to build any more commercial sites. There is no need to build either a $3 million bridge or new roundabouts while our roads are in disrepair. - EM 3/15 12:22pm   The Collentro family and the Norfolk Community suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Brian Collentro. The Collentro family has given countless hours in support of our children for more than a decade. Norfolk Girls Softball would like to invite you to an event to show our support for the Collentro family. Event Details: Date: Friday, March 16th, 2012. Place: American Legion Hall in Medfield Address: 110 Peter Kristof Way, Medfield, MA Time: 8:00pm - 11:30pm Suggested Donation: $25/ person raffle prizes - band: fat cat blue - cash bar If you are unable to attend in person, but would still like to make a contribution to the family, please send a check for any amount made out to "Norfolk Girls Softball" to: Norfolk Girls Softball PO Box 467 Norfolk, MA 02056 Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in the 16th! - KJ, Norfolk Girls Softball 3/15 12:21pm   The Federated Church of Norfolk will hold a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 7 ,from 8:00 - 10:00 AM. Our famous homemade pancakes, ham, sausage, scrambled eggs, hash brown potatoes, cinnamon rolls, homemade biscuits and sausage gravy round out the buffet and omelets will be cooked to order. It's all you can eat for $7, with a Sr. citizen cost of $5. Breakfast is free for children under age 10. The Federated Church is located at the corner of Main Street and Route 115 across from the Town Common. The breakfast is served in the church vestry, which is handicapped accessible. For more information, contact the church office, 508-528-0262. - LD 3/15 12:20pm   I just had work done by Steve of Pioneer Doors of East Walpole. He replaced 2 garage doors and serviced a third. I highly recommend him. His attention to detail and quality workmanship was outstanding. He is a true perfectionist in his work. - JFO 3/15 12:19pm   Applications for the Sixth Annual Joseph M. DiRienzo Jr. Memorial Scholarship are available now at all local high school guidance offices. You may also download the scholarship package at www.norfolkbaseball.com - Karen Fruci, Norfolk Baseball Association 3/15 12:18pm   Math Tutoring available! Grades K-8. I am a stay-at-home-mom in Norfolk with 10 years classroom teaching experience in the Wellesley Public Schools and a Master's degree in teaching mathematics. I would love to help your child succeed and develop confidence in the area of math. Please call me at 857-231-1827 or emailandraj22@yahoo.com - AC 3/15 12:16pm   I too saw the article in the Sun and had many questions. Some folks are always talking about keeping Norfolk quaint. How many quaint New England towns have rotaries? Never mind 4 of them. I don't fully understand the need for 2 more rotaries when the 2 we have don't really function all that well. Many, many drivers don't respect the rules of driving and being the cause of many near accidents and many frustrated people. What are the traffic studies that are deciding we need rotary at these 2 intersections? Were the studies during the pipeline construction on 115 which diverted al the traffic to these 2 intersections? Because I can honestly tell you I have never had to wait more than a minute or 2 to get through, and that includes rush hour times. If we can't all afford a minute or 2 we should leave earlier. For the many millions of dollars that would probably be spent, whether it was from the town or state (not clear who would pay for this), let's have some common sense. Put in a 4 way stop at 115 and Boardman and a traffic light at Boardman and Main. Take the remaining millions and put them into H.O.D school that is loosing more funding faster than anybody, losing teachers and equipment. Let's put the money where it matters, into our schools. I'm willing to bet that not too many realtors have heard the phrase "Let's move to Norfolk, they have such lovely rotary's". I like the part about the "bridge" improving retail business. Other than Walgreen's, what was the last retail business let into Norfolk? How about the businesses that left because they weren't allowed to expand? I'm sure we all remember that power equipment company that used to call Norfolk home. Wrentham loves them!!! Also, it's nice that the "bridge" would start in the empty lot near the parking lot, but what about the other side of the street? Will the town commandeer some more land from somebody to make the "bridge" complete? After all, what goes up and over must come down somewhere. Maybe the rotaries are being considered so we can install some more $50,000 clocks because folks are so busy doing the Indy 500 through the existing rotary's to read the existing clock? I don't really understand the thinking that goes on sometimes. I do realize that elected officials are sometimes volunteers and give of their time and I should run for something if I have an opinion. I can't afford a campaign, so here's my opinion, LET COMMON SENSE PREVAIL and let's think things through. - BP 3/15 12:14pm   Free Dental Clinic. Seniors from the town of Norfolk, as well as from all surrounding towns, will be able to participate in a free dental clinic to be held at the Wrentham Council on Aging (400 Taunton Street) on Saturday, April 28th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dental professionals will be on hand to discuss oral health concerns and demonstrate ways to take care of teeth and dentures. The program will also include helpful information on nutrition, cleaning and labeling dentures, screening for oral cancer, and description of a low-cost dental program available to eligible seniors. This clinic is made possible by the Norfolk Adult Day Health Center in partnership with the Wrentham Council on Aging, the Norfolk Council on Aging, HEESCO Elder Services, and a variety of statewide health organizations. Participation is restricted to seniors aged 60 or older and appointments must be made in advance by calling the Wrentham Council on Aging at (508) 384-5425. The Norfolk Council on Aging will provide transportation for Norfolk residents who request it and schedule appointments by April 20th. --TM, Norfolk Council on Aging 3/15 12:11pm   It's not to late to get your tickets!! Norfolk Gala 2012 ~ A Night in New Orleans (sponsored by the Norfolk Community League). Norfolk's Gala 2012 is fast approaching! Have you bought your tickets yet? Don't miss NCL's biggest event of the year! Come experience a Night in New Orleans! Event highlights include a casino room, Photo Funbox, dueling pianos and over 100 auction items waiting to be bid on. Come and take your chance at the blackjack & poker tables, pose for some fun pictures with friends, and sing and dance along with the talented piano players. We will also have many amazing auction items to bid on, including these premier donations: a trip to Aruba, Bruins and Celtics tickets (complete with a luxury box experience), summer vacations in New Hampshire and Vermont, and Beer for a Year provided by Sam Adams. Enjoy passed hors d'oevres and dinner stations with traditional New Orleans cuisine. Our big entertainment of the night will be the dueling pianos provided by Howl at the Moon. Everyone will be singing and dancing all night to the tunes you choose! Location: Franklin Country Club, 672 East Central Street, Franklin MA Time: 6:00PM ~ Midnight Cost: $55 per person, includes food, entertainment & auction Tickets can be purchased online at www.nclgala.com or by mailing a check payable to Norfolk Community League, Attn: Gala 2012, P.O. Box 450, Norfolk, MA 02056. Grab your family and friends and buy your tickets today! - CM 3/15 12:07pm   My daughter is in immediate need of a tutor for college-level Intro to Statistics who is available in the evening. Does anyone know a good stats tutor? - TS 3/12 4:46pm   I saw this article in today's Chronicle [Sun Chron article] and had to wonder why town management is even putting 1 iota of thought into more spending when the town can't fund the obligations it already has. $3,000,000 for a bridge so residents of Franklin can exit a parking lot in a shorter period of time... really?? Congestion in the center could be reduced by a huge amount at the few times each day a train arrives by moving the T station back a few hundred yards so the gates are not down for 5 minutes and backing up traffic to block Main St as well as Rockwood Rd. Cost to the town ZERO dollars. Bring back common sense... where's MON when you need him LOL - RW 3/12 4:43pm   - JO 3/12 4:42pm   Hi, my name is Mark McGuckian, I am a local carpenter who takes a lot of pride in my work. If you're interested in hiring me to help out with your projects you can contact me on 508 440 5119. References upon request. - MM 3/12 4:41pm   AL: I would be happy to tutor your teen. I have an MA in French from UMass Amherst. I am retired from the Boston Public Schools where I taught for 34 yeart s. I continue to take French classes. My fees are reasonable. - AB-G 3/12 4:40pm   Hi Neighbors: Are any people out there experiencing trouble with NECN? We are patrons of Vios, and lately we cannot access NECN. If we do, which is rare, The programs do not come in clear and then become an "off and on" experience. Please let us know if any of you are having this experience. Thank you. - WC 3/12 4:39pm   Hi, I would like to sell my lot of land, 8 Cottage Ave. Make me an offer!! Attention nieghbors, wouldn't you like to add to your property line?? If no-one buys I will donate to town?? Tired of paying taxes. 617-825-3580. Please, only serious people interested call. Thank you. - MS 3/12 3:15pm   To SF: if you are looking for a good interior painter who takes pride in his work call Jack 508-404-8079. Reasonably priced. To RG: Leland siding has been around for many years so I would say they are doing something right. As well as Bob Paquette. Those would be my first to picks. - GLZ 3/12 3:12pm   AL, I am french, move to Norfolk recently and can easily tutor your son. I did it in the past at University level.. if interested drop me a email fabibabb@gmail.com Thanks, - FB 3/9 6:17pm   Does anyone know a local French tutor for a teen? We may not need on a regular basis but if we could try once a week for the next month, that would be great. - AL 3/9 6:16pm   Thank you to the Norfolk voters who came out in support of my candidacy for Republican State Committeewoman during Tuesday's primary election. In case you have not heard, I won the district by 808 votes (roughly 9,100 cast.) I am most humbled by winning my home town with 96% of the vote. Thank you for the great support you showed me on Tuesday. I hope to represent you well within the Mass GOP. Yours, - Patricia Saint Aubin, Candidate-Elect Republican State Committeewoman 3/9 6:15pm   You're invited! Norfolk Cultural Council's Juried Art Show's reception is March 10 at the Norfolk Public Library from 5 to 7 PM. Refreshments, music and some wonderful artwork. - AB-G 3/9 6:14pm   No Foxboro Casino announces Information Open House to be Held March 22nd, 2012 Following the positive response to our previous Information Open House's, members of No Foxboro Casino invite you to join us for another of these informative events. If you are undecided on whether a casino is right for the town of Foxboro and the surrounding communities, we encourage you to visit us at our upcoming event to learn more. Get accurate information and have an opportunity to ask questions, give your opinion and have your voice heard, pick up a lawn sign, learn how you can help as a volunteer, and be part of the petition "Mr. Kraft: Please Do The Right Thing." Complimentary coffee and other refreshments will be served and non-Foxboro residents are welcome. Thursday March 22nd, 2012 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the United Church of South Foxboro, Fellowship Hall, 384 South St, Foxboro, MA (on the corner of South St. and North Grove St.) For information on this and other information open houses and events which are to be planned please contact No Foxboro Casino volunteer coordinator Chris Lowey at chrislowey@verizon.net or call (508)698-3939. No Foxboro Casino ( www.nofoxborocasino.org ) is a grassroots group of residents of Foxboro and surrounding towns who are working together to preserve the character of our small New England town by opposing the development of a casino in our community. - CL, No Foxboro Casino 3/9 6:13pm   Local house cleaning: call Edilaine 774 291 1887. Thanks - EL 3/9 6:11pm   Have any prom dresses hanging around your house that will never be worn again? Consider donating them to Belle of the Ball, an organization to help girls that may not be able to attend their spring proms. Dresses can be dropped off in the basement of St.Jude's by March 23rd. There will be a rack at the bottom of the stairs to hang the dresses on. The dresses will be dropped off at an Anton's cleaners and then distributed to girls who may need them. This event is locally sponsored by the St. Jude's 2012 Confirmation Class. For more information on the organization, you can visit: www.antons.com/belle/ - EL 3/9 6:10pm   Save the date! June may seem like a long way off, but the Norfolk Lions Community Day team is already planning this annual event. This year's event resurrects the original "Old Tyme Day" theme from years past when times were a little slower and more affordable. Community Day 2012 will take place on Saturday, June 9, 2012 from 11:30 until 4:00. Once again the Holmes Family has graciously agreed to host the event at their property at 22 Myrtle Street, Norfolk. This will be the Lions' 20th year bringing a day of family fun and entertainment. The Lions' goal is to provide a country fair type environment including music, dancing, games, petting animals, hayrides, train rides, pie eating contest, foam for kids to play in, food and historical displays. This is an event for the entire Norfolk Community to come out, celebrate and get to know neighbors. The Lions welcome your participation and invite any Norfolk business, organization, neighborhood or group to participate in Community Day. Groups and organizations (including corporations) can take part in a number of ways, whether by setting up a booth or tent, sponsoring an activity or entertainment, or simply by becoming a sponsor. There is no set fee to participate, but we do ask that you provide something in return. For example, if your company wants to have a booth, then you should have something to offer that will add to the fun such as a game or activity, or provide financial support that will be used towards other expenses. You can also sponsor an event or entertainment. We are flexible; just tell us what you have in mind. Help make Norfolk Community Day 2012 one of the best and join the fun. You may contact the Norfolk Lions Club at norfolkcommunityday@gmail.com or call Ed M. @ 508-843-1528 or Patti M. @ 508-520-0540. - PS 3/9 6:09pm   Rocky's is the best. - RC 3/7 1:59pm   SB: Rocky's does excellent work & are very fair. - SC 3/7 1:58pm   Freeman-Kennedy School Buy-A-Brick Program, Sponsored by the Norfolk TPA. The Freeman-Kennedy School is scheduled to open in the Fall of 2012. The new school will have a beautiful courtyard, which will include a commemorative brick paver walkway. Anyone can buy an inscribed brick to commemorate their memories of the Freeman-Centennial School, make a dedication to a loved one or to show your support for the Norfolk Public Schools. The schools will earn money for each brick sold. All funds raised will go directly back to the schools in the form of enrichment programs or materials for the schools. For a listing of TPA programs, please visit the Norfolk Public Schools website. We hope you can support us in this exciting fundraising effort. Don't miss out on this opportunity! 4'' x 8'' personalized bricks $40 4'' x 8'' personalized gift bricks $42 (Gift bricks include a certificate for the recipient) The deadline for submission is Tuesday, April 17th. To access an order form, follow this link: www.norfolk.k12.ma.us/bricks - JAR 3/7 1:57pm   To SB, who is looking for a local auto body shop, look no further than Rocky's Auto Body, on Rt. 115 just north of 1A. Marcia and Rocky are honest and efficient. They have done great work for our family (3 teenage drivers) for more than 10 years, but they've been in business for something like 35 years. Rocky's Auto Body, 79 Pond St. (Rte. 115 nr. 1A), Norfolk // 384-7883 web: rockysautobodynorfolk.com email: rockysautobody@verizon.net - EC 3/7 1:47pm   Easter Bunny Breakfast Date: Saturday March 31, 2012 (9:00am - 10:30 am) Location: St. Jude's Church, Function Room, 86 Main St. Featuring Balloon Twister Vesna Longton. Remember your cameras for pictures with the Easter Bunny! Admission: Adults and children under 1 year old - free . $10 for NCL Members. Click here for tickets via PayPal: bit.ly/NCLMembers_BunnyBreakfast $12 for non-NCL Members Click here for tickets via PayPal. bit.ly/NonMembers_BunnyBreakfast Or mail a check to Norfolk Community League Attn: Easter Bunny Breakfast, PO BOX 450, Norfolk, MA 02056 - CM 3/7 1:46pm   Spring is just around the corner! So, it's time to get your dog some good, warm weather exercise. Leashrly Life can help! We will come to your home and care for your best friend while you are away. We offer a number of affordable services from pet sitting to dog walking, hiking excursions and one-to-one personalized obedience trainings. Experienced, loving care by professionals you can trust. References are available. Fully insured and bonded. All animals are welcomed! Call 781-241-2083, visit www.leashrlylife.com or email info@leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life 3/7 1:45pm   Back by Popular Demand: Norfolk Community League's Free Fitness Friday. Through "Fitness Friday," NCL can provide the community free access to organized fitness and prove that anyone can exercise anywhere. We have designed a warm, nurturing and safe session for individuals at all fitness levels. It will incorporate functional strength, cardio, balancing, and yoga. There are two parts to this hour (conducted by Kym Peterson and Jennifer LaFond, local Norfolk instructors): - Strength & Balance- Work on core and lower body stability, strength and balance. (30 minutes) - Yoga- Stretch the body and soothe the mind. (30 minutes) Event Details: Date: Friday March 30, 2012 (10:00am - 11:00 am) Location: Norfolk Library - Community Room PLEASE BRING A YOGA MAT or TOWEL Water and other refreshments will be provided. Limit: 20 participants. First come, first serve. (This is an open event. Not exclusively for NCL members). Optional: Non-perishable food donation for the Norfolk Food Pantry. Click here to register: norfolkcommunityleague.org/free-fitness.html - CM 3/7 1:44pm   For SF ~ Hands down, one of the best interior painters around is Cathy Butera. She is very talented, clean & efficient, is reasonably priced and just a pleasure to have in your home. Call her ~ you will be very happy you did. 508-265-4856. - MHC 3/5 6:20pm   For anyone looking for horseback riding lessons locally... Liza Carreiro is now teaching at a farm in Walpole (just 3 miles from Norfolk center) with an indoor!! Lots of great lesson horses/ponies. 1/2 hr and hour lessons. Private and groups. Beginner learn to ride thru advanced. 617_512_1380. - LC 3/5 3:13pm   Join us for a scenic tour of central Massachusetts on one of three loop rides winding through quaint New England towns. All rides start and end in Lancaster at the Bolton Fairgrounds. Lite ride (35 miles): Ride by apple orchards, the town commons of Shirley and Harvard, historic Shaker Village homes, and the vista overlook of Bolton Flats Wildlife Area. Matric Century ride (100 km/62 miles): Enjoy the natural wonder of the Wachusett Reservoir, Upton State Forest, and back-country roads of Hopkinton; travel by the picturesque Sudbury River and Nashoba Winery landscape. Century ride (100 miles): The best of both loops with the iconic New England architecture, rural stone fences, and quiet back-country roads. This starts with the 35-mile Lite Ride loop and continues to the Metric Century loop. Please visit our website for more information: Bicyclesbattlingcancer.org - KG 3/5 3:12pm   Looking for any recommendations for local auto body work. Need a very rusty bumper replaced on an otherwise perfectly good working 2002 Toyota 4Runner. - SB 3/5 3:11pm   Hello. We have a very well built, pecan table and 6 chairs, including 2 Captain's chairs, an extension leaf and a roomy pecan 2 section hutch looking for a new home. All are in very good condition and the set has had excellent care. Thus set is in a NON-SMOKING home. The table measures 60" long by 38" wide by 30" high without the leaf. Using the leaf adds 16" to the length of the table. The Hutch bottom section is 51 1/2" wide by 16 1/2" deep by 28" high with 1 shelf and there are 6 doors that open for storage. The top section measures 51 1/4" wide by 13" deep x 48" high and has 3 levels of shelf space and drawers that open for storage and a divided silverware drawer. Two of the 3 glass doors in the top section open. The design of both the table and the China Cabinet is simple and clean. The chairs are upolstered in a durable, beige/white fabric and can easily be recovered. Please note that this is quality furniture and not contemporary pieces made of cheap materials. If interested, please call Alan at 508-528-1976. Asking $325 for the entire set. I have additional photos but I believe the limit is 1 here on Norfolk Net. (I have never done this before). If you would like them e-mailed to you, please send an e-mail address. Thank you. almgl1@verizon.net - AG 3/5 3:08pm   SB, The Town is, or at least was, waiving the fees because it was determined that it is the towns water quality that corroded the pipes and caused them to leak. - DC 3/5 3:04pm   Looking for detail oriented painter for some interior work. Any suggestions? - SF 3/5 3:03pm   I am graduating from high school this spring and am seeking a summer nannying position. I have been babysitting for six years as well as volunteering in the kindergarten classroom at my church. I am the oldest of three in my family and have trasportation. I am available to take your children on outings, to camp or watch them in your house. Please contact me at emmajanelugten@gmail.com. Thank you - EL 3/2 7:14pm   With the recent departure of Gumps, I want to make the locals aware of a wonderful family farm start-up, Elmhurst Farm, which is offering delicious eggs year-round, from free-range chickens, plus other seasonal produce, cut wood, and soon will be selling USDA beef and pork. My family has recently become interested in eating a healthier diet, and have been particularly interested in organics. We've been buying organic eggs and milk from the supermarket, and have enjoyed the improved taste although not exactly loving the premium prices, but we think it is important to support the movement away from factory farms. Some simple on-line research led us to the conclusion that you can't do better than local eggs from a family farm. We are so lucky to have Jane & Pauls Farm, which offers such eggs on a seasonal basis, and now we have another year-round source! The owners are a wonderful couple who are making a go of the family farm model. Ownership of the property on Seekonk Street dates back to the 1700s, and you can read about them on their website: www.elmhurst-farm.com - EC 3/2 7:12pm   All, I just want to say thank you to all of you who responded to my New York Life post from a few weeks ago. I have met with many new Norfolk families and business owners, the reponse has been fantastic. I look forward to working with each of you. If you are interested in learning more about New York Life and how we can help you, your family or your business reach your financial goals please contact me. Consultations are free and the process we go through to understand your needs is very thorough and a rewarding exercise. - GL 3/2 7:09pm   The Norfolk Lions 5th annual Chili Fest is coming up soon! It will be held on Saturday, March 10 at 6:00 PM at St. Jude Church hall, 86 Main Street, Norfolk. This year we have 7 great area restaurants competing for bragging rights to Best Chili of 2012: Eagle Brook Saloon, Horse N' Carriage, Beckett's Pub, Mr. Dooley's Olde Irish Country Pub, Guido's Italian Restaurant, James' Roadside Cafe and Budabings 50s Cafe. You get to sample each chili and then vote for your favorite. The winner will be announced at the end of the event. In addition to the chili, you will also get mac & cheese, cornbread, drinks and dessert. It's a great meal and lots of fun for the whole family! Tickets are $15 for anyone over 10 years old and $5.00 for all others. Seating is limited, so advanced tickets are recommended. Tickets can be purchased by calling 508-520-0079 or emailing cwesalo@comcast.net. So come on out to Chili Fest and feel the heat! All proceeds from this event are donated to the Norfolk Food Pantry. - PS 3/2 7:07pm   The Norfolk Board of Health is sponsoring a spring rabies clinic for dogs and cats of residents of Norfolk and surrounding towns. The clinic will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 9:00 - 11:00 A.M. at the Norfolk DPW Garage-33 Medway Branch Road. The cost is $12.00 per animal and will be given by Dr. Shelley Sandler, D.V.M. Previous rabies certificates must be presented in order to qualify for a three-year vaccination. All dogs must be leashed and cats must be confined to a carrier. The Town Clerk will be present to issue Norfolk Dog licenses. For more information, please contact the Norfolk Board of Health office at 508-528-7747. - Betsy Fijol, Board of Health 3/2 7:06pm   Can anyone recommend someone to disassemble and move a swingset? Thanks. - KE 3/2 7:04pm   Here's a photo of Eric Matez with Jane Goodall in Tanzania. - Wm. 3/2 6:59pm   Has anyone used any of the following contractors? If so would you share your experience with them. Thanks. Leland Siding & Window Inc, Tony Leland, 508-533-8664 dleland290@aol.com Medway, MA Neponset Valley Const/Master, Brian Kearney, 781-762-1102 brian@neponsetvalleyroofing.com Norwood, MA Norfolk Home Improvement, Bob Paquette, 508-533-4814 norfolkhomeimp@aol.com Norfolk, MA Carpenters LLC, Steven Pacheco, 508-802-8193 steve@carpentersllc.com New Bedford, MA Coakley Brothers Home Improvement, Tim Coakley, 508-533-4088 tcoakley@verizon.net Medway, MA Royal Thermal View Inc, John Goncalves, 508-473-3269 royalthermalview@comcast.net Mendon, MA - RG 3/2 6:58pm   Hello SM(2), I would be happy to speak with you about voice lessons for your teenager. I have over 20 years of experience, and hold a masters degree from the New England Conservatory of Music. Please contact me at Musicbymusial@gmail.com I look forward to hearing from you! - CM 3/2 6:57pm   NCL is Now Accepting Disbursement Requests. The Norfolk Community League has opened its Spring 2012 Disbursement process. Applications for monetary assistance are currently being accepted. The community groups, clubs, services, schools and other organizations in the Town of Norfolk are encouraged to apply. Funds will reach awarded organizations in the beginning of May. To download the request form (MS Word) or to complete an online application: visit www.NorfolkCommunityLeague.org. The application deadline is April 1, 2012. About NCL -- The Norfolk Community League is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Norfolk residents and strengthening community spirit by organizing social, family-based, fundraising, and charitable activities. Membership is a key component to making this happen. NCL Members enjoy access to groups and clubs as away to meet people in town and make new friends. Membership dues help us plan events that are fun for members and the community. They are also important for our fundraising efforts that raise money we distribute to organizations like Norfolk Public and King Philip Schools, and the Norfolk Fire Dept. To learn more about NCL or to become a member, go to www.NorfolkCommunityLeague.org - CM, NCL 3/2 6:53pm   Do you know who owns this dog? He wandered in to a local business downtown Norfolk and lay down exhausted. She's an elderly obese mix breed dog. She has been here with us since Monday. No collar or micro chip. We also have a senior Sheltie that is looking for placement. He is 13 years old, neutered, has been vaccinated, and treated for medical issues he had prior. He really is looking for someone who will give him the last year(s) of complete comfort, safety, and companionship. He hasn't had an easy go prior to being surrendered here, and would love to live with a family who is more around than not. He seems to be low maintenance, but really wants to be around people. He gets along with other dogs. He does not have an adoption fee. