Q4 2005 Norfolknet Notes, Oct-Dec 2005

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  • 12/31 11:05pm PC wrote... "All our spending has caught up with us... How can fixed incomes live here?" The short answer is, 'We can't'. The long answer is... We've lived in town for several decades since the time when it was truly small and rural with several working farms and when horses were still used for getting around. Earning 9-thousand dollars a year was a good salary back then. Over the years, we've helped our town grow by attending Town Meetings, voting intelligently, joining organizations, contributing to Town causes, and fighting SLUDGE (Remember that one?). By today's standards, we live in one of the smallest houses in town (less than 1000 square feet) where the land is worth much more than the dwelling sitting upon it. We're now retired and hope to be able to stay in the town we love and in the house we helped build. But it's getting more difficult to stretch our fixed income to meet the ever increasing cost of living. We do our best to monitor spending within our household and within our Town by not voting for the emotional things that are 'wanted' and, instead, voting for what's 'needed'. Unfortunately, our "NO" votes on voting day and at meetings always seem to be greatly outnumbered. Apathy and poor voting decisions by an affluent populace over several decades have brought us all to where we are today... complaining about the high tax rate here on NorfolkNet. Happy New Year to everyone here on NorfolkNet!...
    - RP

  • 12/31 8:55pm Diamond Pet Foods has recalled three brands of dog food, sold under the names Diamond, Country Value and Professional.
    Authorities say aflatoxin, a chemical byproduct from a fungal growth on corn and other crops, was found in a product made at a Diamond plant in South Carolina.
    Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning include sluggishness or lethargy combined with a reluctance to eat, yellowish tint to the eyes or gums, and severe or bloody diarrhea.
    [ABC news]
    Not all of Diamond's dog food products are subject to the recall; details can be found on Diamond's home page at diamondpet.com, with detailed product identification [here].
    - RH

  • 12/31 8:52pm Just have to say LOVE the clock! I saw the same ones in Medfield and Westwood recently and they are pretty classy. Do we need it? I guess not, but we don't need the gazebo, beautiful stone walls and brick walks, pond street fields or new library either - however, they sure add to our growingly attractive little town! Happy New Year!
    - NS

  • 12/31 6:43pm Re: The new clock. Do we really need a clock on the Town Hall, the Federated Church and the new one at the roundabout? I think not. Time flies by fast enough without being assaulted with it. HAPPY NEW YEAR NORFOLK.
    - JW

  • 12/31 6:42pm JO: I agree with you completely about our wonderful Web Master Andras. He does a great job with our link to Norfolk. Hip Hip Hooray. Keep up the good work. A great big thank you to all the people that make Norfolknet.com what it is.
    - JW

    lighted tree, 34K

  • 12/31 4:06pm Happy New Year! It's getting dark outside, it's started to snow, and the last few grains of this year's sand are quickly slipping away. Toot! Cheers! :-)
    - Wm.

  • 12/31 4:05pm With 2005 slipping into history, I waould like to pay homage to Andras R. as one of the outstanding bulwarks of Norfolknet.com.
    It would be difficult to list the attributes that he has engendered that has allowed us to be better informed.
    Suffice it to say "Well Done" and thank you for all the help you have extended to the residents of Norfolk by your actions.
    Thanks
    - JO

  • 12/31 11:08am Does anyone know if Allied Waste Services (formerly BFI) does curbside Christmas tree pick-up/removal?
    - JC

  • 12/31 11:04am Regarding real estate taxes, refer back to the 6/25/05 8:30am posting from Jack McFeeley.
    - DLJ

  • 12/31 11:03am How about that new $20,000?? CLOCK by one of our new roundabouts in the center of town. Another "wise" decision by the powers that be to blow our money right out the window.
    - DG

  • 12/31 11:01am Remember, this is Norfolk. Your taxes went up... you have never voted against a Property Tax Bill, had an increased bill that you didn't like. You like them all. Remember, it's for the children!!!! Taxes go up and the services decrease. Who tried to go to the Transfer Station last Saturday (Christmas Eve) and find it closed. Half a day maybe, but all day?? Stop & Shop is coming, think of the tax breaks to all us residents. Ha Ha!!! If anything, our taxes will increase in order to help them build here. Trust me. I've seen it before.
    - DG

  • 12/30 9:02pm To PC-TN-EW-JP and to all that read on the net.
    I guess it is time to pay up. I just got my NEW TAX BILL today and wow, what a surprise, 1200 more per year! And please look at the Comm. Pres. [community preservation], mine went from 35.00 to 84.00. I do not know if it is per quarter or for the entire year?
    I did mention to all on the net before the last override to vote it down, but it happened, shortly, after the override, the prison mitigation money did come to us after all, and also additional education funds from the state. In my guess we did not need as much money as we thought we needed at the time of the override, that's why I said no for the vote, that money will be found, and it showed up, just in time, after the over ride. What happened? This is a very big increase for me, I can overcome the new tax as always, but what is next? Maybe we should hire a few more police officers and possibly purchase some more vehicles for the police department to follow each other around town... as to what? Just to justify their presence in Norfolk as an extended force we do not need at this time. But we did pass the override, what a joke, now we pay up for our mistakes in 2006 taxes.
    Attached to my new tax bill is a contribution form for education and I will send a few dollars because I believe in our children's future. As to this posting, I know I will get a lot of negative responses - that's OK with me, all that I have mentioned above is how I feel about our new tax increase. As requested by the Host on the Net, please keep it civil.
    - RS

  • 12/30 3:52pm All our spending has caught up with us... do the tax bills reflect both KPs and the extra $5m?
    Are you ready for the new fire station and the new school? How can fixed incomes live here?
    - PC

  • 12/30 1:14pm You can't be serious about the moonscape being "quaint." As I mentioned, even (as in defaulting to) Whole Foods or Trader Joe's would be better than S&S... but sadly, I do agree that the moonscape will likely remain the same for some time to come...
    - TN

  • 12/30 1:13pm JD - Our property tax bill increased 30%. I wish this were a case of the tax collectors messing up but I know this is a result of all the wonderfully generous initiatives that were passed in 2005. So much for a prosperous New Year...
    - EW

  • 12/30 12:21pm Happy New Year to All!
    I just received my RE Tax bill in the mail - did anyone else's in Norfolk double? We have done no new improvements. Mine did! Didn't the Treasurer/Collector's Office mess up a bunch of bills last year as well? I seem to remember a lot of discussion on Norfolknet. Please let me hear from you. Of course they mailed the bills on Thursday, with the office being closed today and Monday --- how convenient for the taxpayer with questions. . . This is supposed to be progress?
    - JD

    [The discussion I remember was about excise tax bills not arriving in the mail and people having to pay late fines, even though they were mailed out as usual - Wm.
    Update 9:12pm: I'm reminded that ``last year some people got billed twice for excise tax, some didn't get a bill or the mail was messed up,'' and that history is in the March archives (scroll down to 3/10 through 3/22) - Wm.]

  • 12/30 9:14am I don't think I'd get all that worried about the possibility of a Stop & Shop in Norfolk. S&S most likely purchased the property to prevent another grocery retailer from setting up shop in town and becoming competition. And if my guess is correct, those who fret about the moonscape ever changing and actually being developed have little to worry about. It will probably remain the quaint little moonscape it's been far into the future.
    Whole Foods? There's one in Franklin already. Trader Joes? There's one in Needham and another in Newton. There's little that one could desire that doesn't exist within a very short drive from Norfolk Center, and the demographics would simply preclude building another big box of any sort in the center of town, be it grocery, or pharmacy, or home improvement... or just about anything. It all exists within a stone's throw of town, so retailers won't spend the money. And that should be a relief to all. The moonscape shall likely remain..., untouched..., undeveloped..., and as quaint as it has ever been.....
    - TK

  • 12/30 9:10am LM- We love Mrs. Madden (the HOD music teacher) for piano lessons. You sign up through the Norfolk Rec. Dept. The lessons are weekly and my daughter enjoys them very much. She is a first grader and they seem to be just the right speed for her.
    - MJD

  • 12/29 9:57pm BTW, thanks to CF for the answer to the Tufts Vet. Hospital question... Will be pleased if a larger facility goes into Walpole as suggested. Happy New Year!
    - TMN

  • 12/29 9:56pm To CR - And did you see the sign at the new plaza in Plainville where Target is located? Future Home of Stop & Shop!! You really have to wonder about the economics of it all.
    And yes, it is unoriginal. All these homogenous businesses are boring. That's why I support the smaller businesses. They are not as expensive as everyone thinks and in the long run cheaper. Think about those large box stores who don't provide health insurance - we do.
    - BS

  • 12/29 9:55pm Although anything that goes into the moonscape will be an improvement (!), I agree with CR. Wouldn't a Whole Foods or even Trader Joe's have been more interesting to shoppers looking for a change? Oh well.
    - TN

  • 12/29 9:54pm Log on to U Mass Amherst "Winter Moths." Seems the invasion has been going on for a number of years and we aren't the only cold weather area that sees them. They are good till Jan etc.
    - JO

  • 12/29 9:53pm Any recommendations for piano teachers who are really good with young students who are a bit 'lively' and will make the lessons as fun as possible? Thanks
    - LM

  • 12/29 5:36pm Hi: Just what we need, another Stop and Shop. I just don't understand it, especially when the one in Foxboro doesn't seem to be overwhelmed with business. I also noticed another CVS going in in Medway when there's already a Walgreen's across the street, and a CVS already exists up the street in the Job Lot Plaza. This is so unoriginal and disappointing!
    - CR

  • 12/29 3:32pm Seeing moths hanging out in the cold of winter? Clinging to the side of the house. It means something is up, right? Bad news? I know there's someone out there who can shed the necessary light.
    - TEM

  • 12/29 3:31pm Do we know which building (on the moonscape) that is that now has walls?
    - MJD

    coming soon, 40K

  • 12/29 12:07pm Believe it or not, there is an official sign on the moonscape!!
    - JO

  • 12/27 6:57pm Re: 12/27 1:20pm Does anyone know what happened to Dr. Sullivan? Thanks, - CAL Dr. Sullivan is not currently listed on the website of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, [here]
    - RH

  • 12/27 1:20pm Does anyone know what happened to Dr. Sullivan? Thanks,
    - CAL

  • 12/27 11:31am Looking for a reliable house sitter/dog sitter to stay with a very friendly, low maintenance, well behaved dog who loves human companionship in Norfolk. Does anyone have any leads or suggestions? Looking for occassional weekends and specifically 4/12-19. If interested, email me directly at box26@norfolknet.com. Thanks,
    - PB

  • 12/26 11:35am SB: What a great idea! You may want to ask the Norfolk Food Mart or Linda's if they get extra copies of the Sunday inserts that you could have
    - VR

  • 12/26 9:36am Does anyone know where to obtain multiple coupon inserts from the Sunday globe and/or Herald? I am a life long resident of Norfolk and have joined a great new hobby of couponing. My goal is to use the coupons obtained to donate all the food I procure to the Norfolk Food Bank. Been reading up on this and most of the people who share the this hobby can give in excess of 200-300 dollars a week to the food banks with little or no expense to themselves, and all it takes is time to run to the stores and then drop off the items at the food bank. Thanks,
    - SB

  • 12/26 12:11am Hey JO, I heard the noise, as you heard; I think someone was blowing out the ballast on their sub. Such a noise when you're on that sub, Chief Petty Officer, and soon to be ranked up I hope,
    - MA

  • 12/25 8:40pm Did anyone besides myself hear repeated loud noises (concussions?) starting around 10 pm Sat. night? Sounded like I was on ship again and we were blowing the boilers!!
    - JO

  • 12/25 9:41am Merry Christmas! Enjoy the day.
    - Wm.

  • 12/24 11:16pm Does anyone know what the license the town of Needham employed in Nov. for part of a church lot for public parking? Implications? Believe it was discussed on the town agenda in Nov Town Meeting. Does this violate church / state? What if it's a valid contract? Can someone find out?
    - JO

  • 12/24 11:21am To CF: Merry Christmas to you, and thanks for your concern about my dog! He's finally approaching well, after a very scary (and expensive) week of seizures, MRIs, X-Rays, blood work, a spinal tap (!!), etc. The final diagnosis was an inner ear infection, which I'm quite sure my regular vet never would have found. Angell is great - I was impressed not only with their medical knowledge, but their "customer service" was amazing as well. They always called when they said they would, gave clear next steps and thorough explanations, etc. Definitely better than what I expect from my people doctor!
    - JP

  • 12/24 12:37am Food for thought - There are are also 160 + comments from readers attached if you open the article up. [The Tech essay about ACLU stopping Barrington, RI, from plowing church parking lots]
    - JO

  • 12/24 12:21am I'm wondering if anyone has an extra Sandra Myatt ornament of Old Tyme Day (now Community Day) that they are willing to sell? It is the only ornament in the collection that I do not have. I've contacted Sandra and she does not have any more of that year - so I'm going to the source of all things Norfolk - Norfolknet. Merry Christmas to all!
    - TS

  • 12/23 6:03pm To TMN... Yes, the Tufts Veterinary Emergency Treatment and Specialties Clinic is a satellite of Tufts teaching hospitals (large and small animal) and school in North Grafton. I believe the director of that facility is a Mr. McDonough and can be contacted in North Grafton.
    Presently, Tufts is in the approval stage of a large veterinary hospital in Walpole on South Street.
    To JP... how is your canine companion feeling? If you had to travel to Angell Memorial it must have been serious... know that there are two Norfolk Golden Retrievers sending good canine karma to you and your dog.
    Merry Christmas everyone!
    - CF

  • 12/23 6:02pm You can't do better than these people. We have had two goldens, and we brought them both the Acorn. When the first dog was old and needed to be put to sleep, they came to the house to make it easier for us. I will never forget that kindness. God bless people who care!
    - RM

  • 12/23 10:47am Anyone know if Walpole Tufts Vet Clinic is related to the Tufts Veterinary School? I've heard conflicting answers. Haven't had an emergency for our dogs, but wonder if the situation ever came up and time was crucial (e.g., couldn't get to Angell quickly enough).
    - TMN

    map

  • 12/23 9:52am DM - Mirror Lake is located on the Town line with Wrentham, down behind Tom's Tavern. Most of the lake is in Wrentham, but the beach and boat ramp is in Norfolk. The lake is about 3/4 mile long and 1/4 mile wide. It's a great place for boating, kayaking, and swimming in the summer. Last winter the ice was well over 1 foot thick. If someone wants to know whether the ice is safe, I suggest they check it themselves.
    - DC

  • 12/23 9:49am Thanks to everyone who posted opinions/recommendations for different vets in the area. Unfortunately my poor pup happened to fall ill enough this week to go to Angell Memorial - which I highly, highly recommend. It's only about 35 minutes away, too. I wasn't impressed with the emergency services provided by the Walpole Tufts clinic.
    And regarding skating on ponds... there is a nice outdoor rink in Easton that's very family friendly (it's maintained as a rink, it's not a pond), pretty much guaranteed to be safe. I belive it's on 123 but I'm not positive.
    - JP

  • 12/23 9:39am Mirror Lake is on the Wrentham border. Mirror Lake Ave. is off of Union Street. As for the fire dept. etc checking the ice, the answer is no, it is not checked. That said, I won't let my kids onto the ice unless I have drilled and checked for at least four inches of ice in several locations. The lake is spring fed and usually the springs are the thinnest parts. I check over the springs especially. As with everything down here, it is at your own risk. It would be great to have the fire dept. check the ice. I think it is the Wrentham water dept. that checks the water quality for swimming. It would certainly put people's minds at ease and make this resource more accessible.
    - DN

  • 12/22 11:50pm LM-The toy store at Walpole Mall had quite a few Tamagotchis last week.
    - MJD

  • 12/22 11:48pm During a storm you in MA like to call the "Blizzard of 78" I was living in NJ. My grandmother's funeral was the day after the storm; it snowed much less in NJ but still left over 2 feet of snow. I was seven years old and I remember the town plowing out the church and my street, which was across the street from the church, so we could hold her funeral. My family still talks highly of the town and the funeral home in town for doing that over 25 years later. I think it's worth it. That's what a small town is all about. As a newbee just my 2 cents.
    - NJD

  • 12/22 11:13pm CJG, I feel the same way as you
    - MA

  • 12/22 10:30pm I remember growing up in Lynn, Ma., and the police would go to the different ponds and fire a bullet into the ice to see if was thick enough, but in this day and age of lawsuits and liabilities, etc., I doubt if anyone would even try to do something like that. We see private ponds posting "no skating" because no-one wants to be responsible for any accidents. Folks skate on the little pond at City Mills while on both sides the water flows freely. I have even seen folks skate on the bigger pond at City Mills, that scares the tar out of me, I don't think that pond is ever safe enough to be on the ice. Have fun, but I think I'll keep any skating I do at the rink. This from a person that thought "Jumping Buckies" was a great winter time sport.
    - JW

  • 12/22 8:17pm For DTB - I certainly hope not. First they waste my tax money by plowing church parking lots, and now you want the Fire Department measuring ice?! Don't you realize that could cost each of us up to a nickel a year? You may be made out of money, but not all of us are. And there should definitely be a separation of skaters and state. Maybe we could get the churches to measure the ice in return for plowing tho... :)
    - JT

  • 12/22 6:36pm Any suggestions on where to get Tamagotchis? My 7 year old wants one but I've been to a few stores and they're out. I got one of those Webkinz animals in hopes it will replace the tamagotchi.
    - LM

  • 12/22 4:48pm DN - Where is Mirror Lake?
    - DM

  • 12/22 1:24pm TMF - I have one word for you... Tamagotchi.
    - MJD

  • 12/22 11:31am TO TMF: any 8 year old girl would love: 20 questions (game that comes in a small hand-held version or larger floor version); Disney Scene It; dance mat or Twister Moves; beads/crafts; door buzzer for her room (big privacy thing going on!); maybe Aeropostale clothes (seems big with this age); and Polly Pockets or Bratz (if she likes dolls). Hope she has a Merry Christmas!
    - AL

  • 12/22 11:13am To TMF - My daughter has always loved Polly Pockets. They are these little dolls with little play houses and little stuff. I know some girls are more advanced at 8, but my 12 year old still loves Polly Pockets. I also know Bratz are in--I for one don't care for them, but depending on the child they are all the rage. I'll leave it to the rest of the Norfolk Net folks to discuss the Bratz culture.
    Another great gift are the WebKinz stuffed animals. You can get them at Something Special in the center of town. You get this animal and go on the internet and enter a code at the WebKinz website and you have your very own animal to take care of. The other thing is that they are only $15 and kids love them. There is no cost to go to the web site.
    Good luck and dare I say, Merry Christmas.
    - BS

  • 12/22 10:51am Re: Acorn Animal Hospital. I bring my dog there and have had nothing but positive experiences. They do everything... medical, grooming, boarding. One stop shopping. They are reasonably priced, and the doctors and staff are kind and knowledgeable. I board my dog there often, and every time I pick her up they tell me how much they love her... even though I secretly know she barks a lot :>) I would highly recommend them. Good luck!
    - SB

  • 12/22 9:26am DN, Just curious, does someone (i.e. Fire Dept.) come out to the lake to measure the ice thickness and give it the OK for skating? Thanks,
    - DTB

  • 12/22 9:23am In reply to Jack McFeeley, Thank you very much for your post. It's nice to see one of the town officials that voted for this service add input. I think the town workers here do a fantastic job, from plowing the streets, the sidewalks, and yes, the 3 church parking lots. The fire and police in this town also do a great job, they are generous with their time and experience. What happened, people? We live in a small town, and part of living in a small town is values. We help each other out, and do things for our neighbors. I, for one, really appreciate all that these people do with/for us. I know you can't please everyone all the time, and people are going to have differences of opinion... that's what makes us individuals, but aren't there things a little more important in life to grouse about, than a community working together?
    - CJG

  • 12/21 11:27pm OK, so I still have three days to go shopping, but I really don't know what to get my 8 year old niece. What's in and what's out this age group. I just can't keep track these days :-)
    - TMF

  • 12/21 11:17pm NS, I honestly have no concerns about the church plowing situation, as for my comments, they were purely facetious. Besides I know God doesn't have a snow plow anymore, he moves to Florida in the winter and has no need for one! lol. ttfn ns cuimd kotl
    - GDL

    [Ok, you got me, I had to look it up. Gugl r8lz! :-)
    ttfn - ta ta for now
    cuimd - see you in my dreams
    kotl - kiss on the lips
    Aww, how sweet... aren't we all being so nice to each other - Wm.]

  • 12/21 10:46pm If the plowing of the church parking lots is a safety issue, the town should FORCE the churches to plow their own lots in a timely manner, not do it for them. If I were somehow causing a safety problem, I'm sure the town would force me to rectify it. I doubt they'd just come and take care of the problem for me...
    We all know that by the letter of the law the town has no business plowing the church parking lots. That they do doesn't anger me to the extreme, but making excuses for it does. Call it what it is. Oh, and a question... If a town plow were involved in an accident while plowing out a church parking lot, what would be the town's liability there vs. the church's? Just curious.
    - DF

  • 12/21 10:42pm I haven't seen Acorn Animal Hosp recommended one way or another here. I've been bringing my pets there for 12 years, and they've always been great. But, now I'm starting to worry that others have had bad experiences!
    - LK

    [It was mentioned yesterday, 12/20 9:44am - Wm.]

  • 12/21 3:43pm
    News from Mirror Lake,
    the ice is great
    come and skate!
    - DN

  • 12/21 3:42pm Does anyone know why they are drilling an artesian well out back by the tennis courts at KP North?
    - BB

  • 12/21 2:37pm As a cat -- not a dog -- owner, I'd like to put in my vote for Main St. Veterinary Hospital on Rte. 109 in Millis. I've visited five different vets in the area, but have found Drs. DiPaola and Medcraft and their staff to be knowledgeable, compassionate, and well-organized. They've never hesitated to explore different avenues of treatment for my lovable but hopelessly neurotic feline. Can't speak for a dog's point of view, but here's my $0.02.
    - HPK

  • 12/21 2:36pm To TW: Thank you for the information!
    - SI

  • 12/21 10:37am Good morning. I am a Norfolk resident looking for land to build a single family home for my family. Please contact dcbfam@hotmail.com if interested in selling your property.
    Also, to JP: I grew up around here and am familiar with many of the local vets. I recommend Dr. Castillo of Franklin Vet Clinic. He is an experienced vet, very kind (does volunteer work), works on Saturday mornings, and makes house calls if needed. Dr. Marks is an outstanding vet but I've had to wait almost an hour in his waiting room at times. Good luck!
    - DB

  • 12/21 10:04am Had the same experience as TMN with Dr. Marks over ten years ago and we are also very happy with Whispering Pines and Dr. Pillsbury.
    - PRB

  • 12/21 8:56am I would like to comment on the church plowing issue. I am one of the two selectmen that voted to do this in 1983. The town plowed the parking lots of the churches for many years prior to 1983 but in the late 70's this practice was stopped. We reinstated the practice as a safety issue for the unique special functions that they perform. George Murray was the other selectman who voted with me on the issue. He lived on Main Street across from St. Jude's and commented about the dangerous situation that he observed when a funeral procession arrived during a snow storm. They assembled on Main Street since the parking lot was not cleared at that time. The street was now blocked to traffic and further plowing as well. As selectmen we responded to the safety issues of the town and our townspeople, not as a courtesy extended to a religious institution. These institutions also perform a service to our townspeople and as a community we need to work together cooperatively. All three churches in town are on major roads and sometimes some of their events could create hazards for our residents. For example, we provide police services when available to direct traffic after their services when large crowds are leaving the parking lots at the same time. The Police, Fire, and Highway also do this for non-secular events as well sometimes with a payment, sometimes without. Nobody complains when these public servants show up to help with a Lions Club event just as nobody complained when the Lions showed up last year to help the Highway Department clean the landscaping around Town Hall. If we lose our values and not help each other unconditionally then we will also lose our sense of community. Incidentally, after that vote in 1983 I was the subject of a negative editorial written by the Sun-Chronicle. They also disagreed with our vote to clear the parking lots. I spoke with them and several days later they wrote a retraction in their editorial column.
    - Jack McFeeley

  • 12/21 12:06am * Happy Winter Solstice! This afternoon at 1:35pm the Earth's northern hemisphere will be tilting at its farthest away from the Sun. That makes this the shortest day of the year. Like a gyroscope, the axis of Earth's revolution always remains aligned in the same direction as the Earth itself travels around the Sun. Our hemisphere will now gradually come to face more and more toward the Sun, until, six months from now, it will be tilting at its farthest toward the Sun at Summer Solstice. But first, between now and then, Winter Solstice also marks the start of winter.
    - Wm.

    [Update 8:54am: thank you for pointing out that I had Pacific Time; that's 1:35 EST - Wm.]