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control 3/2 6:52pm   If anyone needs snow blower repairs please feel free to give me a call. You can reach me at (508) 400-2836. Thanks, Mike - MV 3/2 6:51pm   For those that have their water main leak / repaired did the town waive the permit fees? My water main is leaking and of course the town claims it the home owner's responsibly to repair the line. Seems odd that the line would rot away so fast as water main from the town's to my home is less than ten years old. I thought I read that the town would waive the permit fees given they have no idea what is causing the deterioration of the pipes. Thanks for any insight - SB 2/29 1:10pm   SM(2): I can recommend a music teacher with 10+ years experience teaching piano and voice. She has a Masters degree is Music Education, and is teaching out of a home environment. Contact amnoonan1@gmaill.com for more details. - JT 2/29 1:09pm   To SB Try Denco floors they are out of Wretham 774-232-0349. Very good and reasonable. - GG 2/29 1:08pm   God bless you Brian. - MN 2/29 1:07pm   Norfolk (February 28, 2012)-- State officials have launched this year's clean energy internship program, and are encouraging students and recent graduates to post resumes and cover letters to: ma.cleanenergyeducation.org In 2011, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Internship Program helped place more than 117 individuals at paid summer internships, with 70 clean energy companies. According to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and the New England Clean Energy Council, 20 students gained full-time and part-time employment as a result of last year's program, and more than 70 students are being considered for future employment. Companies are eligible for two interns and receive stipends of up to $12 per hour, or $4,800 for up to ten weeks for each intern. - DW 2/29 1:06pm   Calling all Bishop Feehan students. I have two books my son used there a 4 to 5 years ago. If anyone is interested in a Basic Geometry math Book McDougal Littell Houghton Mifflin ISBN 0-395-50120-2 and a Prentice Hall Conceptual Physics Book ISBN 0-13-054254-7 they are yours FREE! Not sure if these books are still used, but if they are, they are yours. E-mail me at mcappuccino@verizon.net if interested. - MC 2/29 1:05pm   If anyone is ever looking for a great handyman for those annoying household things that never seem to get fixed, I highly recommend Eric Geiger in Norfolk. We had him over yesterday, he fixed a cabinet that was off track, a door threshold, a door lock that did never lined up properly, a radiator cover that was misbehaving. All in a few hours, done! Such a great service! - AL 2/29 1:01pm   To SB - for hardwood floor finishing (and he does installs too), try Sung Gray (Gray's hardwood floors). 508-612-4513. I believe he is out of the Mendon area. He's terrific. Came to me on referral and I have referred him to other people and they have been very pleased. I had newly painted rooms where he had installed a pre-finished floor and there was not one mark or ding anywhere when he was done. Very neat and reasonably priced which is a plus. He is going to be doing refinishing and new work here. He can do some unique things with hardwood floors (inlays, herringbone, etc) as well. - EF 2/27 7:06pm   Norfolk Gala 2012 ~ A Night in New Orleans (sponsored by the Norfolk Community League) Norfolk's Gala 2012 is fast approaching! Have you bought your tickets yet? Don't miss NCL's biggest event of the year! Come experience a Night in New Orleans! Event highlights include a casino room, Photo Funbox, dueling pianos and over 100 auction items waiting to be bid on. Come and take your chance at the blackjack & poker tables, pose for some fun pictures with friends, and sing and dance along with the talented piano players. We will also have many amazing auction items to bid on, including these premier donations: a trip to Aruba, Bruins and Celtics tickets (complete with a luxury box experience), summer vacations in New Hampshire and Vermont, and Beer for a Year provided by Sam Adams. Enjoy passed hors d'oevres and dinner stations with traditional New Orleans cuisine. Our big entertainment of the night will be the dueling pianos provided by Howl at the Moon. Everyone will be singing and dancing all night to the tunes you choose! Location: Franklin Country Club, 672 East Central Street, Franklin MA. Time: 6:00PM ~ Midnight Cost: $55 per person, includes food, entertainment & auction Tickets can be purchased online at www.nclgala.com or by mailing a check payable to Norfolk Community League, Attn: Gala 2012, P.O. Box 450, Norfolk, MA 02056. Grab your family and friends and buy your tickets today! - CM, NCL 2/27 7:05pm   The Visiting Nurses Association Care Network and Hospice is presenting a free Pre-Diabetes Program and informational session on March 6th at the Norfolk Senior Center from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and on March 13th at 1 p.m. The first session involves a simple finger stick by a registered nurse that will measure glucose levels and related factors while the second session will be a discussion of the five signs that put seniors at risk and will include a variety of preventative measures the senior can implement to further protect oneself. This program is free due to a grant from HESSCO Elder Services (voluntary donations are accepted to help increase services under this program). Participation is restricted to seniors aged 60 or over and an appointment is required. Call the Senior Center at 508-528-4430 to register and if you would like further information regarding this program you can also contact Maureen Sendrowski, RN, MPH of the VNA Care Network at 1-888-663-3688, ext. 5603. - TM, Norfolk Council on Aging 2/27 7:03pm   Is anyone looking for piano? I have a Wurlitzer upright for sale. Email me at rlombardi100@comcast.net for price and pictures. - BL 2/27 7:02pm   We are looking for someone to refinish our hardwood floors. Recommendations? - SB 2/27 7:01pm   No Foxboro Casino announces Information Open House to be Held March 5th, 2012 Following the positive response to our last Information Open House's, members of No Foxboro Casino invite you to join us for another of these informative events. If you are undecided on whether a casino is right for the town of Foxboro and the surrounding communities, we encourage you to visit us at our upcoming event to learn more. Get accurate information and have an opportunity to ask questions, give your opinion and have your voice heard, pick up a lawn sign, learn how you can help as a volunteer, and be part of the petition "Mr. Kraft: Please Do The Right Thing." Complimentary coffee and other refreshments will be served, a play area will be set up for children and non-Foxboro residents are welcome. Monday March 5th, 2012 from 11am - 3pm at the United Church of South Foxboro, Fellowship Hall, 384 South St, Foxboro, MA (on the corner of South St. and North Grove St.) For information on this and other information open houses and events which are to be planned please contact No Foxboro Casino volunteer coordinator Chris Lowey at chrislowey@verizon.net or call (508)698-3939. No Foxboro Casino (www.nofoxborocasino.org) is a grassroots group of residents of Foxboro and surrounding towns who are working together to preserve the character of our small New England town by opposing the development of a casino in our community. - CL, No Foxboro Casino 2/27 6:56pm   Math Tutoring available! Grades K-8. I am a stay-at-home-mom in Norfolk with 10 years classroom teaching experience in the Wellesley Public Schools and a Master's degree in teaching mathematics. I would love to help your child succeed and develop confidence in the area of math. Please call me at 857-231-1827 or email andraj22@yahoo.com - AC 2/27 6:55pm   The Model A Restorer's Club of Massachusetts (MARCOM) is hosting a Winter Flea Market on Sunday, March 4, from 7 until 11 a.m. at Holmes Transportation, 22 Myrtle Street, Norfolk. General admission is $3.00, and there will be a bake table. - CR 2/27 6:54pm   Just in time for St. Patrick's Day, a Celtic Celebration will be held on Friday, March 16th, at Lake Pearl, Luciano's, 299 Creek Street, Wrentham. The evening will include a concert featuring traditional music of Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales, by the Sharon Concert Band. Special guests will be Tenor Robert Caldeira, Accordionist Jack Martin, Dance Prism and Dunleavy Shaffer School of Irish Dance. An optional dinner will be served at 6:45, and the concert begins at 8:00 p.m, with a pub menu available. Please see the Sharonbands.org website for more information, and to purchase tickets. Hope to see you there! - CR 2/27 6:43pm   Norfolk Girls Softball registration is almost closed, one more week to go! We need your help! The public schools no longer allow organizations such as ours to distribute our registration flyers to the student through the school, so PLEASE spread the word to your friend and neighbors about Norfolk Girls Softball registration! All registrations must be completed on line at www.norfolkgirlssoftball.com NGS Spring League Cost Senior League (grades 7-8) $130 Major League (grades 5-6) $130 Minor League (grades 3-4) $100 Instructional League (grades 1-2) $90 Fundamental League (Kindergarten and Pre-K) $60 (Pre-K must be born prior to 12/31/2007) Please visit our website at www.norfolkgirlssoftball.com and look under the tab "2012 Season" for "League Info" for more information on our leagues, or send your information request to register@norfolkgirlssoftball.com. Registration Instructions: * Go to www.norfolkgirlssoftball.com * Click on the big orange Registration button on the top right corner. Once there, find the 2012 Spring Softball registration form and click on the "Begin Registration" button to get started. - KJ, Norfolk Girls Softball 2/27 6:41pm   NORFOLK (February 27, 2012)-- State Representative Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk) has sent a model local bylaw to the Massachusetts Municipal Association that, if adopted by local town meetings or city councils, would allow municipalities to require better maintenance of utility lines by utility companies to reduce the risk of extended power outages from tree damage after storms. "The utilities have spent millions on lobbyists at the State House to block pending legislation which would increase competition or create incentives for better management of our power grid," noted Winslow, "but lobbyists have zero influence at a local Town Meeting or City Council hearing. If we cannot rely on the state legislature to fix the problem of unreliable power, we certainly can rely on the people's legislatures of local Town Meetings." Under Winslow's model bylaw, utilities with poles and lines that are located on public property such as the rights of way along streets would be required to clear tree branches and brush from utility lines or face daily fines. The model bylaw provides that tree branches must be trimmed to keep them from growing into or next to power lines. The model bylaw also incorporates a new state law that allows cities and towns to develop tree maintenance plans in cooperation with utilities to prevent indiscriminate destruction of shade trees and streetscapes. "Local communities can require maintenance of trees and brush as a condition for utilities' use of public land," said Winslow. "If adopted by local Town Meetings or City Councils, this model bylaw would empower our communities to fine utilities $100 per day per tree for failure to maintain utility lines. Towns and cities could use that revenue to maintain their rights of way or to offset their municipal electric bills." Winslow sent the model tree maintenance bylaw earlier this month to each of the towns he represents: Plainville, Wrentham, Millis, Walpole, Medfield and Norfolk. He sent the model bylaw today to the Massachusetts Municipal Association, which consists of the leadership of most communities in Massachusetts, for Selectmen to include in the upcoming Spring Town Meeting warrants. The proposal requires the approval of local voters at Town Meetings or in City Councils. - DW 2/27 6:40pm   Saw a spate of real estate tax notices (36 of them) affecting Norfolk dwellings, and wonder if this is unusual? What is the total $ involved? Is this an unusual blip? - JO (3151) 2/27 6:39pm   To BB--For exterior painting, give Liam Houlihan a call. 508-934-9103. If there is a wait, wait for him--you will be glad you did. He is excellent and will sand your house for good adhesion of the new paint and will brush, NOT spray! He sanded the trim on our house down to the bare wood, primed and painted. I have seen many a paint job where the painter scrapes and stops when he hits a firm spot. If you look closely at wood that had been painted like this you can see differences in the thickness of paint and it does not look too good. With regards to tiling, try John Willette. He did out main bath (around the tub, the floor and the ceiling in the tub. That job was done with him hired by our general contractor. We hired him back to redo a 1/2 bath floor. When we re-tile our foyer that got damaged last winter, we will be hiring him back a third time. His number is 508-353-3400. He's neat and thorough and has a good eye for detail. He recommended a specific sized tile for the area around our tub which differed from the floor tile and we are so glad he did or we would have had very small strips of tile in the tub corners. We had someone else do a bath several years back and there is a big difference in workmanship (enough to make us want to re-do a few things in the other bath). - EF 2/27 6:37pm   PFD: Most recycling programs do not accept Styrofoam (polystyrene). We do not accept it in our single stream recycling program. Conigliaro Industries in Framingham accepts it for recycling. You should probably call ahead and ask for details on how it should be packaged. I have not been there for some time and am not sure how up to date their website is. We are always looking for more customers for our single stream recycling and weekly waste service, check out our website for more information, www.junkpickup.com [page]. Conigliaro Industries website: conigliaro.com - Liam Coen, LPC Removal Service 2/27 6:17pm   I am hosting a Breast Cancer Fundraising Event with performances by Magician Tommy James (TommyJamesMagic.com) and Mike Murray... aka the Deaf Comic (TheDeafComic.com) on Saturday April 21st from 8:00-Midnight. Location - Newell-Blais VFW Post #443, 50 Jefferson St, North Attleboro. Join us for a fun filled night, including cash bar and raffles. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased by emailing Michelle at Daszsports1@verizon.net We are looking for raffle items. If you have any item/s that you could donate it would be kindly appreciated. Thank you, - MD 2/26 3:29pm   Join Norfolk-area band Garden Party on St. Patrick's Day at Mr. Dooley's Irish Pub, 303 Shears Street in Wrentham! Enjoy a mix of Irish music along with Garden Party's catchy originals and covers. Show starts at 7:00 pm! For more info, please visit www.gpartyband.com, and like us on Facebook at "Garden Party Band - MA" - SM 2/26 3:28pm   Does anyone have a recommendation for a reasonably priced window washer? - TO 2/26 3:27pm   Thank you JW and EW for your time and effort and not giving up to save the goose. You are my heroes. - FB 2/26 3:26pm   I am a 17 year old girl in Norfolk who is looking for babysitting jobs in town. I have my license and I have been babysitting for four years in and around Norfolk. I've babysat children anywhere from a few months old upto 12. I am available fairly often and am good with kids. If anyone is interested you can contact me at Martyblue1994@aol.com. I also work with horses and other animals a lot so if anyone needs someone that can take care of animals for any reason I am willing to do that. I have had 2 dogs of my own and have ridden horses for almost 13 years! - KM 2/26 3:25pm   I am a junior at King Philip and just wondering if anyone may be selling a car for 5000 or less. If anyone knows where i can get a car for this price or has one that they are selling please email me at Martyblue1994@aol.com. Thanks! - KM 2/26 3:23pm   Can anyone tell me if the transfer station does styrofoam recyclying? If not, does anyone know of a place that is close? Thanks. - PFD [Update: I found that they do not recycle. Regular trash it it. - PFD] 2/26 3:22pm   JW & EW : Good job to you both. I am so impressed with your care and concern regarding the injured goose. Thank you... - SD 2/24 1:21pm   That's what I call fast. I call the Rescue League less that 2 hrs. ago and they have arrived and captured the goose. My thanks go out to them. - JW 2/24 1:19pm   I finally got in touch with someone to help with the goose, I called the Animal Rescue League in Boston. They will send 2 people in the next day or so to catch it. Said they take this as a serious problem and do what they can. They will see if it can be saved and if not, they will humanly euthanize it. HC should be back Sun. and I left her a message too. I was surprised how few animal agency's had no help to give. - JW 2/24 1:18pm   Here is the answer to the injured goose. There is no one available to help it. I have called 4 different numbers at Mass Wild Life and each person gives me another number to call. Medway animal control is covering for Hilary, but it is not an emergency and they do not have the equipment, like a boat, that might be needed to capture this bird. I know its just one goose but it's just supposed to live with his wing dragging on the ground? The only option would be for someone to catch it and bring it to Tufts animal rehab in North Grafton. Their suggestion was to have one person feed it while the other throws a blanket over it. However since it has access to water they felt this might be extremely difficult. I guess its on its own. - EW 2/24 1:15pm   Thanks you Rob for the info on the solar array. I have no idea if nearly 2 million kilowatts is a big number or not. Very new to this kind of knowledge. When you said that this will be purchased by the town of Norfolk, how does that work? Is it for the municipal buildings only? Is it enough that the town residents are able to purchase it? Will it be at a lower rate than by purchasing electricity from NSTAR or someone else? I realize that were probably several meeting and public forums on this and I apologize if answers are getting repeated. Have a great weekend everybody!! - BP 2/24 1:14pm   My daughter and I have called several towns for assistance with the goose. One told my my daughter to get a blanket and try to catch it. Others said they'd call back. I called the 5283232 number that Hilary left and it was her voicemail. Shell be back the 26th. Not much help. - JW 2/24 1:13pm   I am trying to get some help for the Canadian goose at City Mills. I contacted the Franklin animal control and they are not covering for Hilary. I was told they believe either Medway or Foxboro might be covering for her. I have left messages at both locations. I also contacted Tufts animal rehab in North Grafton. They stated they will take the animal if someone can get it to them. Hopefully I get a response from one of the animal control officers and they can get this poor animal some help. - EW 2/24 1:10pm   Hello! My name is Laurie Hayes and I just wanted to let everyone know that My Little Preschool still has a couple openings for the upcoming fall school year. My Little Preschool is a home preschool classroom in Norfolk. The hours are from 9:00-1:00, Tuesday through Friday. Children from age 2.6 to 4 years old are welcome! A preschool curriculum is followed in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Snacks and lunch are provided for the children. Parents are welcome to choose a schedule that works best for them for any number of days per week, even if they only want one day. I'd love to talk to anyone interested in having more information or wanting to schedule a visit! You can contact me via email, emailforlaurie@aol.com , or phone (508) 528-7373. I look forward to hearing from you! - LSH, My Little Preschool 2/24 1:09pm   RC: Don't worry about the cost to clean up the mess, our town leaders will just raise our property taxes to fund the clean-up. Mr. Garrity, based on the track record of solar power I would not be so quick to pat yourselves on the back over this contract! This (project) will probably become another monkey on the tax payers back. - MG 2/24 1:08pm   Rob Garrity - Regarding the solar array, what % of the towns usage will this support? I am also curious about the "significant savings". Can you share some details? - DT 2/24 1:06pm   RC - The airport solar project is a private project being proposed by a developer. The land isn't zoned for solar so it would take a town meeting vote to make that happen. That proposal's a ways off, if at all. As to the issue of solar policy, Germany's feed-in tariff is a different mechanism from the Massachusetts Solar Renewable Energy Credit system, although the end results - an artificial benefit to induce research and development of renewable power - are the same. Proponents of these types of programs argue that these subsidies are necessary to engineer a "soft landing" in energy generation, helping to bolster renewables as we transition from dirtier (and less abundant) forms of conventional power. It's easier to make the switch to new fuels gradually and these kinds of subsidies help that happen. Be that as it may, the deal Norfolk has with Constellation will produce a good amount of savings for us, while utilizing a town asset that did not have many conflicting uses (excepting the recreation potential some were considering), without an upfront cost to build our own system. (While it would have been much more economically beneficial to build our own facility, it would have required large amounts of cash upfront, which we don't have, and expertise that we would have had to pay for.) - RG 2/24 1:05pm   Unfortunately, the law of the survival will probably result in the demise of the goose. Sometimes it is difficult, but there are other animals, coyotes, or whatever, that need to survive and will choose the weakest or easiest to catch. This goes on every day all around us with hawks, owls and other wild life. - RD 2/23 12:43pm   Have any prom dresses hanging around your house that will never be worn again? Consider donating them to Belle of the Ball, an organization to help girls that may not be able to attend their spring proms. Dresses can be dropped off in the basement of St. Jude's by March 23rd. There will be a rack at the bottom of the stairs to hang the dresses on. The dresses will be dropped off at an Anton's cleaners and then distributed to girls who may need them. This event is locally sponsored by the St. Jude's 2012 Confirmation Class. For more information on the organization, you can visit: www.antons.com/belle - AL 2/23 12:40pm   BP - It is a solar array being built at the landfill/transfer station. Norfolk signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Constellation allowing them to build and operate the site (Norfolk was only responsible for clearing the trees behind the transfer station) and which will produce significant savings for the town. The portion on the capped landfill is phase I and phase II will be behind the row of trees immediately to the north-east of the transfer station area. When it's completed it will be a 1.6mw facility producing nearly 2 million kilowatt hours of electricity a year, which will be purchased by the town of Norfolk. The installation should be finished late spring. - Rob Garrity, Selectman 2/23 12:38pm   Re Solar: The array at the NHD is just the beginning. There's more to come at the old airport. It's just like... How do you sell and electric car ? Subsidize 1/2 of the initial cost with Government Motors by using our tax dollars. Close our coast lines to offshore drilling. Block the Keystone pipeline. Give an additional 10K tax credit to buy one and let the gas prices get to $4.00 a gallon. ( PS... They still aren't selling ) Below is how the Germans are making out going green. Germany invested gargantuan amounts of money in green energy, doling out more than 130 billion in subsidies to install solar systems and spends an additional 10 billion per year subsidizing existing solar installations. Yet after all of this capital expenditure, Germany has little to show in terms of reducing green house gasses and helping the country's power needs. Despite massive investment, solar power accounts for approximately three percent of Germany's total energy...When the sun shines! To add insult to injury, Germans also pay the second highest price for electricity in the developed world, due mainly to the fact that they are heavily subsidizing green energy by adding the cost to everyone's utility bills. Read more: [irishcentral.com story] How does this affect Norfolk ? I hope whoever in Town that is negotiating with the installers, has money set aside in the Town coffers to clean up the mess left behind when things don't work out as planned and the builders move on. - RC 2/23 12:37pm   TM: Newton Wellesley OB-GYN is a nice practice in Walpole on 1A. They deliver at Newton Wellesley. Dr. Konig is popular but all of the doctors are great. Dr. Metcalf is another I would recommend. They have a couple of male doctors as well. I have never felt rushed or anonymous with them at all. There is one nurse who can come off as gruff at first, but she is actually really nice and knows her stuff. - JP 2/23 12:36pm   The goose is still at City Mills Pond at 4:30 today. His wing is hanging almost to the ground. - BH 2/22 1:59pm   Ladies of the Norfolk area, I have a question for you: I am looking for an OB in the area, preferably between our town and Woonsocket RI. Personal preferences: they make you feel like a person, not a patient, you don't think their suggestions are driven by their wallet, but rather what is right for you, and they deliver, or are willing to deliver, outside of a religiously affiliated hospital. Any suggestions? - TM 2/22 1:58pm   Please join Community Voices, a victim advocacy group, on Sunday, March 11, 2012, between 1:00-4:00 P.M., at the Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel & Spa, 28 Patriot Place, Foxboro, Massachusetts, for afree, child safety event where we will introduce Wena, a fully trained facility service dog who will be working with crime victims by offering them comfort throughout the court process and within the community. Wena was chosen for Community Voices' specific needs by Canine Companions for Independence, Medford, New York. Laurie Myers, Executive Director of Community Voices, is Wena's handler. In order for Laurie to become Wena's handler, she had to go through extensive two-week training at the Canine Companions facility. Other highlights of the event include: Local Police Departments with Child Identification Kits Children will be able to draw posters for the nationwide poster contest: ``WHAT DOES SAFE LOOK LIKE'' The winner will be chosen on April 8, 2012, in Washington, D.C. for NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH Refreshments will be served For additional information, please contact Sandy DiBacco at sdibacco@communityvoices.net or visit our website at www.communityvoices.net - SD 2/22 1:57pm   Looking for someone who has a baby changing table they are no longer needing... Thanks. Get my info from Wm., please. [You can use box365@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - JHR 2/22 1:56pm   In the 2011 NFL season, we saw the rise of the Denver Broncos, spearheaded by the efforts of their quarterback, Tim Tebow. But what seemed to draw all the attention from the team's gridiron prowess was people's reaction to Tebow's public expression of his Christian faith. For a biblical look at this phenomenon, watch the local cable show called Resting In Grace, Episode 23 - "The Tebow Effect: When Christianity and Celebrity Collide". The show airs on NCTV every Tuesday and Thursday night at 6:00PM on Verizon CH-41 and Comcast CH-8. The show is hosted by Norfolk resident Tom Ryan and features Pastor Mark Lukens, also a Norfolk resident and pastor of the Providence Baptist Church of Norfolk. You can also view this show online at providencebaptistchurchma.org/video/video_resources.htm If you would like to watch any of their past episodes, just click on the "Resting In Grace Archives" hyperlink on the aforementioned web page. Enjoy. - JLR 2/22 1:54pm   Can anyone shed some light on the work at the transfer station. I believe I read it's a solar array, but who is it for if it is an array? - BP 2/22 1:53pm   I'm looking for some recommendations for house painting. I specifically would like someone who paints with brushes and not spraying. I'm still scraping spray off windows from the last time. I would also like to get a couple of quotes regarding the installation of a backsplash in my kitchen and for taking out a fiberglass bath tub and surround and installing a tiled walk in shower. Any help anyone can give me would be most appreciated. - BB 2/22 1:52pm   Hi EJM - Although all British Leyland vehicles have their quirks, you have to admit they are fun to drive. The real trick on the TR-6 is synchronizing the dual carbs, that is an art. Enjoy and we shall see you around town. - CF 2/22 1:51pm   JW - Norfolk PD should have made the call to the covering animal control officer for you. - HMK 2/22 1:50pm   DP - Several years ago I used Classic Furniture on Hayward Street in Franklin to refinish a dining room table that had belong to my grandparents. They did a beautiful job and as I recall it was reasonably priced. - JA 2/22 1:49pm   To DP, "Looking for someone who does furniture refinishing in the Norfolk area that is reasonably priced and does a nice job. We have a few pieces we would like to have refinished." Try North East Oak in Walpole. They are at 2000 Main St. Behind Aamco Transmission. Ask for Stan or Mike. - PT 2/22 1:48pm   Most definitely, JW, since that is what she told us. Very disappointing. Did you ever reach MA Wildlife? Too bad you didn't think to tell whoever answered the phone what to do. It's too much to expect, when all you can think of is getting help for the creature. - AB-G 2/22 1:41pm   Any recommendations for an in-house small moving job? Moving a sleeper sofa from 1st floor into basement... - JH 2/22 1:40pm   UG, for a video transfer/conversion service you can check with Norfolk Community Television at 158 Main Street, 508-520-2780 and NCTV@NorfolkCable.com. In honor of Norfolk's 142nd anniversary of being incorporated, NCTV is showing a 5 part series of narrated Norfolk History films and our 125th Anniversary observance. Please check www.NorfolkCable.com for the full television playback schedule. Our programs can also be viewed over the Internet at NCTVonDemand.PEGCentral.com - Donna Jones, NCTV Program Coordinator 2/22 1:36pm   To DP: An established and professional refinishing service can be found in nearby Franklin. They are Classic Furniture at 90 Hayward Street (508-528-6747). Website: classic-furniture.com, They have done work for us in the past and we were very satisfied. Whether they are reasonably priced is another question, but my guess is that unless you find a trusted hobbyist or novice, high prices are a given no matter who you choose for this type of work. It may be worth your while to check out woodworking schools to see if they are looking for projects to train their students. There's two I know of: (1) North Bennet Street School in the North End (617-227-0155), and (2) The Furniture Institute in Beverly (978-922-0615). Good luck. - TEM 2/20 11:19am   I know HC is gone for a while so when I saw a goose at City Mills Pond with a badly broken wing, I called the police station. All he said was, "Call Ma. Wildlife." I was in my car with a cell phone, I tried to look that number up but was unsuccessful. Norfok P D should have given me the number of the covering Animal Control Officer, right? - JW 2/20 11:18am   Need help with your pets? Let Leashrly Life help! We will come to your home and care for your beloved friend. We offer a number of affordable services from pet sitting to dog walking, hiking excursions and one-to-one personalized obedience trainings. Experienced, loving care by professionals you can trust. References are available. Fully insured and bonded. All animals are welcomed! Call 781-241-2083, visit or email info@leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life 2/20 11:17am   Looking for someone who does furniture refinishing in the Norfolk area that is reasonably priced and does a nice job. We have a few pieces we would like to have refinished. Thanks, - DP 2/20 11:16am   To MJG; You are correct; you have my apology. The note should have referenced CS. Not sure I was calling anyone out, however. Just providing advice. - RM 2/20 11:15am   HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NORFOLK! Thursday, February 23rd marks the 142nd anniversary of the incorporation of the Town of Norfolk. - BB 2/20 11:14am   Does anyone have any suggestions for a piano/voice teacher in the area for a teenager? Thanks, - SM (2) 2/20 11:13am   Looking for a place close by hopefully that transfers your VHS video over to DVD . A video transfer/conversion service place. Any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks. - UG 2/20 11:12am   Hello CF - Thank you for your recommendation for Robert Issa for work on my Triumph. I spoke with him, and he said he only worked on one - I am guessing yours - but is very willing to look at it. I am making arrangements to get it to him now. Thanks so much for your response - I really appreciate it. These cars are so old and quirky- they were quirky even in their day. I don't know how many thermostats I went through... of course, I did drive a bit faster way back then... I hated to just take it somewhere and hope for the best. Hoping Robert can work his charm on mine, too, and keep it going. Hope to see you around town! Thank you Norfolknet for this connection! - EJM 2/17 2:53pm   Animal Control will be closed during mid winter vacation 2/18 - 2/26. If you have a true animal emergency please contact the police department(508) 528 3232 and they will page a mutual aid officer covering for Norfolk. Found today- Parakeet. Please call MH at (508) 541 7495. Yesterday evening a senior male Sheltie was picked up at Stony Brook. He was in need of veterinary care and is now on the mend. If you own, or know who owns please contact the Norfolk Police Department at 508 528 3232 to speak with the on duty mutual aid animal control officer. Sincerely, - Hilary Cohen, Norfolk Animal Control 2/17 2:52pm   SM posted the KPMA Winter Preview show but did not mention that it is on Saturday 2/18. - DJ 2/17 2:51pm   For friends of Eric Matez - Eric is reachable by Facebook and is in Dar-es Salaam, Tarzania - teaching. Location is on the Indian Ocean side of Africa. Dar-es -Salaam is Arabic for Haven of Peace. But is has hardly been that for the past few years. Anyhow, Eric is no doubt there to help the education process and to help in the area. Regards to you from - JO (3151) 2/17 2:50pm   RM: Why was that message directed at me? I posted nothing about MON. Before you call someone out and give them advise you might want to double check to make sure you have the right person. - MJG 2/17 2:34pm   The Norfolk Cultural Council is hosting an Open Juried Art Competition at the Norfolk Public Library Community Room from March 3rd to March 31st and is open to the public. Numerous artists have been selected from the surrounding area and will be exhibiting their artwork during this month long event. Awards will be presented for the top ten pieces of art at a reception held Saturday, March 10th from 5-7 PM in the Community Room of the library. The reception is open to the public and will feature music from the Shane Wood Jazz Trio. - RT 2/17 2:33pm   On Wednesday, March 14, 2012, 7PM at the Norfolk Public Library, Community Room, the Garden Club of Norfolk presents Henry Callan, antique appraiser and lecturer. Henry will present a program with slides on =93Gardens Around the World=94. Starting at the gardens of Williamsburg, the international tour will take us to the English gardens at Hampton Court, to those of the Palace of Versailles in France and to the Courts of the Alhambra of Spain. Then on to South Africa, to the Taj Mahal in India, to the Botanical Gardens of old Ceylon, the summer gardens of Anna and the King of Siam and finally to Japan to compare the dry landscape gardens of Buddhism to the lush moss gardens of Kyoto. The public is invited; a suggested donation of $5.00 to help defray costs and supplement the programs offered by the garden club would be appreciated. - RT 2/17 2:32pm   To Eric Matez: Great to hear from you, and to learn a bit about your new adventures. Thanks for writing. All the best from the Boulays. Oh, and thanks to the Wm for posting Eric's note. - SB and HRB 2/15 3:04pm   Hello, As you are aware, the proposed casino by Steve Wynn in Foxborough has generated considerable opposition in Foxborough and its surroundingcommunities, including the Town of Norfolk. Attached, please find a letter from the Norfolk Planning Board sent to both the Foxborough Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board on February 8, 2012. In this letter the five members of the Norfolk Planning Board unanimously express their support of the Foxborough Board of Selectmen's vote against the proposed casino that informed the Kraft Group, Steve Wynn,Governor Patrick and the Gaming Commissioner that the Town of Foxborough is notinterested in hosting a casino and does not want to negotiate to become a host community. The Norfolk Planning Board expresses concern about the negative consequences that the resort casino will bring to our community. Referring to the proposed casino location in Foxborough - and its proximity to residential areas in the towns of Norfolk and Walpole - Norfolk Planning Board Chairman, Jeff Palumbo, stated that "a border between towns may show up very well on a map, but it provides no protection to the families living on the other side. The impact of a development of this scale will have a significant adverse impact on several hundred residents, so we look to Mr. Kraft to do the right thing - the only thing, and abandon this proposal." At the request of the Norfolk Planning Board, we respectfully ask that you please share the attached letter with your readers in your next publication. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please don't hesitate to call with any additional questions. - Betsy Fijol Norfolk BOH/Planning Admin. Asst., 508-528-7747 2/15 3:03pm   Norfolk house cleaning, 774 291 1887. edilaine_lopes@hotmail.com, thanks. - EL 2/15 3:02pm   If you have a family member, from Norfolk, serving in Afghanistan our GS troop would like to send them cookies. Please contact me diana_tohe@comcast.net with the APO address and contact information and we will do our best to send them a special treat. - DL 2/15 3:01pm   To MJG - I ditto your sentiments. Look at Franklin and its 6 (I think it is 6) elementary schools (all are K-5), 2 middle schools (might be 3) and high school with one superintendent and asst. supt. I believe the elementary schools have a principal and a head teacher (not an asst. principal). We have 2 elementary schools which probably should have been 1. What a shame to have to have 2 administrative staffs because we did not combine the schools. It'd be interesting to see how superintendent salaries compare between the two districts when comparing our 2 schools with Franklin's 9+ schools. Class sizes in Franklin at the elementary level seem to be in the 23/24 student range and have been for several years, I believe. - EF 2/15 3:00pm   SALE this Saturday & Sunday, February 18th & 19th at TK Pet Supply, conveniently located at 158 Main Street in Norfolk center! Customers that bring their pet - of any variety - into the store, will receive 10% off anything for that pet! Bring a friend & their pet, receive 10% off your ENTIRE purchase! www.facebook.com/tkpetsupply - Keith Shelansky, Owner, TK Pet Supply 2/15 2:59pm   Hello, HC. I only have one reference I can offer and that was the former treasurer of Norfolk who is long gone. I can certainly give you character refewrences. I started out teaching middle school in Boston, and went onto high school. Other than teaching AP language to a small group, I essentially kept teaching Spanish 1, except for the 13 years I taught at Boston Latin. I have an MA from Middlebury in Spanish, I continue to take course at a nearby college and I retired about 6 years ago from the City of Boston. My rates are very reasonable. Andreas can send you my email. [Use box363@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - AB-G 2/15 2:58pm   For MJG and a few others: I would expect that MON should be afforded the ability to respond to any new negative comments by individuals posting on Norfolknet. If unpleasant comments cease, giving him access to post would be unnecessary. Since he was Norfolknet's ultimate online provocateur, I'm not sure he wants it to cease. I'd recommend silence on your part, rather than webmaster censorship of his retorts. - RM 2/15 2:57pm   Reminder: Wednesday (February 15th) is the last day to register to vote if you want to vote in the primary on March 6th. I will be available at the Town Hall until 8 pm on Wednesday for anyone who needs to register. If you have any questions please call our office at 508 528 1400. Thank you, - Shawn Dooley, Norfolk Town Clerk 2/15 2:56pm   Eric Matez, now in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Africa where I am teaching second grade at Dar es Salaam International Academy. Responding to Dan Corwin about the Hobbit, etc... LOL... We only watched "Gamera" once... It was simply a long movie, so I showed parts of it for around a week... well, maybe we watched it twice... if we did it was only for the great cinematic value... ;) To Katherine Murray: So did learning supercalifragilisticexpialidocious truly help you learn that you could spell anything? - EM 2/15 2:55pm   I tutor locally and have a client who is looking for someone who can tutor their son for the Reading and Writing parts of the SAT. I cant do it at this time but I know I have seen posts of people who do. They are looking for someone with experience. Get in touch and I will connect you with the family. [Use box362@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - LA 2/15 2:46pm   The King Philip Music Program and King Philip Music Association will be presenting their winter 2012 programs during the Winter Preview Show. The KP Winter Guard will present their show "Nights in White Satin" and the KP Indoor Percussion will present their show "The Code". The event will take place at KP High School at 6pm. - SM, KPMA [Update 2/17 2:52pm: SM posted the KPMA Winter Preview show but did not mention that it is on Saturday 2/18. - DJ] 2/13 10:39am   So the new Superintendent of our elementary school is getting a $40,000 pay increase? Can someone explain to me 1. Why we have a superintendent for our elementary school? 2. Why we are giving them a $40,000 pay raise? So the breakdown is we have an elementary school with two Principals, two Vice-Principals, plus one Superintendent. In my opinion this seems like a lot of administration for an elementary school. I would be interested to get School Committee members thoughts on this? Isn't $40,000 about what we pay a teacher? I assume we are not laying any teachers off right? I mean we wouldn't give a $40,000 raise to a superintendent if we are laying off teachers, right? - MJG 2/13 10:38am   The MOMS Club of Norfolk, Plainville and Wrentham will host its monthly social on Friday, February 17th at 9:30 am, at Mass Premier Courts, 97 Green Street (RT 106) in Foxboro. This month we will be joined by representatives from New York Life, who will be creating complimentary ID kits (fingerprints, CD, etc.) for children. This is a very kid-friendly meeting followed by open play time at Mass Premier! Current members and mothers who might be interested in joining the MOMS Club are welcome. Our MOMS Club is a chapter of an international group for mothers who stay home with their children, including those who have home-based businesses or who work part-time. For more information, visit www.npwmoms.org or email npwmoms@gmail.com. - JT 2/13 10:37am   From the top of NorfolkNet - "We welcome posts and messages from town residents". If MON has left town, why are we still subjected to his insults? He left, so unless he moves back, I was hoping that the MON era was behind us. Are other past residents afforded the right to belittle our town after they have moved away too? Just curious. - CS [Good question, CS! I've limited participation to locals, but have always included locals who've moved among the "locals." We've had lovely posts in the past from former residents, such as the post of 9/11/2004 9:39pm - Wm.] 2/13 10:36am   Free Moving Boxes! We have about 10 moving boxes in various sizes, all in very good shape. They are yours for the taking. Please email ian.proffer@gmail.com if you would like to pick them up from our Medway Street location. - IGP 2/13 10:35am   Looking for a new hairdresser? Alicja's Hair Studio in Foxboro is a great new salon. Wonderful, calming atmosphere. I have been a client of Alicja's for almost 10 years (she was at Magic Shears in Wrentham before opening her own salon). Her salon is family friendly and weddings/special occassion appointments are welcome. Call 508/208-4228. - MS 2/13 10:32am   Farewell MON, you will be missed by the silent majority that reads these posts, then shakes their head in disbelief, that there are so many [dimwits] in this town. You were the Andrew Breitbart of Norfolk. You brought some light to the way that town politics is done around here. I know you pissed people off, I thank you, and made a few very nervous, and they probably should have been. I was glad to meet you at the first NTA meeting in the Norfolk library on that snowy night. You made me aware of town hall politics, as I am from the city in didn't experience politics up that close. Now I pay attention to what goes on, I just wish that I had more time to try and correct it. Someone had to be the town crier and you were ours. I thank you for the good times at the wood shop and those guys will miss you as well. I thank you for making me think out of the box and confirming my own logic on many occasion. As I do not care to read this blog all that often anymore because it usually makes my eye bleed, today I enjoyed reading your last pearls of wisdom today. It made me feel happy that someone escaped this corrupt state and moved to a place where common sense exists. I may soon doing the same thing if it continues. Texas here I come. May the trail always rise to meet you. Go with God my friend. See you soon. - PT 2/13 10:30am   Hello - Although we have been closed for the slow winter weeks after the holidays, we will be OPEN for Valentine's Day! (We've adopted a holiday schedule similar to what that plant business at the crossroads of Rt. 1 and Rt 152 in Plainville uses.) Family Gardens Florist at 82 North St. Rt. 115, will be open on Monday and Tuesday. 