  • 12/20 11:01pm To: DWL - WOW! that's all I can say after a comment like yours... you have offended me deeply with your remarks - I agree that the town should not have to plow the churches' parking lots, but do you need to attack my religion too?
    - CMK

  • 12/20 9:31pm To the folks looking for a vet: Just to keep things fair in terms of disclosure, I had an unpleasant experience (phone call only, would not continue further) w/ Dr. Marks and wound up at Whispering Pines. Have had only positive experiences there, now on our 2nd dog and don't find the prices any more outrageous than competitors. If you're serious about your search (and am sure you are), I strongly suggest that you phone/interview a few doctors and not make your choice only on the opinion of others. Do wish you good luck and welcome to Norfolk!
    - TMN

  • 12/20 8:40pm Just took a ride into town center and was excited to see the clock installed at the Union St. roundabout. It looks terrific! It is a welcome addition and really adds to the flavor of Town Hill! It looked great against the lights in the trees!
    - DS

  • 12/20 6:05pm To GDL - Good Idea! but God is busy with more important matters and plus what's the big deal, the town voted at Fall Town Meeting to paint the church at the first roundabout. If this were to come up at town meeting, it would pass, God willing. :0)
    - NS

  • 12/20 12:52pm To DP and SI - The Christmas Mass schedule for St. Judes is: Christmas Eve 5pm, 7pm and 11pm. Christmas Day 7:30am, 9am and 12pm. The 5pm on Christmas Eve is the children's mass and typically is VERY crowded. Have a Merry Christmas,
    - TW

  • 12/20 9:46am Correction to Pre-K and Kindergarten Registration: For Kindergarten--children must be 5 years old by August 31, 2006. For Pre-Kindergarten--children must be 3 years old for 3-year program and 4 years old for 4 year program by August 31, 2006.
    - LR, Norfolk Public Schools

  • 12/20 9:44am To JP: First, welcome to town, I'm sure you and your dog will love it here! I recommend Acorn Animal Hospital, on Chestnut St. in Franklin (just past the Norfolk line). I don't know how they feel about a raw diet, but all the vets and the office staff there are kind and caring, plus they have an on-site boarding facility.
    - KT

  • 12/20 9:43am GDL, I agree. Why on earth do we have to pay, through our taxes, for the houses of organized religion to be plowed for free of cost to them. They should take up a so-called "Special Collection" during church, for parking lot plowing. I am sure that they would give, after all it is "The Church" and if the priest tells them to do it.... they will.
    - DWL

  • 12/19 10:42pm To DP, try the Victory Assembly of God, they have a Christmas mass on Christmas Day, www.victory-ag.org.
    Address: 1 Merchant St, Suite L02 Sharon, MA 02067.
    Phone: (781) 784-6800
    Email addresses/ Church Information: information@victory-ag.org
    - PP

  • 12/19 9:51pm I, too, am looking for the Christmas Mass schedule at St. Jude's... Anyone know?
    - SI

  • 12/19 9:46pm Another excellent vet to consider is Hedley Marks in Walpole located on Route 1A next to the Cumberland Farms plaza. 508-668-5088. He is very up-to-date on research, a highly experienced vet, office hours 6 days a week and has a second superb vet as a partner, Dr. Poor. He won't blanch at all at the raw diet. Also if you're ever looking for a boarding/grooming kennel, we love the outstanding service at Kozy Kennel in Mansfield. About a 20 minute ride but well worth it. It's spotless, well staffed, right next door to the Mansfield Animal Hospital and the only kennel our vet recommends. We've received wonderful care of our dogs there for several years. (Although I don't wish to be negative re: another vet, we had some very poor experience with Dr. Pillsbury at Whispering Pines. She orders far too many tests, her rates are excessive and she has had dogs get loose from her kennel property. She is not a fan of the raw diet.). Good Luck and welcome to Norfolk where many a happy dog can be seen walking their human companion.
    - ML

  • 12/19 6:33pm HP, I recommend Medfield Vet Clinic very highly. Dr. Crowell is the best. I am sure his associates are great also, he wouldn't have it any other way. I have been with him pretty much since he opened his practice at another location.
    - JW

  • 12/19 4:06pm To Dog Seeking Vet: My owners take my brother and me to Dr. Pillsbury at Whispering Pines in Norfolk (508.384.5904). They are located just off Route 1A about a block after The Horse & Carriage heading toward Wrentham (on Sharon Avenue). She has been terrific in handling my surgeries and other general checkups. And they have great treats too!
    - PN

  • 12/19 3:08pm Hello JP... I would recommend Medfield Veterinary Clinic (508 359-1920). The office hours include Saturdays and the office is open extended hours on three week nights.
    The "raw diet" should not be an issue, since Drs. Young, Crowell and Warner are fairly open to intergrated medicine. If you also need a supplier for "raw diet", talk with Missi Salzberg at the Village Groomer, 508 668-9516 (Route One, Walpole). Good luck and Happy Holidays!
    - CF

  • 12/19 2:17pm Hello. Can anyone recommend their dog's vet? We are new to town and want to get our dog set up with a local vet, preferably a nearby office with flexible weekend hours. This is not a prerequisite, but a vet who doesn't wince at the mention of "raw diet" would be a huge plus. Thanks!
    - JP

  • 12/19 2:16pm Registration for Kindergarten students for the 2006-07 school year will be held on Monday, February 6th from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Art Room of the H. Olive Day School. Any Norfolk child who will be five years old by August 31, 2006 is eligible to enter Kindergarten. (In the event of a "snow day" registration will be held on Monday, February 13th). In April, a lottery will be used (if necessary) for full day kindergarten.
    We encourage parents who last names beginning with the letters "A" through "H" to register between 9:15 and 10:00. Parents whose last names start with letters "I" through "P" are asked to register between 10:00 and 10:45, and those last names in the "Q" through "Z" category should register from 10:45 through 11:30. It is not necessary to bring your child to registration. Please be sure to bring your child's birth certificate. If for any reason you cannot be present on February 6th, please contact the school at: 541-5475 Ext 0 to make arrangements for registration.
    At the same time, we will be conducting registration for our Integrated Pre-Kindergarten Program. For the 3 year old program, children must be 3 years old by August 31, 2006. The children registering for the 4 year old program must be 4 years old by August 31, 2006. A lottery will be used to select children for the openings. If you have any questions about this program, please contact the Special Education Office at: 541-5475.
    - LR, Norfolk Public School District
    [Update 12/20 9:46am: children must have reached age by August 31, 2006, not 05 - LR]

  • 12/19 2:14pm Let God plow the church parking lots!! This should free up the town trucks to work on town property.
    - GDL

  • 12/19 12:36pm Does anyone know the mass schedule for Christmas at St Jude's in Norfolk?
    - DP

  • 12/18 10:40pm Update #2 - 12/18/05 From the Citizen Action Team * RealTime Disaster Relief A CHANGE IN THE PLAN!!!
    Hi there! Well, after I posted the last update re: the Christmas/Holiday Coat/Sweater Drive for the Gulf, I received a phone call and... the truck is full and leaving earlier than expected! Yeah!! So, we will be sending down another truckload in January! This is good... Now we all have plenty of time to go through our closets and donate our excess sweaters/coats/blankets/sleeping bags... whatever someone needs to stay warm and have a life in a TENT in 40-50 degree weather or colder depending on how things go this winter!!
    Please, go to our web site at: Citizen Action Team and find out what you can do to help. Our organization is made up of people just like you... all volunteers... all trying to make a difference. Please email me to let me know that you are interested in taking part in our drive! We need volunteers!! There is lots you can do! Thank you. Email Rubytunes@aol.com. Gosh, I really like Norfolk!! Happy Holidays and a beautiful and peacefilled New Year to you and yours.
    - PRR

  • 12/18 6:32pm Late notice!!! Please note: If you have extra coats/sweaters and want to get them to the Gulf by Christmas, they have to be at the trucker's warehouse by 2 pm on Tuesday, 12/20!!! We have another truck that is willing to go down to the Gulf... short notice...
    You can drop off your items at: 143 North Street, Norfolk on Monday/Monday night, or email me for warehouse's location. Please email me with your telephone numbers at: Rubytunes@aol.com. Sorry for late notice... I've had a nasty cold!!!
    Coats for Katrina Holiday Drive

    Bring your extra coats/sweaters!!

    As part of the Citizen Action Team's Holiday Donations Drive we are still gathering coats and sweaters for HURRICANE victims who are still living in tents and can really use your old winter gear... the temerature gets well below 40 degrees there...

    See our website: Citizen Action Team for a full list of needs, other drop site locations, and more details.

    COME HELP! Please pass this onto your email lists... This may be our last big push for the Katrina Relief drive! Please help us!!

    News: The Citizen Action Team got a letter from the Governor the other day (hand signed!) thanking us for all of our hard work! Oh, and we can finally tell the public about our deal with Overnite Transportation. Yay! The private sector is really starting to step up to the plate to help these folks rebuild!

    Thanks from the Citizen Action Team * RealTime Disaster Relief

    - PRR

  • 12/18 12:16pm PRB - you missed the point, money has nothing to do with it. That was merely a side point.
    - AG

  • 12/18 10:56am I noticed during the last snow fall the Town was plowing the Stony Brook parking lot, hmmm.
    - BF

  • 12/18 10:55am MA- I don't think you can assume that all Norfolk residents worship here in town let alone worship at all. I attend church in Wrentham, should my .75 go to Wrentham's town budget each year?
    - MJD

  • 12/18 10:54am I need to clarify my post from yesterday (regarding drainage and potholes), I meant to say, the "South Street end of Seekonk Street." I travel this road every day and the drainage problems were quite noticeable this past Friday during and after the rain. Large puddles extend out into travel lanes in several areas (catch basins were not clogged as there are no catch basins in these areas). These areas are just past the cemetery (coming from Main Street), at the power lines and near the Fruit Street intersection. This last one is an odd one because I noticed water flowing past a catch basin about 100 feet from where the water collects.
    For TEM: The Weeber property is located off of Chicatabut Avenue.
    - WB

  • 12/18 12:43am I wonder why there was a need for a rude reply to JW. I thought JW had a good point in regards to the plowing/sand/salt costs. PRB, if annual plowing costs were as cheap as you calculated, then next year's winter plowing costs for the entire town are on me. Thankfully you are not my accountant.
    - ES

  • 12/18 12:41am Hello MK, I don't agree that people in the town should be required to remove the snow from the sidewalks in front of their own homes. I think that because the town takes your property for public use without paying/permission or compensation, they should be responsible for mowing and plowing the sidewalks that they created. Of course, when we have the chance to clear up the area, then my family does take the effort to do so, but this is not always possible considering that the snow falls when it will and we are not always home or capable of removing ice chunks with just a shovel. Maybe you should contact the town offices about your specific streets where the children are walking home from school. The side walks in my area are clean; in fact I often see the town workers using their mini plow to clean them out while I am shoveling my driveway. They work hard to keep the side walk clear on the main roads, give them a reminder that yours need some attention also. Good luck!
    - ES

  • 12/18 12:38am Sidewalks? Who has sidewalks?
    - MJD

  • 12/17 10:34pm Growing up in Connecticut, our town required homeowners to clear the snow on the sidewalks in front of their houses - Norfolk does not require the same. Children walking to/from school buses often spend the winter months in the streets because the sidewalks have too much snow. Does this bug anyone else??
    - MK

  • 12/17 10:31pm Thanks for the post of office hours in the surrounding towns - isn't it great that those offices can be open until 7pm, and we don't even have ours open at lunch time? How many times have you stopped at the post office only to find it is 12:45pm and can't buy stamps? Ugh! drives me crazy!
    - CK

    [Maybe it's part of the difference between a full and a rural post office. PO boxes rent at half the rate here than in other towns. - Wm.]

  • 12/17 10:28pm Does anyone have any input on T. Mobile for cell phones? They have come up with a great plan - 1500 free min. at a price of 39.99 per month, I just need some feedback on reception in our area and down to CT. Thanks so much.
    As far as plowing the churches, that's ok with me, let the town help the churches as the churches help us in need - funerals, weddings, food, their doors and members are always open to the people in our town. Have we become so shallow in our thoughts as to add more police, the library, senior center, sidewalks, and I can go on forever with our overrides and whatever. As far as I'm concerned, that CLOWN in Bellingham just wanted his name in the paper as a complete clown, and he did make his mark in all towns, what a jerk to me. And I do know he is right legally, but come people in Norfolk, it is our places of worship, and what does it really take to plow after a storm? I hope the board of selectmen will say we will continue plowing, because we stick together as a great community that we have here in our little town of Norfolk; we are all in this together. Just my feelings, that's all, just read, think about it, and call the selectmen's office to cast your concerns for their next meeting.
    - MA

  • 12/17 10:27pm Community Christmas Walk starting from Saint Jude's Sunday, December 18 6:00 P.M. The annual Norfolk Community Christmas Walk is planned for tomorrow Sunday December 18 at 6:00 PM. Plan to bring your warmly-dressed family to walk in our beautiful town center and sing favorite Christmas carols.
    - DLJ

  • 12/17 10:26pm PRB - That was a nasty retort. It's ok to question how our tax dollars are spent and I think it's worth questioning why we plow the lots of churches in town. Doesn't make sense to me.
    - MJD

  • 12/17 7:23pm JW the Town would probaly save you about 75 cents on your anual tax bill if it stopped plowing the Churches. Look into moving to Bellingham.
    - PRB

  • 12/17 6:12pm Where is the Weeber Property?
    - TEM

  • 12/17 12:09pm Season's Greetings from Dover Trucking, Inc. We would like to wish all our customers safe and happy holidays. Also at this time to thank you all for spreading the good word of our waste and recycling service.
    - The Bassett Family, dovertrucking.com

  • 12/17 12:06pm GB - Good point. I have wondered about that as well. FYI, the town plows and sands all church lots using town trucks and paid contractors. Salt, sand and contractors aren't cheap. The other night at the selectmen's meeting they were concerned about the maintenance of a 2+ car parking facility at the development of the Weeber property. This parking would be for the use of Norfolk residents to have access to the proposed open space for hiking and other forms of recreation.
    Oh, one more thing, after the ACLU got involved the town of Bellingham stopped plowing the churches. It must have save the tax payers some money.
    - JW

  • 12/17 12:01pm Well since no one else has commented on recent town going-ons, I'm going to jump in.
    The purchase of the Weeber Property - For the record, I don't live near the property, I would not be affected by the construction and live nowhere near the other side - off of Cleveland. Having seen the three selectmen's meetings and what I've read in the paper I don't understand one thing, well actually a bunch of small things. This property has provided limited tax revenue to the Town for a long time since it is designated as 61A land. The purchase of this property by the Town makes sense, from a straight financial analysis. The Town would not have to provide additional services for the schools, road maintenance, police fire, etc. Based upon the most recent override, which was specifically for the Town's operating budget, I have to question the BOS supporting development that only puts more of a burden on Town, especially since they have the ability to control the expenses in this case. They have an avenue for funding from the CPA. With new development, revenues would increase, but the expenses would outpace the revenues coming in. It is well documented that residential housing puts a strain on any Town's finances. Depending on which study you read (and believe), for every dollar brought in, between $1.15 to $1.31 goes out. That's a losing proposition. While I have to believe that the BOS have done this evaluation, based upon their professional occupations, the misguided objective of getting land for free doesn't equally equate to eliminating a financial burden on the Town. The actual lost tax revenue, if the Town was to buy the entire property, is offset by the savings of not having to provide Town services. I know this may be simplistic thinking but what am I missing? (OK JM let me have it).
    The new public safety buildings and work around the Freeman School - I have to ask the obvious question, shouldn't we get the Town Center stuff done first? Yes, yes, I understand that planning is one thing, but I can't understand the timing of this. There are buildings in Town that require attention (the old Town Hall), there is roadway work that need to be done before new roads are built - have you been on South Street lately? There are areas with poor drainage and the roadway is riddled with potholes in areas. And speaking of the center of Town - Who pays for the repairs to the damaged roundabout? The island near the Federated Church has a running score of at least 3 direct hits that have caused damage.
    - WB

  • 12/17 12:57am I was wondering if anybody saw the report on the news about the town doing work for the churches in the town of Bellingham? My question is, why does our highway department always seem to be working at the church across from Dunkin Donuts, and last Friday, when I was driving home from work, I saw them plowing the church on Main St. near the cemetery? Isn't there supposed to be a separation between the churches and the state?
    - GB

  • 12/16 5:34pm Re. Post Office hours - the web is a wonderful thing...
    Post Office - Franklin 4.10 Miles

    43 Main ST, Franklin, MA 02038-9998 Phone: (800) ASK-USPS Fax: (508) 541-8682

    Business Hours
    MO 08:30-07:00PM
    TU 08:30-07:00PM
    WE 08:30-07:00PM
    TH 08:30-07:00PM
    FR 08:30-07:00PM
    SA 08:30-12:00PM

    Post Office - Walpole 4.42 Miles

    10 Common ST, Walpole, MA 02081-9998 Phone: (800) ASK-USPS Fax: (508) 660-7734

    Business Hours
    MO 08:30-07:00PM
    TU 08:30-07:00PM
    WE 08:30-07:00PM
    TH 08:30-07:00PM
    FR 08:30-07:00PM
    SA 09:00-12:00PM

    Post Office - Medway 4.99 Miles

    115 Main ST, Medway, MA 02053-9998 Phone: (800) ASK-USPS Fax: (508) 533-7076

    Business Hours
    MO 08:30-07:00PM
    TU 08:30-07:00PM
    WE 08:30-07:00PM
    TH 08:30-07:00PM
    FR 08:30-07:00PM
    SA 09:00-12:00PM

    - DM

  • 12/16 2:21pm Re: 12/15 5:39pm Hello, I would like to know if it's possible for the town post office to extend its hours of operation ... Would you please drop a note to the Postmaster, US Government Post Office, Norfolk, MA 02056, asking your questions? You might possibly get an answer such as "Why not pick up your mail in the town where you work?", or "Why not have your mail delivered to your home?" rather than ask the mountain to change the hours of service to the public.
    - BH

  • 12/15 5:39pm Hello, I would like to know if it's possible for the town post office to extend its hours of operation or to have either an early morning (7am) or late evening shift (6 or 7pm), or possibily stay open until 6pm one night a week? It's rather difficult to get there during the week to pick up my mail, as I work in another town. Thanks,
    - PS

  • 12/15 5:38pm To: AR - try Lee's Garage Doors, he is located on Union Street in Norfolk (528-9381) - he has helped me! Good luck!
    - CMK

  • 12/15 2:56pm The Norfolk Board of Selectmen support the efforts of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. The Commission is seeking nominations for Unsung Heroines. Information and nomination forms may be found at www.mass.gov/women.
    - Jack Hathaway, Town Administrator

    dial, 56K

  • 12/15 9:00am I believe "Morin's of Norfolk" (the source of local weather data for wunderground.com, Weather link on the left) reads high. This is what 6.3F looks like on my back deck.
    - Wm.

  • 12/15 12:06am AR - Pioneer Garage Doors in Walpole is awesome. They are usually out within 24 hours. 508-668-8136. Good Luck.
    - BS

  • 12/14 10:01pm AR: Try Jolicoeur Garage Doors in Bellingham. They're quick, honest and reasonable. They've been recommended by others in the past on this site. I used them a couple of months ago and was very pleased. Their phone # is 1-800-649-4522.
    - JC

  • 12/14 10:00pm AR, "Door Systems" in Framingham is a very good company to deal with. Their number is 508-875-3508.
    - BF

  • 12/14 4:19pm Anyone recommend a local company to fix my garage doors? Thank you much
    - AR

  • 12/13 8:51am [Post removed pending clarification - Wm.]

  • 12/12 9:14pm Re: 12/12 5:20pm Does anyone have any idea where I might be able to get flu shots for my family in the area? Our doctor's office has run out. Thanks for the help. - KM See: masspro.org/search That site has a list of public flu clinics by town or by zip code. The clinics appear to be few and far between, some are limited to residents.
    - RH

    [Also has a nice click-on map with flu clinics in nearby towns; [map here] - Wm.]

  • 12/12 5:20pm Does anyone have any idea where I might be able to get flu shots for my family in the area? Our doctor's office has run out. Thanks for the help.
    - KM

  • 12/12 4:25pm AFD: Lots of folks also enjoy the hill on South Street in Medfield. Take Seekonk toward Medfield and the hill is on the left just before the intersection with Route 27. Our 8 year old has been going since he was 5 years old and still likes it.
    - TN

  • 12/12 3:01pm AFD, try the old transfer station for sledding. The slope is not too big but very fun.
    - SB

  • 12/12 2:35pm We have recently reduced the price on our Norfolk home - at $389,900 it is the best priced colonial in Norfolk. Overlooking Kingsbury Pond on a private, quiet cul-de-sac - with three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, it's a perfect home for first time buyers or families. Please take a look at our website houseinnorfolk.com for more information.
    - MM

  • 12/12 12:08pm Any suggestions for places to take a 4 year old sledding in town?
    - AFD

    Lawn art, 60K

  • 12/12 12:30am To HPK... Thanks for reminding me of the "cement patios, large mirrored gazing balls and whitewall-tire planters". As a city boy, I remember seeing those and many more forms of front lawn artwork including the miniature windmill (motorized, of course) and the white painted rocks lining the driveway. One of my favorites is the "Bathtub Madonna" - an inverted bathtub sunk halfway into the ground with a statue of the Madonna inside. (See attached picture). If you drive around the immediate Boston area you'll see several examples of this truly lost art. Personally, I think the front yards of Norfolk could use a makeover. Instead of the usual grass, mulch and pachysandra, I say bring back the tire planters and bathtub Madonnas. We're always touting conservation and recycling, so here's a way to show that we truly care! I can hardly wait for Spring so I can get started!!
    - RP

  • 12/11 9:23pm It sure does look like Percy there on the end of the surfboard. And I thought he had accompanied a student to UMass after the Thanksgiving break! Evidently he is more of a free spirit than I first recognized.
    AB, I believe the flamingoes were massing in Santa Paula to protest excessive water usage in the California suburbs. They are encouraging the return of cement patios, large mirrored gazing balls and whitewall-tire planters to reduce the total square footage of thirsty lawns
    - HPK

  • 12/10 11:51pm DVD's come in two formats, full screen and wide screen. If you get the = full screen format it will fill your screen completely.
    - GM

  • 12/10 11:50pm It seems that after surfing, Percy may have hooked up with the wrong crowd. See this new story, Flamingos Menace Santa Paula.
    - AB

  • 12/10 3:02pm Has anyone heard of Webkinz? I was at Something Special last week and bought one for my daughter. She has been on the computer non stop playing with it. I am going back next week to buy some for Christmas gifts. I have heard that some stores have sold out.
    - MB

  • 12/10 12:03pm Re: 12/9 8:42pm Just curious if your street has been plowed yet. It's after 7 and I cannot get into my driveway because the street has not been plowed - RN You can provide valuable feedback to the DPW at this website: [DPW comments]. In addition, you might provide feedback to the Town Administrator at this website: [town admin].
    - BH

  • 12/10 12:01pm Don't miss out on Bay Colony Productions' "It's a Wonderful Life" live on stage at the Orpheum Theater in Foxboro. Remaining shows are December 10, 11, 16, 17, 18. Norfolk resident Jonathan Garven plays 6 different roles in the show. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for Children under 12. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 508-543-2787. The Orpheum Theater is located in the Foxboro rotary. See orpheum.org.
    - CG

  • 12/10 10:25am Many thanks to RH & JB for their suggestions and very useful advice re DVD players. The NorfolkNet comes through again!
    - TEM

    Surf's up! 30K

  • 12/9 9:49pm HPK - Perhaps Percy just doesn't like the weather. Don't worry he'll probably be back in the spring. A friend in SoCal sent me this yesterday, could it be?
    - DT

  • 12/9 8:42pm Just curious if your street has been plowed yet. It's after 7 and I cannot get into my driveway because the street has not been plowed
    - RN

  • 12/9 8:22pm The best Christmas present one may give to a senior who is wending their way through their Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, trying to select the correct plan for themselves, is to offer them assistance. In this area there are 45 plans to choose from. In selecting a plan one must determine which plan carries all their drugs, cost, and deductables. The fear is that seniors might choose the wrong plan and not cover their drugs and end up paying full price for a year until the next opportunity to change their plan. So if you know a senior that could use your help and agrees to accept your help, begin by going to medicare.gov and go from there. What a bureaurocratic mess. Although some folks can wait until May, others need to select by the end of December.
    - RC

  • 12/9 3:20pm Tonight's SACC (School Age Child Care) Christmas Ball at the Freeman has been cancelled due to the weather.
    - DL

  • 12/9 2:22pm Re: 12/9 12:20pm Not too long ago someone on this forum provided excellent advice regarding changes in the television industry. See: Welcome to the Letterbox and Wide Screen Advocacy Page [widescreen.org]. The next page, [this one], says in part:
    The widescreen or letterbox process is a method by which a movie can be seen on a TV screen the way that the movie was seen in theatres by maintaining its original aspect ratio or OAR.

    Most movies are filmed in a process where the width of the screen is between 1.85 to 2.4 times greater than the height. This means that for every inch of screen height, the visual portion of the movie is between 1.85 to 2.4 times as wide. This results in a panoramic view that when used properly can add a greater perception of the environment and mood of a movie.

    Unfortunately, modern televisions are only 1.33 times as wide as they are high, referred to as 1.33:1 or 4:3. For decades, most movies have been subjected to having about 45% of the visuals removed from the screen so that the TV screen would be full through a process called "pan and scan" which focused on only one section of the total visuals or the "frame".

    As a result, many movies lose story information and depth through the pan-and-scan process. In some cases, crucial plot information is lost. This methodology can also result in jerky movement across the frame or - worse yet - the "talking noses" syndrome where two actors on either end of the frame only have the forward part of their profiles on the screen.

    Regardless of the specific results, the overall result is that the movie is losing up to 45% of its original visuals.

    The widescreen or letterbox process takes the entire frame and reduces the size in proportion so that the entire frame fits within the width of the TV. This allows the movie to be seen in its original aspect ratio as the film makers intended the movie to be seen.

    This also results in what are incorrectly referred to as "black bars" at the top and bottom of the screen. In reality, these "black bars" are actually unused areas of the screen. The areas are black to allow for better contrast.

    Comment: One must really study the specs for any new TV purchase. In 2004 we bought a Philips 20" with a choice between regular (4:3) display with black bars when showing movies, and "expand 4:3" with no black bars, but clipped sides, on the remote. Had the store put the remote out on display, we would not have bought it; not the standard button layout and too many buttons. I have to study up on how to delete the Spanish text display; complicated instructions. Also the set has no audio output miniature jack. The next set will be in widescreen format, with HDTV and digital.
    - RH

  • 12/9 2:05pm For TEM - DVDs can be either widescreen (what you have seen) or full screen. Look for "full screen" on the cover of the DVD when you rent. Most movies offer both DVD formats, but not all of them.
    - JB

  • 12/9 12:20pm Not too long ago someone on this forum provided excellent advice regarding changes in the television industry. I wonder if that same person (or anyone knowledgeable in these things) would offer similar guidance regarding playing rented movies. We held out as long as we could with a VHS video player and recorder, finally giving in as more and more movies changed to DVD format. But after purchasing and connecting our new combination DVD/VHS player we discovered that rented movies in DVD format come over in this abbreviated, box format that only takes up two-thirds (or less) of the screen. What's going on? The clerk at the rental store only confused us more. Is it because our TV is an older one (1987)? Are we doomed to watching movies in this strange format appearing on only part of the screen? Are we doing something wrong? Would appreciate any advice or counsel that would bring us up-to-date and into this century.
    - TEM

  • 12/9 12:15pm The Recycling/Transfer Station Holiday Hours for 2005 will be:
    Friday, December 23, 2005: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
    Tuesday, December 27, 2005: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
    Wednesday, December 28, 2005: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
    Friday, December 30, 2005: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
    Saturday, December 31, 2005: 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
    - VR

  • 12/8 12:38pm TO KGD: I've gotten mighty sappy in this season, watching Miracle on 34th St, A Christmas Carol etc. so I really enjoyed your story about the kind man who helped you jump start your car in the cold. Hope we all receive that unexpected touch of kindness in the coming weeks. It's a Wonderful Life, after all!
    - AL

  • 12/7 12:44pm In addition to the weekly worship service at 10:00 AM each Sunday, the Federated Church of Norfolk will hold two Tuesday evening vesper services during Advent. The 7:00-7:30 pm services will offer a time for singing Advent music in December 13th and Christmas Carols on December 20th in preparation for Christmas.
    In order to acknowledge the pain and sadness many people experience at Chrismastime, there will be a special "Blue Christmas" worship service on Tuesday, December 20th at 7:30 pm. All who are grieving or feel out of synch with the "Merry Christmas" atmosphere of this season are invited to attend.
    Three Candlelight Christmas Eve services will be held at the Federated Church of Norfolk. The 6:00 pm service is family oriented. The 8:00 pm service will be a candlelight worship with the choir providing the music and the 11:00 pm candlelight service will include communion with music by the Praise & Worship group.
    - LD, Federated Church of Norfolk

  • 12/7 10:04am To CFC: We made your Apple Brownies, and they were very good and easy to make. But my girls were confused when they had no chocolate in them, and voted to call it Apple Muffin Cake. A keeper recipe, thanks!
    - LK

  • 12/7 9:17am I just wanted to post a thank-you to the gallant Notre Dame fan in the Range Rover who helped me jump-start my car after I stupidly drained my battery trying to keep the car warm while my baby napped in the Shaw's parking lot in Medfield (that's what I get for trying to save the environment by not idling my car). I never got his name, but he told me that a kind stranger once brought his wife gas when she ran out, so he wanted to do something similarly nice for someone in distress. I don't know if he will ever see this, but his kindness was very much appreciated (especially by my husband, who is also a huge Notre Dame fan).
    - KGD

  • 12/6 9:43pm Representative Brown's office hours that were scheduled for the Town Hall on Friday, December 9th, from 11AM-Noon have been changed to the Norfolk Public Library from 11AM-Noon.
    - RH

    unknown cat, 8K

  • 12/6 9:40pm Please contact Norfolk Police Department/Animal Control (508) 528 3232 if you know any of the following:
    - Do you own this cat?
    - Do you know who owns this cat?
    - Have any information regarding this cat in the neighborhood of Mirror Lake/West Cedar.
    If you have any information pertaining to this cat's injuries we strongly urge you to reply. YOUR CALL IS IMPORTANT AND ANONYMOUS TIPS WELCOME. Cat is a 1 yr old domestic, white, and female. Email Norfolkk9@aol.com is also available to report to as long as we can have a follow up number to confirm information.
    - Hilary Penlington, Norfolk Animal Control, 508-528-3232

  • 12/6 9:39pm If you've e-mailed Norfolknet recently and your message seems to have been ignored, we discovered that the virus scanner was rejecting some e-mails (we noticed when e-mails containing attachments coming from Yahoo and Hotmail were lost.) So we apologize if this affected you, we've changed the settings, and please re-send your email. Thanks,
    - Wm.