2/13 and 2/14. We'll have grab-and-go mixed bouquets and colorful roses at reasonable prices that won't break your budget! Cash or check only - in order for us to pass the savings on to you! Happy Valentine's Day but, be sure to be good to your 'Valentine' all year round :-) - Rachel Bremilst, Family Gardens Florist 2/13 10:29am   For DWL: Thanks for responding so quickly. I will check them out. I had just heard from someone the other night who discouraged removal or, especially, covering over with a new unit. - AB-G 2/13 10:28am   Thank you Robin from Robin Florist right here in Norfolk. Father daughter dance tonight, and forgot to order a corsage. Robin put together the sweetest bouquet. Perfect! - MCH 2/10 4:15pm   The Massachusetts Democratic Caucus is Sat., Feb. 11th at 12pm. If you are interested in running for Chairperson, etc., or would like to be a delegate to the State Convention this important election year, you must come to tomorrow's Caucus to be eligible and to be elected. Be prepared to tell folks about yourself and what you would like to see happen with the Norfolk Democratic Town Comm. The Caucus is being held at the Norfolk Public Library in the Meeting Room. You must be a registered Democrat, and have proper ID. The doors are closed at 12:30 pm so please get there and register prior to 12:15 pm. - PR 2/10 4:12pm   Now that the smoke has settled (literally), I just want to thank everyone who has been so wonderful through my family's trying week so far. First and foremost to the Norfolk Fire and Police Departments for coming to our aid when our house caught fire early Friday morning. Everyone was amazing and because of their skill and training, my property can be rebuilt. Even at 3:30 in the morning they responded so quickly to our call. It was such a blur to me the whole situation going from being asleep one minute to realizing my house was on fire. I am very lucky and grateful for the services of our fire department. Chief Bushnell was instrumental in helping us get a crew in here immediately to board up and create a usable living space. The electrical inspector and building department were great coming out in the early hours too to make sure we could safely be here while things were going on. Neighbors and friends who have called offering to help and make sure our family and horses were ok. Our family is doing ok. All of the animals are doing well now, the horses are just finishing up treatment for colic induced by stress. You probably read it in the paper but this fire was close to being something tragic. Everyone should have a plan for emergencies. Talk it over, go through it. Make sure your kids know what to do and when to do it. Have a plan to evacuate with your pets if you can do so safely. Discuss how to get out safely and what are the priorities for your family to doing so. The offers of help that have been extended re affirms why Norfolk is such a great town. From a friend who brought me a parka (I put a plea on Facebook for one since all our clothes were damaged), a face at the kitchen door with a bottle of wine, or to just stop by with a cup of tea. The countless emails of outreach have been wonderful as well. I can't say thank you enough. - HC 2/10 4:11pm   Norfolk Democratic Town Committee is hosting a Caucus on Saturday February 11,2012 from 12:30 to 2 at the Town Library Community Room, 139 Main Street, to elect delegates to the Democratic State Convention on June 2, 2012. - JG 2/10 4:09pm   KP Parents' Network Announces Raffle Winner The King Philip Parents' Network recently raffled off a Sports Illustrated cover photo of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. The autographed photo, generously donated by the New England Patriots, was won by the Midura family of Norfolk. The raffle raised over $1000, and all proceeds will go to the All Night Party, an annual King Philip tradition which keeps KP seniors safe on the night of graduation. On the photo: Left to right: All Night Party Co-Chair Eileen Stetter, Jenna Midura, Michael Midura, and All Night Party Co-Chair Maxine Raia. - GA 2/10 4:06pm   MON: "HRB - Don't pray me, it won't do any good. Say some prayers for yourself as you float through your existence not knowing anything. But clearly you are in the wack category and I hope someday you climb out of your self-absorbtion and open your eyes to your environment." Wow, MON. Clearly getting away from it all has not done much for you, Sir Crotchety! I suggest you saddle up, and go for a long, long, long gallop. - DL 2/10 4:05pm   LB: a similar thing happened at our house with trees in our front yard. I had no idea why on earth they were trimming them so I asked and they said its because plow trucks can get caught - on high limbs of a tree?? Seemed bizarre since we live at the end of two cul de sacs where no one ever comes unless they have a reason. Aren't there higher priority brush areas to worry about? They didn't damage the trees but I found the whole thing random and bizarre. Sorry to hear your trees were ruined. - JP 2/9 5:46pm   Can anyone recommend a good Spanish tutor for an 8th grader at KP Middle School? Thanks! - HC 2/9 5:45pm   It was much to much to my dismay when arriving home from work on Monday that I found most of the trees in the front of my house destroyed. It turns out that the town was "clearing brush" from the road sides. Ours was the only property touched on the street (Priscilla Ave.) We were not notified that they would be doing this work, and now trees that we planted as a buffer from street traffic have been ruined. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their property? The cutting and pruning (if one could call it that) of the trees was done by an inexperienced worker, exacerbating the dismal look of the trees that they left. We will now have to spend considerable dollars to save the existing trees and plant new ones. - LB 2/9 5:44pm   I have 3 tickets to the Boston Bruins game on Valentines day Tuesday February 14. They are in Section 14 row 12. I can't use them. They go for $150 each I will sell them for $100 each. If interested call Rob @ 508-989-7913 - RA 2/9 5:43pm   Looking for group with young children (12 mos- 18 months) that gets together during the week. Please email me if you know of any. Thanks. ellens126@comcast.net - EF 2/9 5:42pm   AB-G, I too had a shower/tub and it was almond color. Miracle Method, Norwell (781) 659-4494 came in and repaired the cracks, replaced the fixtures that I provided, and completely redid the shower/tub. He owns the company and does it himself. It is now sparkling white and a gorgeous finish. I researched many companies some were less expensive, but the reviews were not as good. I inquired with my plumber about removing and replacing but decided against it. Stick with the Miracle Method--it is the best for shower refinishing. - DWL 2/9 5:40pm   HRB - Don't pray me, it won't do any good. Say some prayers for yourself as you float through your existence not knowing anything. But clearly you are in the wack category and I hope someday you climb out of your self-absorbtion and open your eyes to your environment. And it's good that you meet MMB at the Haunted Train Ride to celebrate not being observed by the irascible MON, you'll save money on a clown costume. - MON 2/8 5:32pm   Time is running out to register for Norfolk Baseball's spring season of Little League. Register on or before February 12th to avoid late fees. Little League registration closes permanently on February 19th. Don't miss out! Registration is also closing soon for our spring T-Ball and Babe Ruth programs. To register go to www.norfolkbaseball.com and click on Register Online. Norfolk Baseball is holding it's February General Meeting this Sunday February 12th at 7:00 pm at the Norfolk Public Library. Planning for the spring season is well underway and the summer season is also ramping up. Please come on down and join us. - DL, Norfolk Baseball 2/8 5:31pm   The Norfolk Quill Free Writer's Workshops are scheduled to begin soon! Young Writer's Workshop, for grades 6-9, will meet Tuesdays, March 6th--27th, 6:30pm-7:30pm in the Norfolk Public Library Schoolhouse Room. Adult Writer's Workshop will meet Tuesdays, April 10th--May 15th, 6:30pm-8pm in the Norfolk Public Library Schoolhouse Room. All workshops are open to seasoned writers, novices, and everyone in-between. Space is limited so don't wait to register! To register contact Margo Ball at readmylit@gmail.com. The Norfolk Quill is supported in part by a grant from the Norfolk Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. - MB 2/8 5:30pm   Can anyone recommend someone to redo or replace the fiberglas surround in my tub/shower area? Thanks, - AB-G 2/8 5:29pm   1 Day Sale at TK Pet Supply!! 158 Main Street in Norfolk center. Saturday, February 11 from 9:00AM to 6:30PM. Come on by to save 10 percent off EVERYTHING in the store! All vaccinated pets welcome! Please call (508)-541-PETS (7387) with any questions. - CS 2/8 5:28pm   Dr. Jackson sent an e-mail today indicating class size may increase to 24/25 because of budgets. I think this interesting because my daughter's 6th grade English (ELA) class has 29 in it. Technically, the 6th grade class size will decrease. - ACC 2/8 5:27pm   A Tisket, A Tasket, calling all Baskets! For the second year, the Norfolk Wellness Committee is holding an All Fruit Snack day for grades Pre-K through 6th. This year we would like the fruit to be display in baskets vs the card board boxes we used last year. The fruit might be a little more appealing for the kids! If you have a basket or two that you are willing to donate for this effort, please let me know! We are looking to collect about 52 baskets. Size would need to hold about 25 pieces of fruit (apples, oranges, bananas), although we will take smaller ones and divide up each fruit into them. Baskets will need to be in hand by Feb. 14th. Please contact me at 508-520-1582 and we can coordinate your basket to be picked up. Thanks in advance! - KRR 2/8 5:26pm   To SB... I think if you contact Rep.Dan Winslow he will be able to answer questions regarding mitigation money between Walpole and Norfolk DOC. - CT 2/8 5:25pm   DR, Keep up the good work! Here's a lesson for future subversives everywhere! MMB, If the shoe fits, put it on! That will keep them thinking and sleepless for weeks! LOL! Love to all! - MON 2/8 5:24pm   I only rarely post, but I do feel the need to express my opinion on the recent post by MMB on MON. By no means am I a fan of MON, and will be glad not to read his posts, but I don't think it is necessary to be so negative and personal as is stated in the post. We are all entitled to our opinion, and personally I am glad that there is a wealth of different ideas out there and the ability to post those thoughts. Chill out MMB. - RJC 2/8 5:23pm   Dear MON, It must be very hard to be such an insufferable know-it-all. Please note that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you deal with this challenging affliction. To MMB: perhaps we could arrange to gather together at an appropriate time and place(the Haunted Train Ride?) and observe an un-solemn moment of noise. - HRB 2/8 5:22pm   Happy trails MON!!! Loved you. Will miss you. Be happy! - DV 2/8 5:21pm   The Norfolk Lions 5th annual Chili festival is being held on March 10 at St Jude's Church. Proceeds from this event benefit the Norfolk Food Pantry. $15 allows you to sample chili from Eagle Brook Saloon, Guido's Restaurant, Horse & Carriage, Beckett's, Budabings, James's. Administration gets you food, drinks and fun while voting for your favorite chili. Advanced tickets are highly recommended by contacting Cathy at cwesalo@comcast.net or by calling 508 520 0079 - PW 2/6 1:30pm   It's almost time for Cupid's Craft Convention at the Norfolk Public Library! Kids age 3 and up can stop by and make a Valentine's Day card or craft for someone special. The Junior Friends of the Library will provide supplies and assistance. Cards start at $0.50. Proceeds benefit the Junior Friends of the Library. Wenesday, February 8 4:00 - 6:00 and Saturday, February 11 12:00 - 2:00 (Saturday event also includes a bake sale!) - Amy Lang, Youth Services Librarian, Norfolk Public Library 2/6 1:29pm   FB: Check out the website for Medfield Animal Shelter for your lost black cat. There is a black cat that was found Feb. 2nd. Their website is: www.medfieldshelter.com Good luck. - JV 2/6 1:28pm   Well, wyhat a relief that MON has tossed one last pearl of wisdom to guide us as we soldier on without him. I guess he thought he owed it to us little folk. As they say in Italian: "Addio e meno male!". - AB-G 2/6 1:26pm   Sorry MON, contrary to what you undoubtedly presume, not everyone will miss your sarcasm and cynicism. You were a misfit in Norfolk. Peace. - MMB 2/6 1:24pm   MS I can help with your images. How should we get in contact? 2/1 8:48am I need help sizing and transferring pictures on to my company website. Does anyone have a good resource for how I can get some help with this? - MS - ES 2/6 1:23pm   EM: Congratulations on the restoration of your Triumph TR-6. I have a 1974 Triumph TR-6 and use Robert Issa of Robert's Garage in Walpole, 508 668-9045. He is fabulous... he even knows about Lucas keeping all of Triumph and MG owners in the 'dark.' Happy Motoring! - CF 2/6 1:19pm   Dear MON, I am so, so sorry to hear you have left Norfolk. You were/are a voice of reason. Please let me know where you have headed... we might join you!! It sounds like a very rational and modern place you have landed yourself in. Lest I forget... I need to digress from MON for a second - the CPC is only the proverbial tip of the tax iceberg. MON ON!! - DR 2/3 10:36pm   FB, I do hope your cats have come back. I don't know if this will be helpful, but when we moved into our second home quite a few years ago, our cat disappeared that day. We found that she was waiting for us at the first house. How she found it is a mystery, but you might want to check around your old home (assuming it is not very far away). Good luck! - AMG 2/3 10:35pm   The King Philip Parents' Network will be raffling off an autographed photo of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. Raffle tickets will be sold on Saturday, February 4th at KPHS from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20, and the drawing will be held on Monday, February 6th. The 11 x 14-inch matted and framed photo is sure to be a collector's item. All raffle proceeds will go to this year's All Night Party, an annual King Philip tradition which keeps KP seniors safe on the night of graduation. - GA 2/3 10:34pm   Looking for reliable house cleaners. Need a crew of a couple people who can complete job in a timely manner (2hrs or so) and are flexible with time/dates as my weekly work schedule is not consistent. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Pamandy1@verizon.net - PB 2/3 10:33pm   I'm looking to have a Murphy bed built in my house. Just wondering if anybody has had one built and can recommend somebody to do the work. Thanks - TL 2/3 10:32pm   All, I want to share a personal update. I recently started working for New York Life Insurance Company. My decision to accept a position with New York Life was made easier by the financial strength and stability they have provided their clients during tumultuous years in the market. I had spent the past 12+ years working at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch so I know all about tumult! I am looking to meet with people just like you, people who could benefit from the guidance of a Financial Services Professional. Sitting down for a free consultation at your home or place of work may be of great benefit to you. My objective is to help you reach your personal financial goals for Retirement, College Funding, Life Insurance, Long-Term Care as well as business goals including Buy-Sell Funding, Key Person Protection and Qualified Plan Funding etc Questions to ask yourself Am I getting the most out of my 401(K) and other retirement savings? How can I protect my hard earned assets against market declines? Am I saving enough for my children's/grandchildren's college education? If something happens to me, will my family be able to maintain their current lifestyle? Could I be better prepared for unexpected financial circumstances? Is my business adequately prepared for the unexpected? How can I avoid outliving my assets? Now that I'm retired do I know how to optimize my assets for income purposes? I live in town on North Street with my wife Rachel and two kids, Tristan (8) and Braden (5). So if you or someone you know, relative, friend, neighbor, co-worker, employee etc would benefit from a free consultation, please don't hesitate to contact me. Also, if you are a CPA, Estate Planning Attorney or P&C Company interested in learning how a professional alliance with New York Life could enhance your business, contact me for more details. Sincerely, - Gavin Lynn, Norfolk resident since 1998 / glynn@ft.newyorklife.com 2/3 10:31pm   Election workers wanted! We are in need of election workers to work the polls here in Norfolk for the Presidential Primary, Town Election, State Primary, and the Presidential Election. Full and Half Day paid positions are available. If interested (or if you have any questions), please email or call the Town Clerk's Office. All poll workers must attend training at the Town Hall on February 27th. Thank You! - Shawn Dooley, Town Clerk 2/3 10:30pm   Just a heads-up on The Tavern on Shears Street. They do not offer a lunch menu and the entrees start at $18.99. Which I considered high for lunch. Don't even consider the quahogs, they are not even edible. - PB 2/3 10:29pm   Thank you to everyone who has replied to my quest for girl scout cookies for peace corps volunteers in Tanzania! The cookies may be a bit melted upon arrival but I know the volunteers will be thrilled to have the familiar taste of home. - NC 2/3 10:28pm   BR (#1) Good morning and thank you for the information on clock repair in Wayland. If I don't get a call back from the Medway man (he's 2 weeks late at this point) I will pursue your suggestion! Many thanks and I am pleased to read that your coin sales have gone well. Best of luck to you and your family and I hope everything works out as well as possible. Remember, if I can be of any coin collection assistance, you know how to contact me. All the best. - AG 2/3 10:27pm   Can someone share their experience with Vladi driving school? What should I be looking for in a school that teaches teens? Any other thoughts on local driving classes? - AL 2/3 10:25pm   Ye Gods! I don't post for a while and Norfolk is morphing into the ugly town Jimmy Stewart came back to in "It's A Wonderful Life". Casinos coming, taxes skyrocketing, the Norfolk Quill edits my bio, and competition sports invading the Bingo Halls! You tell em' LLB! How dare they push competition sports on the young, especially when they are gambling! But nothing bothers me anymore! I am gone from here, and I want to thank all the wonderful people and friends I have met and partied with over the past decade, and you know that if you can always contact me and I will always respond! Sure, some of you I have met in this town are WACK, but I have enjoyed every minute of toying with you here on NN and in the flesh, and exposing you for all to see, but in the long run we all die anyway and He Who Laughs Last Laughs! Laughter Oust Loudst! You know who you are! But listen up, Norfolk. You need to get your schools in order, and jumping in and out of town meetings to get schools built is not enough. Drop the IEP percentage, hold the teachers and the administration (read unions here) responsible, and for God's sake, get rid of parlor tricks like MCAS and teach real subjects. But I am not going to rub in the fact I now enjoy one of the top schools in the country, with the lowest tax rates, and they are not afraid to put in speed bumps or pick up your trash, at a quarter of the tax rates you all get soaked for. Oh, plus the kids get Apple computers, free with modern texts installed. But I am going silent, now and forever, because I have moved out West to the mountains, to a sleepy little town that only has one movie theatre and some guy riding a horse that looks like Jeremiah Johnson. And although I will never again intrude on the colonialism and weirdness that is Massachusetts, you can bet that I have moved to a state where I can be even MORE MON! And someday you will understand. Happy Trails Norforkians! - MON 2/3 10:20pm   I have recently had my 1978 Triumph TR-6 restored, and I am looking for a local automotive shop to tune it and keep it running for me. Does anyone have any suggestions of a reliable foreign car service shop or individual? Wondering about Foreign Car Repairs in Millis- does anyone have any experience with them, good or bad? Thanks so much! - EM 2/1 3:23pm   MS - The guru.com service might be a fit for your needs. The service matches up your needs with technologists to help with your project. You describe the project and programmers bid on work. Colleagues have had great success with small projects (few hundred dollars). - BHS 2/1 3:22pm   ST - RE: electrician, we just had a great experience with Chris Woodley. Chris is based in Norfolk and his cell is (508) 223-6565. He's professional, responsive and reasonably priced. - TO 2/1 3:21pm   NC, Troop 74764 just sold girl scout cookies at the transfer station last weekend and we have approximately 80 boxes left. Please call me if you are interested ASAP because I am returning them this Saturday. Email me at smeader@tiholdings.com or call my cell at 617-593-3087. - SM 2/1 3:19pm   Dog License info is available at http://www.virtualnorfolk.org/public_documents/norfolkma_clerk/Dog2012.pdf Your dog must be licensed before May 1st to avoid late fees. - DLJ 2/1 3:18pm   To SB, we don't know but LLB did say their daughter "won spending a lot of money at Bingo" and if they are "needy" (but hopefully not) why would they let her waste money like that? I still feel giving an unwanted prize to a needy family makes sense. - CH 2/1 3:15pm   On September 11 2011 we moved to Cleveland St. in Norfolk. The same night 2 of my cats ran away. Here are the pictures. The black one is pretty accurate, the tabby one, she is much younger on the picture but it still gives you an idea how she looked. If you have seen them or adopted them please let me know. Thank you for your help. 774 277 7433 - FB 2/1 3:14pm   If you can use 2 free unopened Lexmark printer number 1 black ink cartridges, please contact me at box361@NorfolkNet.com - DLJ 2/1 3:13pm   NC - My troop has paid cookie from a booth sale that are to be donated to the military that we might be able to donate to the person you know in the military. Please email me directly to work out the details. Diana_tohe@comcast.net - DL 2/1 3:12pm   To NC. I estimate we have about 70 boxes of GS cookies waiting to be returned to GS storage. You will have to contact smeader@tiholdings.com soon. I'm getting hungry. - DWM 2/1 3:06pm   Hi: Am wondering if anyone knows of someone who teaches sewing. I am looking for a class either Tues or Thurs during the day. The Franklin Mill doesn't offer lessons on those days. Thanks, - ALL 2/1 3:05pm   For PB, License renewed can be done on line every other time. You keep your old photo, makes you look 10 years younger. New photo and eye test can be done in N. Attleboro or Milford. You can check the RMV website for other locations. - ACC 2/1 8:54am   NCL Presents a Free Hour of Fitness this Friday. This "Fitness Friday" Event is an hour dedicated to strengthening your body, stretching your muscles, and expanding your mind. Strength & Balance -- A barefoot work out focused on stability, strength and balance. (30 min.) Yoga -- Perfect for beginners to stretch the body and soothe the mind. (30 min.) Limit: 20 participants. 