  • 12/6 12:21pm The Soccer Club of Norfolk [norfolksoccer.com] is now accepting registrations for its ten-week spring 2006 travel soccer season. Registration forms can be downloaded [pdf here] and mailed in or parents can register their childhttp://www.norfolksoccer.com/documents/pdfs/norfolk%20reg.pdf online. Children in grades two through six this fall are eligible to participate. The registration deadline is Sunday, December 11, 2005.
    - TO

  • 12/6 12:01pm Re: 12/5 2:16pm Does anyone know if you can watch Town hearings/meetings if you have DirecTV rather than cable? We do not feed either NCTV Channel 22 (Government matters) or Channel 8 (Community matters) to a DirecTV link to go onto that network. So the answer is that it is not possible to watch Town hearings/meetings other than on Comcast Cable Channel 22 or 8 within the Town of Norfolk.
    - RH

  • 12/6 8:13am To JG - Registration is going on now for spring soccer. You can print a copy of the registration form here: norfolklionssoccer.com
    - CG

  • 12/5 10:42pm If there is anyone out there who needs snow shoveling done, residential or commercial, please call us at 508-553-0943.
    - JF

  • 12/5 6:22pm For all you out there who have yet to get a flu shot this season, there will be a Flu Clinic this Thursday, December 8th from 10 to 12 at the Franklin Federated Church in Franklin. New England Nurses, Inc. will be providing the shots at a cost of $19 to anyone 18 years or older. In order to make sure there are enough shots, pre-register by calling 781-821-8500. You can call that number with any questions as well. As someone said to me, all you need is to have the flu one time, and you'll always get the flu shot!
    - AL

  • 12/5 2:16pm Does anyone know if you can watch Town hearings/meetings if you have DirecTV rather than cable? If so, what channel?
    - KGD

  • 12/5 1:52pm Does anyone know when registration for spring soccer takes place? Thanks
    - JG

  • 12/5 11:49am Congrats to the Lions and all the participants of the Santa Parade yesterday. The snow added a festive touch to the event! The KP Band was terrific to listen to and makes me proud to live in a town that supports a great music program - my elementary school aged kids can't wait to play in the band. Thanks to the Rec Dept. for the hot chocolate and the cookies a great treat after being in the cold outside! May everyone have a wonderful and festive holiday season!
    - TS

  • 12/5 8:35am RG - Actually, these are native flamingoes from the wilds of Leominster, MA, and they assured me that they didn't mind a little cold weather. Given that Percy is a young and rather rebellious flamingo, he might have done just what CI suggested and run off with the renegade turkeys of Boardman St.
    - HPK

  • 12/4 10:24pm Hi BH, thanks for backing me up to JM. And by the way, I just got an oil delivery of 150 gallons for a price of 2.009 COD - that's ok with me, not too shabby, my friend in Blackstone just paid 2.40 per gallon (that was not COD, just on automatic delivery). I bought from Oil Time located in Foxboro; I have used them for many years and never had a problem with the fuel.
    - RS

  • 12/4 11:51am HPK: Poor Percy. He must be shivering with only his little pink feathers & cute red hat to keep him warm in this snowy weather! Have you considered that he may have flown south for the winter?
    - RG

  • 12/4 11:50am HPK - There is a flock of wild turkeys on Boardman - could Percy have been lured away to join them?
    - CI

  • 12/4 11:49am HI! Does anyone know if the Santa Parade is still going to happen in light of the snow? Is there a number we could call to find out? Thanks!
    - SB

  • 12/4 11:48am Hail, Good Citizens of Norfolk,
    The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library are looking for more "Friends" to help us plan, organize and execute. Join us on the first Monday of each month at 7:00 pm in the meeting room of the library.
    Currently we're planning the membership drive and would love some new ideas and help. Our annual book sale is coming up in April, and more hands are always needed in the planning and execution of this major fund raiser. So come on this coming Monday, December 5 at 7:00 pm to see how you can help the Friends and our beautiful new library.
    - Mary Jo Gothorpe, President, Friends of the Library

  • 12/3 10:17pm HPK - Could you please clarify which of the flamingos in the photo is Percy?... I may have seen him running through my neighbor's back yard earlier today, but without further information, I can't be sure. Hopefully he'll return home soon after he logs on and reads your plea.
    - MH

    [Actually, neither - the photo is by me. I was driving by, saw a clutch of mournful-looking birds searching listlessly about, and snapped a portrait of two of them. Percy presumably belonged with the rest of the group, before going on the lam - Wm.]

  • 12/3 9:13am Up to date oil prices can be found at newenglandoil.com
    - DH

  • 12/2 8:40pm CFC, Thanks for the recipe. I will have to try it out. It is always nice to have an apple dessert that isn't a pie or cobbler. I'll be sure to let you know how it turns out for me. Thanks again,
    - SKG

    Missing: Percy, 47K

  • 12/2 7:58pm MISSING: pink lawn flamingo, about 16" high, answers to the name of "Percy." He was last seen in the vicinity of Boardman St. and Rockwood Rd. on Friday 11/25, wearing a red Santa hat. If you see him, please tell him that his family misses him and we won't make him wear that embarrassing tinsel collar that he hates so much. Come home, Percy!
    - HPK

  • 12/2 5:40pm To SKG - these are not muffins but they are a brownie/cake dessert, a big hit in my family and really easy to make.
    Apple Brownies
    1cup sugar
    1 stick butter
    1 egg
    2 med. apples peeled / cored

    1 1/8 cup flour
    1/2 tsp salt
    1/2 tsp baking soda
    1/2 tsp baking powder
    1/2 tsp cinnamon

    mix sugar butter and egg
    add flour mixture then apples

    I put in an 8x8 inch pan and bake for 45 min on 350 degrees.
    - CFC

  • 12/2 12:48am Thanks DLJ for your input on the new law for digital TV, 2009 seems great for me. I guess my current TV at 10 years old will not last another 4 years.
    - MA

  • 12/1 4:29pm Good for you SKG - I enjoy reading about all of it too - oil, recipes, repairmen & religion (that topic was a doozy) as well as titmice, fisher cats, deer and so on. Will stay tuned...
    - TN

  • 12/1 3:09pm JM, I can clearly see now that all involved were enjoying their back-and-forth about the oil companies and I stand corrected. Furthermore, I for one care very deeply about the tufted titmouse in my spruce! As an add-on, does anyone have any good muffin recipes???
    - SKG

  • 12/1 11:48am Did you know that the tufted titmouse builds her nest in many different types of trees other than the spruce? They include elms, maples, oaks, and pines. Not only that, once a pair of titmice get together, they mate for life. They do not split for the winter, choosing to stick it out with the rest of us for the entire, brutally cold winter. And, according to one reliable source, young titmice stick around to help the family raise the next brood (new babies). And if that wasn't enough, these adorable little creatures help grow new trees and plants by discreetly dumping their digested meals in new locations throughout our town as well as eating huge amounts of pesky insects that we can very easily do without. And you say you don't care, JM! By the way, titmice have been known to pull hair or fur from squirrel's tails, opossum's backs, and, yes, occasionally from a human's scalp, when gathering material for a nest. You might want to wear a hat, JM, the next time you saunter out to the backyard!
    - TEM

  • 12/1 9:21am The Sun-Chronicle covered the Holbrook Road incident - page B1 yesterday. The library has back issues.
    - CI

  • 12/1 8:30am Norfolk Firefighters hosting Senior Citizens for Lunch at the Federated Church at 12 noon on Dec 3, Saturday, followed by musical entertainment; arrive by 1:15 pm. Includes a barbershop chorus!! Seniors are asked to call 508-526-4430 (Senior Center) to express their intent to attend so an idea of attendance can be determined.
    - JO

    [The singing group A Classic Sound will be performing for about 45 minutes. To just see the singing group, suggest that you arrive by 1:15. - Wm.
    Update 11:07am: that's barbershop chorus, not quartet, and the musical entertainment times are still being finalized, but plan to arrive by 1:15pm - DLJ]

  • 12/1 8:24am BH: I understand the mechanics of the trade; your description would lead one to believe that the cost of hedging a good portion of an entire winter season's oil supply is inconsequential, thus if spot prices fall, the oil company can immediately revert to the lower price for their customers. This is not the case. The cost of the hedge, which would typically be initiated at the behest of panicked customers, is necessarily passed on in the form of higher oil prices for a period of time. Additionally, the oil companies are simultaneously continuing to commit to buy physical oil in the midst of all the hysteria, since they can't fill their trucks with futures contracts. I have no doubt that there are both unscrupulous oil dealers and those that have done a lousy job managing the cost of the oil they buy. But I have zero sympathy for people who bought into the madness and locked themselves into a high price, and now they want a mulligan.
    And to SKG, I subscribe to the Socratic theory that the ``unexamined life is not worth living''; do you think NorfolkNet should be muffin recipes and bird sightings? I don't care about the tufted titmouse you saw in your spruce tree, but I love the give and take on current events.
    - JM

  • 12/1 1:54am For MA regarding digital TV - The Digital TV switch should be in April 2009.
    This article is interesting, clear, and recent: [USA Today] Basically, if one uses a cable box, any TV works. An over the air digital television signal to an analog TV (such as Portable TVs, hand held units, etc.) will require a black box converter. In 2009 that box should be around $50. [Dtv.gov] also has info.
    During a C-SPAN Interview about Telecommunications Issues, Senator Ted Stevens mentioned that the government is still discussing how much assistance to give consumers and households. They also want to stop analog television from being produced in this country and stop them from being brought into the USA.
    - DLJ

  • 12/1 12:45am I heard from someone who lives on Holbrook that what happened on Monday was that a man who lives on Pond Street had called the police, threatened to kill himself with a gun and to possibly hurt others in the process. That was why the big reaction!! There were police from all over AND SWAT team members. Thankfully, the man was alone, and ultimately didn't hurt anyone, himself included. Sounds like the town reacted appropriately, especially, holding school busses at the schools for that neighborhood, so the kids were safe. Amazing, something like that can happen in our little town and not make the news!
    - EH

  • 11/30 10:31pm I am looking for information about the new laws that will affect our TV; ours is 10 years old and I guess it is not digital or whatever that the new law will require.
    Anyone in the room knows about the new broadcast system that will take effect soon and affect the TV that I have now? I heard that Congress is addressing the issue and providing funds for this new broadcast system. What's it all about?
    I heard you can purchase an adapter for old TV's for 200.00, but I did not follow this up as of last year.
    What is your input? Thanks,
    - MA

  • 11/30 10:28pm NOTE: The phone number listed in the Boomerang for the Firefighters Lunch on Saturday is incorrect; should be 508-528-4430 (not 3340).
    - JO

  • 11/30 10:26pm I don't know but I have to heat my house this and every winter. What I pay or don't pay for oil seems a little beside the point. I did use a local oil company and did pay a small fee to lock in at a cap. If oil goes up I don't pay extra, if oil goes down, the oil company gives me the new rate, I call that more that fair. I love the analogy about Star Bucks, I am guilty of paying outrageous prices for a cup of coffee so to B---- about oil or gas makes me what? Ah never mind I'm gonna B---- anyhow.
    - JW

  • 11/30 10:24pm Are all users of the Transfer Station aware that they intend to close BOTH the Saturday before Xmas and New Years!! I didnt know that the day prior was a holiday. They plan on being open Friday 8-4! I assume like me, most work all day Friday. This is a vital town "SERVICE." Personally this will leave me with 3 weeks of trash. I called the DPW on 11/30 to verify this schedule and to register a complaint. I hope more will do the same.
    - MSC

  • 11/30 5:19pm Incident on Holbrook: Does anyone know what happened on Holbrook St. Mon. afternoon? I overheard a local officer say that a man had "holed himself up" and some feared he might hurt himself. He didn't, apparently - and thankfully. From the number of cruisers (some from as far as Abington), undercover officers and unmarked cars, you'd think it was a drug bust -- on Holbrook Street! Any scoops?
    - JG

  • 11/30 3:57pm To JM - (an answer to the question you posed to RS) Local oil companies can purchase an option on a futures contracts, which give them the right but not the obligation to buy a specific quantity of oil at a specific strike price by a certain date. As such, a local company could purchase a fuel oil option contract with strike price X, but if market prices for fuel oil fall below X it can buy fuel oil in the open market at the lower price and let the option contract expire worthless -- the cost savings (less the cost of the option contract) could then be passed along to customers. So, yes, local oil companies, depending on how sophisticated they are, can gouge clients. Cheers.
    - BH

  • 11/30 3:55pm Does anyone know what was going on this past Monday on 115 by the Millis line? I saw several police cars from Norfolk and area towns, a fire engine and other trucks pulled off to the side of the road. It looked like they were looking for someone. Any information???
    - LK

  • 11/30 3:52pm MJD writes in response to my on going Pre Pay Oil Program concerns: "The local company did however lose my business which is too bad for them and probably for me as I think they provided good service and I plan to live here for a really long time. In the end, I bet we both lose. The other night we had a problem with our boiler and the new big oil company took over three hours to come out and fix it, the local company would have been here within the hour (judging from past experience) Oh well. "
    While we did not actually sign the contract and the actual contract does not state that we must buy solely from them on an automatic delivery basis, I am now beginning to realize the true significance of this home energy challenge, thanks in large part to the many positive, informative and kind remarks we have received at this site. We have conducted business solely with our local Norfolk based oil company since approx. 1985. We have also recommended the same company to others who need home heating oil and service as well as for the installation of some new systems as we are in the home renovation business. It will cause us a bit of financial pain this season but we now will settle on the fact that we entered into this agreement (whether it be vague or not) knowing the risks as well as the assumed responsibilities on both sides. We do feel however that there is a gigantic profit being made at the price of the consumer and the true profiteers are the wholesalers, and investors of energy. I believe now that our local oil company did have our best intentions in mind and does feel for us. We will ride it out this winter, bundle up and continue to remain grateful this season. Thanks for all the responses to our inquiry.
    - BF

  • 11/30 12:24pm To SKG - Debate is a good thing. This is what makes the site interesting. You have to admit it does get just a bit boring speaking about daycare, play groups and contractors... Embrace different peoples' point of view. It's a big world out there!
    - DWL

  • 11/30 9:24am I have recently begun to check in on Norfolk net every few days and I have found it to be a very useful way to find out what is going on around town. I think that it is a great way for the people of Norfolk to connect and share helpful information etc. Lately, however, I have been disturbed by the negative and sarcastic posts back and forth. A person writes with a legitimate question or comment and what follows is pages worth of matter of fact responses laced with venom. What is it that has so many people who frequent this web site chomping at the bit for a confrontation? Everyone is entitled to have and share their opinion. Think for a moment, how does that old saying go? "If you can't say something nice....."
    - SKG

  • 11/30 9:19am Thanks RS & PN for your positive input with the current issues many of us face. In response to PN's suggestion, "If you were to go out and purchase oil from another company while the rates are down... you can take advantage of the lower rate and not use the more expensive stuff from the locked rate." We realize this may be an option but would it be within the guidelines of the terms of the pre purchase contract? We assume it would not be and to be fair we would restrain from doing so. An interesting point however is that the terms of the pre pay program are extremely vague and do not mention that we must purchase only from them. I will check into that with our local oil company in an attempt to remain fair. According to Massachusetts law, a contract must be in writing and made available to the consumer and it must be signed. As far as I can tell, we never have actually received the detailed contract in writing. We initiated our participation in the program via telephone, made the payment by credit card over the phone and never actually signed anything. We have only received the initial sign up form "Pre-Payment Fixed Price Contract". The only real specifics in this form as far as the contract terms are concerned state: "If you use more than the above gallons before 5-31-06, you will be billed for the excess at the market rate at the time of delivery. If you use less than the above gallons through 5-31-06, we will send you a refund at your request."
    - BF

  • 11/30 8:11am RS: I have no idea what you just said in your last post, but you are certainly entitled to your opinions, and welcome to share them on NorfolkNet. However, you should expect a rebuttal when you type lengthy economic treatises that are based on fiction. I'll give you another chance: how, if you ran a local heating oil company, would you both lock in prices in a rising oil market AND offer lower prices when the market price falls? The correct answer is 'you can't', but in your 11/28 post at 10:04pm, I'm pretty sure you said you could do it, and then you went on to accuse heating oil dealers of profiteering. Do tell.
    - JM

    [Actually, I really liked PN's observation, which points out that they not only can, but they do, as a matter of course, all the time. Should be interesting to see how that works this year - Wm.]

  • 11/30 8:10am Bill Maher has an interesting quote in his new book "New Rules." We all have a problem with the price of gasoline (paying close to $3 gallon), however, we don't think twice about paying 3 dollars for a latte at Starbucks! (and some do it twice a day). Drink your latte then go fill your tank. You won't feel so bad filling your tank after paying so much for a latte.
    - DWL

  • 11/30 8:08am BF - I can not prove that I called within 15 days as did not write down the date that I called ( I believe it was within 15 days of receiving the notice.) The local company did however lose my business which is too bad for them and probably for me as I think they provided good service and I plan to live here for a really long time. In the end, I bet we both lose. The other night we had a problem with our boiler and the new big oil company took over three hours to come out and fix it, the local company would have been here within the hour (judging from past experience) Oh well.
    - MJD

  • 11/29 10:04pm Hi JM, I'm working on the new health care bill that is being reviewed at the state house by Gov. Romney. I think it is a good plan for all, that all residents in Mass should have health insurance according to their income. Let's say that you make 15000 per year and you have 2 in your family - that includes your wife and you only - as of now, you will not qualify for any Health Insurance at all. Or you can pay like I do 960.00 per month for Harvard group on a commercial plan for 2 people. As far as me missing the title of Mr. Greenspan, please wait and you will see the future. By the way I am not RS Oil Company and if you read my past mail to the Net I did say that I am not in the oil business at all, it was just my opinion and feelings. Please do not take my comments so hard and please do not insult me any longer with your personal comments about how I feel. Please slow down.
    - RS

  • 11/29 10:00pm Oil For Food... I mean Oil For Profit scam. Thinking outside the box for a solution to those "locked" into the prepay situation -- if I'm not mistaken, you basically purchased a futures contract on so many gallons of oil at a set price. If I remember the details correctly, any money left over as of May 31, 2006 (implying that you may not use all the oil you pre-purchase) would be refunded or applied toward upcoming balances. The operative point here is... "any money left over - from unused oil". If you were to go out and purchase oil from another company while the rates are down... you can take advantage of the lower rate and not use the more expensive stuff from the locked rate. If prices go up... well, you know what I mean. Though I ask you.... is it really worth it? Just some food for.... I mean oil for thought.
    - PN

  • 11/29 6:21pm Thank goodness we all have MH to maintain all the checks and balances for us!
    We do not find MH "making sport of the idea" helpful as we opened the discussion with the idea to express our situation and not to complain about it, as others may find themselves in the same spot. Today I did speak with our local oil company, and openly admitted we knew fully our risks in participating in the pre pay program. What we find discomforting is the timing of such, as well as the unusual nature of the offer. It came in our mail unexpectedly and during the height of all the bad press of the oil/gas futures. Unfortunately, time and time again it is the consumer who feels the brunt of this type of thing. We participated in the pre pay oil program last year as well and lost on that deal as well. We did not mention one word of it to our supplier or anybody else for that matter. We absorbed the cost. This year was different and in speaking with our local oil company today as well as our local AG office, both state that there is a large amount of complaints coming in. The AG's office has requested of us some additional information as a larger-scale look may become necessary. Our complaint is the timing and the unusual nature of the program, not the actual cost we are now forced to pay. While MH may appear to have the answers to all our situations, what MH lacks is an identity. Anybody can turn anothers discomfort into their own gain with their carefully selected words, but can they offer good sound practical advice absent of sarcasm? Our question is if anybody else is wading through this type of situation and if they may be working through this with some positive results.
    A question I have for MJD. You mentioned you missed the 15 day window for the second pre pay offer as they shut that offer down early. I spoke with our local oil company today and they told me they did not stop the 15 day offer early; they ran it the full 15 days. Can you help me out with this and confirm for me what they told you? I am talking about our local Norfolk based oil company.
    In September when we called to join the pre pay program they told us they stopped the offer due to the unpredictable oil market. Today they told me they stopped the first offer in September because they sold out!
    This is my point MH the unusual nature of the program. It borders on a deceptive trade practice.
    - BF

  • 11/29 9:40am MJD - Wm was correct, the comments I referred to were ``I first mentioned our situation about our participation in our local oil companies pre-pay program because we did indeed lock in at a high rate ($2.55 per gallon x 800 gallons), but mostly because we felt pressured to do so.'' and ``Using fear and timing as a mechanism to cause a hurried sale.'' Perhaps I am reading BF's post incorrectly and misunderstanding the intention. The ideas of locking in a rate and prepaying are used interchangeably in this post. As you said, locking in at $2.55 would mean a ``cap'' that could fluctuate, but not go higher. Prepaying means you get only what you pay for. BF paid $2,040 and will receive 800 gallons of oil. I was making sport of the idea that pressure came from a post card in the mail that they responded to and are now considering legal action.
    RS - something else to consider. Much like you, that person that has this 30,000-40,000 gallon storage capacity is also paying more for the fuel that runs the trucks that are delivering the oil to your home. While they are probably getting it at a discount, if you check the current selling price of diesel fuel it is still higher than it was this time last year. If they are providing health benefits to their employees, those costs are also skyrocketing (see the reasoning for most Town of Norfolk tax hikes). All that savings gets passed right down the line - ``kind of a trickle down effect.''
    You are correct about housing sales slowing. Public records for Norfolk indicate that there have been 89 houses sold YTD (October) in 2005 (down from the 134 YTD for 2004). Median prices have also fallen - $445,000 YTD in 2005 versus $472,200 YTD in 2004. Don't forget, though, home sales are also affected by rising interest rates that make overpriced houses even more unaffordable.
    - MH

  • 11/29 9:40am RS: My condolences for being passed over to succeed Alan Greenspan. I would be fascinated to learn how your fictional RS Oil Co. would both lock-in prices in a rising oil market AND offer 'very low prices' to your customers. Oil prices have risen and fallen based on the perceived availability of refining capacity, that was threatened by the succession of hurricanes and tropical storms. At the behest of their panicked customers, many local oil companies either hedged or prepaid for oil at the top of the market, and for that portion of their supply, they and their customers are stuck with the price. If oil had continued to rise, you would be sending your oilman a Christmas fruitcake; now that they've fallen, he's the devil incarnate. Regarding new and existing home sales, interest rates, which are still barely above 40 year lows, have risen slightly, primarily due to the succession of Fed rate increases. Inflation, excluding fuel and food which are highly correlated, is still basically non-existent, and the fuel component has declined as fuel prices continue to slide. Long term rates, which are the real measure of expected inflation, have DECLINED. Home prices have fallen in Massachusetts, which is a ridiculously overinflated market, but extrapolating what's happening here is a stretch, although housing is absolutely slowing, which is exactly what you should be hoping for. Send that fruitcake to the poor S.O.B. who is trying to sell those cheesy Keeney Pond cribs. No one is going on vacation? You must have been in a tryptophan coma when the news reported record Thanksgiving travel. Fuel costs remain around 5% of disposable income nationally, and is cheaper today than it was 20 years ago on an inflation-adjusted basis. You are tilting at the wrong windmill; why don't you take a crack at healthcare reform?
    - JM

  • 11/29 9:12am Re: 11/25 7:53pm Does anyone know of any local coat drives? .... - DL
    Yes, DL, our organization, Citizen Action Team * RealTime Disaster Relief is conducting a coat drive as well as a Holiday Box Drive for the holidays, and our home in Norfolk will be one of the drop sites.
    So stay tuned, email me, go through your closets and attics and get your "extra" un-needed coats, gloves, blankets, etc. ready to donate to the Gulf Hurricane Relief Effort.
    Please, do not for one moment think that the emergency is over in the Gulf even though the Red Cross and FEMA have bailed. There are thousands of people in tent cities, with homes, no warm clothes, blankets, etc. Now is when they most need our help. It really does get cold there in the winter. I will be announcing soon exactly when we will be accepting donations at our home here in Norfolk. If anyone else is interested in helping out with this, please contact me at: Rubytunes@aol.com. Thanks again. Also, please check out our data base and website at: CitizenActionTeam.org Sincerely,
    - PRR

  • 11/28 10:08pm Hi Wm., I got your last response to my note on the Norfolk Net page; let's just go back a little on my question about the 30,000 or 40,000 capacity of storage. I am not in the business of selling home heating fuel, but if I did, with so much storage capacity I could get all the oil I need to supply my customers at a very low price and even lock in for futures knowing my customers needs and never lose a penny on my investment. Let's face it, we will pay this winter through the nose for heating fuel, and you know this as well as I do. It's not Math at all; it is taking advantage of the season, just like fuel for our vehicles for the past 4 months. And by the way, did you know why gas prices came down? because of the holidays, and no-one is going on vacation; we turn our attention to holiday shopping, and if gas prices were 3.29 per Gallon or more, most of us would not be at the mall this holiday season to support the merchants - and then what? INFLATION, in the 2nd Quarter for 2006. Please read the signs of our economy, old and new homes sales are down by 9% since October and it is all because of fuel. Kind of a trickle down effect.
    So be it, I hope the winter is mild so as to drive the cost of home heating fuel down and then we can afford our new taxes in Norfolk.
    - RS

  • 11/28 7:55pm MH - I am not sure what you are talking about but I locked in so that my rate never goes over $2.39 per gallon; if it's less, I pay less. I didn't feel duped, I was just commenting on the fact that larger oil companies buy insurance and therefore can extend their lock in programs even when times are tough in the oil market.
    - MJD

    [Some plans cap the price, but others pre-purchase at a fixed price. MH (and BF) must be referring to the fixed-price purchase plan. - Wm.]

  • 11/28 4:27pm This is a response to a message I saw posted in Norfolk Notes page. TEM wrote: 11/16 8:31am I am looking for a contractor for extensive renovation of my home and would appreciate your recommendations. Because the job is a very complex and challenging one requiring ...
    Well I may have a solution for this person. Follow this link: mjdesignandremodel.com This may come across as biased because I know and have worked for him. He is Michael Mooney. You will notice mostly cabinetries on his site. That is not all that he does. This man is a licensed carpenter in MA and can draw plans. He can do additions and or remodel from soup to nuts. Framing, finish, sheetrock, plaster. Painting, plumbing, and electricals would have to be subbed.
    If that is a problem, Michael is affiliated with a local to the area, my brother Brian A. Bigelow of Bigelow Carpentry. Brian has numerous sub-contractors that do side jobs for himself and Mike. Please bear in mind that everyone should go out and get estimates from other contractors to do comparitives.
    You may find that Mike and my brother are pricey. So I will give you a little quote that we the contractors use often: "You get what you pay for."
    - EB

  • 11/28 12:24pm If anyone is looking for snow plowing, I highly recommend Scott Morrison. He is reasonable, very reliable and located right here in Norfolk. You can reach him at 781-389-2443.
    - GB

  • 11/28 12:08pm We are looking for some help with the following:
    - house cleaning
    - light day care at our home (meaning some child care/play time with our 2 1/2 year old and/or watching our new born) (likely a few hours per day once or twice per week).
    Anyone interested or in either or both, or anyone who knows of someone who might be interested can email us at lawrence@longworth.com. We live in Norfolk. Thanks
    - JL

    [Update 4:13pm: also would like to hear if anyone knows of someone interested - JL]

  • 11/28 10:44am To those who are complaining about the oil costs -- If you feel ``duped'' by the oil companies, I think the blame should be on your shoulders. You felt pressured to lock in? Come on.
    I got a card in the mail the other day that a local rug company was going out of business and they had a huge rug sale. I really need a rug for our dining room as we are going to be redecorating soon. I thought it was a great sale, but when I took the time to look around at other stores, I realized the prices were really only barely competitive to market rates. If I had bought the rug simply because I felt pressured from getting a post card in the mail I might be a little disappointed, but it would only be in myself.
    You ``jumped at the chance'' and got caught short. If the shoes had been on the other foot and you locked in at $1.50 with the current rate being at $2.50, this would not be an issue. Comparing lock in rates and prepay rates to COD does not seem a very fair practice either. I think it common sense that the company should offer a different rate for customers willing to pay upon delivery. Keep in mind that the $2.00 per gallon paid this delivery could be $3.00 per gallon in a months time.
    Our oil company that we have used for the last couple of years has refused to offer even a lock in rate for the winter. They said that the prices are fluctuating so much right now, they did not think it fair to lock anyone in at a high rate. Much like last winter -- we will keep the heat turned down and bundle up a little more.
    - MH

  • 11/28 10:42am Don't miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to purchase a quality puppet for that special child in your life! Puppets spark a child's imagination, are interactive, educational and cuddly! These are high quality, durable puppets which make wonderful holiday gifts. You don't need to take a long trip to the mall --- shop at the Norfolk Library and help support the Friends at the same time. To preview the puppets go to this website puppetworld.net Questions? Call 508-528-3380.
    - Robin Glasser, Director Norfolk Public Library

  • 11/28 8:43am Thanks for all your great responses to my question on Christmas trees! I was away at the inlaws for Thanksgiving, so I just saw them today. I will mull the choices over with my husband and pick a tree out this weekend.
    - KGD

  • 11/27 4:28pm "Pre Pay Oil Programs", a subjects worth further consideration. I first mentioned our situation about our participation in our local oil companies pre-pay program because we did indeed lock in at a high rate ($2.55 per gallon x 800 gallons), but mostly because we felt pressured to do so. We missed the annual lock-in period as our local oil company shut down the program in early September only to re-open it in October for 15 days. We jumped at the chance given the news of the times with the foul weather in the Gulf Coast region and rising fuel costs.
    On 11/24 MJD wrote "I was within the 15 days that they had given me to make up my mind and I called. They told me that they had to cancel the program because of the potential cost increases due to the storm and other factors."
    Our grievance is born from the inconsistencies of our local oil company. They caused us to feel that we missed an opportunity in September and were then out of luck only to offer a renewed opportunity in October for 15 days. MJD writes the program was once again cut short! For us, we feel this borders a "deceptive trade practice." Using fear and timing as a mechanism to cause a hurried sale. My original question was to poll others who may be in this same situation and what some options may be other than to have installed some optional heat sources and energy saving devices. The legal aspects here may be worth exploring. Today I did write the Mass. Dept. of Consumer Affairs for some information. In the meantime, however, we realize we must abide by our educated decision to participate in the Pre Pay Oil Program.
    - BF

  • 11/27 12:25pm Hi BF, thanks for your reply to my type of spending as far as home fuel to heat our home this winter. I think it is shame the gas for cars has come down to 2.05 per gallon and home heating fuel is still at 2.30 per gallon, and even higher - what gives here? Do you know that heating oil number 2 is less to process than gas for our vehicles; why do they charge a higher price? I have the answer for you, and please read. Most oil companies in our area have a storage capacity of 40,000 gallons and more. Did you think they filled their tanks yesterday? NOT - they bought their oil last year, and this is a guess for me around 80 cents per gallon, so go figure.
    They will profit so much this winter as you know. That is why I shop around and pay COD. You can look at a local paper and find an oil burner service that will give the same backup if your oil burner has any problems.
    Please shop around for fuel prices.
    - RS

    [But doing the math, 40,000 gallons is about 200 tanks of fuel, which is a ten day supply for 200 customers in the middle of January. Looked at another way, the oil company's take on the 40,000 gallons is not enough to operate even one truck for a year. Either way, they must be selling a lot more than 40,000 gallons per year to stay in business, so they must be refilling those tanks more frequently. - Wm.]

  • 11/26 10:55pm Bay Colony Productions' "It's a Wonderful Life" will be performed live at the Orpheum Theater in Foxboro December 2-18. Norfolk resident Jonathan Garven will be playing 6 different roles in the show. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for Children under 12.
    Tickets are available by calling the box office at 508-543-2787. The Orpheum Theater is located in the Foxboro rotary. See orpheum.org
    - JG

  • 11/26 1:00pm Would also give Dover Trucking high marks. Remember pay for the year in advance and get one month free.
    - PRB

  • 11/26 9:22am We are looking for a responsible, caring individual who can pick our son (2 1/2) up from his day school and either take him to their house or our house and do some activities with him until we get home. The hours would be 5ish till 7ish and starts in January. We are very flexible about the days. Please call 508-541-6711 after 6 or email us at anrpatel1@yahoo.com if you are interested. Thanks!
    - AP

  • 11/26 9:21am JD - We use Dover Trucking for our curbside trash pickup. They pick up every Friday in Norfolk. They provide a large, rolling trash bin, plus two recycling bins for Mixed Household paper and Glass/Plastic on alternating weeks. The monthly rate is just under $35. The service has been great. They have more info on their web site, dovertrucking.com.
    - JM

  • 11/26 9:20am If you want someone who is very good and does a great job cleaning gutters, try Randy Corwin, right here in Norfolk. His number is in the book under House Work Haters.
    - SB

    [Update 11/26 1:01pm: from the Little Green Phone Book: Housework Haters Cleaning Service - Randy Corwin 508-520-1258 - RH]

  • 11/26 9:19am The elementary schools are now having a coat drive, with Anton's cleaners donates cleaning. Not sure when it ends - I'd suggest calling Freeman-Centennial or H. Olive Day to find out when, and if non-students can drop coats off.
    - CI

  • 11/25 7:53pm Does anyone know of any local coat drives? I vaguely remember St. Judes doing something like this in the winter, and the dry cleaner in town offering free cleaning for these coats, but I could be wrong. Either way, we have a few kids and adult coats we'd like to donate to the cause.
    - DL

  • 11/25 2:20pm We have American Gutter Cleaning, Inc. Tewksbury, Ma. 978-851-4859, we paid $95.00 the day before Thanksgiving. They have done a good job for us for several years.
    - JW

  • 11/25 8:58am Can someone recommend a reasonable and satiafactory clean of gutters? I know I saw a reference to same but can't seem to dig it out of the archives!
    - JO

  • 11/24 12:18pm RS - MJD - PHT - LS, Thanks for the reply to my post regarding our local Pre-Purchase Oil Program. While I realize the risk involved, being a long time advocate of the pre-purchase program, I wanted to post that situation, as home energy costs are now an ever increasing challenge for more and more consumers in the simple financial sense.
    What are our rights as consumers? It seems the media has created a hold on us and there are plenty of opportunists making ready to pounce on the created situations. While the inclement weather had its very real effect on the market price of energy, the unfortunate part of this is the sensationalism created by the media. It can be seen with many other issues as well. For instance 911, the Gulf War, etc. We are faced with a sense of impending doom if we allow. In the past we could rely on outside sources for a more genuine view of circumstances. Now we can assume there is more to the story than what is being told. The true profiteers in the high energy costs are the investors of such. The financial clout they have can and does control what we see, hear and feel in our everyday lives. Imagine being able to create a sense of uncertainty for the oil futures given the recent bad weather in the gulf state and having a huge financial backing. Now pay to sensationalize this situation with the media etc. Cause concern and now have your financial backing invest heavily in not only the actual energy but also alternative energy and energy saving products. It's a proven win-win for them and they are undoubtedly unbeatable due to their clout. We fall prey over and over again.
    We stand to lose out on our pre-pay oil investment. We can shoulder that but do find discomfort with this, knowing we were once again drawn in due to the media hype. Last year we lost on the pre-pay program as well, but on previous years gained slightly. We will now go COD and shop around. Unfortunately, all this creates in our local markets is a deepening sense of disloyalty. We have been with our local oil company faithfully since 1985.
    - BF

  • 11/24 11:42am Happy Thanksgiving!

  • 11/24 11:32am Hi, I am looking for an assortment of used boxes for shipping purposes. All sizes needed. If you have a basement full of boxes you don't know what to do with, please email me and I'll come take them away for you! Thanks for your help and Happy Thanksgiving! Please contact me at Tracy_O@comcast.net.
    - TO

  • 11/24 11:28am About oil prices, I do buy from other oil companies, no contracts, just COD. I never had a problem with the oil to heat my home, my last delivery was 150 gallons at a price of 1.92 per gallon. I always shop around to get the best price, and I always pay cash. And most oil companies also offer service if your burner has any problems, they do not have automatic delivery -- you have to call them for oil, and that's ok with me, instead of seeing the oil truck at my home every 2 weeks with a higher price than my last delivery. I look at all the oil companies that advertise in our local paper and call for a price; the lowest will get my business. This has always worked for me.
    I hope this info will help you for the upcoming heating season.
    - RS

  • 11/24 11:28am BF & LS: I received the same offer in the mail and then Katrina started to threaten the Gulf Coast. I was within the 15 days that they had given me to make up my mind and I called. They told me that they had to cancel the program because of the potential cost increases due to the storm and other factors. I explained I couldn' t take the risk that my oil was going to go up to a level where I couldn't afford to heat my home and I felt as though I had to take my business elsewhere. I really like to do business locally but the risk was too great, I needed to lock in. I found that the big oil companies buy insurance again major price fluctuation and the little local guys can't afford to do so. We ended up going with Devaney out of West Roxbury and so far so good. We had a problem the other night and they were here within 2 hours, not as quick as my local guy but acceptable. I liked the service I got from my local company and they were pleasant to deal with but this time, I had to go with budget security.
    - MJD

  • 11/24 11:27am Other than Callahan (we had a bad experience), are there other trash disposal services that pick up curbside in Norfolk? Thanks.
    - JD

  • 11/24 11:24am Hey BF what's the big deal! At least you didn't sign up for a 30 year commitment like a mortgage. You're just upset because you guessed wrong on the market. Let's see, at 800 gallons you are currently out just under $300 dollars based on the following postings reply of current prices. If you have a house like mine you can spread that $300 extra dollars over 3 months. Who knows, maybe the market will turn around for you and it will be the rest of us who are complaining that we didn't lock in... We haven't even hit the cold weather yet. I can tell you now though, I am filling up at the Lower Price!! Thanks for the post.
    - PHT

  • 11/23 1:58pm BF - You were not duped at all. It's the volatile market and if it's the same local oil company that came in the mail to me then I would bet my house you were not duped. I too got that same thing in the mail and I was mad at myself for missing the 15 day cutoff. I called to see I could still sign up and they said no. The rates were rising over those 15 days as well. It's the luck of the draw I'm afraid. Call them up and see if they will offer it to you at the lower rate. I bet they will. Look on the bright side, in mid January the rates may be close to $3.00 and you will rest easy. Most likely, the oil company is in the same predicament as you as he is buying his oil at the higher rate if he locked in with his suppliers back then.
    - LS

  • 11/22 7:40pm Pre-payment fixed price oil contracts - each year if we can afford to do so, we typically pre-purchase our oil from our local oil company during the summer/early fall for the following winter months. This year our local oil company stopped offering the Pre Payment Fixed Price Oil Contract in September due to the uncertainty of the oil prices with the rash of hurricanes affecting the Gulf Coast oil platforms. We missed out on the program. Or so we thought. In October, we received from our local oil company a letter stating that in the next fifteen days, we would have the opportunity to participate in the Pre Payment Fixed Price Oil Contract. We jumped at the chance given the flood of bad news with this winter's home heating costs. We locked in at $2.55 per gallon and bought 800 gallons. Today I called our local oil company and discovered the C.O.D. cost for the same oil is now $2.14 - $2.19 per gallon, and I suspect the price will continue to drop. We do not know what to do and are afraid we have been duped. Our question is, what are our options at this point besides installing alternative heat sources. Was this 15-day hurry up and lock offer within the law? Is anybody else wading through this?
    - BF

  • 11/22 10:01am We have had a couple of close calls with deer jumping out in front of our car in the past couple of weeks. A warning to everyone to be on the lookout!
    - MS

  • 11/22 10:01am Norfolk Community League's Nearly New Sale: What better time than the holidays to donate to your community? Clean out all those toys, before new gifts arrive! The Norfolk Community League is now accepting donations of gently used children's clothing, toys, equipment (high chairs, car seats, cribs, etc.), sporting goods, maternity clothes for the 2006 sale. Items may be dropped off at ANY TIME at the storage bin located a the Highway Dept. on Medway Branch (across from the Transfer Station). Volunteers will be accepting your donations on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2005 from 9 AM to 11 AM. Proceeds will be distributed as part of NCL's semi-annual disbursements which benefit many organizations in town, including the Schools, Library, Norfolk Senior Center, Police and Fire Departments, as well as many others. Tax receipts for your donations are available at the bin. For further information, please call Joan P. joanpiller@yahoo.com or Anne K. keenan.a@comcast.net.
    - LR, Norfolk Community League

  • 11/22 9:59am I also have spotted deer several times in my yard last week. We also saw a doe run across Medway the other day. The deer in our yard do not seem to be too timid of people, cars etc. However, while walking along the side of the road, a doe gracefully bounded past us followed by a black lab! I thought it was normal to spot them now due to the peak of rutting, or mating season.
    - KM

  • 11/22 9:13am SC and RD, Here is the link to the DPW transfer station brochure: [05-06 Newsletter PDF]
    A couple of things to note: You may not just dump air conditioners in with the scrap metal, and large item pickup is available.
    - AL

  • 11/22 9:08am Re: large item disposal - always ask the attendants! There is a fee charged for disposal and recycling of certain items. Please read the Transfer Station rules at: [DPW page]
    Pick-up Service: The Recycling/Transfer Station is offering a pick-up service of large items for residents

    Cost:
    Pick-up - $25.00
    Disposal - $15.00 per item
    $15.00 for items containing freon (refrigerators, air conditioners & dehumidifiers)     Do not toss them in the metals bin! [emphasis added]

    All items must be in the driveway or easily accessible
    For further information please contact us at the Recycling/Transfer Station - Tuesday through Saturday - 7:30 am - 3:00 pm

    - RH

  • 11/21 10:14pm DS: Deer are usually nocturnal, but occassionally they do move about during the daytime, especially before a storm (which I don't think we have coming), or during hunting season, as people move about in the woods. It's not regular hunting season yet, but it might be bow season. It's more likely just a fluke.
    - SC

  • 11/21 10:13pm There is no large item trash pickup in Norfolk. Mattresses can be brought to the landfill if you have a sticker, & I think air conditioners can be tossed in the metal bin. I'm not sure about TV's. If you don't have a landfill sticker, you must have a contract with a garbage collector - do they offer the service? I doubt Norfolk would schedule a large trash pickup, as people just bring that stuff to the landfill - Norfolk has never done any trash pickup in the 23 years I've lived here. If any of the items still work, you might try craigslist.com or freecycle.org.. Good luck.
    - SC

  • 11/21 4:34pm Does anyone know if Norfolk does a scheduled heavy trash pickup? If not, do you know if you can schedule one or an alternative if not? We have several items - mattresses, old TVs, air conditioners, etc. - that we need to get rid of. Thank you
    - RD

  • 11/21 2:09pm KGD, I would recommend the Norfolk Lions Christmas Tree Sales event that is held every year. We are located in the spare lot next to Dunkin Donuts. All of the trees are grown in the Northeast and primarily out of Maine which is know for high quality fresh cut trees.
    All of the proceeds that are earned from the tree sales are donated to Norfolk activities and charities. As an aside, monies that were recently donated include Stony Brook (New Trail Project) Scholarships, Santa Parade for the children and many other activities.
    The Lions Trees include Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir. Both are known for their high needle retention, blue green color and fragrance. If you are looking for a superior tree look for the Fraser Fir. It will be a little bit more expensive to purchase but it will retain it needles significantly longer than any other tree on the market.
    All of the trees that are sold locally including Norfolk and the surrounding towns purchase their trees from the upper regions of ME, NH, VT and Canada. There are not any local growers that I am aware of who wholesale their trees out to retail resellers. Most local farms who do offer local trees run a Choose and Cut operation on their own property.
    In general, you can be assured that all of the trees that are sold by local retailers are disease free, have been feed and sheared (pruned) on an annual basis and are of very high quality strains.
    The Norfolk Lions is proud of the trees that it offers annually and we look forward to seeing our regular and new customers come back year after year.
    - PHT, Norfolk Lions

  • 11/21 10:59am Recently saw a doe in our front yard at about 10:30am eating some berries off a bush. While she was beautiful to see, should we be concerned that a deer is out in daylight hours? I was under the impression that deer are a dusk to dawn animal - not completely nocturnal, but almost.
    - DS

  • 11/21 10:58am For Christmas trees, we have always had great success with tress from Walsh's Greenhouse on Main Street. Mr. Walsh was even kind enough to help us during a bit of a snowstorm - the tree arrived home safely and we spent a snowed-in day decorating it.
    - TS

  • 11/21 9:46am Santa Clause will roll into Norfolk on Sunday afternoon, December 4th and a host of groups will turn out to celebrate his arrival with a variety of activities.
    Santa's parade will begin at 3:30 at the Hillcrest Senior Village. Santa and his elves, Frosty the Snowman and the King Philip Regional High School Band will lead the procession to Town Hill, accompanied by local area cub and girl scout troops and fire trucks.
    At 4 pm., residents are invited to have their pictures taken with Santa at the new Norfolk Town Library on Town Hill in the meeting room.
    Also at 4pm., children are invited to bring their homemade ornaments to help the adults decorate the Christmas tree. The Town Hill celebration and tree lighting will include caroling by the H. Olive Day chorus and refreshments will be provided.
    These annual community events are sponsored by the Norfolk Lions Club and the Norfolk Recreation Department, with the cooperation of the King Philip Regional High School Band, the local Cub and Girls Scouts and the Norfolk Fire, Police and Highway Departments.
    - JS, Norfolk Lions Club

  • 11/21 9:26am Let us make a difference in the 2006 Dana Farber Marathon Challenge! I am a stay at home mom with a four year old and a two year old. I want to make a contribution to society (other than my two wonderful children). I am planning to run the 2006 Boston Marathon for a great cause - Dana-Farber cancer research. Our lives have been affected as I'm sure many of yours have. Please consider making a donation to this cause. I'm on a mission to raise $6000. If you e-mail me at janesylvest@yahoo.com, I can link you to my web page for a possible donation. Thank you for all the support. Sincerely,
    - JS

  • 11/20 9:09am DL - You can also try Cooper's Appliance Sales & Service 23 Lincoln Avenue, just outside of Plainville center; phone: (508) 699-8032
    - DLJ

  • 11/19 8:00pm For appliances, we've used Bernies in Attleboro for a dishwasher, dryer, and washer in the past 5 years, and would go back again. Have found them to always have the best price (didn't even comparison shop when the washer went). Just be sure to ask the salesperson "can you do any better than that?". Usually deliver in a day or two. They are on Route 1 South, in the strip mall just past the Christmas Tree shop. Curious to hear what cabinet reommendations you get.
    - CI

  • 11/19 2:54pm KGD, I second the recommendation for trees at Gump's. Their trees are all dated and are from a local farm. Definitely great quality and long lasting!
    - DL

  • 11/19 2:53pm Can anyone recommend a place to get kitchen cabinets and appliances (other than Home Depot and Lowe's)? Thanks,
    - DL

  • 11/18 10:26pm Tune in this Sunday night at 8pm on ABC channel 5 to watch Extreme Makeover / Home Edition. The Johnson home in Medfield was built in less than a week by many, many local volunteer workers. A great team effort that provided a new handicapped-accessible home for a family in need. See more about this effort at wishesforwilliam.org.
    - PCD

  • 11/18 3:12pm Gumps Farm on the corner of Boardman Street and Rte 115 is great. It is a local farm with great trees/decorations, friendly people and good customer service.
    - DM

  • 11/18 2:38pm Just a reminder that tomorrow is the Federated Church Holly Fair. This event includes a "Children Only Shop" where children can shop for gifts for family, friends and teachers and gift-wrap their selections.
    - DLJ

  • 11/18 11:46am You are invited to a party. Norfolk Community Television, NCTV, will be holding its 5th annual Christmas/Volunteers Appreciation party on Monday, December 12, from 6 to 9 pm at the Freeman Centennial School. Please enter through door #15. Anyone from the community is invited to come and share in great food (The Traveling Gourmet), great talk, meet a lot of the folks who help to bring NCTV into your home, and great fun. If you have not seen our studio yet, or meet any of the producers of some of our great shows, now is the time. Please RSVP to nctveight@gis.net or call Paul at 508-520-2780. Happy Holidays.
    - Paul Guertin, NCTV Station Manager

  • 11/18 11:18am I am looking for a place that gives horseback riding lessons for my daughter. Thanks
    - JL

  • 11/18 9:19am I have another "new in town" question-can anyone recommend a place to buy a Christmas tree, wreath, garlands, etc.? My preference would be to buy from a local farmer, but am happy to take any suggestions.
    - KGD

  • 11/17 4:32pm Nico The animal control department has a cat who is in need of finding a home. He was turned in because his owner [...] could no longer care for him in the capacity that she wanted to. Nico is an 8-10 yr old tuxedo short hair. He is fully vaccinated, neutered, and feline combo test negative. He is healthy, and very very friendly to both adults and children. The only specialty for him is that he needs to find a house where he can be an only pet.
    If anyone is interested in adopting him he is currently available to a good home. His vaccination history is included as well. There is no adoption fee as of this time as his owner has provided for his needs for the short term, but a fee may be imposed if he cannot find a home within a 2 week period. If interested, please contact the animal control officer at 508-528-3232, M-F 8am-4pm.
    - Hilary Penlington, Norfolk Animal Control

  • 11/17 2:25pm We're into our 5th year at Woodside - our daughter started there as a three-year-old, and is now in 2nd grade. We've been very happy with both the primary (3-6 year old) and elementary programs. I'd encourage you to attend their Open House this weekend (1-3 pm on Sunday at the Village Street location for the primary program, and 9 to 11 am at the Route 109 campus on Monday for the elementary program), to check out their web page ( www.woodsideacademy.com ), or to call them directly to schedule an observation at the school. Applications to the primary program are taken on a first-come first-served basis, and the program usually fills up quickly.
    I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you may have; email me at box21@Norfolknet.com.
    - VR

  • 11/17 1:46pm Hi, I was wondering if anyone had any experience with the Woodside Montessori in Millis. We are contemplating sending our 4 year old there. Any insight about their elementary program would also help. Thanks!
    - LMB

  • 11/17 10:10am The Norfolk Lions and Norfolk Community League would like to thank the 700 spooky souls that braved the snowy and rainy elements to ride the 4th annual Haunted Train Ride. The ride took place on October 29th on a day that started out as a lovely fall day, only to change into a snowy mess once the trains started running. The snow added a new eerie element to the glowing patch of pumpkins carved by Norfolk Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. The almost $900 in proceeds from the train ride this year have been donated to the Norfolk Recreation Department's Summer Concert Series. The free concert series has become a community tradition of gathering for music and socializing. Most Norfolk residents cannot think of the summer without thinking of the concerts.
    [Continued...]
    - TS

  • 11/16 10:55pm At 7 PM Saturday, December 3, the King Philip Music Department will present its popular annual Winter Pops Concert at Plainridge race track, Plainville. The concert will feature the Chorus, the Concert Band, and the Symphony Band with traditional Holiday music, and sing-a-longs. The Marching Band will present a concert performance of "Ode to Joy", the award winning 2005 show. Doors open at 6 pm. Admission price: $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Fire code regulations limit the capacity of the venue. Buy your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Please see the full announcement [here] for full details.
    - MW

  • 11/16 9:20am Please consider donating your gently used toys, children's clothes and sports equipment to the Norfolk Community League's Nearly New Sale being held in April. Items can be dropped off now in the bin at the Highway Department across the street from the Transfer Station. The money raised from this sale every year is given back directly to the community. Thanks.
    - KP

  • 11/16 9:18am THANK YOU to all the Norfolk residents, parents, and students who donated clothing to the Slidell, Louisiana Hurricane Relief drive. We sent out over 70 bags (about 1,300 pieces) of clothing yesterday, with delivery expected by Thanksgiving. Thanks also to those who offered their money, time and offers to take the stuff to Louisiana. Special thanks to Girl Scout Troop 3603, some of Norfolk's finest, for all the hours spent sorting and packing. It's nice to be able to put the "giving" in Thanksgiving, isn't it?
    - KM

  • 11/16 8:31am I am looking for a contractor for extensive renovation of my home and would appreciate your recommendations. Because the job is a very complex and challenging one requiring superior intelligence and extensive knowledge, I ask that you only refer me to builders who have embraced atheism or are agnostic.
    (Sorry, folks, I simply couldn't resist. I take it that those who cannot understand SL's initial criticism of the now infamous MAC post of 11/11 would have no problem had the above bogus request appeared from nowhere on the NorfolkNet. Or would they find it insensitive, oblivious, or presumptuous? Frankly, the stir this issue has caused surprises me. Perhaps it has less to do with political correctness or being aware of the diversity around us, but more to do with resentment of the growing segments of our population who appear hell-bent (if you'll excuse the expression) on attacking the precious concept of separation of church and state, outrage at the rants of wacky millionaire televangelists, and anger at the relentless attempts at imposing religious beliefs on science, public education, the right to choose, and a variety of related issues. To paraphrase a line from a famous movie, "we're getting tired of this and we're not going to take it anymore.")
    - TEM

  • 11/16 8:32am GDL, I really enjoyed the quotes, now if we can only get the honest-church going people to read them. What we need now are some good-honest atheist plumbers and contractors!! I'd be the first to hire one!
    - DWL

  • 11/15 10:43pm PFD -- You choose based on which one understands what you want the most. I can't believe that you can talk to 3 people and come away thinking that each one is exactly the same. If that is the case, then it simply doesn't matter which one you pick. Choose the one with the fewest letters in their name since it is easier to write the check. Or choose somebody other than the obvious choice because they may bring something to the table that you hadn't considered -- knowing that you are under no obligation to accept it, why not take the risk? Wouldn't giving somebody else a chance be the "Christian" thing to do?
    Otherwise, choose the one who can give you a firm handshake, look you in the eye, and understand what you need them to do. (Yeah, I'm probably prejudiced against people with weak grips and/or lazy eyes). You made the original call on which one you would choose, I merely pointed out some alternative ways of viewing it. I was harsh and probably not at my best, and I'm not looking to belittle your faith. I'm happy that the differences are what make life worth living, and while I'm not really going to apologize for the things I believe in, I am genuinely sorry if I gave offense.
    - JT

  • 11/15 8:16pm Those of you interested in some good old fashioned atheism quotes see [quotes page]. A few examples follow.
    Ludwig Feuerbach
    "It is not as in the Bible, that God created man in his own image. But, on the contrary, man created God in his own image."

    Benjamin Franklin
    "The way to see by faith is to shut the eye of reason."

    Mark Twain
    "Faith is believing what you know ain't so."

    Let's not turn Norfolknet into the Holy Lands, God knows there is enough trouble in the world already!
    - GDL

    [Thanks! Some of the quotes on the page are excellent, both deep and funny at the same time. - Wm.]