5 spots left. First come, first serve. (This is an open event. Not exclusively for NCL members). Whether you are participating or not, please consider donating a canned good for the Food Pantry. In a week where we all plan our feasts for the Big Football Game, let's look to support those who are struggling. Donations will be accepted from 10-11 at the Library at Friday's fitness event; or feel free to contact Lisa Noke or Nan Hill (nclmembers@gmail.com) so that we may receive your donation. Thanks, in advance for your support of community. Event Details: Date: Feb 3, 2012, Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am, Location: Norfolk Library - Community Room, Limit: 20 participants. Click to Register: [google docs page] - NH, NCL 2/1 8:53am   New to town and looking for a local electrician. Please email: zgmckeever@gmail.com. Thanks! - ST 2/1 8:51am   AG, I just had an old mantel clock that has been in the family for years repaired by a fellow in Wayland. Call Classic Clocks Etc. Ltd. 135 Boston Post Rd. Wayland Ma. 01778 508-358-5237. He gave me detailed info on the clock which I never would have known as all family members are gone.This will stay in the family. Thank you to all that responded to my question regarding coins. I feel good with who I found and he gave me info on where to go for other items I need to "sell". - BR (#1) 2/1 8:49am   Hello, my name is Danielle G.. I am a sophomore and I attend King Philip. I am looking for babysitting jobs. I am free every day of the week. On Mondays - Fridays I'm free after school at anytime after 2:15, however, I may need a ride to the job since I do not have my license. I am free anytime on the weekends. I have a great amount of experience babysitting children. I also have a nephew who is now 2 and a half, who I take care at least once a week, so I have experience with infants and toddlers also. Please contact me if you're interested: Cell phone: 1-508-341-5261. Home: 1-508-528-8546. Please leave a voicemail if I am unavailable to answer my phone. - DG 2/1 8:48am   I need help sizing and transferring pictures on to my company website. Does anyone have a good resource for how I can get some help with this? - MS 2/1 8:47am   Grandmother no longer needs crib & mattress she bought for $500 seven years ago. Had occassional use and is in excellent condition. Also have hi-chair, pack n' play, and assorted baby toys. Best offer takes all. Cannot deliver; buyer must take. Contact: lorraine_n_mike@hotmail.com. - LM 2/1 8:46am   February 1st is the last day to register for the Spring 2012 season. Please register your children for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer today! All games are played in Norfolk on Sunday afternoons. NLYS is open to boys and girls age 3 (by September 1, 2011) thru grade 12. You do not have to live in Norfolk to join in on the fun! This Spring season we will be placing U9 (grades 2 & 3) players onto ALL Girl and ALL Boy teams. Visit the website www.norfolklionssoccer.com to register. - HK 2/1 8:45am   Donate Your Cans and Bottles to the KPMA! Having a Super Bowl party? Going to one? Consider offering your host some help, collect all those leftover beer and soda cans and bottles to a KPMA redeemable drop off facility. There are drop off sites at the Norfolk Transfer Station, behind King Philip High School and adjacent to the Wood School in Plainville. Any donation of soda and beer beverage receptacle with a 5 cent redeemable value printed on it provides a nickel more towards King Philip's successful music program. So please don't toss them out, bag them up and drop them off and help the music play on! - SM, KPMA 2/1 8:44am   To CH and PM: How do we know that LLB is not a needy family? Maybe they are, and this was a lucky opportunity to raise some funds for their family. - SB 2/1 8:43am   I recently discovered the Franklin Art Center at 5 Main St. Franklin and have been taking weekly classes there since! I wanted to pass on their info to anyone else who might be interested. They have a variety of classes that encourage students of all ages and abilities to discover and develop their creative and artistic skills. This coming February Vacation they have a "Wings of Art" program (6-14 year olds, February 21-23, 9:30am-12:00) where students will be creating clay birds, working on drawings, paintings, and sculptures based on birds and feathers. If you haven't already been to the Franklin Art Center a great time to visit is during the Student Artist Show Opening where they will be showcasing work from students of all ages from Pre-K to adults. "Students have learned about artists Van Gogh, Monet, Matisse, Giacometti, and Nevelson. The pre-school classes have been learning about lines, shapes, and colors and recently completed a Mondrian painting. We are very excited to display their work and want to share their accomplishments with others. Please join us in viewing their work in a gallery opening, Saturday, Feb. 4, from 2 to 4 pm." Contact: Linda and Ian Kabat, Franklin Art Center, 5 Main Street, Franklin. Website: franklinartcenter.com. Phone: 508 887-2797. Email: franklinartcenter@gmail.com - SD 1/31 1:11pm   Desperate to get girl scout cookies to send to peace corps volunteers in Tanzania! I realized the deadline to order has passes but wonder if anyone is having a booth sale (if so when/where?) or can help connect me to anyone with cookies to sell. - NC 1/31 1:10pm   Mark your calendars! The DARE to Dream Summer Day Program is pleased to announce tentative dates for the upcoming 2012 year! Keep in mind we still have not made it through the winter season and the dates are tentative based on the final release day of our area schools We have been very fortunate up until this point to have mild winter and hope that this continues! Current grade 6 students entering grade 7 June 25 - June 29 (Monday thru Friday) Current grade 7 students entering grade 8 July 9 - July 13 (Monday thru Friday) Current grade 4 students entering grade 5 August 6 - August 10 (Monday thru Friday) Current grade 5 students entering grade 6 August 13 - August 17 (Monday thru Friday) Look for registration forms to go out after April vacation. You can also visit us at our website at www.daretodreamsummer.com If you are a Facebook member we encourage you to "LIKE" our page. You will receive important information (dates, photos, and program information) throughout the summer and our offseason. Our downloadable registration form on our website will be made available at around the time our registration goes out in April. We look forward to seeing you this summer! Sincerely, - Steve Plympton, DARE to Dream Staff 1/31 1:07pm   Where do you have to go to have new picture license renewed? - PB 1/31 1:06pm   Hi Everyone, The 2012 Spring Softball registration is open! My earlier post neglected to give the website: www.norfolkgirlssoftball.com Simply visit our website at www.norfolkgirlssoftball.com and click on the big orange registration button on the top right corner of the home page. Our programs range from Pre-K (must be born prior to 12/31/2006) through Grade 8. For more information, please go to our website and look under the "2012 Season" tab for the "Spring Registration info" page. Thank you! - Kevin A. Johnston, President, Norfolk Girls Softball 1/28 6:32pm   Got this -- Im looking for some land to lease in norfolk to start a small organic farm/CSA - between 1 and 4 acres. If you have land or ideas email me please at tsgreensfarm@gmail.com thanks! - TH - Wm. 1/28 6:30pm   Attention animal lovers! If you enjoy being outdoors, being around animals and like to stay fit, a part-time position making good money is now available. Interested individuals must be reliable, have own transportation, be willing to travel to surrounding towns, and have a cell phone. For details, please email junebug1306@yahoo.com. - AW 1/28 6:27pm   BB, In answer to your question. The Governor (Deval Patrick) has sole discretion on who gets what and how much. If you check things out, I think you will find that Walpole is divided into 4 Representatives; Dan Winslow (Republican) has one corner of Walple while the others Representative (Kafka, McMurty and Rogers) are all Democrats. Representative Winslow has sole responsibility for Norfolk. It is the Governor's snub to Norfolk, pure and simple. We are punished for having a Republican Representative. It is not about fairness, it is all about political influence! - PT 1/28 6:26pm   Dear BR,The best place to sell American coins is to Jim Johnston in Franklin. He is knowledgeable and fair. 508 528 0942. He also buys stamps. He bought my husbands stamp collection for a good price. - BP 1/28 6:25pm   Tax time means tax help at Norfolk's Senior Center. Two tax-related programs are being held in the month of February: (1) On February 7th at 1 p. m., Senator Richard Ross will conduct an informational seminar on the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, a tax credit for eligible seniors (owners or renters, 65 or older) whose property payments exceed 10% of their annual income. Application assistance, eligibility requirements, and detailed answers to your questions will be provided, and (2) Starting on February 9th at 9 a. m. (and continuing every Thursday until April) trained volunteer counselors from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) will be conducting their free Tax-Aide program at the Senior Center. Participants should gather up their W2's, 1099 forms, and last year's completed state and federal returns to bring to their appointment (reservations must be made for this program by calling 508-528-4430). If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative residing in Norfolk who can benefit from these programs, you are encouraged to bring them to their attention. There are many more activities, services, and resources available at the Norfolk Senior Center, not only for seniors, but for all Norfolk residents. To receive a full schedule call 508-528-4430 or visit [COA webpage] The Senior Center is located at 28 Medway Branch Road and is open Mon. thru Fri. from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m. - TM, Norfolk Council on Aging 1/28 6:24pm   Hello, and thank you for your suggestions. We are looking for a clock repair person who is local. We had a kind person here on the board respond with the name and phone number of a gentleman in Medway. I called but he never agreed to set up a time to see me. I have since lost his number and would like to try again but I was also hoping that there might be another clock repair "person" that someone could recommend. This is for an antique wind up clock. Many thanks. - AG 1/28 6:19pm   PB: I saw a segment on violin repair on WCVB's Chronicle on 1/24/2012: [bostonchannel.com link] The link to the shop is: www.francismorrisviolins.com I know nothing about them other than they seem to repair violins for some of the best musicians. Watch the video of Segment Two for more information. - JEB 1/28 6:18pm   Hello again, BR. This is my second note to you. I have just done some reading about American Rare Coins. I have not done business with the company when I was a collector, but this site [yelp.com on American Rare Coin, E. Providence] might be of interest. From what I can learn, NGS, the company for which he used to appraise, is one of the less respected coin certifying companies, and they would "certify and encapsulate" coins for $10 each. This might sound like a bargain, but the 2 companies that are totally reputable are PCGS and NGC... and a few lesser companies have somewhat decent but lesser recognition. I do not consider being an apprisor for NGS as stated in the article as a distinction... but I have no knowledge of the gentleman who owns Amreican Rare Coins. Please read the above citation, then go to [coinauctionshelp.com/NGS_PTGS.html] Whatever your decision, please proceed with caution! If I can give you any assistance, I posted my number earlier. I am a Norfolk resident and will be glad to help any way I can. All the best with your health!! - AG 1/28 6:17pm   Hello BR. I may be able to help you out. Could you please call me at 508-528-1976. I am not a dealer... but very knowledgable as a 50 year collector. I just sold my collection and have some pointers I would be happy to share. - AG 1/28 6:16pm   What is the deadline to get your dog licensed? - MC 1/28 6:15pm   Regarding instrument repair, call Walpole Music, right on Route 27 in Walpole Center, 508-668-0926, ask for Greg. - MC 1/28 6:14pm   To PM: I like the "best offer" you made to LLB as it was politely made and was a suggestion that made total sense - it was an unwanted award won by LLB's daughter who doesnt want it, and giving it to a needy family who can use it is the proper and ethical way to deal with it. I feel the response made to you by LLB was abrupt and selfish in nature. - CH 1/28 6:07pm   LLB: I hope that you don't get a lot of flack for your "offer" to sell your daughter's baseball registration prize. I do hope though that you would consider donating it back and having it go to sponsor a child who can't afford to pay the registration fees. - JP 1/28 6:06pm   To BR(1) Re: Coins. For coin appraisal, I'd contact Bellisario in Wellesley (brcgcoins.com) or Kappy's on Rt 1A in Norwood center (781 762 -5552). I've dealt with both and they are fair. - BR (#3) 1/28 6:05pm   Is this true? Can anyone explain why Walpole received $ 782,000 in mitigation funds while Norfolk received $ 88,000 ? Norfolk hosts three correctional facilities, two on Clark St and one on Industrial Way, while Walpole hosts only one at Cedar Junction. About 85 % of the land held by the Dep't of Correction is in Norfolk while only 15 % is in Walpole. How do you justify Walpole receiving nine times as much ? Where can we find information on this? Maybe our town administrator can shed light on this. - SB 1/28 6:04pm   To BR(1) -for selling coins, contact New England Coin Exchange in RI - David McConaghy (spelling??) is terrific and very honest! Here is the website: necoinexchange.com - EF 1/28 5:54pm   Hello Everyone! Norfolk Girls Softball is pleased to announce that registration for our 2012 Spring Season is open! Simply visit our website at and click on the big orange registration button on the top right corner of the home page. Our programs range from Pre-K (must be born prior to 12/31/2006) through Grade 8. For more information, please go to our website and look under the "2012 Season" tab for the "Spring Registration info" page. Thank you! - Kevin A. Johnston, President, Norfolk Girls Softball 1/28 5:52pm   BR: Go on line, or have someone help you and see if you can find the value of your coins by entering the information from the coin itself. I am positive such information is available. I suppose you could Google "coin collecting" or "valuation antique coins". Maybe someone on the Net can suggest a better search There may be a hard-copy reference at the library where you can look this up. If not, I am sure they will help you find the reference online. Or you could try calling the Mssachusetts Historical Society and ask if they know of any coin-collecting group or individual where you could get adivce. There's a Historical Society here in town; they may have advice. You definitely want to rely on some impartial source before you go anywhere. I don't think there's any particular licensing involved in buying gold coins. Good luck, - AB-G 1/28 5:51pm   LLB! What an excellent response! Let one of the pious, holier-than -thou busybodies follow their own unsolicited advice. - AB-G 1/28 5:47pm   PM: I thought your idea about donating the unwanted prize was great! Profiting on a donated item won at a school event isn't setting the right example at all. - HB 1/24 4:28pm   To PM: Thanks for your ``best offer'' but better yet, why don't you pay my daughter $100 for her prize, which she won spending a lot of money at Bingo the other night, and then you can give it to any needy child you like! My daughter will be delighted to have money to pay the band fee, and Norfolk will then have two very happy children thanks to you! - LLB 1/24 4:27pm   Need help with your pets? Leashrly Life will come to your home and care for your beloved friend. We offer a number of affordable services from pet sitting to dog walking, group hiking excursions and one-to-one personalized obedience trainings. Experienced, loving care by professionals you can trust. References are available. Fully insured and bonded. All animals are welcomed! Call 781-241-2083, visit www.leashrlylife.com or email info@leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life 1/24 4:26pm   Do to health and financial reasons I need to sell old coins. Any suggestions of where to take them? I have been told to stay away from the Holiday Inn buying days. I have seen an ad for American Rare Coin in R.I. --they do have a license--has anyone used them?? - BR (1) 1/24 4:10pm   Assuming we will get more winter weather, plan ahead - call Phil Darling to plow your driveway - reasonable and prompt service. Call 508 801-4442 (cell) - PW 1/24 4:09pm   Dear LLB, I have a "best offer" - donate it back to Norfolk Baseball so they can sponsor a family that can't afford to pay the registration fee. - PM 1/24 4:08pm   NCTV is showing ``Conversation Corner'' In this show our Town Administrator Jack Hathaway and Selectman Jim Lehan discuss the town budget, property tax rate, a proposed Foxboro casino, Gump's property and affordable housing. Please check www.NorfolkCable.com for the full television playback schedule. Our programs can also be viewed over the Internet at NCTVonDemand.PEGCentral.com If you have any comments or questions please feel free to contact us at 508-520-2780 or NCTV@NorfolkCable.com. Thank you for supporting NCTV, your local Public Access Television stations! - Donna Jones, NCTV Program Coordinator 1/24 4:07pm   The Historical Commission invites you to view our new History Window. It is located outside the NHC Office in the Town Hall on the ground floor. This Window was constructed with contributions by the Norfolk Community League, Hamlin Cabinet Company and Norfolk County Glass. Our current display features pictures and information about Pondville. - BB 1/24 4:06pm   Looking for a wonderful way to advertise your business and support the community. Sponsor a Little League or Babe Ruth baseball team. Cost is only $250.00. If interested please contact me at treasurer@norfolkbaseball.com or 781-467-8192. Thank you for your consideration. - Karen Fruci, Norfolk Baseball Association 1/24 4:05pm   Can anyone explain why Walpole received $ 782,000 in mitigation funds while Norfolk received $ 88,000 ? Norfolk hosts three correctional facilities, two on Clark St and one on Industrial Way, while Walpole hosts only one at Cedar Junction. About 85 % of the land held by the Dep't of Correction is in Norfolk while only 15 % is in Walpole. How do you justify Walpole receiving nine times as much ? - BB 1/22 10:06pm   For stringed instrument repair, a friend had a guitar repaired at The Music Emporium at 165 Mass Ave in Lexington 781-860-0049. They are high-end musical dealers and have expert repair people. - DLJ 1/22 10:05pm   To AL-- we really like Joliceour out of Bellingham for garage door maintenance and repair. - EF 1/22 10:04pm   Planning to register for Norfolk Baseball this summer? Little League or Babe Ruth? My daughter, Julia, a sixth grader at Freeman-Centennial was at Bingo night last night and she was fortunate enough to win a complimentary registration for Norfolk Baseball (Little League or Babe Ruth). Unfortunately, baseball just isn't something she has any much interest in. So, if you might be planning on registering, we'd be happy to sell her winning prize, and save you some money in the process. You can find more information about it (cost, registration etc...) right here: [Norfolkbaseball.com page] The certificate states it's valued up to $145. We're asking $100 or best offer. Thanks! If interested, please email us at laura@beattyhome.com - LLB [Update 1/24 4:10pm: Belatedly posted the pictures; apologies for the delay - Wm.] 1/22 10:03pm   Update: No fewer than 5 people responded about a garage door repair, and I am happy to report, I should be able to get out of my garage tomorrow! Damn thing could not break when it's 85 degrees out, but who said life was fair? Thank you! - AL 1/22 10:02pm   AL - We recently had new garage doors installed by Pioneer Garage Door of Walpole. We decided to contact them after seeing several recommendations for the company here on the Norfolknet and were very pleased with the service, quality and price. - JZ 1/22 10:01pm   Can someone tell me which day tee ball practices and games are held? - GB 1/22 9:54pm   If anyone is looking to have their snow blower repaired or tuned up please give me a call. Reasonable rates and quick turnaround. Call Mike at (508) 400-2836. - MV 1/22 9:53pm   The Norfolk Community League (NCL) would like to announce that the 2011 Jingle Bell Run attracted 114 runners and raised $1,767.00, with all proceeds directly benefitting the Santa Foundation, an organization that provides gifts to families in need at Christmas time. In addition to donating the proceeds from the Run, NCL was also a proud sponsor of one of the Santa Foundation families. On Friday, December 16, 2011, the Norfolk Community League presented Bob Sullivan, President of the Santa Foundation, with a check for $1,767.00, along with the gifts for the sponsored family. From left, Lisa Noke, President, NCL, Bob Sullivan, President, Santa Foundation, and Lisa Seifert, Treasurer, NCL.NCL would also like to thank the sponsors of this years Jingle Bell Run: Jofran, Elite Foods, Cronin Oil and William Torpey. - CM, NCL 1/22 9:49pm   Garage door repairman, Door Pro, Brian at 508 989 9968. I've used Brian on several project installing and repair of garage doors for my customers. I.ve always been happy with results. I have about 22 extra 1099 misc. tax forms 2011 if anyone can use them. Email futuredave@yahoo.com - DWM 1/22 9:48pm   DC, The board members on the CPC regularly participate in the discussions on this site, as does the Town Clerk, the Fire Chief, and the Town Administrator, as well as many community organizations. I didn't realize that this site was not to be used for public discussion. I didn't realize that you made the rules. By the way, just where in the town hall can one find current information regarding the CPC and their holdings? Certainly not on their webpage which I include in my posting. The information on this site is outdated. It is now 2012. The town hall is a very large building with many doors, windows and alcoves. Where should I begin my search? Community Preservation Committee Contact(s): Michele Thoener  Administrator Address: Town Hall One Liberty Lane Norfolk, MA 02056  Hours: Wednesday 9:00 to 1:00 Additional Links: Purchaser's Application Request for Preservation Act Funding Basic Information Form CPA Update (Check it Out) Mass General Laws 44B Mass Community Preservation Act Meeting Minutes A Study's Challenge to the CPA - Framingham,MA 2009 Strategic Work Plan 2009 Annual Report 2010 Annual Work Plan  Recreation Feasibility Survey - Landfill - JC 1/22 9:47pm   To JC: Very reliable plow driver we've used for years is Rob Abramson at 508-9897913. - CH 1/22 9:46pm   For a female primary care physician try Beth Israel Deaconess Family Medicine 50 North St, Medfield 508-359-1519. They have four female providers specializing in family medicine. - DLJ 1/20 11:35am   Anyone know a garage door repair person in the area? Cord snapped. As much as I would love to stay home, I need to get my car out, people to see, places to go! Thank you! - AL 1/20 11:34am   Dear TR: I have not made a quick judgment in my thoughts on the CPC. I have five and a half years of history to back up my opinion. - PA 1/20 11:33am   JC: all the info you seek regarding the CPC funds is and has always been available at town hall. You should get it straight from the source, not this board. - DC 1/20 11:32am   For NB: Dr. Renee Remily at Walpole Internal Medicine is a very good PCP. - BL 1/20 11:31am   Nomination Papers are available beginning Monday January 23rd for Norfolk's Town Elections. Positions on the ballot this year are: Selectman (1), Assessors (1), Board of Health (1), Library Trustee (1), Town Moderator (1), Housing Authority (1), Planning Board (2), Recreation Commission (1), Norfolk School Committee (2), KP School Committee (1). If interested, please come by the Town Clerk's Office at Town Hall - 1 Liberty Lane. (Note: we are now located on the main floor) Thank you, - Shawn Dooley, Town Clerk 1/20 11:30am   Reminder: Get your Norfolk Dog License Today! New Service Available This Year: you can apply for and pay for your dog's license online and we will mail it to you! (Must have up to date rabies information in our system) To apply online: go to www.virtualnorfolk.org, go to the Town Clerk's page and follow the links. We are also available to process it for you in person at the Town Hall. The Town Clerk's Office is open from 9-8 on Mondays and 9-6 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you! Thank you, - Shawn Dooley, Town Clerk 1/20 11:29am   The Norfolk Lions would like to thank all of the Norfolk residents who participated in our Coats for Kids Drive. Through the generosity of the town we were able to donate 171 coats to in need men women and children in our area. Thanks also go out to Anton's Cleaners in Medfield who dry cleaned all of the coats free of charge. Donations can still be made at the Town Clerks Office in Town Hall and we will save them for next years drive. Thank you! - SCD 1/20 11:23am   The person who used to snowplow our driveway just e-mailed us to tell us that he was no longer going to be plowing our area. Does anyone have any suggestions for someone who is very responsible and not horribly expensive who plows residential driveways? - JC 1/20 11:22am   For NB: I see Dr. Christina Cataldo at Newton Wellesley Family Medicine in Walpole. She is young, probably mid-30's, and I think she would be great at relating to teen girls and making them feel comfortable with her. She is extremely thorough and very responsive and easy to get a hold of, which is always a good thing. - JP 1/20 11:21am   We have 3 dogs and want to keep them as safe as possilbe. That is why my daughter had a fence installed by Norfolk Fence. We put a sign on the fence saying Beware of Dogs, Please Keep Gate Closed. This sign was put to make delivery persons or friends aware that it was very important to come through the gate and close it behind them. Last week we got a delivery and the person came through the gate and left it open. Fortunately I was there to get the dogs in the house. I told him to please make sure that next time he closes the gate right away. We have a doggie door and when we are not here, they go in and out. We love our dogs very much and it would be tragic if an open gate caused one of them to get out and get hurt. Even with me in the house, I could be upstairs or something and not get to them in time. Please keep this in mind when visiting someone with a fenced in yard. Thank You. - JW 1/20 11:20am   Complimentary Fitness Day in February. Sponsored by the Norfolk Community League. Join NCL and a couple of Norfolk's fitness instructors for a complimentary fitness session. This class is dedicated to defining your body, strengthening your heart, trimming your core, stretching your muscles and expanding your mind. There are two parts of this hour of fitness. 