  • 11/15 5:49pm JT, you are so off base on this. How do you choose your contractors if all else is equal? Should you be considered a bigot if you do not make the politically correct choice? Regardless of my faith, am I not allowed to base a decision on any of my own opinions without someone calling me prejudiced and narrow-minded? If all else is equal, what other way should I make a decision? Since you are basically calling me a racist, what criteria should I use, seeing that I am a white male, who is Catholic, when making a decision on whether I should hire someone to do work in my house. If I have a white male, a black male, a Jewish person and a pagan all qualified to do the work in my house (or outside, so no one thinks I am afraid to let people who are different from me inside my house), what other criteria should I use to make my decision (again, they are all equal in every other facet). Following your logic, if I choose the white male I am a bigot. What gives? Where does this end? Is there a pc manual that I should follow when making decisions? Educate me so I am no longer "prejudiced and narrow-minded".
    - PFD

  • 11/15 3:38pm I'm looking for a contractor/handyman who can remove a ventilation fan from the wall of my pocket bathroom then seal up the wall inside and reshingle over the outside of the house. It's left over from when the space was part of the kitchen. So it's very unnecessary and extremely wasteful of heat.
    Needless to say, cheapness and competence in inverse proportion to each other... Thanks.
    - GN

  • 11/15 2:48pm We are a Norfolk family currently looking for a full time nanny for 4-5 days per week. Must have transportation. Looking for someone to start immediately or after the 1st of the year. Please call (508)208-9313 or e-mail to theyukonjacks@comcast.net. Any suggestions or recommendations would also be greatly appreciated!
    - BC

  • 11/15 2:38pm I fall into the category of someone that will frequent a business (more) because it is Christian owned (Chick-fil-a, Hobby Lobby, etc), though these businesses are not as frequent here in New England as they are in other parts of the country. It is not always convenient as they tend to close earlier in the evening and are typically closed on Sunday and holidays. I personally get a bit tired of people getting offended simply because something is Christian or faith based.
    I take issue with the comparison lumping racial, gender, and faith, etc. prejudice into one category. One does not have control over being born a particular race or gender, but faith is a choice. To compare the two is astonishing.
    - MH

  • 11/15 9:10am Volunteers needed to help run the Norfolk Community League's Annual Santa Breakfast to be held on Saturday, December 10, 2005. Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at the H. Olive Day School Cafeteria. To find out more information about this special event please contact Teresa R. at 508-553-9850. This event benefits The Norfolk Food Pantry (donations needed: cereals, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, toothpaste, soap, etc.) Tickets sell quickly and are sold on a first come first serve basis. Admission price $5 per person for NCL members, $7 per person for non-members (children under 2 are free). Checks are payable to: NCL, Attn: Santa Breakfast, P.O. Box 450, Norfolk, MA 02056.
    - LR

  • 11/15 8:56am From reading this discussion all I can say is that everyone seems to be looking for a fight. The original poster said "church-going", granted, a rather parochial, old fashioned phase. The next poster made a comment about the state of the "church" as if there were one (ha) The term church is incredibly broad and although we are in Massachusetts is not a term held only by Christians. Quite a few other religious groups refer to their organizations as "churches" and would be insulted if you called them "Christian" as they are not. Think broadly before you jump down someone's throat. Your attempt to broaden the way with which people view the world can backfire by your own lack of knowledge or consideration of those around you.
    - MJD

  • 11/14 11:40pm For PC -- I agree 100%. Let's go back to the ideals of the founders of this country. Don't we all long to go back to the times when women were property and slave ownership was a goal of every white man. And if we can't go back that far, we should at least strip women and minorities of their right to vote unless they can somehow pay the poll-tax. While we're at it we can only teach "Intelligent Design" in the schools and go back to having the local barber bleed people to cure them of sickness.
    - JT

  • 11/14 11:29pm SL, you should be ashamed of yourself for belittling someone else's opinion. Everyone else should just realize that folks are expressing their opinions. May God Bless You ALL!
    - PA

  • 11/14 11:22pm Where I was coming from was that there was a strong implicit assumption from PFD and MAC that people who go to church are more trustworthy than those who do not. PFD's assertion that all else being equal he would rather give the money to a good Christian was honest, but one has to admit the inherent bias in that statement. Like I said in the first post, there is no way anybody would have even thought of saying "All else being equal, I'd rather give the job to a white contractor". How many people would howl for blood? And there is no way I could simply defend it by saying that white people have to look after their own.
    I admit that there are several times when the selection criteria are "irrational", but the more interesting question is "why"? Keeping it in the family to get the car fixed sounds great when you make it sound like an act of altruism to give money to a family member. It's nearly impossible to argue with. But we're talking about a case where there are no known quantities, except how somebody may spend their Sunday mornings. In today's world making a judgment on someone's character based on that is as anachronistic as judging them on their sex or the color of their skin. Girls can't do math, white men can't jump, and people who don't go to church are not to be trusted. Quaint, no?
    And of course it is prejudice, even though you seem to be fighting against the use of the word. Somebody has been judged based on a preconceived notion. Pre-judged, if you will. Prejudice.
    - JT

    [Update 11/15 12:58am: Well, I concede that in a narrow etymological sense it is prejudice, but I would argue that in common everyday usage (not in the legal sense) the term only applies if an adverse, harmful judgement has been made based on preconceived notions (or, technically, based on impersonal, non-specific notions. I can gather lots of evidence documenting that Hungarians are nice people, but judging any single individual based on such aggregated evidence is still prejudging.)
    Consider the alternative, that any kind of prejudgement is prejudice -- that would equate any preference whatsoever to prejudice! If I like Hungarians, it's a prejudice, and if I don't like Hungarians, it's also a prejudice? I don't think that would be a particularly useful definition for the word. (feel free to fill in your favorite ethnic group, just remember -- it's all prejudice. I'm Hungarian by ethnicity, Romanian by birth, American by citizenship; I get lots of choices to pick from :-) - Wm.]

  • 11/14 11:18pm The Garden Club of Norfolk will be holding its Annual Greens Sale and House Tour on Sunday Dec 4th 1pm to 4pm at 32 Berkshire St Norfolk Admission $10 All wreaths, topiaries, ornaments and centerpieces may be purchased at reasonable prices.
    - BZ

  • 11/14 11:12pm JT, my point was that selection based on irrational personal criteria IS tolerated under many circumstances without being considered inappropriate. How one chooses to spend their money (ie., to whom to give it) is a personal decision. If I choose to eat at Bourques and not at Tim Hortons, it does not mean that I'm prejudiced or bigoted toward Tim Hortons' employees, managers, or stockholders. Similarly, buying Made in USA is not a sign of bigotry toward foreigners, and appending "this website was made in Norfolk" is not meant as a superlative. Clearly, decision points are on a continuum from the innocuous (day of week, toss of a coin) to the despicable (kickbacks, fraud, deception). Where religion lies along this continuum is an interesting question, and nothing implies "prejudice and bigotry no matter how you slice it."
    Also, I didn't read any post as implying that someone who shares a religion is a better person, just that they're preferable to spend money with. Presumably, an analogy of "keeping it in the family" could be made: if one has to get the car fixed anyway, might as well use the garage run by Cousin Charlie and not his bigger, better and cheaper competitor down the street. The point is, it doesn't have to be a rational or the most cost-efficient decision to be a valid one, and conversely, being irrational or cost-inefficient does not make it bigoted.
    - Wm.

  • 11/14 11:08pm Did You Know?
    • As you walk up the steps to the building which houses the U.S. Supreme Court you can see near the top of the building a row of the world's law givers and each one is facing one in the middle who is facing forward with a full frontal view ... it is Moses and he is holding the Ten Commandments!
    • As you enter the Supreme Court courtroom, the two huge oak doors have the Ten Commandments engraved on each lower portion of each door
    • As you sit inside the courtroom, you can see the wall, right above where the Supreme Court judges sit, a display of the Ten Commandments!
    • There are Bible verses etched in stone all over the Federal Buildings and Monuments in Washington, D.C.
    • James Madison, the fourth president, known as "The Father of Our Constitution" made the following statement: "We have staked the whole of all our political institutions upon the capacity of mankind for self-government, upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God."
    • Patrick Henry, that patriot and Founding Father of our country said: "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists but by Christians, not on religions but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ".
    • Every session of Congress begins with a prayer by a paid preacher, whose salary has been paid by the taxpayer since 1777.
    • Fifty-two of the 55 founders of the Constitution were members of the established orthodox churches in the colonies.
    • Thomas Jefferson worried that the Courts would overstep their authority and instead of interpreting the law would begin making law an oligarchy the rule of few over many.
    • The very first Supreme Court Justice, John Jay, said: "Americans should select and prefer Christians as their rulers."
    How, then, have we gotten to the point that everything we have done for 220 years in this country is now suddenly wrong and unconstitutional?

    [by Andy Rooney]

    - PC

  • 11/14 6:44pm I am always astonished that God could be a source of division! The thread of understanding is a common bond in most every religion, no matter how or to whom you choose to pray or not to pray.
    Personally, my paternal grandmother was a German Jew who immigrated to America during World War I. She came with her mother and brother, my grandmother was ten years old at the time. (We never got the full story on my great grandfather. It is believed he was a communist. He sent his family abroad to protect them.)
    My grandmother married a Catholic of Irish descent. All five of her children were raised in the Catholic faith, including the majority of her eighteen grandchildren.
    God was never an issue in our family. My parents sent all six of their children to Catholic elementary and secondary schools. They always reminded each one of us that many of organized religion's laws are man-made. But they instilled this concept into us: that you must respect yourself and one another and all else takes care of itself.
    So embrace diversity and learn from one another, don't turn to words of anger and fear.
    - CF

  • 11/14 5:31pm For our Wm -- "The subject of faith-based groupings as instances of such shared communities is a legitimate and genuinely interesting topic worth exploring, and it is unwarranted to automatically equate them with bigotry. - Wm."
    Admittedly I was a bit harsh, but it is prejudice and bigotry no matter how you slice it. An automatic assumption that one person is better than another based on race, religion, or even fashion is the textbook definition of prejudice. The more interesting question may be why is it tolerated when dealing with a "faith-based grouping" and intolerable under other circumstances. People are still perfectly free to make their decisions any way they want, but if they are going to offer it up on a public forum like this there will probably be some fall-out.
    - JT

  • 11/14 3:57pm For PFD -- Of course you are allowed to make your decisions based on your faith. I just think it's rare to see people so easily admit to bein prejudiced and narrow-minded. You'd probably prefer white people too, all else being "equal".
    - JT

    [Now now, be nice! In many cases it's perfectly acceptable to prefer one merchant or service provider over another based upon membership in a shared community -- Made in USA vs. import, town resident vs. franchise chain, family member vs. stranger. The subject of faith-based groupings as instances of such shared communities is a legitimate and genuinely interesting topic worth exploring, and it is unwarranted to automatically equate them with bigotry. - Wm.]

  • 11/14 3:16pm To PC: hmmmm... Cambridge - I guess a town with population diversity, a robust local economy, world class higher education and tolerance for even people like you is a bad thing. You're right - I'm going on cambridge.net and while I'm at it suggest you log onto alabama.net
    - SL

  • 11/14 1:18pm MSD, all else considered equal, yes, I would choose a good Christian to do the work for me. Why is that disappointing to you and offensive to SL? SL said it was offensive for MAC to post the way he/she did, strictly because "church-goer" was mentioned. I find that ludicrous. You find it disappointing that I would choose a church-goer over someone that was not. Can I not make any decisions based off of my faith besides when and when not to go to church? I am not a government sponsored or private business. I am my own individual. I can make the decisions to hire someone to do work for me based off of whatever criteria I put forth. This politically correct nature that has taken over is driving me crazy. I find it disappointing and offensive that in this pc world I cannot make any decision based off of faith.
    - PFD

  • 11/14 11:49am To all of you who posted recommendation s for my gently used toys, "Thank You!" All were terrific suggestions and I am quite sure I will find a suitable home for all the toys! Thanks again.
    - SM

  • 11/14 11:01am To JBZ re: Kitchen appliance repair... We've used M&M Appliance (Wrentham number: 508-384-7577) for work on our Kitchen Aid dishwasher and our Subzero refrigerator. Both items are well past warranty but have lots of good years left thanks to help from Mike at M&M. Each time our call was returned promptly and service was great. Prices are reasonable too. Really thought the dishwasher was a goner, but Mike was able to fix the problem and order us new racks to "spruce up" the inside. Saved us a bundle. Good luck!
    - TN

  • 11/14 10:05am SL, MSD I think the political correctness concerns have been overblown... I think Cambridgenet.com might be a more sympathetic audience for you
    - PC

  • 11/14 9:23am PFD & MAC - If I am to understand you correctly: If I choose to go to a temple or practice buddhism or do charity work on Sundays rather than attend church, you would think me a less desireable contractor or person to do business with? I understand that you are looking for good honest people, but find your selection criteria disappointing.
    - MSD

  • 11/13 11:26pm Does anyone know of a book publisher that might be willing to publish an eighty-page hard cover book with colored photographs? Thank you
    - DLJ

  • 11/13 12:38pm To SM: The Norfolk Community League holds a Nearly New Sale in the spring almost every year to sell gently used kids clothes, toys and baby equipment. You can contact their website for more information. The proceeds from the sale go to worthy causes in Norfolk and anything left over is donated to charity. NCL's website is www.norfolkcommunityleague.org. It's a great way to clean out the closets and toy room for a great cause.
    - TS

  • 11/13 11:19am JBZ - I would recommend contacting an authorized Kitchen Aid service representative to help you with your appliance. I think you may find a link to a local service person by going to Kitchen Aid web site. I am not sure however if they would be church going - temple, mosque or another - though.
    - BF

  • 11/13 9:28am Any recommendations for someone to repair a Kitchen Aid refrigerator?
    - JBZ

  • 11/12 12:15am SL, I find it offensive when people find it offensive because someone mentions church or God. To some it might be important that someone is a church-goer. If you choose not to base a decision on that then all the power to you. I personally thank MAC for posting the reference.
    DB, try Randy Corwin of Housework Haters Cleaning Service. He is booking now for the season. He has always been prompt and very reasonable. He is listed in the Town Businesses section. For the record, I am not sure if he goes to church or not.
    - PFD

  • 11/12 6:54pm
    Paraglider in the skies above Norfolk? I'm an avid skydiver, and I just saw a paraglider flying over Norfolk/Walpole by the prison (Saturday, 4:15 p.m.). Paragliding is something that I'd love to learn more about. Does anyone have contact information for the pilot? If you know the pilot and would rather not give out his or her contact information, could you ask him or her to call me at 617-921-0223 (cell).
    - JD

  • 11/12 2:04pm Does anyone know a good person to clean gutters at a reasonable price? Thanks.
    - DB

  • 11/12 2:02pm To any physicians out there... One of our doctors let his license lapse. How difficult is it to get a medical license reinstated? Should we look for another doctor? Any guidance you can give would be greatly appreciated.
    - DB

  • 11/12 9:03am KB: One more ditto for David Smith. He did a job for us when we had leaks in our roof after the major storms we had this past spring. He was out here in days, on budget, on time and did a great job. I would recommend him whole heartedly.
    - BS

  • 11/12 9:02am While it's helpful to post a recommendation of qualified construction personnel, it's offensive to reference as a redeeming quality that they are "honest church going people." There are many other religions beyond the church and there are also those who choose not to follow organized religion. Recommend someone based on the merits and quality of their work period, not that they subscribe to a particular religion which may be insulting to those who do not follow. And quite frankly, these days the church is not exactly what I would consider a strong selling point given their noted past indiscretions.
    - SL

  • 11/11 9:51pm KB: I too have used Dave Smith. He did a great job vinyl siding my house, creating a really unique chimney box for my pellet stove flu, and helping restore my barns. The price was right, the job was well done, and he was very thorough with his proposal and plans. One of the more important points I found was that he was very easy to work with. Good Luck.
    - HN

  • 11/11 7:18pm For the person looking for construction: We ought to use local businesses, especially in town businesses whenever possible. If you must look outside of town for a contractor, Cahill Construction in Foxboro does great work. Call Kevin at 508-698-9096. They've done work for me and others, well, on-time and at an honest price. They are honest church-going people too.
    - MAC

  • 11/11 5:34pm KB - I have used Dave Smith and was completely satisfied, he's local and follows through
    - PC

  • 11/11 5:23pm Another suggestion for donating used toys, etc. is Freecycle.org. Its fairly local, & dedicated to re-using things, rather than filling up landfills. The closest groups are Walpole, & Plainville. I've heard that the Blackstone group is very active, also.
    - SC

  • 11/11 4:55pm All: I'd like to turn our focus on this Veterans' Day to our brave heroes who stand on the frontlines of the war on terror defending us. I would ask that you click on the link and read the article, "Dedication is visible among new soldiers" [here]. Thank you brave men and women of America.
    - JPB

  • 11/11 4:55pm Reminder, if you ordered gift wrap through the Norfolk TPA, the pick up will be at Freeman Centennial on Tuesday November 15th from 4-6 pm. If you are not able to pick up your order, please arrange to have someone pick it up for you. We do not have a place to store these items. Thank you.
    - LH

  • 11/11 2:06pm Does anyone have experience using David Smith, below? All I need is someone to install the white plastic lattice under and around my deck. I have the lattice and I have the white plastic 1 x 4's to cover the seams. I need a way to cover one open end such that we can open it when needed to access under the deck and get equipment out of there. Someone suggested a heavy-duty magnet on that piece so it would snap on and off. I'm hesitant to use a gate with a hinge. I tried calling Mr. Handyman but they refused to give me a estimate. They only give you their hourly rate and you're stuck if someone takes longer than it should. Any suggestions on a handyman who does a very neat and detailed job?
    - KB

  • 11/11 9:13am Re: Slidell, Louisiana clothing drive: Clean, gently used children's jackets and sweats would be just fine! We have received cards from the 500 children who returned to their hometown after Katrina, and believe me, they're grateful for anything they can get. Drop off any donations (clothing or money for shipping) to the HOD or Freeman Schools by noon Monday, and we'll have it on the truck Tuesday, with delivery for Thanksgiving. Thanks to all who have already given and especially to the kids of Norfolk; once again, you've shown us that often the smallest people carry the biggest hearts. You'll hear more about the Slidell/Norfolk project in the coming months. Stay tuned!
    - KM

  • 11/11 9:90am In ref to the postings for Bathroom remodeling, leaking roof, windows and deck addition, I am a General Contractor who lives in Norfolk and works in Norfolk and surrounding communities. I do complete projects from the ground up. No need to deal with numerous companies. We have just started a new renovation project on the corner of Boardman and Seekonk. We will be tearing off the existing second level and building a new 3 bedroom, 2 bath master suite in its place. I wish to apologize to area residents in advance for any construction traffic and noise that may affect you. I provide free consultations and can provide local references and projects. You can call me on my cell phone at 508-250-3678.
    - David Smith, Jr. Builders License #088206, Registration #143183

  • 11/10 9:46pm To SM: I second craigslist for the toys that you want to donate. I frequently see posts on there from parents who are looking for things for their kids at low or no cost. So, you'd probably be able to get rid of them there and help a family directly at the same time.
    - JP

  • 11/10 8:08pm For the person looking to renovate a bathroom, Bathfitters did a job for us several years ago. They did a great job. With our ability to install a toilet and vanity ourselves, it saved us thousands and the bathroom looks new.The company we used was out of Wellesley, gives free estimates and runs specials through newspapers and the Internet. In addition, tiling the floor was a breeze after a short class at Home Depot. Many people are hesitant to take on this task, but it is quite easy, even for the novice.
    - TM

  • 11/10 4:37pm The Norfolk Area's Runners' Club (NARC) is a newly formed club interested in adding new member to its walkers' groups. We welcome walkers of all ages and abilities from Norfolk and area towns such as Millis, Medway, Medfield, Bellingham, Dover, Wrentham, Walpole, Foxboro, Plainville and Franklin. NARC members train for fitness and fun and hopes to promote a healthy lifestyle for it's members. Anyone interested in walking with the club is encouraged to join us on Sunday mornings at 10 am in the parking lot behind Norfolk's Dunkin Donuts.
    For more information contact Craig "Mags" at 508-520-0163 or email kpsoftball@gis.net
    - CK

  • 11/10 12:13pm To SM - I have frequently donated toys to nursery and preschools. I have given games to after-school programs and even some of the local classrooms like them (strategy and logic games), as they need them for indoor recess. Another thought is to post under Boston on craigslist.com. I recently got rid of a bunch of doors using this method. I posted them as free/you pick up. They were gone in an hour.
    I know it's difficult to find these places and it's such a shame as our kids have so much and they are in great condition. Good luck.
    - BS

  • 11/10 11:46am To KM - Do the donations need to be new or is gently used OK?
    - NJD

  • 11/10 11:45am I have many used toys in very good condition that I would like to donate. I've looked quickly online but many places won't accept used toys. Does anyone have any thoughts?? Any ideas would be appreciated!
    - SM

  • 11/10 8:52am Registration forms for Norfolk Lions' Youth Soccer - Spring 2006 are available at the library.
    - HK

  • 11/10 8:51am Thanks to all who have already donated clothes or money to our "Reaching Out to Our Friends in Slidell, Louisiana" campaign. We have collected many pieces of clothing for the children in Slidell, but still need more for "the little guys". Anyone willing to donate jackets, sweatpants, sweatshirts, or pull-on type pants in children's sizes XS-S would be greatly appreciated. All donations, whether clothing or money for shipping (no donation too small!) may be dropped off at either the Freeman school or the HOD by noon on Monday. We hope to have the clothes down to the school in Slidell by Thanksgiving. Thanks again for supporting the TPA, Norfolk Schools, and our friends in Slidell.
    - KM

  • 11/9 10:09pm To PLG: Thanks for the number of the piano teacher. I will give him a ring this week.
    - HF

  • 11/9 10:07pm I am wondering if anyone else in town has problems with the new startup newspaper, the Boomerang. After paying for a months worth of advertisement, the ads were not published. Numerous calls and messages went unanswered. After at least 20 calls, I contacted the General Manager who stated that he would send a check out immediately. 10 days later and no check. I have not seen the paper being sold and would caution anyone interested in buying advertisement space. It appears to be a 3 man operation run out of the home of one of the owners. If anyone knows where they are from, or how they can be contacted directly, please post a message which will be appreciated.
    - TM

    [Their website, norfolkboomerang.com, has contact info - Wm.]

  • 11/9 12:24am Looking for someone to renovate a bathroom for us - any suggestions?
    - MJD

  • 11/8 3:40pm To AS - I'd recommend Bill Trainer of Wrentham. We switched to him this spring - was recommended to us when I posted a similar question on NorfolkNet! He comes to your house. Very easy person to deal with. [508-384-2518, see 8/12/2004 8:10am]
    - CI

  • 11/8 3:00pm We are looking for someone to add on to our existing deck. Does anyone have any recommendations? Preferably someone who will actually call us back!!
    - SM

  • 11/8 2:13pm About roller skating in the area, try United Skates of America, 75 New Rd., Rumford RI, unitedskatesri.com [401-438-9898].
    - ARD

  • 11/8 1:37pm Looking for someone who teaches guitar - preferably someone who will come to our home for a beginner guitarist.
    - AS

  • 11/8 12:45pm AL & BS, Roll-Land Skating Rink, Inc., in Norwood is closed. It is now "Work Out Plus".
    - PM

    new library, 81K

  • 11/8 12:38pm As you can see, the new library is open to patrons.
    - Wm.

  • 11/8 12:31pm To AL - I remembered seeing a rink in Norwood and "did a Google". I found the following link which includes the name of the rink in Norwood - [roller-skating locations]. Happy skating.
    - BS

  • 11/7 11:35pm Congratulations to all of the people who worked so hard on getting the new library open. It's big, spacious, well-lit, clean, and above all, it still has that 'new library smell' to it. Well done!
    - PA

  • 11/7 11:31pm Does anyone know of a roller skating rink (indoor) within a half hour drive? It appears that Skate Palace in Milford has closed or changed to a bowling alley.
    - AL

  • 11/7 2:51pm Don't throw those old cartridges and cell phones away!!! Mr. Dan Allen's 8th Grade Computer Technology classes will collect them as part of the FundingFactory Recycling Program, which will earn King Philip Middle School new technology.
    Any community or business person may send in their old cartridges and cell phones with a student (any grade), drop off the items in Mr. Allen's room (207), or leave them in the recycling box in the main office. The students will take care of the rest.
    Students will be in charge of collecting, packaging, shipping, and selecting the new technology to use in the Computer Technology class! There is absolutely no cost to KP for this program, only benefits. All shipping costs are paid by FundingFactory. The more cartridges and cell phones the classes recycle the more technology KPMS can get credit for and earn.
    Do something good for the school while doing something good for the environment - donate those old cartridges and cell phones to the KPMS recycling program! Thank you,
    - Dan Allen, 8th Grade Computer Technology, King Philip Middle School

  • 11/7 2:16pm We're looking to hire someone to watch our 15-month-old daughter one day a week in our home while Mom works on the computer. Please contact cassford@gmail.com Thanks,
    - CF

  • 11/7 2:07pm MW - NMM Viking Football/Cheerleading registration is usually in March (flyers are usually passed out at the schools and registration forms would be available on their web page, usually in Feb.). My son has been playing for seven years, this being his last. It is a great program and the kids learn the game of football while having a lot of fun! We will miss it, it's been a fun 7 years!
    - PM

  • 11/7 9:52am Just a friendly reminder that all donations for the Slidell, Louisiana clothing drive are due by this Wednesday. Children's sized jackets, sweatpants or sweatshirts can be dropped off at either the HOD or Freeman-Centennial Schools. The Norfolk TPA is sponsoring this important endeavor, and appreciates any and all donations (either in the form of clothing or financial to cover the shipping costs) for the 500 children in Slidell, who were affected by Hurricane Katrina. Any questions, please contact Kate Morog, TPA President.
    - KM

  • 11/7 8:20am To HF -- George Hagopian is a great piano teacher in Wrentham. He has many students both young and old (myself included). His phone number is 508-384-3766.
    - PLG

  • 11/6 10:36pm To MW: Vikings football registration is usually in the winter / early spring. My 7 year old and I went out in a blizzard earlier this year to registration. He loved the game and the coaches. We were very impressed at the level of conditioning and training that the boys were put through. Our coaches were very dedicated and the boys really respected them. He can't wait until next year!
    - TS

  • 11/6 10:34pm Weatherproof Construction is a roofing company located in Norfolk that does roof repairs! You can find our phone number in the business listings on this website.
    - Jim Flannery, Weatherproof Construction

  • 11/6 5:01pm Registration for the spring 2006 season of Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer is now being accepted. Boys and girls must be at least 3 years old and no older than 16 years old as of August 31, 2005 to be eligible to play. All games are played on Sunday afternoons in Norfolk. Early registration ends February 1st. Absolutely no registrations will be accepted after the March 1, 2006 deadline. Register early - we do not want any child who wishes to play to be left out, and offer financial assistance if needed. For registration forms and more information, visit the website norfolklionssoccer.com or call 508-520-0163.
    - CK

  • 11/6 1:19pm Poirier Home Improvement: 508-553-3032
    - PS

  • 11/6 9:45am I would challenge Norfolk to click on the Gulf Wars link above and see what others are saying. It may surprise you!
    - JPB

  • 11/5 5:11pm PS-Could you pass along the number for Poirier Construction, I can not find him in the book. Thanks.
    - MJD

    [I found the number in the archives (archives/notes2005b.html), it's Poirier Home Improvement, Franklin, Ma. - tel.# 508-553-3032 from 6/10 11:35am. - Wm.]