1. Willpower & Grace: A barefoot workout that challenges athletes, nurtures newcomers and encompasses mind body practioners. (Conducted by Kym Peterson) 2. Yoga: A fusion of yoga and pilates that focuses on flexibility, core stability, strength and balance. (Conducted by Jennifer LaFond) Date: Feb 3, 2012 Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am Location: Norfolk Library - Community Room Optional donation: A non-perishable food item for the Norfolk Pantry Limit: 20 participants. First come, first serve. (Open event, not exclusive to NCL.) Click here to register. Space is limited. [page link] - CM 1/20 11:19am   The No Foxboro Casino group NoFoxboroCasino.com invites everyone including non-Foxboro residents to an informational open house Saturday January 21, 1 PM to 5 PM. - DLJ 1/19 12:17am   JD: Thanks so much for the name! I will take my girl over there. - AB-G 1/19 12:12am   To PB!! Re: refinishing antique violin!! From what I know, and I know quite a few serious and professional string players, you should NEVER refinish a violin... the finish is part of what makes the sound, even if it is damaged!! Also it lessens the monetary value if the instrument is truly antique. Please, go to a professional before you do anything to the instrument!! - PR 1/19 12:10am   Has anyone had experience with a summer camp called EXPLO? They have day camps at St. Mark's & Wellesley College and overnight at Yale in CT. I am specifically looking at the overnight college prep one at Yale for my 15 year old son. If anyone has feedback please share. Thanks. - RB 1/19 12:09am   Looking for recommendation for female primary care physician for my older teenage daughters. Time to move on from pediatrician and looking for dr. in area. Thanks. - NB 1/19 12:08am   Does anyone have any details about the School Comm. budget meeting last night? - ACC 1/19 12:07am   SG, For a hall to rent, try the Federated Church 508-528-0262 Mail@FCoN.org and the Stony Brook Nature Center 508-528-3140 stonybrook@massaudubon.org JHR, The reference to the nice new subdivision on the Wrentham side of town is probably the Toils End Farm project in the King and Park Street area. The developer is starting with Wrentham houses and then will build Norfolk houses on the street. Mentioned during the January 17 Selectmen's meeting - the current Gump's house will be coming down soon and the new affordable houses on that property should be finished before next fall. - DLJ 1/19 12:06am   Does anyone know of a good voice instructor in the area? - CFC 1/19 12:05am   Ordered Chinese from Golden Ginger for the Pats game last week (right across from Fore Kicks). Highly recommend them, possibly the best Chinese food I have ever had (and they deliver). - JO 1/19 12:02am   PB, I get all my work done on my antique violin at Johnson Strings in Newton, MA, on John St, off of Rt. 9 near Chestnut Hill. They do outstanding work and have an excellent reputation. They are a little pricey, but worth it. They will appraise it first and you can tell them how much you want or not to spend on it. They are professional luthiers. The Rhode Island shops are Ok for simple repairs but most players come to Johnson's for their repairs. Hope this helps - GAC 1/19 12:01am   JC, to be clear, the bus fee is not optional. Every bus family who is more than two miles from school is required to pay the fee to put their children on the bus whether there is a safe passage for those chidren to walk to school or not. - MJD 1/19 12:00am   CA, CPA Could you or another member of the CPA please provide the taxpayers with concrete information on the funds which the CPA has at this time? Enough rhetoric. These demands for more and more money remind me of a child asking for a bigger allowance so they can by more stuff. I ask again; how much money is in the fund, what has the money been spent on and when, and what has been matched by the state ? Why keep the taxpayers in the dark? Stick to the facts and leave the sentiment out of the discussion. I appreciate the opportunity to make an appointment to discuss a specific topic, however, I regretfully decline. Please give us the facts. I respectfully await your reply. Thank you. - JC 1/18 11:59pm   Wm, He made an appointment to come to my home and look at the violin but never called or showed up. - PB 1/18 11:58pm   There is a new episode of the local cable show about Christian theology called [RIG channel page] "Resting In Grace". It airs Tuesday and Thursday night on NCTV at 6:00 PM, Verizon Ch41 and Comcast Ch8. You can also view it online at [providencebaptistchurchma.org page] In this most recent episode, Pastor Mark and Tom discuss Jesus' command as recorded in Mark 1:15, which reads, "repent and believe in the gospel". They further discuss how the bible counsels us to share this life saving message. - JLR 1/17 1:03am   Looking for someone to re-string and possibly refinish a Antique Violin. Thanks in advance. - PB [There was a response earlier, see post of post of 1/13 7:22pm - Wm.] [Wm, He made an appointment to come to my home and look at the violin but never called or showed up. - PB] 1/17 1:01am   Got this email, don't know anything more -- Hi, my name is Shane. I'm a 35 y.o. male, looking for a room to rent, or apartment sharing in Norfolk or Franklin. I can always be contacted on my cell phone at (508) 202-5879. Any help in finding a room will be greatly appreciated. Thanks! - Wm. 1/17 12:58am   If you haven't done so already, there is still time to register for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer's spring season! Registration is on-line only. All games are played in Norfolk on Sunday afternoons. NLYS is open to boys and girls age 3 (by September 1, 2011) thru grade 12. You do not have to live in Norfolk to join in on the fun! This Spring season we will be placing U9 (grades 2 & 3) players onto ALL Girl and ALL Boy teams. Visit the website www.norfolklionssoccer.com to register. Registration deadline is February 1, 2012 - (after February 1st, players will be added to a Wait List and will only be placed onto a team, with a $50 Late Fee, should a space on a team become available) - Avoid disappointment and Register today! Financial Assistance is available - for more information email norfolklionssoccer@verizon.net. - HK 1/17 12:56am   On January 17 at 7:30 p.m. in room 124 of Town Hall, the Selectmen are having a hearing to set the Water Rate. Everyone is invited. For IP - For Norfolk-based volunteer opportunities on short notice, street side and recreation area trash pick up is always available. - DLJ 1/17 12:44am   I am sorry to hear that so many people do not feel that the CPC is unnecessary as I have lived in this town for over 61 years and my husband's family for almost 90 yrs. I have seen what has happened to our town with all the open fields and woods mostly gone now, the old buildings being torn down, and so many mansions being built. What shall we have in the end if we don't preserve anything? We could lower the tax but then the matching funds would be lowered, also. Please learn more about this before making quick judgements. - TR 1/17 12:43am   Dear EMM, I am a private tutor who has been working with Norfolk students for many years. I have had great success in tutoring students on taking the SAT and ACT. My syllabus includes test taking skills along with direct instruction as to how to approach each individual part of the exam. Tutoring is an excellent way for students to believe in themselves and in their ability to attack and succeed in an area, that of test taking, which is daunting to many students. I would be happy to talk with you about the possibility of helping your student reach their full potential on these tests. Please feel free to contact me at 508-528-2399. - SM 1/17 12:41am   Looking to see if anyone installs carpet, and would like to install carpet on the side for extra money. Thanks - TA 1/17 12:39am   MJG, Where is the "nice new subdivision on the Wrentham side of town"? Just curious... thanks. - JHR 1/17 12:38am   SG -- Trinity Episcopal Church in Wrentham rents out its parish hall. It's not fancy, but with decorations etc., it might do the trick. Has kitchen use also... 508-384-3958 - JHR 1/17 12:35am   To clear up confusion, inaccuracies, and misunderstandings about the CPA fund/CPC -- Re: Gumps. From the outset it was part of the plan to put affordable homes on the Gump's property via the Municipal Housing Trust. The Municipal Housing Trust is working toward increasing Norfolk's affordable housing in accordance with state requirements. With planning board approval, yes, a developer is going to build the homes. Importantly, the proceeds from the sale of those homes will go to the Town of Norfolk, not the developer. Questions on the affordable homes proposed for Gump's should be directed to the Municipal Housing Trust. Re: Recreation Feasibility study-Medway Branch/landfill. This study (which encompassed multiple recreational uses generated through a survey of town residents, not just the maligned Frisbee Golf) was initiated long before a solar array was proposed in the landfill area. The solar array expanded significantly from its original footprint, thus taking this town-owned property out of consideration for recreational uses at this time. Importantly, contrary to MJG's assertion, the creation of recreational activities on town-owned land is an allowed use of CPA funds where no recreational use has existed before. For example, from the Community Preservation Coalition's suggestions of allowed recreational uses: ``Creation -- Convert existing structures such as a railroad bed to a recreational use such as walking, biking, or inline skating trails -- Convert underutilized municipal lot to community gardens'' Finally, posters have commented that the CPC has discussed various topics that they do not agree with. Part of the CPC's job is to consider any proposal that is brought before it ~ and discuss! The committee has to evaluate if the proposal meets the requirements of the Community Preservation Act, and if it believes the proposal has value to the town. If the committee votes yes, the proposal must go to a warrant article and town meeting. A town meeting vote is required for all expenditures. A project only moves forward if passed by town meeting. It is the decision of the town residents. Hence, the CPC does not and cannot ``buy'' properties, the town must do so. As always, the CPC invites town residents to attend its meetings ~ please make an appointment if you wish to discuss a specific topic! - CA, CPC 1/17 12:33am   To the person looking for a groomer recommendation at PetSmart in Bellingham, I highly recommend going to Jean Taylor who works there. I have been taking my Lhasa Apso to her for almost 10 years and she is incredibly knowledgeable and wonderful with animals. My dog requires 6 week shampoos and haircuts and he is not a easy dog to do (fear) but she always takes the extra time to calm him down and he always gets lots of compliments on his haircut! I would not take him to anyone else! - JD 1/17 12:32am   BP, Could the CPC please post some concrete information, ie. a balance statement for all to see. The CPC has done little to convince me that I should keep on paying an escalating fee from here to eternity. Please include the total funds presently in the account of the CPC, a list of purchases since the CPC began, funds matched by the state, remaining cash available. All we have seen is bits and pieces you have chosen to give us. Why should we as taxpayers be kept in the dark about money that we have paid into this fund and will continue to pay on February 1, 2012 included in our escalating tax bill? I noticed on www.virtualnorfolk.org, the online bill pay link, there is an option to contribute to the Elementary Education Fund next to the payment section. Perhaps the voters should institute such an option for the CPC, making it voluntary. Something to consider. Thank you. - JC 1/17 12:31am   Many thanks BP for providing the facts re the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) to offset the misinformation and exaggeration that continues to surface on this site re same. Preservation of open space and historic sites, protecting the dwindling rural qualities of our town, increasing recreation areas, carrying out measures to prevent excessive development, or having a long-term view of investing in and protecting our town and its environment are not aspirations limited to the liberals amongst us as suggested by some posters to this site. And contrary to those who would want us to believe otherwise, the protection and goals of the CPC transcend political or ideological leanings. Whatever is decided in regard to the continued existence of the CPC, we owe it to ourselves and our town to carefully examine the Community Preservation Act (CPA), its history and its mission. Please do not rely on merely one source (including this post) surfacing on this site or anywhere else regarding this important issue. One place to start is the useful information appearing on the Community Preservation Act site (Go to: http://www.communitypreservation.org/content/cpa-overview) and if you have not already done so, check out the town CPC site and its documents (Go to: http://www.virtualnorfolk.org/public_documents/norfolkma_cpa/index). In addition, please consider attending a CPC meeting (every third Wednesday at Town Hall) to learn more about the long-term advantages and benefits to towns whose citizens have had the foresight to vote for participation in the CPA. Attendance at these meetings will also give those who have doubts an opportunity to discuss their reservations with committee members. I am among those who believe elimination of the CPC or reducing its funding to a bare-bones minimum and dysfunctional 1% is dangerously shortsighted and counterproductive and, in my view, not in the best interests of our community. We should also keep in mind that Norfolk is not alone in implementing the CPA; since the year 2000, 148 towns in the Commonwealth have adapted it. Why? Because there are residents of all of those towns who do not view their respective CPC's as nothing more than a tax (or falsely accuse their neighbors, the dedicated volunteers who oversee the CPC, of running a "slush fund"), but a tax whose returns not only include significant matching funds from the State, but also provides crucial protection and growing long-term value to their properties and their communities. We are all being squeezed because of these difficult economic times and I empathize with those hurting the most, but frustration with the burdens of taxation should not lead us to shooting ourselves in the collective foot by eliminating a relatively moderate surcharge that delivers so much benefit to the town and, yes, is an essential tool in keeping developers under control. - TEM 1/17 12:30am   The Federated Church of Norfolk will hold a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, February 4 ,from 8:00 - 10:00 AM. Our famous homemade pancakes, ham, sausage, scrambled eggs, hash brown potatoes, cinnamon rolls, homemade biscuits and sausage gravy round out the buffet and omelets will be cooked to order. It's all you can eat for $7, with a Sr. citizen cost of $5. Breakfast is free for children under age 10. The Federated Church is located at the corner of Main Street and Route 115 across from the Town Common. The breakfast is served in the church vestry, which is handicapped accessible. For more information, contact the church office, 508-528-0262. - LD 1/13 9:15pm   To anyone at a sports class at HOD Fri. afternoon, my son is missing his winter coat, LL Bean, burgundy and grey, size 5/6. I think someone may have taken it home by mistake. Please contact me through the webmaster if you have any info. - SG 1/13 9:12pm   It's a simple solution Norfolk, time to get rid of this wasteful tax extortion program called the CPC, we need this self serving money grabbing program to go away. I for one will keep the pressure on until town meeting and election time I encourage all who want the 3% additional tax you pay every year too this self serving slush fund to *cease and desist!! Let's do it Norfolk we don't need the CPC!!* - DM 1/13 9:11pm   We are so greatful to the DPW who came to our rescue after a large tree fell across our driveway on Friday. They responed quickly and did a excellent job taking the tree away and cleaning up the limbs etc. - JC 1/13 9:03pm   Can anyone recommend any Norfolk-based volunteer opportunities for MLK Day next Monday, January 16? Our family are looking for something to do for the national Day of Service. Thanks! - IP 1/13 9:02pm   I am looking for someone to help my 5th grade Girl Scout troop with jewelry making. Most of the girls have tools, beads and kits but have never had anyone formally teach them how to do things such as crimping. We could truly use someone that will give them the detailed instructions they need to be able to become more proficient and skilled at jewelry making. If you could possibly help, please email me at diana_tohe@comcast.net. - DL 1/13 9:01pm   I am looking for a private SAT/ACT tutor for my son. Does anyone of one? - EMM 1/13 8:59pm   MB, I'm really into techno. Maybe I could help you out. I too am a teenager in high school and as well as playing piano classically for 14 years I have recently been writing my own techno music at home. Maybe I could help out in giving some pointers in the right direction or something. Please let me know if this sounds of interest to you; please have the webmaster contact me. [Use box360@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - MW 1/13 8:57pm   Last year the Town of Norfolk received $192,200 or 39% from the state as a "match" of the Community Preservation funds raised locally. I did make a mistake saying almost all funds were matched. This amount has decreased because there are so many more towns participating in the program and because the number of real estate transactions statewide, is so reduced. Even $192,200 is a lot of money. Hopefully the match % will go up when the real estate market recovers. However the number of communities participating will probably not go down as most towns really appreciate the matching funds even if they aren't 100%. Very few towns have reduced their tax percentage as that reduces the match % even more. The Town bought Highland Lake and 44 surrounding acres to preserve what remains of the large privately owned park that was open there in the early 1900's. The land was being offered for development. I don't recall the number of approved house lots that were part of the parcel but there were several. The goal of the CPC was to preserve the park and to reopen it for public access and use. We are hoping to provide public access, parking, trails, signage, for passive recreation. We are still working on details for an entrance from Campbell St. that will have a walkway, a detailed interpretive sign, and limited parking spaces. Yes, the land has been being used but up until the town bought it, it was all private property. Someone said on this forum "there will always be open space in Norfolk." Really? What kind of open space, just the little pieces no one wants? Are we thinking of the really desirable land that adds character and value to the look and feel of Norfolk for everyone who lives in this town? These parcels are fast disappearing, ie being built on. I hope all citizens will support keeping the CPC fully funded at 3% Lastly, people over 60 years old can be exempt from paying the CPC tax. For a single person the income limit is $57.820. For married people the income limit is $66,080. To apply for this exemption, and to see more details, see the Assessors office. - BP 1/13 8:55pm   Does anyone know of a small hall (like a Knights of Columbus) in the Norfolk/surrounding town area that can be rented for a few hours on a Saturday for a small b-day party? - SG 1/13 8:54pm   The Assessor's page of qVirtualNorfolk.org has some informative postings including ``A Brief Explanation of the Tax Rate Increase for Fiscal Year 2012.'' Property tax adjustments are available for at least the Blind, Seniors, Surviving Spouses and Veterans. Abatement applications must be received by the Assessors Office on or before February 1. - DLJ 1/13 7:28pm   To PB - Nothing would have been built at Highland Lake because the plot of land is not buildable we purchased. The CPC Fund / our tax dollars purchased unbuildable land. The Town has no funds to take care of the Highland Lake land so it sits like it did before but now it does not collect any revenue. In regards to the Frisbee Golf feasibility study that was not an attack on Frisbee Golf. I was pointing out they paid for a feasibility study to see if we could put one in at the Town Dump. Which if the CPC knew the CPA Laws a little better, they would have realized legally they couldn't even build one there with CPC money. So in the end they just wasted our tax dollars needlessly and ordered the study anyway. If you want additional information on this topic refer to their minutes. I also want to call out the poster who stated we save money if we have no development in 2012 in Norfolk. That is a bold face [inaccuracy]. We are in a fiscal crisis in this Town. We have nothing left to shed in regards to the Police and Fire. We have a stable overhead that we incur whether we have the current amount of residents and commercial entities or a moderate increase. Spreading costs / taxes over more households on existing roads or against additional commercial entities will lower taxes plain and simple. Another item I would like to point out is at the last CPC Meeting the CPC unanimously voted to reimburse a land owner for their legal fees that is donating unwanted and unbuildable land to the Town of Norfolk. Why? That serves us as a tax payer no purpose. Are they friends of someone on the board? A $400,000 home in Norfolk has a $1,700+ tax bill each quarter. Yet we have people who fight to keep in place an *Optional Property Tax* that is for a slush fund that has proven to be wasteful and spends fool heartedly. Lastly in regards to Gumps Farm. Purchasing a large plot of land in the center of Town to put ``Affordable Housing'' on is not what happened. That plot of land was purchased because Gumps was going under and came to the Town. Then the developer of the nice new subdivision on the Wrentham side of town doesn't want Affordable Housing near the new subdivision they are building so they stuck it at Gumps. The CPC was just the piggy bank used to keep the affordable housing on that side of the train tracks. - MJG 1/13 7:27pm   To: KB There are federal loan programs available to students of all ages. Start here: studentloans.gov. Of course there are also private loans, but do your research before you commit to any type of funding. Good luck in your academic endeavors! - JT (JT11) 1/13 7:26pm   PB: yes, Highland Lake was slated for some degree of development (7 house lots I recall) that would have sharply limited public access. I too would support additional measures for enhanced access. - JT 1/13 7:25pm   MJS: Good news, the CPA, as adopted by Norfolk, already includes an exemption for Seniors! And, if you are seeking or advocating for further relief from property taxes, the Town (and its Council on Aging) offers and promotes additional tax breaks for seniors. - JT 1/13 7:24pm   PB - Like ALL government entities if they have the money the WILL spend