  • 11/5 3:17pm PS, I too had problems with a leaky roof from the last rain storm. However, I have waited for two contractors who said they would be by and as of today I have not seen or heard from either one. I would appreciate it if you could post how to contact Brian Poirier. Based on your experience I would definitely give him a try.
    - PN

  • 11/5 3:09pm Jingle Bell Run is in need of volunteers! The 5th Annual Jingle Bell Run will take place on December 10, 2005, starting at 11:00 a.m. at the H. Olive Day School. Race Day Registration and number pick-up: 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.
    If you are able to help with this event, please contact Kris P. at 508-528-5151 or kporell@comcast.net All proceeds will benefit Norfolk Together. Thank you,
    - LR

  • 11/5 3:08pm Does anyone know of a good children's piano teacher locally? Thanks.
    - HF

  • 11/4 4:15pm The Norfolk TPA is sponsoring Reaching Out To Our Friends in Slidell, a clothing drive to help the children of Slidell, Louisiana. Children in the 2 Elementary Schools will be donating either new or "gently used" sweatpants or sweatshirts/light jackets, which will be shipped down with cards written by the Norfolk kids to the kids in Slidell. We hope to have all donations of clothing, letters, and any financial contributions (to cover the shipping fees) collected by next Wednesday. Donations can be brought in or left off at the schools. If you have any questions, please contact Kate Morog, TPA President. Thanks for supporting the TPA and helping the kids in Slidell.
    - KM

  • 11/4 4:13pm My 8 year old is interested in playing football next season... Could someone give me the contact info for the local pop warner program? I have looked at the Viking website and newsletter but cannot find out Where and when the next registration will be. Thanks!
    - MW

  • 11/4 1:05pm For anyone who may be in need of roofing repairs after the recent storms, I would highly recommend Poirier Home Improvement. The Owner/Operator, Mr. Brian Poirier, is indeed a first class act from start to finish. Here is a brief summary of my experience with him: I contacted him the day after the big storm when I had discovered a fairly substantial leak in my attic. He said he would stop by the next day at 5:30 pm to inspect the roof and give me an estimate. I was a bit late in getting home that evening to meet him (15 min), but when I had arrived, he had already inspected the roof, found the source of the leak, patched it, and was providing my wife all the details.
    He recommended replacing some of the cap shingles on the roof as a preventive measure should we ever experience a storm of this magnitude again. He came back a few days later and completed this task and only charged me $100.00 for all of his work. He guaranteed the repair, didn't require payment when he finished and said he would mail me a bill in a few days.
    Considering that you can hardly get away with spending $100.00 to get you lawn mower repaired, I would say the service I received here is truly a great deal in this day and age.
    PS: I had read a previous recommendation for Poirier Home Improvement on this site, which is why I contacted him in the first place. In turn for my good luck with this find, I thought it would be only appropriate to pass along the details of my experience. I am truly grateful for the information provided here especially when it comes to business recommendations.
    - PS

  • 11/3 3:43pm The Trustees and Staff of the Norfolk Public Library are pleased to announce that the expanded and remodeled library will be opening this Monday, November 7th, at 2 p.m. This commences our full winter schedule, when we will be open every day of the week, including Sundays and Fridays. The new library includes more children's, quiet study, and browsing areas to meet Norfolk's needs, as well as a growing collection of books and media. New DVDs, puppets, fiction, and audiobooks on CD are calling out for you -- don't miss this opportunity to see the library on its opening day! We will be open until 8:30 that night, as we are most weeknights, and we're looking forward to welcoming our patrons and neighbors back to the colorful and spacious Norfolk Public Library.
    - Heather Pisani-Kristl, Associate Library Director

  • 11/3 10:15am In view of the news re birds this may be useful: [article: Avian Flu not a danger for bird watchers or feeders in North America]
    - JO

  • 11/2 11:03pm This Sunday the Norfolk-Medfield-Millis Vikings are hosting 3 Playoff Games at Freeman Centennial School:
    At 10:30, the Vikings A Squad, winners of their last 4 games, will take on Carver in a Hockomock Tournament Game
    At 12:00, the undefeated and 1st-seeded Vikings B Squad will take on Sandwich in the 2nd round of the Championship Tournament
    At 1:30, the undefeated Vikings C2 Squad will also engage Sandwich in the 2nd round of the Championship Tournament
    These kids have been practicing and playing since the 1st of August. The games are usually hard-fought and competitive. With the Patriots kind enough to schedule their game for Monday night, come on down and support the local team!
    - RM

  • 11/2 10:47pm For LD and other New-Englanders-In-the-Know: what is a "cookie walk?" Does walking really enter into it?
    - HPK

  • 11/2 5:50pm Winter's coming and I'm sick of sucking stones through my snowblower. Anyone have a recommendation on a good paving company that'll do a driveway for a reasonable price?
    - DF

  • 11/2 5:22pm Norfolk Community League's Annual Santa Breakfast and Jingle Bell Fun Run will be on December 10, 2005 at the H. Olive Day School on Main Street. The breakfast is from 9-11am. Cost is $5 for NCL members, $7 for non-members and children under the age of 2 are free!! Tickets will not be sold at the door.
    NCL's 5th Annual Jingle Bell Fun Run will take place at 11:00am and 11:45am for kids run on December 10, 2005. The children's race starts at 11:45am. The race day registration starts at 9:30am at the H. Olive Day School. Each participant will receive a pair of jingle bells for their sneakers the morning of the race and are encouraged to dress in warm holiday attire. Fees are $20 for adults and $5 for kids or $10 per family for 1/4 mile and 100m. The first 100 registrants will receive a free pair of running gloves.
    Please read the full announcement [here] for registration information and additional details.
    - LR

  • 11/2 4:56pm To SH: My youngest son attended 2 years of the preschool, and I can't say enough good things about it. The standard of teaching is just unbelievable and opportunities available to the children are terrific. My two other children attended the Coop and I was very happy with that as well, but all things being equal, the HOD preschool is the best. Good luck - it isn't that easy to get in.
    - AL

  • 11/2 2:16pm I'm in the process of looking at preschools for next year and was wondering if anyone has had any experience with the preschool program for 3 year olds at the H. Olive Day school. Thanks,
    - SH

  • 11/2 12:32pm Holly Fair Planned at Norfolk Federated Church - The Women's Fellowship will hold their annual Holly Fair on Saturday November 19th from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM in the vestry of the church on Route 115 in the center of Norfolk. There will be Crafts and Holiday Decorations of all kinds, Delicious Bake Sale items, a Cookie Walk, and Homemade Candy, Hand crafted Gifts, and a special "Children Only Shop" where children can shop for inexpensive gifts and gift-wrap their selections. Santa will be on hand from 10:00 - 11:00 AM for the youngsters to visit. Coffee and coffeecake are available in the morning and luncheon will be served at 11:30 AM
    For over 200 years the women of the Federated Church have taken an active part in the church and in community service contributing to special projects in the church and to missions. The Holly Fair is their major fund-raiser each year.
    - LD, Federated Church of Norfolk

  • 11/2 12:13pm JP - Contact Patti McLaughlin at 508-520-0822 for home day care (Re 10/24 11:11pm Does anyone have any suggestions for day care options in and around Norfolk? I will have a 3 month old ready for day care next April, and would like to start getting some options together. Thank you. - JP)
    - JH

  • 11/2 10:51am Defintely get informed about the flu. Learn things like how long it's been around, and wonder why we're being blitzed with it now. Heck, it could be the next SARS. You should also wonder who is going to get rich this time.
    [globalresearch.ca article]
    Maybe you shouldn't do the reading on a .gov site.
    - JT

  • 11/2 8:10am The official U.S. government Web site for information on pandemic flu and avian influenza.
    Get Informed. Be Prepared. Pandemicflu.gov
    - RH

  • 11/1 10:02pm Norfolk's Election Results:
    Total Voted 936 YES - 570, NO - 350, BLANK - 16
    Additional Election Results:
    Wrentham YES - 562, NO - 404
    Plainville YES - 226, NO - 107
    - Gail E. Bernardo, Assistant Town Clerk

  • 11/1 7:17pm For CI, I am not tied with Franklin Tile and Carpet and can offer you an unbiased opinion about that company. We live in Norfolk and have used Flooring America for many years as they had the floor covering market cornered for this area. The quality of service Flooring America offers is by far way off in the low end compared to Franklin Tile and Carpet. We recently hired them to install carpet at a rental home we have. The sales person was Chris, and overall the level of service was terrific. I highly recommend at least checking them out. While Flooring America puts on a good up-front sales attempt, once the sale is made, you may as well practice your pleading abilities in order to get the responses you would expect. Franklin Tile treated us like we were the most valuable clients they had from start to finish. They even placed a follow-up call to us after a week or so to see if we were happy with the job.
    - BF

    [This topic has come up earlier this year, scroll through the archived messages [notes2005b] between 5/29 and 6/6 2005. - Wm.]

  • 11/1 4:28pm To CI - Please come see me, Dave, at Franklin Tile Carpet one at 168 Grove St in Franklin. Although now an employee, I have also been a customer for many years. Our carpet quality is superb, prices are fair and installation is fast. In fact, on many of our carpets, we have a no questions asked 90 day replacement warranty; unheard of anywhere else... we'll replace your carpeting even if you simply don't like the style or color. I look forward to meeting you when you visit our new state of the art showroom.
    - Dave, Franklin Tile Carpet

  • 11/1 1:41pm We went to the Floor Center and although their prices seemed competative when I compared their product lines I thought that the quality of what they offered was not a good as some. I like Flooring America and have found John very helpful in the past.
    - MJD

  • 11/1 1:13pm We are about to replace some carpeting - has anyone had any experience (positive or negative) with East Coast Carpet on Rt 1 in Plainville? What about The Floor Center on Rt 1 in N. Attleboro (near movie theatre)? Thanks!
    - CI

  • 11/1 1:09pm Does anyone have any recommendations/suggestions for finding a great babysitter in the area for the occassional date night? We just moved to Norfolk and have a 7 month old daughter. I can be reached at khsibley@yahoo.com Thank you.
    - KS

  • 11/1 10:11am To DC - We would highly recommend Dick McCullough out of Medfield as an architect. He does outstanding work integrating new construction with the old, not to mention beautiful designs. He had several contractors he works with and can point you in the right direction. His number is 508-359-5549. Good luck.
    - BS

  • 11/1 8:32am Can anyone in the town recommend a good architect and contractor for a new addition to my home?
    - DC

  • 10/31 9:11pm A reminder to get out and vote at the Special Town Election tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1, 2005. All precincts vote at the H. Olive Day School. The polls are open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.
    - LR

  • 10/31 9:05pm Wondering what the new library looks like inside? Tune in to NCTV, Channel 8 at 1pm or 8:30pm for a guided tour and the latest info...
    - SD

  • 10/30 10:32am Please come to the 7th Annual NCL Halloween Candy Give Back
    Date: Tuesday, November 1, 2005
    Time: 4:00-5:30 PM
    Place: Freeman Centennial School Lobby
    Please bring half of your Halloween Candy to Benefit the Red Cross of Boston. D.A.R.E. Officer, Steve Plympton will be present to discuss the program with all who attend. Drawings for Toy Store Gift Cards.
    If you have any questions please contact Maura M. @ 508-528-1315 or Teresa R. @ 508-553-9850 You may also go on-line @ www.norfolkcommunityleague.org for more info.
    - LR, NCL Co-Chair Publicity

  • 10/30 8:55am JF - Thank you for mis-quoting me and taking my comments completely out of context. I never compared a carpenter to a brain surgeon. I have great respect for fine craftsman and true artisans. Unfortunately, hacks and charlatans seem to be more prevalent in the home improvement business. (ONLY MY OPINION - I could be wrong). I work 60 hours a week and have small children but have found time do projects, large and small, myself. I could very easily pay someone to do all the work I do myself but I want it done right the first time and I want it to last. And that was my point, if you want something done right, do it yourself, it's not that difficult.
    - DM

  • 10/29 8:59pm We return to Standard Time tonight, so remember to set your clocks back one hour!
    - Wm.

  • 10/29 7:38pm The train ride is on.... and no lines this year!! Thanks to Mr. Holmes for another great year!
    - LK

  • 10/29 7:36pm It may seem feasible for you to do "85% of the carpentry work yourself" but I think that less than 50% of people are capable of doing 85% percentage of their own work! Even if they are, who has the time! That is why we hire people to do these jobs! Carpenters and the like may not be brain surgeons but it takes experience to install stairs and mouldings etc if you want a good job that will last!
    Another way of screening contractors (roofing, siding,windows, non-structural carpentry) is through the Home Improvement Contractor Registration program. This program was started by the state to protect homeowners against shoddy workmanship or scams. Contractors must register with the state and get a "H.I.C. #". When applying for a building permit they must show their H.I.C. reg card. If there are any complaints against them (that the state has found to be legitamate), then they will be black listed and will not be able to get a permit.
    So if a contractor asks you to pull your own permit then you should be leery! You can also check out the contractor's HIC status on line.
    It is also required by the state to show the HIC # on contracts and in advertisements.
    - JF

  • 10/29 7:15pm It snowed on October 23, 2002. I remember because my son broke his arm that day, and he thinks it has snowed on that anniversary at least one other year.
    Does anyone know if the Haunted Trainride has been postponed until Sunday?
    - BC

    [Oct 23, 2003 sounds right - the photo below has a timestamp of 8:11 that morning - Wm.]

  • 10/29 7:14pm Hi, Anyone know if the haunted train ride is happening in the snow?
    - NG

    Snow before Halloween 2003, 40K

  • 10/29 3:13pm I look outside and lo and behold, it's snowing. It snowed early last year but I think it was in Nov. Anyone remember any Oct. snows recently?
    - JW

    [Update 5:13pm: I found this photo, looks like it was taken in 2003 - Wm.]

  • 10/29 2:21pm Luciano's is as good as it gets for an Anniversary. Claras has a musty smell since it is in the Basement of the building.
    - PRB

  • 10/29 2:03pm GDL - Having had similar contractor issues, I am unfortunately speaking from experience. If you have exhausted all communication efforts with the contractor I would file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. They will attempt to mediate the issue. If your complaint goes unanswered the bad mark against the contractor stays on the BBB records. If the BBB can't help you I would then get 2 or 3 estimates from other contractors (the BBB website is a good research tool) on what it would cost to fix the current issues and then head to the Wrentham courts and file a small claims action against the contractor. Of course if the cost of the repairs exceeds a certain amount then small claims court will not be of much help. When I filed with them 4 years ago i believe the max amount was $2500. You'll want to pursue legal action with a lawyer if your repairs exceed the allowable claim amount.
    As far as electricians go, Mark Donovan (508) 226-8087 out of Attleborough has done electrical work on my kitchen remodel and a recent basement upgrade, which included an electrical service upgrade. He is very fair and extremely helpful. As far as getting quotes on your roof repair, Master's Touch in Medfield did an awesome job on my new roof 2 summers ago. Doug Masters is the owner and has always been helpful.
    On a positive note, all the bad experience with contractors made me realize that I could do a better job then any of them. It's really not that difficult to do 85% of the remodeling and carpentry work yourself. You just need the right tools and great resources, like the web. Of course I wouldn't touch electrical work myself but the other stuff really isn't that hard if you have patience and again, the right tools. Building walls, doorways, stairways, installing moulding, chair rails, windows, drywall and flooring isn't brain surgery. Give it a try and save yourself money and aggravation.
    - DM

  • 10/28 7:38pm Does anyone have any suggestions for a good seafood restaurant that also serves meat? My husband and I want to go some place nice for our anniversary but it doesn't have to be fancy. Just some place with good food and a quiet atmosphere. Has anyone been to Clara's or New England Steak and Seafood? Thanks,
    - MFZ

  • 10/28 10:56am From the Board of Selectmen:
    NOTICE

    The Board of Selectmen hereby voted:

    To suspend all street excavation in the public ways from November 15, 2005, through April 15, 2006, except for extreme emergencies or hardship.

    To impose a Winter Parking Ban, effective November 15, 2005, through April 15, 2006. No overnight parking on town roads will be allowed. This is to include parking vehicles on the sides of roadways, just off the road.

    - RH

  • 10/27 11:32pm We are currently up-dating the Norfolk Little Green Phone Book (this will be the 23rd year of publishing it). The directory is a complete listing of all residential and business telephone numbers in Norfolk. If anyone has any changes or corrections in their listing or would like to advertise a business in the new book they can visit our web site which is northeasternpub.com or call us at 508-429-5588. Sincerely,
    - Susan and Charlie Russo, The Little Green Phone Book, Northeastern Publishing

  • 10/27 8:45pm HN: In our neighborhood (over by Jane & Paul's Farm), kids always trick or treat on the 31st regardless of the day of the week. Week nights make it hectic, but it's always been that way. Hope you have fun!
    - TN

  • 10/27 7:17pm From AP News: ``On Saturday, Mars' orbit will bring it 43.1 million miles away from Earth, with its closest pass scheduled for 11:25 p.m. EDT. The two planets -- normally separated by about 140 million miles -- will not be this close again until 2018.''
    But from the weather report, ``Saturday Night Mostly cloudy. A chance of rain and snow showers in the evening... then a chance of rain showers after midnight.''
    Drat. Great views of Mars, obscured by October snow.
    - Wm.

  • 10/27 6:25pm GDL... I think my husband and I share the same luck as you... if there is an incompetent contractor, guaranteed we will find them (and we are really not high maintenance either!). I would suggest that you get some information on the Massachusetts Government home page - under the residents/home improvement section, they outline steps to take to resolve an issue with a contractor (including outside resources for complaints). The Massachusetts Attorney General consumer protection web site may have resources as well. I would contact the Better Business Bureau and file a complaint. Lastly, I would send a registered letter informing the company the actions which you are about to pursue... this is usually when the phone calls start for them to come back... and don't forget to file a suit in small claims court, if for nothing else they have to take the day off. Can you tell I have done this before??? On a better note, the two most AMAZING contractors that I have dealt with are: Kavanaugh Roofing & Gutters (781)326-0096 - I got this company from my Dad (who is high maintenance) - and they roofed two of his houses and our house when we moved here. They are a family business with 2-3 guys on the roof - better than 7-8 which cause problems later. The electrician is Duquette Electric (508) 384-3415 - he wired all of our basement when we remodeled and he did a great job and provided us with ideas to keep the cost down without compromising what we wanted. He also provided us with some insight of places to go when we first moved here, pretty nice guy. So I wish only the best of luck in your endeavors to find justice in the world of contractors...
    - LM

  • 10/27 6:20pm For GDL, My advice, being a contractor myself, do your homework prior to hiring. Your best bet is to hire a contractor who has been recommended by a trusted source. Word of mouth is typically a safe start. Second, try to avoid the temptation of going for the lowest price when it comes to having work performed at your home. Try to obtain at least three bids and if possible, go with the middle bid. There is usually a reason why a contractor bids low. Many companies "Low Ball" the estimate just to get a foot in the door. Once inside, they either lack on the completeness of the job scope, thus hitting the clients for additional costs, or the quality of the work is less than par. The high bid on the other hand can represent a couple of things. A high bid may be that the job is estimated in its entirety and the quality of the work would be on the high end as well or, a high bid may be due to the fact that the contractor is pretty busy and can afford to miss out on being awarded the job being offered.
    Oftentimes high bids come from companies who advertise heavily. They have a large volume of job offers to bid and they bid them all high. They cannot handle all the jobs, but, the few they do get, they make out on in the way of profit. A note to the wise, check out references. Both the references where the contractors and the clients had a smooth go as well as the references where there were problems along the way during the project. A good contractor will be able to provide both of these types of references. I could supply a pretty long list of all the jobs I have been involved with that went smooth as silk. The best examples are the realistic types. The types that involve the many turns and aspects that arise during a project. Problems do arise. The true test of a contractor is how these problems were handled and ultimately resolved. Remedies for problems don't always have to be one-sided. They can be worked out in a mutual fashion thus leaving both parties involved satisfied in the end.
    - BF

  • 10/27 4:04pm Leaky New Roof & Electrical Fire - I was wondering if anyone in Norfolk had a smiliar situation to mine. I had a new roof installed 12 months ago and over the past year it has leaked in over 10 different places, most recently around our chimney and one of the pipes over our bathroom. The contractor who did the original job, Wood Structure Construction of Medfield, have been impossible to deal with, refusing just today to do anything about it. I would advise against using this company for anything, they also shingled my barn and clapboarded my house, both of these jobs were shoddily done. Basically, beware of Wood Structure Construction!!! I notice they are working on a house just past the Audubon on North Street, does anyone know of any difficulties? As if a leaky roof wasn't so bad enough, we had an electrical fire a few months ago as well, because the electrician we hired from Wrentham failed to pull a permit and had about a million violations in his work. These guys need to be held accountable; any suggestions?
    - GDL

  • 10/27 4:03pm Trick or Treat question: When will the Norfolk trick or treaters be out? Since Halloween falls on Monday, will they all be out then, or will they be out over the weekend? I've heard of other towns sending the kids out over the weekend to avoid having the chaos school night. Anyone know anything about this?
    - HN

  • 10/27 2:14pm This takes the cake....I was in a local store this morning and the hot topic of conversation was the fact that a Starbuck's is the leading candidate to go into that space on Main and Boardman. I'm not a big fan of their coffee, but I love the Frappucinos. We'll see.
    - JC

  • 10/26 9:43am Woodside Montessori Academy Parents Guild announces its 2005 Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale, to be held at the VFW Post located at 123 Holliston St in Medway, MA. The bazaar will be held on Saturday November 19th from 9:00 to 3:00 pm, and will showcase offerings from 40 crafters and vendors. This event is FREE and open to the public. There will also be a free craft activity for the kids to keep them busy while you browse, bake goods to stock in your freezer for all those holiday guests, and lots of free parking. Proceeds will benefit the Woodside Parents' Guild projects and scholarship fund. Please contact Beth M. at beth@bethmurphy.com with any questions or to find out how to be involved as a crafter.
    - VR

  • 10/26 9:11am On Wednesday, Nov 2nd, the Norfolk Garden Club will hold their fall fundraiser. Venue: Stony Brook Nature Center, North St., Norfolk. Time: 7pm.
    - BZ

    [The earlier message had the incorrect location - Wm.]

  • 10/25 9:07pm I ran into Dr. Sullivan a few weeks ago. He said he is completely revamping his office (including a new computer system) and would be re-opening the first week in November. He said he would be open in time for flu shots.
    - HF

  • 10/25 3:52pm Half the town had a power outage lasting three hours, so I couldn't check e-mail or get on-line to update the page. The top news is that tonight's Town Meeting is postponed to tomorrow due to the storm (see post of 3:41pm).
    - Wm.

  • 10/25 3:50pm The Norfolk TPA Scholastic Book Fair will occur between October 31st-November 4th at H. Olive Day and Freeman Centennial Schools. Open to the public During normal school hours Mon.- Wed/Fri. Thurs. morning til 12 noon and Thurs. evening (4:30-8:30)
    - KS

  • 10/25 3:48pm For a list of public flu clinics in Massachusetts, by town, check out this site: flu.masspro.org
    - BH

  • 10/25 3:47pm Norfolk Community League & Norfolk Lions Club Present the 4th Annual Haunted Train Ride on Saturday, October 29, 2005 (Oct. 30th Rain Date), 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM (4:00-6:00 PM strongly suggested for younger children), Holmes Field-Myrtle Street, Norfolk, MA. Admission $4. Come in a costume!! Spooky treats, fun games. Proceeds to benefit: Norfolk Summer Concert Series Please bring a canned good to donate. Contact Tracy H. at 508-541-2388 with any questions.
    - LR

  • 10/25 3:45pm To RH and PG: I stand corrected... my facts were wrong. I had it pointed out to me that years ago Norfolk Cable Television was televising meetings other than selectmen's, and folks in attendance at meetings did not take well to the camera being trained on them (in fact, some of them were downright rude.)
    I like NCTV, and I wish more folks could get involved, but I know that many are in the position I'm in... a long day at the office sandwiched in between what seems like a longer commute. (I work in RI... 52 miles each way...) Hopefully we'll see more government programming and more boards getting their meetings on cable TV.
    - JC

  • 10/25 3:44pm From the Norfolk DPW
    The Town of Norfolk has retained the firm of Guertin Elkerton & Associates, Inc. to develop a Comprehensive Stormwater Management Program. This program is being developed as the Town's response to requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Phase II Stormwater Regulations system inspection project. A major part of the program is the development of a Town-wide Geographical Information System (GIS), to assist in mapping the stormwater system (as well as other utilities) so that sources of potential illicit discharges to water bodies can be traced and mitigated.

    During the next few months, employees of Guertin Elkerton & Associates, Inc will be conducting GPS (Geographical Positioning System) location of stormwater infrastructure in some areas of Town. This will entail taking readings using portable GPS equipment during daylight hours.

    Inspection of storm system outfalls will also be undertaken around Town. The inspection process will involve observation of outfall pipes that discharge into natural bodies of water, and taking measurements, photographs of infrastructure, and potentially taking samples of pipe flows for laboratory analysis.

    Should you require further clarification, or have questions regarding the proposed work please contact:

    Butch Vito, Director Public Works at (508) 528-4990

    We do not expect the proposed work to cause any inconvenience to residents in Town, and we will work closely with our consultant in executing the work in an efficient and timely manner.

    Inspectors from Guertin Elkerton & Associates, Inc. will have company ID cards to identify themselves.

    - RH

  • 10/25 3:43pm From the Norfolk Treasurer/Collector
    Water bills were mailed on 10/20/05 with a due date of 11/21/2005. Payments can be mailed to the Town's bank lockbox using the enclosed envelope, paid online @ virtualnorfolk.org, paid at the Treasurer/Collector's office at Town Hall, or left in the locked drop box located by the main entrance of Town Hall. Any billing questions should be addressed to the DPW at 508-528-4990; payment issues can be referred to the T/C office at 508-520-0058.
    - RH

  • 10/25 3:41pm The Fall Town Meeting scheduled for this evening at the Middle School has been postponed until tomorrow evening due to the weather and power outages at the Middle School.
    Fall Town Meeting will convene on Wednesday, 10/26/05, at 7:30PM at King Philip Middle School.
    - Gail E. Bernardo, Assistant Town Clerk

  • 10/25 3:39pm Kudos to BH for providing information about the Open Meeting Law. It's an issue that keeps popping up on this site, and I'm always amazed that so many people assume that goverment--their government--can hold some meetings not open or accessible to the public. In addition to the points BH makes, we should keep in mind that:
    - all meetings must be posted at least 24 hours in advance with the Town Clerk
    - "governmental bodies" refers not only to formal boards, committees, commissions, etc. established by our By-Laws, but to any other group that they, in turn, may create. So If the Selectmen, for example, appoint a temporary committee to advise them on a certain matter, THAT committee must conduct itself in accordance with the Open Meeting Law.
    - Executive sesions (that exclude the public) are permitted only for a very small number of specific reasons, and any body going into executive session must (1) state which of the permitted reasons applies; (2) take a recorded roll-call vote to convene the executive session; (3) state, before the session begins, whether any votes or decisions will be made in the session; (4) and publicly announce the results of any decisions once the executive session is ended.
    Let the sun shine in.
    - HRB

  • 10/25 3:38pm DMO - I too have got no return call from the closed Dr Joseph Sullivan's office. Out of frustration I checked with the State Board and it shows his license lapsed on 09/19/05.
    - PC

  • 10/25 9:38am Thanks SC! My little one is still very little, so he doesn't go anywhere without Mom or Dad! We'll probably take him for a little stroll after his dinner (5.30pm), so we can meet our neighbors and show off his cute little costume. Happy Halloween!
    - KGD

  • 10/25 9:05am JF - I'm no expert in these things, but here are a couple of places where the money can really go down the drain:
    • do you have a leaky flapper in your toilet tank(s)? Put some strong blue/green food coloring in the tank and check after a few minutes to see if the colored water has entered the toilet bowl. Also, wipe off the flapper and the "seat" where it rests to create a better seal. Put a screw-top plastic jug filled with sand in the tank to displace water.
    • if you use an outside faucet/hose, check to see if the hose or faucet drips. I admit that ours does, even when it's turned off, and we just haven't gotten around to fixing it.
    • if you use an irrigation system, maybe you have a buried leak?
    • if you can choose a lower water level in your washing machine, try that and see if the next load is as clean as usual.
    • some (adults') clothes really can be worn twice or 3 times with no complaints from friends and colleagues. We tested this when we had to carry our clothes over 1.5 miles each way to a city laundromat. Also, in dry weather, bath towels can be laundered less frequently.
    • put an egg timer in the bathroom and have family time their showers.
    We have a private well and don't know how many gallons we use, but we certainly use plenty of electricity to pump the water! Hope this helps. -
    - HPK

  • 10/25 9:01am Re: 10/24 11:17am Some thoughts on our information options... They also won't cover some board meetings in town because it was suggested they shouldn't! JC, please be aware that we have an Open Meeting law in Massachusetts. That law is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 39, paragraph23A, 23B, and 23C. It can be found at URLs [mass.gov, part a], [part b], and [part c]. Please read it and get back to the person who said NCTV couldn't tape certain board meetings. I'm sure that if there were any such feeling among members of any governmental committee or board, that would provide additional incentive for NCTV personnel to videotape their meetings. There are certain specific reasons in the law for Executive Sessions, and those reasons are carefully followed.
    Section 23B reads, in part:
    A meeting of a governmental body may be recorded by any person in attendance by means of a tape recorder or any other means of sonic reproduction or by means of videotape equipment fixed in one or more designated locations determined by the governmental body except when a meeting is held in executive session; provided, that in such recording there is no active interference with the conduct of the meeting.

    Upon qualification for office following an appointment or election to a governmental body, as defined in this section, the member shall be furnished by the city or town clerk with a copy of this section. Each such member shall sign a written acknowledgement that he has been provided with such a copy.

    The district attorney of the county in which the violation occurred shall enforce the provisions of this section.

    Guidelines from the Office of the Attorney General for the Open Meeting law are available at [state.ma.us PDF] in PDF format and at [state.me.us RTF] in RTF format. The law is enforced by the local district attorneys, with fines and other remedies issued by the court if there is a violation.
    - BH

  • 10/25 8:56am Re: 10/24 11:21pm Does anyone have a water bill that is more than $600, and, if so, how many kids do you have? This house used 77,000 gallons of water from March thru September and we don't have a swimming pool!
    Note: From [DPW water rates] the Norfolk water rates are:
    Semi-Annual Service Fee: 5/8" meter, $ 50.00
    Water Usage Rates: 0-25,000 gals, $ 5.49 per 1,000 gal
    Over 25,000 gals: $7.99 per 1,000 gal
    Note that the charge for "Over 25,000 gallons is $7.99 per 1,000 gal" (per one thousand gallons) and not per gallon.
    Comment: 77,000 gallons is a lot of water; at 7.48 gallons per cubic foot, it is 10,294 cubic feet, or enough to fill a swimming pool 35 by 35 by 8.4 feet deep. Does your neighbor have such a pool, and a big long hose?
    Do you have an irrigation system? Is the valve feeding it turned on? Do the solenoid valves leak?
    Do your toilets run (leak) when not being flushed?
    Do any faucets, inside or out, leak when the faucet is closed?
    With all of your faucets shut off, does the water meter indicate that
    there is water flowing?
    Does the washing machine fill up with water when it is shut off?
    I presume you have low-flow toilets, 1.6 gallon per flush.
    Check with the Water Department to see if your water meter was changed during the period March thru September; if so, ask if the usage numbers were transcribed properly. The Water Department might want to check your meter for proper operation.
    And from the Water Department Rate page: If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Water Department office at 508-528-1412
    - RH

  • 10/24 11:29pm The Norfolk Garden Club will hold its annual fall fundraiser at the Stony Brook Nature Center, North St., Norfolk, Wednesday November 2 at 7pm. Popular featured speaker will be Yvette Viard of Charlotte's Designs in Walpole. Yvette trained in Paris as a floral designer and her presentation is entitled " Paris for the Holidays " Open to the public. Admission is $10 and includes a free raffle ticket. For more details contact Brenda Z., 508-520-0203.
    - BZ

    [Update 10/26 9:05am: location is at Stony Brook - BZ]

  • 10/24 11:21pm Does anyone have a water bill that is more than $600, and, if so, how many kids do you have? This house used 77,000 gallons of water from March thru September and we don't have a swimming pool! Do we wash too much? Should we start using paper plates? Wear our clothes for a few days? Stop washing our hands before dinner? Or move to a place that charges less than $7.99 per 1000 gallons (over 25,000 gallons)
    - JF

    [Update 10/25 8:56am: water rates are per 1000 gallons - RH]

  • 10/24 11:19pm Hello, my $.02's!! Bravo to the founders of the Norfolk Boomerang!! They have created a perfect medium for us Norfolkians to keep in touch, abreast and aware of what is going on in our "town"... I personally like the Norfolk Community site, Andras you're great!!... but I also like to read a paper... Please note: I hope Norfolk stays a "town", doesn't get over developed and that the "powers that be" remember what is best and what makes Norfolk so special...nature... open spaces... clean air... green... but anyway...
    So, okay, some of you don't like the name "Boomerang"... I have my reservations as well. I like the connection with the Aussie tribe, the Turuwal from New South Wales.... but I don't like the British/N. American meaning... "backfire." I would hate to think that "our" newspaper's name meant "backfire"... like a big community fart... ick!!! "Norfolk Roundabout" is okay. But why not politely ask the editor/publisher/managers of the paper to have a contest, and whoever comes up with the "best" name (we get to vote on it of course!) gets a free year's subscription... Now, let's see what we can do with that!!! I like challenges... why not...? Sounds like fun! I'm going to be sending in my $36.00 for a year's subscription... so I can advertise, so I can maybe get some of my photos in it... so I can learn more about town politics, etc.... there's all kinds of reasons for a community newspaper. So pony up and support it. Why not?
    - PRR

  • 10/24 11:16pm To JC 10/24 -- NCTV works very hard to broadcast as many municipal meetings as possible. The Board of Selectmen is broadcast live and rebroadcast every day. The school committee is taped and rebroadcast every day for several weeks. We produce a show called Conversation Corner with Jack Hathaway, Town Administrator, for the purpose of having important issues discussed and questions answered. Conversation Corner is now in its fifth year of production. Richard Connors and Butch Vito of the DPW have produced at least six half hour programs detailing the progress and scope of the road projects. The Silver Set Gazette Video, a Norfolk Council on Aging production has been taped and broadcast every month for two years. We have begun to tape the DPW meetings and we would tape every municipal meeting if we had more volunteers to do it. Wherever you got your information regarding NCTV being told they could not tape municipal meetings is completely erroneous. We can, and would, tape and broadcast every meeting if we had the man(woman)power. It is disheartening to me and others who volunteer at NCTV that folks are not aware of the scope of what is available on NCTV channels 22, the Government Station. Channel 8 is the public/education station and the programming on that station is even more wide ranging. I am at my wits end in trying to reach people so that they know to watch channel 22 and channel 8 for important Norfolk news and events. If you have any ideas, I'd sure like to hear them.
    - Paul Guertin, Norfolk Community Television Station Manager

  • 10/24 11:12pm From: The Citizen Action Team * Real Time Disaster Relief - OK, folks. It's been a while since we've written. Thank you to all of you who have donated your time, supplies and money to our relief effort. Here's the status:
    - The Citizen Action Team database has been launched. If you want to donate directly to a shelter or to a kitchen, check it out: www.citizenactionteam.org, then choose Resource Database
    Look for facilities of a certain type (shelters, walk-in resource) or donate to one of the causes that we're promoting.
    Today is 10/24 and it's the New Waveland Cafe at Fred's Store parking lot in Waveland, LA. It's a warm and inviting downtown-like atomosphere that is in risk of shutting down in the next few days. The cafe is like a few others in the region that are the core of the existing communities. It's not like a military feeding station, where people stand in line in the hot sun.
    - we've now sent 4 trucks, with a 5th in the making. We need more fuel money. Also, a thank you to all of you have have already given. Your generosity is so appreciated!! For those of you who still want to help out, if you can spare $20 or $50, any amount, please send a check to: (Be sure to make out check to Terra Friedrichs and include: "Hurricane gas money" in the memo, so that the check is sorted properly.)
    Terra Friedrichs
    PO Box 2525
    Acton, MA 01720
    - Now... the story, that makes you realize that these folks are still worth helping. The community kitchens are serving 14,000 people a day. These are not people that are indigent. Of course there are some, but the vast majority are working people just like yourselves that have no where to go for help. Imagine Quincy to Chatham gone. 80% of the buildings gone. Imagine that the people paying taxes have nowhere to work, so there is not money coming in to the local government's accounts. Imagine FEMA pulling out, which they did at 30 days, except for supplying a trickle of trailers. The Army Corps of Engineers are cleaning debris and will tarp an existing building. The Red Cross are feeding people, but doing nothing else in this area.
    All other supplies come from people like you. There are still some corporations donating. But very few. Supplies are dwindling. Imagine all of your money gone, the insurance people balking, the government pulling out. WE NEED TO HELP! These folks are primarily middle class people that used to have 3 or 4 bedroom houses. Now they are living in tents.
    We can help. We are supplying the warehouses that are giving out tents and cots and canned food every day. PLEASE...either send money to us here at CAT (www.citizenactionteam.org) as we are shipping donated supplies and need gas money, or send money directly to a shelter or kitchen.
    We are making a difference...every day. We are not just offering supplies, we are offering hope...
    Thank you! Please feel free to email either me or Terra Friedrichs with questions, suggestions, whatever... With gratitude, The Citizen Action Team * RealTime Disaster Relief Pamela R. R. (Norfolk) rubytunes@aol.com Terra F. (Acton) terraf@compuserve.com
    - PRR

  • 10/24 11:11pm Does anyone have any suggestions for day care options in and around Norfolk? I will have a 3 month old ready for day care next April, and would like to start getting some options together. Thank you.
    - JP

  • 10/24 5:23pm To KGD: My kids no longer trick or treat, but for about 16 years I participated with them as the three of them grew up. I don't believe there are any rules in Norfolk, except perhaps be careful & be safe. Most little hobgoblins go out soon after dark & travel with parents (unless they are old enough so parents don't have to worry). I live in a small subdivision & many parents allow kids to go around the neighborhood alone once they are in 4th or 5th grade. To venture outside of the "hood", however, my experience has been that parents usually accompany kids until they are in at least 6th grade - or older. As for leaving the 'hood", my rule was always that if you couldn't get there on foot it was too far. Obviously there are lots of different opinions on this. By 8:00 most trick or treating is finished. No hard & fast rules, tho - let your own values be your guide. Hopefully it will be a mild night & you & your little one will have a wonderful evening! Happy Halloween!
    - SC

  • 10/24 4:13pm To TEM and others... Norfolk's radio station is in its third reincarnation. First built in 1978 by former State Senator Jack Quinlan, WJMQ was very successful as a music and local news station with many programs broadcast live from local businesses and shopping malls. In 1982, John Crohan, owner of a radio station in Taunton, purchased it and continued the music/news format under the call letters WJCC until 1991 when the station went silent. Now owned by attorney Albert Grady, WDIS began life in 1992 as a call-in talk station with local residents presenting a variety of shows, but currently rebroadcasts programming from other sources not locally produced. You can find it at 1170KHz on your AM radio. The transmitter and two antenna towers are located on Pond Street near Route 1A.
    - RP

  • 10/24 1:27pm If you are looking for an opportunity to donate to the Norfolk Food Pantry, donations are being accepted at the Haunted Train Ride on Saturday October 29th at Holmes Field. The ride is from 4 until 8 pm.
    - TS

  • 10/24 1:24pm I'm very excited for my son's first Halloween in Norfolk. Are there any traditions/rules regarding when the kids go out for trick or treating? For example, in my inlaws' town, there is a strictly enforced 6-8pm trick or treat rule. Thanks in advance for any info.
    - KGD

  • 10/24 12:20pm JC makes some interesting points. I'm quite happy that we have a local paper again as the Franklin Gazette gave Norfolk only passing mentions.
    I'd like to see the paper cover local government more completely - Town Meeting is coming up, but not much has been reported on the agenda. Likewise, they do not cover Selectmen's meetings. These are broadcast, but I (and I'm sure many others) cannot always watch the whole thing; a summary in the paper would seem like a good thing. Likewise, cover other Board meetings. Maybe publish the agenda for the Selectmen's meeting (and others) in advance?
    The article on the thefts was a good start, but I too was puzzled why the name was withheld. Instead of printing the police/fire logbooks, pick a few incidents and have an article on them - like Gazette does for Franklin & Wrentham.
    Figure the Boomerang folks likely read this site for ideas - so here are a few!
    P.S. Love the name Norfolk Roundabout!
    - CI

  • 10/24 11:17am Some thoughts on our information options... I think we need a local paper, because there's a sense of connection to what's going on. I was disappointed, though, that they ran a story on a local resident who had been arrested for stealing construction equipment, yet did not reveal his name. That's weak. They also won't cover some board meetings in town because it was suggested they shouldn't!
    As far as our radio station, WDIS, I have listened to it, but they have shifted away from what was once local programming to syndicated programming.
    We have a local TV station, NCTV, and they do a lot of programming, and some government meetings, but why can't they do more than just selectmen's meetings? (I had heard they were told they couldn't do certain board meetings, so they won't.)
    And then there's the Norfolk Roundabout, I mean Norfolknet.com! All of the news that's fit to print, when you want it, and for the right price!
    - JC

  • 10/24 11:16am To RP: Is that radio station actually up and on the air? If so, what are the call letters and its location on the AM dial?
    - TEM

  • 10/23 10:50pm Hey TN, the correct pronunciation of Norfolk would be "Nawfick" in my opinion. Here are some other local towns and their Bawstin language pronunciation:
    Dedham=Deddum, Norton=Nawtin, Danvers=Danviz, Quincy=Kwinzee, Gloucester=Glosta
    How about these: Wista, Stoetin, Cape Cawd, Mahthiz Vinyid, Nawwud, Noo Hampsha, Yahmith, Hahvid Skwayah.
    It's great to live in this area :-)
    Evah wundah why Bawstin's streets are so weeuhd? Because they yoosta be cow pahths leadin to the commin. What a hahfahst way to lay out a city!
    - PCD

  • 10/23 8:58pm Just a quick note to say that I ***LOVE*** the new 'Norfolk Roundabout'! Especially since it made its appearance on 'Funday'. Nice touch, Wm.!!
    - RP

  • 10/23 8:57pm With all the talk recently about the new "Boomerang" newspaper, it appears that everyone has forgotten that we've had our own radio station here in town since March of 1978. Granted no one listens to it, but it's there nonetheless and there's no subscription required.
    - RP

  • 10/23 8:38pm To MJD re: the Norfolk Food Pantry - The Norfolk Food Pantry is located at 35 Rockwood Road. It is in the small building, formerly the garage, at the rear of the administration building at Emmanuel Baptist Church. The Food Pantry is manned by volunteers, and is under the direction of the Missions Board of Emmanuel Baptist Church. People all over Norfolk donate food in a number of food drives held during the year. Many associations and individuals contribute funds as well for buying food to be distributed. Most needed items are cereal, spaghetti sauce, canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned pasta, tuna, peanut butter, jelly, and crackers. All donations are appreciated. Past dated items cannot be distributed. Two people are needed to serve in the Food Pantry each week. Volunteers work one Saturday every two months. If you are interested, please call the church office.
    - KF

  • 10/23 8:35pm To DLJ - thanks for the chimney sweep recommendation! We'll give them a try.
    - KGD

  • 10/23 3:03pm Does anyone have any insight as to why Dr. Sullivan's internal medicine practice at Country Crossing has been closed for the last 5 weeks?
    - DMO

  • 10/23 11:57am I went to the internet and found that Norfolknet was replaced by the Norfolk Roundabout... Gee kinda wish that Norfolknet would come back. ; ) (Note to Wm - this would have been a great April Fools Day prank).
    - AB

    [oh, Norfolknet hasn't gone away, just having a bit of fun... :-) - Wm.]

  • 10/23 11:15am Another snowplow request! Can someone please recommend a reliable person who plows in the Park Street area? thanks
    - JE

  • 10/23 10:43am Re: pronunciation - I used to visit my Uncle Howad Mann and Aunt Likely Demeritt Mann who owned and operated the grocery story on the main corner of Nor-folk as we called it in the 1930's. I at that time I never heard it called anything else but that. My last visit to Nor-folk was in 2003 when I visited my dad's (Wm T DeMeritt) grave site in the Mann plot in the Nor-folk Cemetery. As a matter of fact, I am still in touch with my cousin Mary Margaret Mann Pierce, the granddaughter of Howard and Likely Mann. Hope this information helps. Sincerely,
    - BD

  • 10/23 10:42am To DF - Have you spoken to the owners of the Boomerang? I think the important thing here is that we do have a newspaper and that someone has taken a gamble and made the effort. A few months from now you will be lamenting the fact that there isn't a newspaper and can't get your news. The least we can do is support these guys and give them feedback directly so they can continue to improve. Perhaps they would consider a name change. I for one could care less about the name--I can't waste my time on these things. Life is too short.
    - BS

  • 10/23 10:41am While the concept of having a hometown newspaper is appealing, I have not been impressed with the Boomerang, and my opinion is not influenced at all by the fact that 'Boomerang' is a dumb name. The fact that the purveyors of this newspaper are not Norfolk residents doesn't bother me, either; if the paper was good, I wouldn't care if it was published by al-Jazeera. The fact is that there doesn't appear to be enough newsworthy things going on in Norfolk to warrant an entire paper, unless you call 4 pages of police and fire reports that appeared in the first several issues 'news'. More importantly, I don't think the paper is particularly well written, although perhaps the editors use of colloquialisms and a familiar tone is a purposeful effort to differentiate themselves from traditional newspapers. I have always thought that the free Country Gazette gave Norfolk enough attention, and I find it quite useful to know what is going on in surrounding towns. I have been told that the Sun Chronicle covers Norfolk quite capably, as well. I hope the Boomerang succeeds, since they seem like decent guys when I saw them interviewed on channel 22. But is there an actual void that this paper is filling, other than the romantic notion of having a local paper?
    - JM

  • 10/23 10:33am For TN ...I've lived here for 44 years and welcome to NOR-FORK (Norfolk).
    - ER

  • 10/22 10:42pm Re: Please consider supporting the Norfolk Boomerang... This may be petty, but I for one will NEVER support a newspaper in my town named the 'Boomerang.' The founders of this paper, as far as I can figure, are outsiders who have never lived here, and may not have ever even visited here. Which is fine, of course. None of us have stepped up and started a newspaper. But, naming it the Norfolk Boomerang, in my mind, just amplifies the disconnect. How many dozen other names could they have chosen that would have connected the paper to the community. The Norfolk Roundabout. That's a perfect name. The word 'boomerang' has zero to do with this town. The paper itself isn't bad. There's some decent news in there that's unavailable anywhere else. But the name. That's a deal breaker for me. Why not call it the Norfolk Toaster? Or, the Norfolk Refrigerator... How about the Norfolk Tractor? Hey, did you see the story in the Norfolk Bicycle this week?
    I've got years of experience in community journalism. I would volunteer my time to help the paper. I'll shoot photos at community events. I'll write stories or a column, or whatever you want. Just change the name. That's all I ask. And I'm not alone.
    - DF

  • 10/22 7:12pm Wm: I LOVE Norfolknet as well, am on it several times a day!! I know there is room for print and electronic communication in this town, and you both do a great job at bringing us together. In fact, I've had furnitured repaired, computers sold, home repairs done, and school events promoted all through Norfolknet! Thank you, and keep up the good work!
    - AL

  • 10/22 5:59pm Please consider supporting the Norfolk Boomerang, our new town paper! Free papers will end in a few weeks, and I'd love to see the paper continue publishing with a strong subscription base. I am not affiliated in any way with the Boomerang; I'm an independent journalist who simply enjoys reading what's going on around town in its many communities--it may seem like a small place, but there is "stuff" going on every night, every day, in every school, church and civic group. Thank you, Boomerang, for bringing us together as a community!
    - AL

    [Now I'm jealous... I thought that's what Norfolknet was doing! :-) - Wm.]

  • 10/22 5:46pm For KGD regarding Chimney Sweep - Barry John Chimney Sweeps of Franklin 508-528-1777 and barryjohnchimney.com
    - DLJ

  • 10/22 5:45pm Have a small "point of information" question. What is the correct pronunciation of "Norfolk?" Have heard several variations, including:
    Nor-foke
    Nor-fork
    Nor-fick
    Nor-faulk
    Nor-fuk [the same as in Suffolk]
    It would be interesting to hear from longstanding residents who might be able to offer an explanation. We've been in town for several years and still aren't sure which is the right version... Thanks.
    - TN

  • 10/22 2:18pm To MJD - Welcome to town. There are so many opportunities to help and get involved. It's a great way to meet people too.
    The food pantry is behind the Baptist church. There's a little building to the left of the property. I will leave it to the food pantry people on how you can help.
    Another group in town is Norfolk Together.
    Norfolk Together is a people to people emergency help group designed to aid our neighbors who have fallen on hard times, that has existed since 1990. Norfolk Together works very quietly, as we work in confidence

    When hard times hit, many families eventually qualify for social service agency help, but there is often a lag time, during which the electric bill, the water bill, the oil bill, medical bills, might go unpaid, leaving families in serious jeopardy of doing without these essential services.

    Norfolk Together steps in with confidential help for Norfolk citizens who need a little boost through a hard time. There are other, bigger charities that help people in trouble, but Norfolk Together gives almost instant help to residents of Norfolk when a little money given immediately makes a difference. We also sponsor food drives, scholarships for recreation programs, and other programs directed specifically at children, all done in total confidence.

    The Fun and Leisure Raffles (currently in progress) are the only fund appeals, although the students in the Norfolk School System often contribute to the organization in many ways.

    We are an IRS 501(c) (3) corporation, so your donations are tax deductible.

    If you need our help or would like to help: Write to us at P.O. Box 223, Norfolk MA 02056. All information you share is strictly confidential.

    Believe it or not, even in Norfolk, we have families who need help. With the holidays coming, we will begin gearing up to provide gifts for families in conjunction with The Santa Foundation.

    In addition to these two groups, there are several other organizations in town, not to mention schools, town government, etc. who are always looking for volunteers.
    Have fun.
    - BS

  • 10/22 1:24pm KF - Where is the food pantry, how is it funded? How else can people help. I am sure that it would receive much more support if people had more info, especially newer people to town like me. Your post says you can drop off and something about a church office but which church, Federated, St. Jude, Baptist? Thanks in advance for the complete scoop.
    - MJD

  • 10/22 1:02pm Hi All, I moved into the area recently and have just received my water bill. To say I am shocked by the cost would put it mildly. Our bill is approximately 5 times as high as what we are used to paying. Is Norfolk just incredibly expensive in this regard? 5.99 per 1,000 gallons seems excessive is there a reason for the abnormally high cost? Anyone have any idea how much it costs to sink a well? Thanks,
    - FO

  • 10/22 1:00pm The only Veterans Day Salute in Norfolk will be in the form of a breakfast given by the Senior Center. They will welcome all Veterans,families and friends to celebrate the heroic efforts of our military personnel-past and present.
    Call the Senior Center office at 508-528-4430 if you plan on attending and give your name if you plan on attending.
    - JO

  • 10/21 10:00pm EP, In addition to Saturday mornings, food may be dropped off for the food pantry anytime; the church office is open (usually 9 - 4) Monday through Friday. You can always call 508-528-5862 to make sure someone is there if dropping off food any other time besides the two hours on Saturday that they are open.
    - KF

  • 10/21 4:29pm Per Chief Bushnell's post about the Norfolk Firefighters fundraiser, we all want to support our firefighters in every way we can. Not only because we might sometimes need them, but because day in and day out they do something that few of us would contemplate doing - but which is nonetheless essential to the well-being of our Town.
    That said, I have two questions.
    1. Nowhere in the letter or other materials in the mailing does it say that contributions are tax-deductible. Why is this?
    2. We are aware from newspaper articles that some groups employ professional fund-raising organizations to send out appeals and that these fund raisers get a percentage of the donations or a fee based on donations. Is this the case with this mailing? If so, what is the percentage or fee being paid?
    - PDB

  • 10/21 3:23pm To LS - Are you starting restaurant rumors again?
    - DMO

  • 10/21 2:38pm SD, you're not the only expat in town! I, however, am now a naturalized Yank with not even a trace of my former Brit accent (I'm a stealth Brit). I'm all for the Norfolk Arms, but forget steak and kidney pie - I'm dreaming of good fish and chips or Yorkshire pud. I'd even settle for bangers and mash.
    - KGD

  • 10/21 2:37pm Chimney Sweep - I don't know if anyone noticed my request for a recommendation on a chimney sweep, but I didn't see any responses. Can anyone help?
    - KGD

  • 10/21 2:35pm Night of Giving at the Emerald Square Mall - Come and enjoy an exclusive after-hours shopping event at the Emerald Square Mall on Sunday, November 20th from 7pm to 10pm. There will be great store discounts, special offers, prizes and entertainment. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the New Member Coffee on October 28th, the Holiday Photo Shoot on October 29th, the school Book Fairs or by emailing ncltreasurer@norfolkcommunityleague.org All proceeds from the ticket sales go to charity. Come support our community and get a jump on your holiday shopping!
    - LR, Norfolk Community League

  • 10/21 2:34pm To EP - The food pantry is open on Saturdays from 10am until 12pm. Also, if you have children in the school system, a food drive is run the week before Thanksgiving and the class with the most cans, jars, boxes, etc. get Dunkin' Donuts as a morning treat.
    - BS

    [Update 3:23pm: Oops! Food Pantry closes at 12pm not 12am. - BS]

  • 10/21 2:33pm To LS, re: I heard one about another restaurant going over on Holbrook Street. Anyone? That's not a rumor. The 55+ community going in there has been approved, part of the development will be a restaurant, some shops, I believe some office space.
    - KS

  • 10/21 11:16am Our family is looking for some spooky things to do to celebrate Halloween. The kids a too young for any of the big Haunted attractions (Wicked Woods, Haunted Factory, etc), but do enjoy getting scared. We are involved with the Haunted Train Ride but would like to expand into other events. Any suggestions? Happy Haunting!
    - TS

  • 10/21 11:15am Does anyone know the hours of the Food Pantry? I wanted to drop off some food I have collected for it. Thank you.
    - EP

  • 10/21 11:14am To JW: I'll give you this Halloween, but take you up on future ones. That septic system going in at Main/Boardman is obviously designed for a high volume bar/pub/restaurant, etc. I can't see it being idle for too long.
    - JC

  • 10/21 9:23am We are two Brits that live in Norfolk, we would love a Pub. We could call it the ``Norfolk Arms'' we could serve warm ale and have Steak and Kidney pie! Anyone for dinner!!
    - SD

  • 10/21 9:22am The King Philip Youth Lacrosse League (KPYL) will be holding two registration sessions for the 2006 season on November 15th and 16th, at 7:30pm in the King Philip North Middle School cafeteria, on King Street in Norfolk. Both existing and prospective players and their parents should register at one of these sessions. KPYL offers 'Learn-To-Play' instruction for boys and girls as young as 5, all the way up to U-15 teams. Lacrosse is easy to learn for kids, and is a Spring sport where your child may actually get some exercise ;-). Practices and home games are held at the Shears Street fields in Wrentham (across from Tom's Tavern). KPYL has grown has significantly in the past couple of years, and parent volunteers and coaches are needed for all age groups, but especially for the Learn-To-Play and U-9 groups. KPYL's website is www.kplacrosse.org, and updated information for 2006 will be posted shortly.
    - JM

  • 10/20 10:08pm I agree... Does anyone else have any good rumors out there that we could have some fun with? I heard one about another restaurant going over on Holbrook Street. Anyone?
    - LS

  • 10/20 10:01pm Boardman / Main Street: On the Town Administrator page where Mr. Hathaway answers questions (thank you Mr. Hathaway for the continued open communication)... he addresses the building on Boardman and Main.
    Q: Do you know what is planned for the property at the corner of Boardman and Main? The building was recently resided, and it looks like a new septic is going in now.

    A: I was warned that there was a lot of good "stuff" on Norfolknet about this property. I spoke to the developer and he has some ideas, but doesn't have a tenant yet, or a home grown project finalized. He is considering applying for a liquor license, but hasn't yet.