it ...solution take away the money. - PC 1/13 7:23pm   It has been about one year now since we adopted a cat from the Norfolk Shelter. He was the last cat left in the cage and we fell in love with him instantly. Did we ever hit the jackpot! He is what I call the "purrfect" cat. His name is rather unusual. We named him--Kit. If you are contemplating adopting a cat, or a dog, the shelter right here in Norfolk is the place to go. Hilary is tops in the field and takes very good care of all who need her. We are very grateful to have visited her. We exited the shelter with the "purrfect" cat. - WC 1/13 7:22pm   PB: My husband collects and refurbishes/fixes antique violins . You can reach him at 508 520 9803. - AB-G 1/13 7:20pm   At Monday night's meeting re the casino situation, Dan Winslow gave another wonderful talk to encourage resistance to the casino. It's a shame more people didn't come... - AB-G 1/13 7:19pm   A while back someone recommend a dog groomer at the Petsmart in Bellingham. If you're still on the Net, could you confirm that and also let me know if there was someone specific whom you liked. Thanks - AB-G 1/11 4:10pm   Hi there, my name is Mark McGuckian. I'm a local carpenter who takes a lot of pride in my work. My jobs range from decks, trim work, window installs, built-ins and all interior finnish work. If you are interested in hiring me to do some work, I'd be more than happy to help out. I don't charge what a contractor would charge because I know how most people don't have much money right now. You can contact me on 508 440 5119. Thank you, and I hope to hear from you soon - MM 1/11 4:09pm   Perhaps folks who are going through the college financial aid process can answer this question. I want to enroll in school to become a certified horticultural therapist. I need help with the tuition, plus airfare and hotel, etc. Are the same financial aid vehicles and programs available to college-age students also available to adults? Where should I start, besides the school itself? - KB 1/11 4:07pm   Can anyone recommend someone to re-string and possibly refinish a violin. It is an antique and has sentimental value. Thanks in advance. - PB 1/11 4:06pm   I'd like to suggest that any tax paying resident, especially the elderly, who cannot make ends meet, Occupy Town Hall until their taxes are free of the Community Preservation obligation. - MJS 1/11 4:05pm   Can anyone tell me what would have happend if the CPC did not buy Highland Lake. Was it in danger of devolpment, large house boats maybe... Before the CPC bought people would fish there, people would walk their dogs there, even ice fish. Now that I think about it, all those fun things can and are still being enjoyed there. Soooo why did the CPC buy it and what have they done to improve access for us - PB 1/11 4:04pm   Does anyone know of someone local who teaches kids to play the keyboard? I have a teenage son who plays in the marching band and concert band at school but wants to learn the keyboard for fun. He is not interested in classical piano. He would be much more interested in learning to play "techno" music on the keyboard. - MB 1/11 4:01pm   AB-G: I don't think I can give a concrete answer on the question as you posted it. But I'll attempt: If an animal is abandoned, and it is deemed to be healthy and does not pose a threat (showing aggression, bite history, etc) then we will go ahead and give it vaccinations, routine medical work (dental, blood profiles, etc), spay/neuter it and put it through rescue if we cannot adopt it out through our resources. There are hundreds of rescues available in New England alone, and in our ACO "corner" we also have rescues that are there just for AC shelter dogs such as PILOT, Pound Hounds for ACO's, MAC (Massachusetts animal coalition), etc. There are also shelters run by the MSPCA and ARL Boston, foster home situations, and we network shelter to shelter, ACO to ACO to see who has room and who could find a fit for that particular animal. At our disposal, if we have an animal that we are not sure will pass a temperament test, we can access a certified behaviorist/trainer to ascertain if the animal is suitable for adoption. There is a huge network in MA of people who donate their time and expertise. MA law mandates that all stray dogs be held 10 days as it affords their owners a chance to find them. After ten days they are property of the town and then decisions are made as to what will be best for them. However, this law only applies to dogs. In some cases we've had dogs this past year (Happy, a 14 year old abandoned beagle/basset hound, and Max, a 16 year old German Shepherd surrender) leave on day 11 for their new homes with their new owners knowing in advance their limitations and these adopters have taken these animals in with open arms knowing they were providing them their "golden years" home. We've had other dogs stay much longer (such as Rosie, a 2 yr old English Mastiff) who was abandoned in Norfolk and had to be treated three courses for giardia. Her hold was 45 days if I remember correctly. She found a home with a great family in NH through networking with the town's veterinarians. She stayed here because giardia is considered zoonotic; there's a health risk to other animals sending her to another shelter/rescue, and what she needed was just TLC and then off to her new home. Cats are not covered under state law but not being pro active towards them is a huge mistake. Many towns still will not pick up stray cats and that in turn will over populate the area with litter after litter. Being proactive in spay/neuter/vaccinate of strays and or feral cats helps keep disease and over population at bay. If we bring in domestic cats, they will be combo tested, vaccinated, and altered and adopted out on the same guidelines as our dogs. We will not adopt out feral cats. However, if we have grant money for feral cats, or if we can get on the same schedule with the spay wagon, or STOP clinics, we will trap the day before the clinics, combo test, vaccinate, alter and re release the ferals. They can live their lives but no more reproducing. All cat programs are funded through the animal gift account, grants, and through the help of other 501(c)3's. They do not receive funding through the municipal budget as there are no laws that protect them under Ch. 140. If an animal has poor quality of life that cannot be stabilized and has been diagnosed by a veterinarian we will not allow that animal to continue to suffer. Likewise, if an animal is deemed to be a threat to the public by means of aggression, vicious disposition, bite history, etc we will not adopt that animal out. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control 1/11 4:00pm   Several posts have raised questions regarding state prison mitigation money for Norfolk. As I announced at the Spring Town Meeting, I succeeded in having the mitigation payment reinstated in the state budget for the first time in several years. I will try to repeat that success in the upcoming year's budget. According to the DOC, Norfolk received payment in the amount of $88,804.45 on November 28, 2011. Please feel free to contact me at dan@danwinslow.com if you have any questions about this or other state issues. Respectfully, - Dan Winslow, State Representative 1/11 3:58pm   Hi, I have a white toddler bed that was never used and in great condition. I am asking $35. Please email at lauriejt12@gmail.com. Mattress not included. - LT 1/9 4:08pm   A reminder that Norfolk Baseball's Winter Training Clinics start this Saturday and are filling up fast. The clinics are held at Extra Innings in Wrentham and are taught by Extra Innings professional instructors with help from Norfolk Baseball volunteers. Clinics run for 6 consecutive weeks starting this Saturday January 14th and focus on hitting, throwing and fielding. The clinics are an excellent opportunity for players to shake off the winter rust and get ready for tryouts and the spring season. All athletes participating in the clinics will receive a 2012 Winter Training T-shirt. Click here for more information. To register, click here or on the Register Online page at www.norfolkbaseball.com. Please direct any questions to TrainingDirector@norfolkbaseball.com. Registration is also open for our spring T-Ball, Little League and Babe Ruth seasons. To register, click here or on the Register Online page. Remember that payment for all Norfolk Baseball programs is due when registering. Families registering multiple players for spring season programs will automatically receive a $25 discount for each subsequent registration. - DL, Norfolk Baseball 1/9 4:05pm   Youth Girls skis & boots and Youth Girls snowboard and boots for sale! Please contact me for more information. klenkalex@comcast.net. - KK 1/9 4:04pm   Hilary, what happens to the animals that no one claims and that no one adopts? - AB-G 1/9 3:54pm   Does anyone need a full time nanny for summer 2012? My name is Taylor Blake. I am 18 years old and I will be graduating KP High School this May. You can visit my profile at www.sittercity.com. All you have to do is go to the bottom of the page and click "Find Babysitters & Nannies" and then put in Norfolk's zip. If you are interested, please email me at tayb923@hotmail.com. Thanks! - TB 1/9 3:53pm   THANK YOU: My mom came a long way for a family celebration, after the time in the car she wanted for a walk. She remembered that beautiful huge grassy vista we enjoy, so we went. Along the way she dropped a fancy scarf. She said "oh it's gone forever," I said "no, the people here are so kind and love this place too - I bet it will be hanging off a branch by the trailhead by tomorrow. It was! Someone made a branch into a pole and lay it there. Thank you Norfolk! It was a present and she felt bad to have lost it so soon. - MN 1/7 6:25pm   Need pictures? I'm a Norfolk photographer who is out of work and looking to make some side scratch. I specialize in real estate and hyper-realistic landscape photography, but can do people, objects, etc to suit your needs. I am flexible in pricing and can produce prints up to 24"x36" if needed. www.AndyCalnan.com for examples, please email me and we can discuss your project. clamroll@gmail.com - AC 1/7 6:23pm   A question for those in the know ~ my tax bill jumped by about 15% over last quarter which seems like an outrageous increase quarter over quarter within the same fiscal year. Can someone enlighten me as to why this is happening? - MM 1/7 6:21pm   Don't forget to go to the Casino meeting at 7 on Monday night at the Olive Day School. - JHR 1/7 6:20pm   Last call for tickets. King Philip Pride Softball fundraiser Bus Trip to Foxwoods Casino. Sat 1/28/2012 (no football!) bus leaves PAL athletic complex in Plainville at 4pm. $50 per ticket includes Luxury Peter Pan coach Bus ride (you can bring drinks/food on bus- just no glass), $10 food voucher, $10 keno voucher. Bus Leaves Foxwoods at 11pm to return home. It could be your lucky night! Please email me ASAP if interested. pamandy@comcast.net - PB 1/7 6:19pm   You're right, JT. Nobody should knock Frisbee Golf unless they've tried it. It adds a bit of fun and camaraderie to the usual walk in the woods - and it's a game where your kids have a good chance of beating you. - AL 1/7 6:16pm   February 1st is the last day to register for the Spring 2012 season. Please register your children for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer today! Registration for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer SPRING 2012 is now being accepted - Registration is ON-LINE only. All games are played in Norfolk on Sunday afternoons. NLYS is open to boys and girls age 3 (by September 1, 2011) thru grade 12. You do not have to live in Norfolk to join in on the fun! This Spring season we will be placing U9 (grades 2 & 3) players onto ALL Girl and ALL Boy teams. Visit the website www.norfolklionssoccer.com to register. Registration DEADLINE is February 1, 2012 - (after February 1st, players will be added to a Wait List and will only be placed onto a team, with a $50 Late Fee, should a space on a team become available) - Avoid disappointment and Register Early! Financial Assistance is available - for more information email norfolklionssoccer@verizon.net Like Us at Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer on Facebook. - HK 1/7 6:15pm   The Norfolk Public Library offers a wide variety of FREE after-school programs for kids of all ages. Upcoming programs include improvisational theater games, a Chinese New Year celebration, floral arranging, crafts, book discussion groups, and more! Many programs require registration. To learn more or to register for programs, please visit [Library Youth Services page] - Amy Lang, Youth Services Librarian, Norfolk Public Library 1/7 6:12pm   The Open Burning season will be starting on Sunday, January 15th. You may start filing for your permit Saturday, January 7th. To obtain your free permit, the Department will again be using the on-line permit process. You may go to the Town's website and click on the "Online Burning Permit Available 1/7" link, posted just below the Town Seal. Once you have completed the Permit application, we would remind you to print a copy of the Permit as a reference. This is important when you call the day you wish to burn as your Permit Number will be needed for the Department's records. Should you be unable to apply for your permit on-line, please come to the Public Safety building. A dedicated computer will again be made available in the lobby. If assistance is needed to file the Permit, please ask to speak with the on-duty firefighter staff, who will be glad to help out. Please note last year the DEP added the air quality index to the daily authorization to burn. Each day the on-duty fire officer checks the DEP site to ensure we as the Department can authorize open burning given atmospheric conditions. I would encourage anyone with questions or comments regarding open burning to please call the station, 508-528-3207 and ask to speak with me. The Department wishes everyone a safe open burning season. - Coleman C. Bushnell, Fire Chief, Norfolk Fire Department 1/5 5:55pm   LL, you prove my point in your first sentence, regarding the sweeping and patching of roads for the PAN/MASS Challenge. The town should be maintaining our roads for the safety of the town residents. It is those residents who pay the taxes to keep the roads safe. Seekonk, Needham, and North Streets have a great deal of "local" bicycle traffic every day (in good weather). My question was... why, only when PAN/MASS riders are using our streets, do they get much needed repairs? What message does that send to the town taxpayers, who suffer the dangerous bumps and cracks on those streets on a daily basis? Who makes the ultimate decision that the roads are not enough of a safety hazzard for taxpayer-bicyclists, but need safety improvements when PAN/MASS is coming to town ? Either the roads are safe for bicycles, or they're not. Should repairs only be made when an important group of (mostly) non-Norfolk residents is going to use them for a few hours? I too believe that PAN/MASS is a wonderful, important event. I am a generous donor. I agree with your point that these streets would be in even worse condition, if not for PAN/MASS. My point is that any decision to spend money on road safety repairs, should be made in the interest of town residents. Otherwise, it gives the appearance of catering only to outsiders. Lastly, I know, as we all do, that our roads are deteriorating. We don't have the funds to fix them all at once. There is no easy fix, as we learned a few years ago when we voted for extra taxes which were to be used strictly for road repair/maintenance. Even those funds were not going to effect a fast fix, but they would have given us more money for better maintenance. Those funds are now just going into the general fund. Our Selectmen should be allocating ALL of those funds to road repairs, as promised to taxpayers. To make the excuse that "Oops, we didn't know that those funds couldn't be earmarked for roads, so now we can use them for anything", is just plain wrong. They still have the ability apply those $$ to road maintenance if they choose to. As a taxpayer, that would be my choice, because it's the "right thing to do". - JR 1/5 5:54pm   A senior black lab with an electronic collar was picked up today at the corner of Diamond and Union. If you own him please call Animal Control at (508) 440 2816. On a separate note, I no longer am hosting a web page for animal control through Verizon due to expense and the amount of time it took to update. Norfolk Animal Control and Shelter is now on Facebook. If you'd like to see what's going on in our world, see what animals are up for adoption, lost animals that I've picked up, fund raisers, Norfolk animals in the media, pet tips, micro chip clinics, etc, please like us on Facebook. Our link is: [facebook link] or search for us Norfolk Massachusetts Animal Control and Shelter. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control 1/5 5:53pm   Are you looking for a MATH TUTOR for your K-8 student? Please visit my website for more information. [page link References available upon request. Email andraj22@yahoo.com or call 857-231-1827 - AC 1/5 5:52pm   Saw on Fox News this morning that Trader Joes will be opening at Patriots Place this year! Great news!! - RC 1/5 5:51pm   MG, I am not gonna tout my bona fides on this forum but, suffice to say, I can assure you that I know a thing or two about municipal budgets; and I am confident that you are quite wrong in your assertion that residential development is a net positive. Curious about your assertion about Gumps dragging on for years. The purchase is a year old and will result in four affordable houses, open space, recreational opportunities and a community garden. You also seem to forget that we purchased Highland Lake, which has tremendous recreational, conservation and historical value. And, if our CPC is smart and aggressive, we can pursue and preserve at least two valuable farms and several large developable swaths of forest, for which a 3 percent CPA surcharge would be vital. In addition to the savings we'd realize, we'd be preserving our environment, quality of life and local heritage. Looking at other similarly situated towns that have robust preservation programs, we'd also be enhancing our respective home values. And as to frisbee golf, I'm not sure I'd want to spend public dollars on it, but don't knock it til you try it! - JT 1/5 5:50pm   SH - So very sorry to read of your loss of Ben. Know that many of us are thinking of your and your family. - KT 1/5 5:49pm   Sorry to interject such a trivial matter when the wheels are coming off, but a while back someone was looking for a good haircut, and I had said she wouldn't find that around here. However, there's a salon called Maryann Geyser, right next to the Job Lot in Medway where I got an excellent cut from Heather, the best one I've had in a year. She was very attentive and gave me just what I asked for. The salon itself is spacious and very well appointed. They even give you cookies and coffee or tea! - AB-G 1/5 5:48pm   Yard cleanups. Winter pruning. Brush removal. Dump runs. Discounted winter rates. Call Steve for estimate 508-541-7813 - CD 1/5 5:47pm   The Norfolk Cultural Council is sponsoring a Juried Art Competition at the Norfolk Public Library March 3rd to March 31st. A reception with awards, art, music and refreshments will be held on March 10th from 5-7PM. The competition is open to all artists; cash awards will be presented for the top ten pieces of art. A non-refundable entry fee ($15 for one entry, $20 for a maximum of two entries) made payable to the Norfolk Cultural Council is required to be considered for the juried competition. Applications may be sent with the payment (check or money order) from January 16th through and including February 3rd. Artists will be notified of their accepted artwork for the juried competition by February 9th via email or phone. Further information and an application may be requested by contacting norfolk2012@gmail.com. - RT 1/5 5:46pm   To MG: If you are upset about land that the Town purchased with CPC funds, then your beef is not with the CPC, but with the majority of residents who voted to purchase the land. I am not aware of any swamp land that the Town purchased, could you be more specific. CPC maintains a list of properties in Town it feels would best preserve the Town's character. It is a short list. There is no land grab. I applaud you for getting involved, there are too many people who do nothing but complain and never get involved. For as long as I have lived here, development has always been an issue. The reason Norfolk is mostly residential is because that's the way most folks here like it. - DC 1/5 5:45pm   The Norfolk Board of Selectmen, jointly with Representative Dan Winslow, will hold an informational meeting to discuss the impact of a casino on Norfolk. This meeting will be held at the H. Olive Day School Gymnasium, 232 Main Street, Norfolk on Monday, January 9, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. All residents are invited to attend. - JH, Town of Norfolk 1/5 5:44pm   Our Board of Selectmen will have a casino discussion with the public January 9 at 7 PM in the H. Olive Day School Gym. - DLJ 1/5 5:43pm   The shelter has gone to the birds. Literally. Is anyone missing a white crested black Polish hen? I picked one up today down by Old Coach and Lafayette. Very friendly and hanging out in the shelter. If you own, or know who may own, please call my officer 508 440 2816. Thank you! - Hilary Cohen, Norfolk Animal Control 1/4 5:15pm   Craft Drop-in at Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary; saturdays in January. Ages: all ages. Cost: $1 per person. Stop by the Nature Center any time between 10am and 2pm and make your own craft from recycled/reused materials! Make a different craft each session, collect them all! Thank you, - Marla Cohen, Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary 1/4 5:14pm   JT - I agree with you in regards to the viability of a CPC and the overall benefit to a town as it relates to taxes when a CPC spends wisely, and I would say that the majority would agree as well, hence we passed the CPC tax based in part of reasons you stated. The CPC meeting minutes show they are looking to build 3 houses on the property now known as Gumps? I will vote to reduce the tax in May. With the remaining 1% the CPC can continue to fund the small projects for the various requests they get from town boards and committees. We are not voting to abolish the CPC but to reduce the tax. BP of the CPC posted on 1/2 "The fund has grown because nearly all the funds raised have been matched by the state". I take issue with that statement. The state has NOT been matching funds for over 4 years. Meaning we USED to get 3% from the State when they were matching, the % has declined dramatically since 2007. If your bored out of your skull go to [commpres.env.state.ma.us page] and start to read. - LS 1/4 5:13pm   SH, So sorry to hear about Ben. We have two dogs, and are very attached to them, even when they are being naughty, which is often! It's always tough losing a pet (best friend), but especially in those circumstances. May I make a friendly suggestion; don't wait too long to get another dog. There is nothing to feel guilty about, and there are plenty of dogs out there in need of a home. When we lost our dog of 16 years, it wasn't long before we got Zoe (a beautiful yellow lab puppy who is now 6), and we have no regrets. Sorry for your loss. - PMM 1/4 5:12pm   Dear KE, AB-G and PN (and anyone else that I missed), Thanks so much for your words of comfort regarding Ben. Only other dog lovers would understand the grief. Your kindness is much appreciated. - SH 1/4 5:11pm   To JT: First let me quote you "I would be the first to argue that our CPC should be more proactive in securing valuable lands." To anyone who doesn't really see what the CPC is about this is it. It isn't about affordable housing, it isn't about historical perseveration, it is about "tak(ing) prime lands out of play for development" with your tax dollars. Why is the CPC's land grab a problem our tiny Town? 1. JT and CPC Supporters have no idea how our Town budget works. In our Town budget or any Municipal budget other than Detroit, Michigan a certain amount of growth is factored in. If you halt growth, you increase the tax burden on those who are currently paying them. We are in the neighborhood of 94% residential so that means your Property Taxes will continue to go up at the MAXIMUM amount which does not even meet inflation, so further Town services have to be cut each year. 2. Modest development does not cost the Town extra dollars; in fact it brings in revenue. The roads are built, fire/police at this time is a fixed cost, the schools we have already incurred costs on/paying for and enrollment is down. However, permits, development fees, additional tax paying entities all bring in more revenue. This is basic economics. The CPC isn't going anywhere, the people of Norfolk have an opportunity to roll back the 3% tax to 1% in the May election this year, so it will still collect money an also still has over $400,000 in the bank. And for DC: I have been to meetings for the CPC and most recently I volunteered on the Gumps Farm planning committee (I did this strictly to be a voice of reason to push against the purposed band shell and public restrooms, both items we cannot afford to maintain). I am speaking from firsthand experience. The mantra is always what can we buy next or how can we spend what we have. Since 2001 the CPC has been collecting 3% on our property taxes, and what do we have to show for it? We purchased land that no one wanted that could never be built (swamp land) that used to have tax revenue coming in from it, we tore up the center of Town with both the Grange and Gumps which have dragged on for years and will continue, we ordered countless feasibility studies including the now famous Frisbee Golf at the town dump survey, etc. I for one am tired of empty promises that giving my money to a group of people will save our Town, the only thing I see happening is it will bankrupt it. Before a response is given in support of the CPC please understand it is not going away it will still be there collecting 1% if the measure is passed. We have laid of public sectors employees over and over, cut services and cannot maintain what we currently have in Town, why should the CPC be immune to cuts as well? - MG 1/4 5:10pm   On January 9th at 7 PM in the H Olive Day cafeteria ( where we vote) there will be an informational meeting regarding the casino sitution in Foxboro. Remember that within an 8 mile radius of the proposed location of the casino complex, most if not almost all the homes are in Norfolk and South Walpole, not Foxboro. Please attend! - AB-G 1/4 5:09pm   JT, I couldn't disagree with you more. At the end of the day CPC needs to be disbanded. They serve no purpose in Norfolk. As one post stated Norfolk's location is not a magnet for commercial development, as a result there will always be open space in Norfolk. I like the idea that the tax be optional, if you want to pay the extra 3% in property taxes it's your right, if you don't why should I be forced to do so. These are hard times and monies are tight this recession will plague this country for many years to come I don't want to pay the 3% additional property taxes to the CPC. Norfolk is in this financial mess because our government officials including the Advisory Board another board that needs house cleaning couldn't control their thirst for tax and spend the past decade, resulting in the high taxes Norfolk residents are faced with for years to come. What we should have been doing is putting monies away for times like this!! - DM 1/4 5:08pm   Please let EF know that I would love to let the rabbits live indoors but due to my severe allergies I am unable. This is the only way my girls can have the bunnies. We belong to a 4H club with other rabbit owners whose rabbits are all housed outdoors so we can learn the best ways to handle the situation. I do allow the girls to bring them in to exercise and play. I just cannot touch them or be in the same room. Thank you for your thoughts EF. - PRB 1/4 5:07pm   There is an online petition which is being circulated through Foxboro, Walpole, Norfolk, and Wrentham which asks Mr. Kraft to withdraw the proposal. Here is the link. [petition link] If you agree, please sign and forward it an email to your friends too. Thank you! - SD 1/4 5:06pm   To MG and others- While I don't know the details of all the CPC activities and understand that we're all struggling financially in this economy (and a frisbee park sounds strange - is that for real?), I urge you to not be hasty in pushing for the elimination of this tax. MG commented that the CPC indicated they want to purchase Jane and Paul's farm when they retire. I certainly hope the town does. Because if a developer buys it, our town will not be the same. Hundreds and hundreds of homes could be built on that land, changing the fabric of our town and neighborhoods, and demanding more town services (police, fire, schools) which we would all end up paying for in new taxes anyway. I agree that certain recent purchases are a mystery (I still don't understand what the Grange is for, and I hate to see Gumps looking the way it is), but perhaps there is a long term strategy for preserving this town that's best served by keeping the CPC tax intact. - JT 1/4 5:05pm   KE: Everything you say is probably true. Nevertheless, I think Mr. Kraft has the earned the right to put forward his proposal before we shoot it down. - RM 1/3 8:14pm   As many of you know, there are some efforts being made by Robert Kraft and Steve Wynn to build a resort casino on the land across from Patriot Place. This land borders neighborhoods in Norfolk and South Walpole, both of whom would be greatly impacted by such a project. Beyond these residents, surrounding towns would be impacted by an increased demand on services such as police, fire and school systems without any of the financial reward that Foxboro will receive. Casinos bring temporary jobs during the construction phase but are then known to provide mostly low paying positions to locals thereafter. The Foxboro Selectmen voted 3-2 last week to end discussions with Kraft and Wynn, and to reinforce that message a petition is circulating asking them to look elsewhere for a location to build. If you have a moment and are so inclined, please click on the link and sign the petition. A message will be delivered to Mr. Kraft stating that a casino is not wanted in this area. I appreciate your support. [petition page] - KE 1/3 8:13pm   MJG & MD: I think you're being a little harsh on the CPC. Look at all they've accomplished in five and a half years with our tax dollars with the Grange (and they actually contemplated asking for more money for that...) - PA 1/3 8:12pm   SH -- I am so sorry for your loss. We have two beloved dogs and I am in tears reading your post. My thoughts are with you and your family. - KE 1/3 8:11pm   Looking for someone to fix cracks in basement floor and seal coat/paint it. - DWL 1/3 8:10pm   How awful to have lost your Ben like that; I am so, so sorry. When they're sick, you can say goodbye, but when they go lost, I suppose the only consolation is to at least have their remains rather than to never know their fate... Yes, he is most definitely in a better place. - AB-G 1/3 8:09pm   Norfolk Democrats to elect delegates to state convention: These elected convention delegates vote on candidates for 2012 U. S. Senate Democratic primary. Democrats in Norfolk will be holding a caucus at The Norfolk Town Library at 139 Main Street, Norfolk, MA 02056 on February 11, 2012 at 12:30 to elect 5 delegates and 3 alternates to the 2012 Massachusetts Democratic Convention, where Democrats from across Massachusetts will select candidates to compete for the Democratic nomination for U. S. Senate. The convention will be held on Saturday, June 2, 2012 at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield. This is going to be an exciting year as we build on our recent successes and prepare for the elections in 2012 commented Massachusetts Democratic Party Chairman John Walsh. Caucuses are the first step in building a community organizing strategy for victory. They give people an opportunity to become part of the local effort. The caucus is open to all registered Democrats in Norfolk, and the Democratic Committee warmly welcomes participants. Delegates will be divided equally between men and women, and all ballots will be written and in secret. In the spirit of inclusion, youth, minorities, and people with disabilities who are not elected as delegates or alternates may apply to be add-on- delegates. Details on the rules can be found at www.massdems.org. The committee normally meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at the Norfolk town Library. For more information on the caucus or the committee please contact Jim Giebfried at jrgieb@juno.com - JG 1/3 8:08pm   Happy New Year everyone from Leashrly Life!! If you need help with your pets, we'd love to assist!! Leashrly Life will come to your home and care for your beloved friend(s). We offer a number of affordable services from pet sitting to dog walking, group hiking excursions and one-to-one personalized obedience trainings. Experienced, loving care by professionals you can trust. References are available. Fully insured and bonded. All animals are welcomed! Call 781-241-2083, visit www.leashrlylife.com or email info@leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life 1/3 8:07pm   MN, As to the prison mitigation money, neither the math nor the timeline supports the conclusion that the decline in prison mitigation money caused a big "jump" in your taxes. Nevertheless, when "our" Rep. Winslow is done dodging questions about his hypocrisy over local casinos, I too am hopeful that he will resume efforts to restore the prison mitigation money. As to commercial tax revenue somehow "balancing" taxes, I wouldn't quite hitch my wagon to that cart. As we know, Norfolk's location does not lend itself to being a magnet for commercial development. And while some incremental growth could be accommodated, don't expect a panacea. Look at Mansfield, which has had major commercial development but still can't find a way to fund its schools or basic gov't functions. As to the CPA haters, I would be the first to argue that our CPC should be more proactive in securing valuable lands and other projects but, even discounting the plain quality of life improvements that we enjoy from the CPC, it can be readily demonstrated that, when used properly, a 3% surcharge is more than offset by the savings realized when we take prime lands out of play for development. That is, given increases in costs for school, roads, police, fire, water (etc.) associated with new development, we are ahead of the game if we maximize our CPA funds (and the State match). And, then, when factoring in the multitude of benefits that we enjoy from having more open space, more historical resources and more affordable housing, a robust and fully funded CPA is a must, in my humble opinion. I encourage everyone to vote to save it this May. - JT 1/3 8:06pm   I have some rotted wood on the exterior of my house that needs to be replaced. Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thank you, - TSD 1/3 8:05pm   I just bought a new 27 ton log splitter. If any Norfolk residents want to rent it for $50 per day please call me. I will drop it off and pick it up. Thanks, Rob 508-989-7913 - RA 1/3 8:04pm   Does anyone know what the CPC has bought since 2001? I would love to know what I'm spending my money on, and I would love to take my family to these locations so we can enjoy the land we are "saving." - PB 1/3 8:02pm   Stop sign down on Diamond St. & Union St., Jan. 2nd. 2012. Starting the year out ... right? Okay, this looks about right. Well, usual anyway.... Sad. Speeding cars on a narrow little scenic side street filled with pavement cracks and small animals scurrying out of the way of irresponsible drivers, and even neighbors, like me, trying to take a mellow walk... and what do I find? Yeah... someone was actually going fast enough to take this stop sign down!! Hey folks, 30 miles an hour is obviously too fast for someone!! Slow the .... down, will you, PLEASE! What's the matter? Are you in such a hurry that you cannot take in the view and at least look where your car is going? Pretty pathetic way to start the New Year!! Someone do something about this!! - PRR 1/3 7:59pm   MJG, if you dont like the things CPC spends money on, attend their meeting and provide input. I don't disagree with you about the frisbee golf, but that idea likely came from someone who attended the meeting. I bet that person did not think it was a waste of his/her tax dollars. What would you like to see the CPC money spent on? I place a high value on open space and support the CPC tax for that reason. I moved to Norfolk 20 years ago because it reminded me of where I grew up in western North Carolina. Every time we develop a vacant piece of land, we lose open space and displace the wildlife that lives there. Look what happened to Shire Industrial Park. The land was clear cut and divided into commercial lots. Most of those lots are still vacant and the owner is not paying taxes on them. Whether you were born here or moved here, my guess is that you like the Town's character the way it is. I don't care if Norfolk is the next Dover, but I don't want it to become the next Dedham. - DC 1/3 7:58pm   To BP - How exactly does buying unbuildable land that can never be developed that currently has tax revenue benefit or preserve the Town? How did paying for a Frisbee Golf feasibility study on the Town Dump (which by the way couldn't be done anyway because it violates the CP Law) benefit or preserve the Town? How does at your most recent meeting unanimously voting to reimburse legal costs associated with someone trying to get rid of unwanted land benefit or preserve the Town? At the last Town Meeting CPC Board Members are recorded asking if commercially zoned property on Route 1A can be purchased by the CPC. CPC Members are recorded at the Town Meeting stating they want to pay for Jane and Paul's retirement by purchasing their farm. How far do we really want to take this? How many hundreds of thousands of dollars does our tiny town want to fork over to purchase land in the name of preservation? If this is path we have taken we should just all sell our backyards to the CPC at top dollar and make the town mow them. - MG 1/3 7:57pm   To PRB--why not house your rabbits indoors? If spayed/neutered, they can easily be litter box trained, they are impeccably clean, and if given lots of toys, will actually play and be quite social (my guys love baby keys and stacking blocks). I have 3 rabbits living in an upstairs bedroom and they wander other parts of the home during the day. They are safe from predators, escapes, fly strike (maggots) and weather extremes. They never go outside--they have all they need indoors with a mainly hay diet and fresh greens during the week and ample run around time. They are aged 7.5, 9 and 10 and are still going strong. If you are interested in learning more about making a transition to the indoors (it's really easy), have the Wm give you my e-mail address. If there are other animals in the home, they can do fine with them. My cat was more afraid of my rabbits than the rabbits were of him. - EF 1/3 7:55pm   SH: Sorry to hear about Ben. Our family (including two young children), kept a watchful eye out every day looking around as we ran errands and such around town. We had hoped to see him and bring him home. Our thoughts are with you. - PN 1/2 7:44pm   Re: "The Big Enchilada" rather than sifting small parts of our budget & tax burden and those we voted yes for (new school) - what is going on with the 3/4 of a million we lost from the state for "prison mitigation"? Aside from the Freeman construction bump, that's when my taxes really jumped. I heard our Winslow made some inroads w the Patrick admin, is that just being polite? For a town w very very little commercial tax revenue, we seem vulnerable to any big hit. I imagine a downtown sewer project would be daunting number$ for for us to take on? I do realize the town changes as all towns do. With Rt 115 finally done, what's the 5 or even 10 year plan to balance the taxes. I don't see Southwood being developed anytime soon. Just curious about that stuff. One more thought: even if I don't ever agree w you, please come to town meeting. Last meeting one vote was something like 29/36 - my side lost but I was more embarrassed for us as a town that so few cared. Thanks for your time. - MN 1/2 7:42pm   The CPC or Community Preservation Committee's purpose is to preserve the look and feel of our town for ourselves and future citizens. This means preserving farms, woods lakes and views around town. How much development do we want in Norfolk, how much land do we want to preserve? Many years ago, as a result of excellent town planning, Norfolk leaders instituted zoning that helped to preserve our still fairly rural town. The CPA legislation that is the law of Massachusetts allows towns to voluntarily set aside funds to be spent on only land preservation, Historic preservation, creation of affordable housing and recreation. This is also excellent town planning. The money can't be taken to be used for police, fire, education, or general government. This is the good part or the bad part depending on your point of view. It allows town voters to have some funds, and to accumulate funds for conservation and preservation purposes. Norfolk passed the Community Preservation Act in 2001 and Norfolk has accumulated some funds to put toward these purposes. The fund has grown because nearly all the funds raised have been matched by the state and because we have been careful how we recommend spending it. Some of the projects have been voted down at Town meeting; the CPC doesn't spend any money without a vote of the town. If you are in favor of being able to control the future of your town, you should support the CPC 3% tax in the future. Someone said this was a good ole boys club serving special interests? what? special interests like conservation, preservation, housing and recreation, maybe that's what he meant. It was also suggested that this cause is supported only by the wealthy. What? Affordable housing isn't just for the wealthy and preserving our existing old architecture isn't just for the wealthy, having open space protected and recreation for all isn't just for the wealthy. The committee is made up of volunteers from 4 different boards in town and representatives from each district. The CPC meets on the 3rd Wednesday at town hall. We look for your support and we welcome your input. - BP, CPC 1/2 7:41pm   MJG, I AGREE WITH YOU 100%! The CPC tax must go. When I got my property tax bill I got dizzy. This town is out of control, there is already talk of a push for a new public safety building. This is a small town with NO commercial tax base to speak of. The small number of residential homes cannot support the big ideas of a liberal town government. I for one am going to sell my property as soon as I can get a decent price. I can rent a luxury apartment and pocket $7000 in property taxes per year. The idea of retiring and staying in my home is longer an option. - MG 1/2 7:39pm   Items that need a new home: Used Pearl Drum set with Zildjian cymbals (200$) Large Armoire (White washed original--wood) (Best Offer) Large cut glass punch bowl with platter and 12 cups and ladle Schwinn Air-dyne exercise bike (Best offer) Thomasville TV cabinet (cherry) with glass case and shelves for either side (about 57" tall and 7 feet wide) (Best offer) White Pali four drawer baby chest of drawers (Free) Patio table (round glass) and 4 chairs (Best offer) Two color TVs with built in DVD players (Toshiba 22" and Magnavox 19") Both in great working condition. (Free) Please call 508-541-6305 or email to nelsonml@comcast.net - JN 1/2 7:32pm   The King Philip Parents' Network will hold a kick-off planning meeting for the 2012 All Night Party on Wednesday, January 18th, 2012 (snow date January 19th) in the KP High School library at 7:00 p.m. The All Night Party is a 22-year-old tradition that keeps graduates safe on the night of graduation. Over 100 parent volunteers are needed to help decorate, set-up and chaperone the party. Raffle tickets will be sold at the meeting for prizes such as front row seats and premiere parking at graduation. For more information about the All Night Party, please visit the KP Parents' Network website at kpparentnetwork.org. - GA 1/2 7:26pm   Hi, Sadly, we found Ben's body yesterday and have brought him home. I want to thank all our neighbors - Rob and Sue, Myles and Elizabeth, Steve and Lorraine and Dan and Erika for all their love, help and support. A special thanks to Zack and Carl Ziegler and Chris Shea, who discovered Ben and helped us retrieve his body and bring him home. And a most special thanks to Hillary Cohen, our Animal Control Officer, who did so much to help us. She was in frequent contact and full of good ideas. She was supportive and did so much to get the word out on our missng boy. Ben is safe and at peace now and thanks to all who helped us so much - SH 1/2 7:23pm   The following is a reprint of a letter that was sent two years ago to the editors of The Boomerang and The Sun Chronicle: To the Editor: For the past nearly sixteen years, it has been my responsibility within the school district to recommend and implement routine and emergency maintenance procedures and capital projects at our town's two elementary school buildings. Our record in respect to the above has been thoroughly examined (read scrutinized) by the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The district is proud of the fact that, in calculating the reimbursement rate for the proposed replacement of the Freeman Centennial School, the Authority chose to award us one Incentive Point in the category of "Best Practices for Routine and Capital Maintenance". Each Point is equal to 1% of the project cost, and in this case amounts to some $325,000 that the state will be providing due solely to our past maintenance practices. We feel that this independent affirmation of the effectiveness of our maintenance and capital program is at odds with suggestions that the Freeman Centennial has not been properly maintained in recent years. Toby Lyons Supervisor of Buildings Norfolk Public Schools - TL 1/2 7:09pm   One way to avoid the big special interest crowd attendance at town meeting is to use a lottery system to determine the order of items to be discussed. No one will know what time to show up for the controversial ones. Quite inconvenient, but effective and fair. - MJS 1/1 9:04pm   Hi Webmaster, I just wanted to let you know that we have won Angies List Super Service Award for 2011. Happy New Year. Congratulations on accepting the 2011 Super Service Award! Repele Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning has won the Angie's List's Super Service Award in the following category(s): Carpet Cleaning Your certificate should arrive in the next few weeks! Please check your company profile to make sure we have the right mailing address. Don't forget to add the 2011 Super Service Award Web Badge to your company website - It's FREE! Just sign in to access the code. 2010 Super Service Award [...] Congratulations again! Angie's List Business Center Regards, - Terry O'Brien, Repele Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning [Congratulations on a job well done! - Wm.] 1/1 8:58pm   For DR: Good for you! As for the tax rates, I laughed ruefully. My neighbor says he heard someone at a TM say they wanted N to be "more Doveresque". So I guess we surpassed them in one ( and only one) respect. Oh, if only I could have afforded to buy in Medfield when I rented there. As for the sidewalks... talk about the Bridge to Nowhere! Just how many people are going to be walking back and forth across 115 @ 1A, or on the new partial sidewalks? Recreational walkers? I don't see them. They could more pleasantly and safely walk around the fields on 115. For MJG: I didn't get the sunscreen reference at first either. I think he/she means that it's something so important, you buy it no matter whether or not you can afford it. For DM, so right you are about the General (slush?) Fund as well as your other points. Money's supposed to stay in there only a year, unless it goes for something else, is that right? (I assume you are prepared for a salvo from one or more indignant town officials.) Re TM, it is so true that the specials interests do show up in droves, as is their right, and have their way (then jump up and walk out) because there is such poor attendance! This MUST stop. Which brings me, last buit not least, to my friend TEM, about whom I was wondering just the other day, not having seen your posts recently (I am NOT being sarcastic). I was interested to learn the compostion of the approximate 50%. It would be good to know how that breaks down. Do you have that? I knew that there are many corporations which pay no Fed tax, notably among them GE, the CEO of which spends a lot of time at the White... well, you know. Actually, as far as paying one's taxes, as a retired municipal employee (not worker) I pay no state tax since I never had a payroll tax to pay and earned no SS benefit there . Had I paid at another where I earned the 14 quarters, I still would receive only a small amount of SS, due to my lavish pension (now I AM sarcastic). Well, at least the sun is out today. Happy New Year; may it be better than the last! - AB-G 1/1 8:53pm   Weider 8630 For Sale. Get that New Years resolution off to a great start. Weider 8630 Home Gym for sale, excellent condition. $150 firm. Will need to pick up. Norfolk area. Sean. (617) 229 8163 - SN 1/1 8:47pm   Does anyone have an outside rabbit cage they are not using. We are looking to replace the hutch our bunny escaped from. Thank you! - PRB 1/1 8:46pm   Happy New Year! Previous Archive, 2011 Q4 Home