    I hope this doesn't kill the rumor mill... I was really looking forward to having a few drinks with Dick Cheney at the new Hooters discussing the hydro electric plant being proposed at the Miller Street Bridge.
    - PN

  • 10/20 9:57pm I hope it is a pub and not a ratty burger joint. we could use some places nearby that serve adult beverages!
    - DMO

  • 10/20 9:56pm To RB - That would take all the fun away. I think we like to speculate and rile one another up. It is a great pastime!
    - CC

  • 10/20 6:42pm Regarding the building on Boardman/Main St., why doesn't someone call Peter C. at the Norfolk Board of Health - he owns the property - and put all these rumors to rest.
    - RB

  • 10/20 5:43pm We just moved to town over the summer and we are looking for someone to plow our long hilly drive. Any suggestions?
    - KSB

  • 10/20 10:29am Your Fire Department is conducting its annual letter fund raising campaign. The envelope which the community is receiving is clearly marked NORFOLK FIREFIGHTERS, P.O. Box 652, Norfolk, MA 02056. This fund raiser sustains our many community based initiatives, including the scholarship program, annual senior dinner, haunted hay ride expenses and the annual open house. Funds are also used for purchasing bottled water, carried on the fire apparatus for firefighters working an emergency, and special projects such as the purchase of a new water vac to help residents with minor water problems.
    Unfortunately a group called the Association for Firefighters & Paramedics, Inc., has targeted Norfolk for their fund raiser. Their efforts do not support the community and this mailing has not been endorsed or sanctioned by the Norfolk Fire Department. The Department has received a dozen calls regarding this group and felt it imperative to get this information out to the community immediately.
    Should any one have any questions regarding either fund raiser, please do not hesitate contacting me at the Department. Thank you for your continued support!
    - Fire Chief Cole Bushnell, 508-528-3207

  • 10/19 11:20pm At first, I thought the new bridge was too low and would restrict the flow of water during a flood. Yes... The outlet downstream that feeds into the Charles is smaller and the flow gets backed up. Maybe this is why the Army Corps of Engineers calls it a "Natural Valley Flood Storage Project". I think the design intends for the swamps and tributaries feeding the Charles River to store the flood waters and release them slowly back into the Charles. The swamplands store and absorb huge amounts of water. This is healthy for the environment and helps keep things flowing during drought. If you build big openings under all the bridges, this would cause massive flooding downstream, Medfield to Boston. I'll bet the people who designed that bridge followed the formula. If Miller St. is closed during flooding, River Rd. is below the 100 yr flood level by 5 ft. and the Medway side of Populatic is closed by flooding, the airport neighborhood is inaccessible. Should we think twice before allowing future development in this area ? (40B Development, 32 single family units)
    - DM

  • 10/19 11:14pm MA. I will buy the second round. I am almost, now I say almost willing to bet my sanity, actually that's isn't much of a bet, that all there will be at that site is a big orange plastic pumpkin for quite a few Halloweens to come. By the way, someone must have missed the Roundabout recently but didn't miss the signs.
    - JW

  • 10/19 4:12pm To DM & JM: The air wasn't thin the night I heard that rumor at Uno's... it was heavy with rain! My curiosity (or being nosy!) got the best of me today and I stopped by the corner of Main and Boardman and spoke with the crew working on the site. They wouldn't verify the name of who they were there for, but they did say that a liquor license had been approved (it's far enough away from the school) and they mentioned that take-out would be a big part of the restaurant's business plans. They hoped they'd be done with their work, and open for business before December 12, which seems pretty ambitious.
    - JC

  • 10/19 10:52am To JM, great stuff, but I also calculated from other parameters that it is definitely going to be a safe house for V.P. Richard Cheney.
    - PLG

  • 10/19 10:51am JM - thanks for my best laugh of the morning!
    DM - Hey, I like White Castle - growing up we called them 'rat burgers' due to that mysterious taste & texture, but I miss 'em!
    - CI

  • 10/19 9:49am Re: Building at Boardman and Main - On a recent trip to Centereach, LI, I spoke with the manager of the local White Castle. He swears that the building being renovated in our town is going to be a White Castle. It is all part of White Castles' 10 year North American expansion plan. Ours will be a test site for the 24 hour store model being launched throughout the northeast. I can't wait! Here's a link for those of you not familiar with the popular late night, after party, eatery famous for their "belly bombs" whitecasle.com
    At least they won't be serving alcohol so close to a school zone ;-)
    - DM

  • 10/19 9:48am I heard that the owner of the property at Boardman and Main has narrowed his options to a Hooters, a nuclear power plant, or the national headquarters for that white supremacist group that marched in Toledo last week. I have gleaned this information by carefully studying and measuring the size and shape of the septic hole they are digging, and plugging this information into a septic predictor algorithm I have developed. Did the person who suggested an Uno's is going in use an algorithm, too, or did you just make that up out of thin air? I'm pretty sure the story is that Mr. Chipman is cleaning up the property and preparing it for development, but is waiting to see what goes in up on the moonscape before he commits to a particular project. But making stuff up sure is fun, isn't it?
    - JM

  • 10/18 9:54pm I will buy the first round for the house the day an Uno's opens in downtown Norfolk. Will there be a Cracker Barrel too. That has got to the funniest message on this site in months. Ha! Ha! Ha! Have you ever noticed that most Uno's are located near shopping malls and major highway exits. Last I saw we have neither one. By the way, next year will be the 20th anniversary of the moonscape in the town center.
    - MA

  • 10/18 9:53pm JP, TP, CC: I'm in total agreement with you. A nice soup/salad/pub place, even a neat bakery and coffee bar... but a less than average American chain would not do it for me when I want to get out for a little bit and meet up with a friend. We have more than plenty of those within a 15-mins drive. Say it isn't so!
    - DL

  • 10/18 9:52pm To DL, I collect old Macs and would be willing to take yours off your hand. Email me at greg@applematters.com if interested.
    - GN

  • 10/18 9:51pm Unless we have a by-law about chain stores (which is doubtful since the CVS rumor has been greeted enthusiastically!), the town has little say in how this commercial space is used. That said, I'd much rather have a more entrepreneurial shop move in. A family style pub sounds fun. Other ideas that would be nice to see in town are: coffee shop/bakery, gourmet food/sub shop/deli, jewelry store, vintage clothing shop, antiques store, pet supplies/grooming... the options a limitless, but guess we'll have to just wait and see!
    - CI

  • 10/18 7:36pm Oh my goodness... An Uno's? How am I going to brag to my out-of-town friends about the lack of chain stores/restaurants in my town, when you'll be able to almost SEE a Pizzeria Uno from my house? I really hope that's not what it is. I'm not anti-development, don't get me wrong. It just seems like a weird location for a busy restaurant like that. The poor people who live in the houses behind the lot!!
    - JP

  • 10/18 7:35pm I agree completely with CC that it would be a shame to have a chain restaurant in our town, especially the downtown area. There have been other towns that have created bylaws to prohibit national chain restaurants in certain areas of town. I don't oppose restaurants in general; just those that have no character and make Norfolk look like any other suburb in eastern Massachusetts.
    - TP

  • 10/18 4:34pm I am shocked to hear that a restaurant such as Uno's would go over very well in a town like Norfolk. My husband and I drive by the building on Boardman/Main and always comment on how it would be a great place for a Pub but not a Commercial Chain restaurant. It just doesn't fit the personality of the town. I really hope that Uno's is not allowed in our pretty town.
    - CC

  • 10/18 4:33pm The Miller Street Bridge has opened.
    - BR

  • 10/18 3:03pm To MA and LS, About that building on Main and Boardman... I was eating at Uno's in Wrentham the other night, and our server was from Norfolk. She mentioned that she was looking forward to the opening of the Uno's in Norfolk, and when I asked her where it would be, she said she wasn't supposed to talk about it because the deal wasn't done, but she described that site you mentioned. It will be a smaller one, much like Wrentham, and they'll have curbside pick-up. I can't wait, cause I go to an Uno's at least once per week!
    - JC

  • 10/18 1:45pm Re: Miller Street Bridge Fiasco - Thank you for correcting me; the water "under" the new Miller Street bridge is from the Mill River, not the Charles.
    And yes, this is an unusual situation. But it is also a brand new bridge and should have been designed to accommodate at least a 100-year flood.
    I still maintain the problem is a matter of poor design. The evidence I base this claim on is twofold. Firstly, the water is flooding the approach, not the bridge itself. If the approach had been regraded even another six or twelve inches, we would not be having this conversation but for this next point. The bypass under the bridge is not sufficient to accommodate the water flow, so the water overflows the approach. When I looked at it on Sunday, the water was not backing up downstream, but was running around the bridge and overflowing the road. The second bit of evidence that this bridge is poorly designed is that it was sinking even before it was completed! Personally, I think it is a joke... on us.
    - MJ

  • 10/18 9:49am Recently we got a few pages in the mail that informed us that the Town had approved the installation of the new cell phone antenna somewhere in the Nstar (I think) right of way along Seekonk St. Does anybody know when that is supposed to be installed? Right now my cell phone coverage is limited to Verizon and one corner of my house on a good day. :)
    - JT

  • 10/18 9:46am Re: 10/16 9:57pm I'm looking to purchase a snow blower, the one that died is an Arians 6 hp with a 24 inch sweep, but it did a lousy job on heavy wet snow. [...] Can anyone suggest a snow blower that can handle wet heavy snow Our MTD 8 horsepower, 26 inch two-stage snowthrower handles heavy wet snow quite well. Our driveway is about 70 feet long, very wide. In addition to doing the the driveway, I usually cut a path around the house, in order to access the cellar door, to check on the inlet and exhaust pipes for the gas furnace, and to get the heavy snow away from the foundation and plants. Last winter the Tecumseh engine started easily in cold weather, even without the electric starter, and the machine easily cut through heavy snow two feet deep in two passes. Your snowthrower might work OK with a new rubber friction wheel inside, and chains on the rubber tires, plus a tune-up. If you get a new one, check out the MTD website for various brands made by MTD, such as the Yardman 33 inch, 13 HP. The Toro machines are very similar, with slight improvements such as a lever on the chute control rather than a crank, and a much higher price. Toro and other MTD-made products may use teeth on the spiral snow-cutting segments to cut into hardened snow. Paste wax within the housing and chute prevents wet snow from sticking. Please shut off the machine before applying paste wax.
    - RH

  • 10/17 11:09pm Not knowing your driveway conditions makes it difficult. From the sound of your note, i.e., heavy snow, sounds like you may have suffered clogging etc. In any case, get a two-stage blower to minimize clogging instead of the single (I wish I had one - but I suffer with it!)
    - JO

  • 10/17 11:01pm Hi LS, What you see out back of that building on Boardman and Main Street is a septic system, not a parking lot. It is very big for a building of that size, in my guess there might be a food place or something to do with food, or maybe a Norfolk Pub where we can all meet each other and talk about the town and its development (only joking at this time). The history of that building is it was at one time a liquor store that sold gasoline and the fuel tanks started to leak into the ground, and they stopped selling gas, and then soon after closed because of leaking fuel. The people that live at the rear on Boardman Street had well water, and they could smell gasoline in there water, and then the business shut down. I guess all is cleaned up to function as a new business in town. Like you, I want to know what type of business that will be there.
    - MA

  • 10/17 10:59pm If you go look at River Rd, you will see that the Charles has risen over the outlet of the Mill River. This is backing up the Mill River. The Mill can't go down until the Charles drops. I've been here 18 years and have only seen it happen once before. That was when we got 6 inches of rain in 8 hours after a week of rainy weather.
    - ML

  • 10/17 10:57pm I just read a lot of complaints about the Miller Street Bridge on the Net - come on people, we just had 7+ inches of rain and the river has to expand during this type of rain. I have lived in Norfolk for 32 years and that area is prone to flooding. No matter how high the crossing should be, it will always flood the street. The problem is the catch basin on River Road [has] a very small pipe, maybe 3 ft across, that empties in the river. Once again, check it out, it is on your right side about 300 ft as you enter River Rd. from Myrtle street. By the way, Millis is also having a problem with flooding, on Causeway Street and other parts of town where the river flows. I feel the town did a great job on the Miller Street bridge; it just so happened that we had a lot of rain upon completion of the bridge, I guess nature takes its course. At the least we will have safe passage in good weather.
    - RS

  • 10/17 10:56pm PS - check Craigslist for moving boxes or freecycle.org (I belong to Blackstone Valley it's bigger than the Plainville group). Both places are where you might find free boxes as well as a great place to get rid of things that you decide not to move.
    - MJD

  • 10/17 6:14pm At the risk of becoming even more unpopular, I have to ask the question: If the override for the school does not pass, what are the consequences? Does construction shut down, and the school remain unfinished? I will openly admit that I did not attend the school board meetings and I did not watch them on television. (I tried one evening, but the sound quality was fairly poor and could not be heard.)
    I realize that all three towns have to pass this override for it to take effect, but I have not ``heard'' much chatter here about the topic.
    - MH

  • 10/17 2:43pm Is it just me? I can't be the only one who likes the new Miller St. bridge! After seeing the ugly monstrosity built on 115 in Millis just past 109, I was dreading seeing what was coming to Miller St. But I was pleasantly surprised, it was an attractive, low structure, a lot like the old bridge, but a full two lanes wide. It fit the landscape and the rural character of the road.
    I don't see how the flooding is the bridge's fault, that road is a low dam blocking the whole Mill River valley. This is wetlands, the valley is swampy, and subject to periodic flooding. A flash flood that fills the valley quickly will not drain fast enough through the normal riverbed, and will flow across the top of the road. To prevent future flooding, perhaps additional pipes could be installed under the road to act as an overflow drain. I wonder how Orchard St. in Millis is holding up, it's a large new bridge over a narrow little valley, and I've seen water within inches of its bottom before.
    - AR

    [Update 10/17 11:00pm: that's Mill River valley - ML]

  • 10/17 1:38pm MJ Even before all the rain a duck couldn't go under the "bridge" on Miller Street.
    - BR

  • 10/17 1:38pm We are relocating and wondering if someone who recently moved to town might like to sell their moving boxes/supplies ?
    - PS

  • 10/17 1:23pm Re: Miller Street Bridge Fiasco - I live on Priscilla Ave. and have to say, after three years "working" on this project and who knows how many hundred thousand dollars of our taxes thrown at it, I am appalled and amazed to wonder: "Did it ever occur to anyone that perhaps raising the grade a foot or two above flood stage might possible be a good idea?" I think there is actually less water flow capacity under the bridge now than there was with the old bridge!
    How can this be? Who is responsible and what should be done about it? How could such a disaster occur?
    - MJ

  • 10/17 1:20pm The Norfolk Area Runners Club (NARC) will be meeting tomorrow, Tuesday Oct 18th, 5:30 evening at the Pond Street Recreational facility to run/walk the trail around the fields. In addition, the club meets at Norfolk's Dunkin Donuts on Saturday afternoons at 4:30 and Sunday mornings at 10:00 to run/walk a 1 mile or 5K course. Anyone interested is welcomed to join us. For more information contact Craig at kpsoftball@gis.net.
    - CK

  • 10/17 11:08am To the firemen of Norfolk: Great job with the Open House! My wife and I, along with our 2 sons, had a fantastic time.
    - DM

  • 10/17 9:52am BR - The beavers are working for the state these days as they have had to get jobs since being pushed out of their homes. Looks like the dam (sorry bridge) is working just as they designed.
    - SF

  • 10/17 9:07am Is the Miller Street bridge flooding going to blamed on the beavers? Seems more like human error to me. The first time I went down Miller after the bridge opened I knew there would be a problem.
    - BR

  • 10/17 9:01am Re: 10/16 10:56pm To JH: Our cellar flooded many years ago, with water 2 feet deep. There were a lot of things wrong: the builder had not cemented closed the soil at the bottom of the chimney, which should have been done before the chimney was built; a 4-inch drain away from the chimney footing to a street drain backfired, because the the street drain outlet had been broken by another contractor, causing flood water to back up into our cellar through the chimney cleanout; and the landscaping directed water to the foundation instead of away from it. The fix was expensive: we installed a "French Drain", with perforated 4-inch plastic pipe placed in a deep trench around the bottom of the foundation, with gravel over the pipe, connected to a location lower than the cellar floor; drain pipes for the gutter downspouts were installed, leading to the underground pipes; concrete inserted through the chimney cleanout in the cellar closed the open bottom of the chimney; a deep diversion trench with French Drain diverted water runoff away from the house; and re-landscaping raised the soil level around the foundation. The outlet for the street drain was repaired by the town. We installed a sump pump in a closed-bottom sump at a low spot of the supposedly flat cellar floor, so that any water that might leak in to the cellar would be automatically pumped out. We did not want an open-bottom sump, since the water table might be higher than the cellar floor during storms. In the storm this week, we did not get any water in the cellar.
    - RH

  • 10/16 10:56pm To PN for basment waterproofing... In my experience, what waterproofing companies offer is protection against basements/foundations which allow water under normal conditions. No amount of waterproofing can completely prevent water coming in under the conditions we have seen this past week... So my advice would be that if your basement only floods/allows water once every 5 years under flood conditions, it's not worth the money...
    - JH

  • 10/16 10:03pm So glad that the Miller Street bridge opened in time for the rainstorm so it could be closed again for flooding (signs & blocks are out saying it is closed)
    - PR

  • 10/16 9:57pm I'm looking to purchase a snow blower, the one that died is an Arians 6 hp with a 24 inch sweep, but it did a lousy job on heavy wet snow. Other than that, it did a great job for me on fluffy snow.
    Can anyone suggest a snow blower that can handle wet heavy snow, I have a 140 ft. driveway, I feel this winter we will have a lot of wet or heavy snow to blow off our driveway. Thanks for your reply and your experience
    - RS

    Lakeshore Drive Miller St. Bridge flood

  • 10/16 5:02pm Here are a couple of photos I snapped today in Norfolk. The first is the Miller Street Bridge. Miller Street is all but impassable now (Sunday afternoon). I crossed it in a 4WD truck. No way I'd try it in a car. The second photo is of a house on Populatic, on Lakeshore Drive.
    - DF

    High-speed crossing Washed-out road [We saw cars still crossing on Sunday morning, and one police car blasted through at high speed causing the water to erupt like a geyser. The woods on both sides of the road are under a foot or more of water, with the bottles and cans tossed by the drivers floating on top. - Wm.
    Update 6:44pm: Yes, there was much less water in the morning. That first telephone pole was still above water earlier. Funny that two people would think to go by just to take pictures :-) - Wm.]

  • 10/16 10:09am To JLH - when we had our woodburning fireplace insert installed last year, we got our permit and final inspection thru the Building Dept. at Town Hall.
    - HPK

  • 10/16 10:08am I'm sure I wasn't the only one yesterday who spent most of the day pumping water out of my basement. It was the first time I had water coming in all around the foundation. The pump was working, but just could not handle the amount of water coming in. I was wondering if anyone has ever used one of those companies you hear advertised to waterproof your basement? Or any other solutions that have worked. I would appreciate any recommendations.
    - PN

  • 10/16 10:07am Re: wood stoves. Most wood stove manufacturers now have their chimney specs on line through their company web site. That's the first place I would start and measure up your chimney, or vent that you have for your stove and see if it is in manufacturer's compliance. If you still aren't sure, or want a professional to take a look, call Tim LaCivita who runs All Pro Chimney Sweep in N. Attleboro. Every time I've contacted him he's been quick to answer my questions or to drop by to take a look at a problem I once had here. His number is 508-399-6297.
    - HNP

  • 10/15 4:21pm I would personally love if that building were a pub. It's within walking distance for us!
    Can everyone take another "what are the building" question? We are new to town so forgive me! We recently noticed some poured foundations that look like condos way up on the "moonscape" (I learned that term by reading the archives of this site). What are those going to be?
    And while I'm at it... does anyone know why there are only two houses on Canterberry Lane? It looks like more were supposed to go in there but were never built. Nice loop to walk dogs though!
    - JP

  • 10/15 10:01am To JLH: When you purchased the house a permit for the installation of the wood stove should have been provided at the Closing by the previous owner. If that detail was overlooked there still should be a record of that permit, making it unnecessary for another inspection. Check with the Fire Department. There's an organization called the Chimney Safety Institute of America (csia.org) that may have useful information for you, including locating certified Chimney Sweeps.
    - TEM

  • 10/15 10:00am LS, CK Last I heard the building at 220 Main Street at the corner of Boardman Street might be a pub. The train station is supposed to be relocated near the current parking lot that is behind the grassy area across Main Street from the Post Office.
    - DLJ

  • 10/15 9:55am Thank you all! I just wanted to thank all of the Norfolk residents who kindly donated pet supplies to provide relief for the displaced pets in the Gulf region. As a community, we collected: 35 dog/cat crates, 15 dog beds, 206 bags of dry dog/cat food, 195 cans of dog/cat food, 79 boxes of dog treats, 34 dog bones, 41 dog/cat toys, 143 collars and leashes, 734 towels/sheets, 18 bags of kitty litter, 23 kitty scoops, 26 feeding bowls, 15 boxes of Frontline, 4 bird cages, 6 bags of bird food, and 2 boxes of rabbit/gerbil/ferret food. These items were sent out in two shipments: the donations collected in the first week of the drive were sent to New Orleans on Sunday, September 18, and the second shipment was sent to Gulfport on Tuesday, October 4. I have received confirmation from shelter employees as well as Pamela Russell, one of the community coordinators of the Hurricane Relief effort, that our pet items were received with grateful and appreciative hearts, and distributed to hundreds of needy animals. It has been a pleasure to witness the heartwarming generosity of a community at work, and you should all be so proud of the difference you have made in the lives of many! Special thanks go to: Butch Vito, Jack Hathaway, Hilary (Animal Control), Pamela Russell, the Freeman Centennial/H. Olive Day administration for distributing flyers to the school children, Gump's Farm and the Norfolk Village Florist. Thank you all, your efforts and kindness were much appreciated! Sincerely,
    - Aislynn Rodeghiero, Paws for Justice

  • 10/14 11:12pm I too need a fireplace (1st floor) and wood stove (basement) professional to look at our chimney, flue, cap, etc. Our fireplace smokes and I am positive the wood stove (installed by previous owner) isn't quite installed properly. Can we call the fire department to inspect these or just a chimney professional? We might need to use the wood stove this winter. Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
    - JLH

  • 10/14 12:16pm The Norfolk Fire Department will be holding the annual open house at the Fire Station this Sunday, October 16th between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m. FREE refreshments will be offered in addition to live demonstrations, equipment demonstrations, equipment displays and activities for the kids.
    - MF

  • 10/13 11:44pm LS: the corner of Boardman and Main - isn't this where the train station is supposed to be relocated?
    - CK

  • 10/13 10:11pm For AP inquiry per solar lights - Bought 18 and put along the drive. Works great when enough sun shines part of the day. However, as the sun's angle gets lower (along with prolonged bad weather), I am in darkness this week.
    Some considerations - They are not a winter time device since they have 2 AA batteries that recharge via a 4"x4 panel, plugged into the ground via plastic spike design. Suspect I will have to pick them up soon.
    I put 2 of them in the cemetery on each side of the steps leading to the flag. Great access to the sun and take a look Monday or Tuesday night, even though the sun is low, it's a clear shot most of the day.
    - JO

  • 10/13 7:42pm Once again, does anyone know what is going on at the old building on the corner of Boardman and Main Streets? The building itself was done over about 6 months ago and now it appears that there is a parking lot going in the back. Anyone have any leads?
    - LS

  • 10/13 7:39pm Saw a bumper sticker today. It took me about two traffic light cycles to figure out what it said, but I finally read it and found myself chuckling for a while afterward since it was next to a Bush/Cheney re-election sticker. The bumper sticker read "I support public drug testing. Once a week, all public officials should be given a dose of sodium pentathal and then asked which laws were broken this week."
    - AB : )

  • 10/13 4:24pm RH: Regarding Verizon DSL, I have the "regular" package for $29 (or so) a month. I initially asked about the $14.95 package (which I understand to be a slightly lower speed connection) and was told that it is only offered in areas where "regular" DSL is not available (ie, places that are too far from the source of the DSL to get the full speed...or something like that). At any rate, I couldn't get it in Norfolk because the regular DSL is available. I wasn't aware of that until I called - so you may want to call. All of that said, the DSL that I have is great and there is no comparision (I have also had cable internet, and I didn't think that was any better - just way more expensive)
    - JP

  • 10/13 4:23pm The Little T Speedway, Thompson, CT will host its first Promotional Day for prospective members,November 12th, 10-2:30. Any propective member 5-16 years of age will be given an opportunity to drive a quarter-midget race car. The cost for the "Quarter Midget Experience" is $20. All race cars and safety equipment will be made available by club members. Hope to see you there!
    - JMC

  • 10/13 3:50pm To RH - In regards to Verizon DSL - We switched to Verizon DSL from dial-up and there is absoultley no comparison, DSL is a far superior service in terms of speed and reliability. Unfortunately, I don't know the cost of just DSL; we have a package which includes Direct TV, DSL and phone service for around $115/month.
    - CR

  • 10/13 1:20pm NASCAR race fans! Great Raffle Opportunity. (1st Prize) Kevin Harvick Autographed #21 1/24 scale metal Reese's car (2nd Prize) Autographed Picture and Reeses's Authentic Chase Hat #21 Autographed by Kevin Harvick (3rd Prize) Authentic Goodwrench Chase Hat Autographed by Kevin Harvick. Tickets $10. each. For more information, please call Jean at 508-479-2106. Thank you.
    - JMC

  • 10/13 1:02pm From the DPW:
    Beginning the week of October 24, 2005, the Town of Norfolk Department of Public Works (NDPW) will be conducting hydrant and gate valve inspections in your neighborhood. Work will be limited to the hours of 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. The following streets may experience rusty or discolored water during these inspections:

    Trailside Way, Crossbow Road, Whites Pond Road, Magnolia Circle, Keeney Pond Road, Castle Road, Grove Street, Strawberry Lane, Knoll Drive, Fredrickson Road, Shirley Lane, Briarwood Road And Perigo Lane.

    We anticipate that these inpsections will take approximately three weeks and should be completed by Friday, November 11, 2005. Residents that experience rusty water should do the following:

    1. flush water piping using cold water only from a bath tub faucet for approximately 15 minutes, then all other cold water fixtures in the house for 5 minutes.
    2. check water before washing clothes.
    3. check water prior to running dish washer
    4. check water before using for cooking
    5. if white clothes become discolored, "iron out" is available at the local hardware store and at the dpw office between the hours of 7:00 am - 3:30 pm

    We apoligize for any inconvience this may cause and should you have any questions please feel free to contact the dpw office at 508-528-4990.

    - RH

  • 10/13 10:19am The Norfolk Board of Health and Council on Aging, in conjunction with the Walpole Area Visiting Nurse Association, is sponsoring its annual Flu Clinic for Norfolk residents on Wednesday, November 30, 2005, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., at the Senior Center, located at 28 Medway Branch Road.
    Adults age 65 and older and those at highest risk of complications from the flu will be vaccinated from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Reservations to receive a flu vaccination will not be accepted this year.
    Vaccinations will be open to all other adult Norfolk residents after 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on a first-come-first serve basis.
    For more information, please call the Norfolk Board of Health at 508-528-7747.
    - Betsy Fijol, Norfolk Board of Health

  • 10/13 10:19am Has anyone switched from dial-up to the much publicized Verizon DSL $14.95 package? I am interested in the final monthly cost with taxes etc., equip fees, etc. and whether former dial-up customers recommend the switch.
    - RH

  • 10/13 7:43am Has anyone had experience with using solar lights for lighting a walkway?
    - AP

  • 10/12 2:54pm Are there any town basketball leagues for boys age 13. Looking to get my grandson involved. Thank you
    - ML

  • 10/12 10:05am The Norfolk Cultural Council in conjunction with the Bellingham Barnes & Noble sponsor local author, Stephen Puleo with a lecture on his book, Dark Tide, The Great Boston Molasses Flood of 1919. Wednesday October, 12th, 7:30pm @ the Bellingham Barnes & Noble (off 495)
    "Shortly after noon on January 15th, 1919, a fifty foot-tall steel tank filled with 2.3 million gallons of molasses collapsed on Boston's waterfront, disgorging its contents as a fifteen-foot-high wave of molasses that breifly travelled at thirty-five miles per hour. When the tide receded, a section of the city's North End had been transformed into a war zone. The Great Molasses Flood claimed the lives of twenty-one people and scores of animals, injured 150, and caused widespread destruction."

    "Narrated with gusto....Puleo's enthusiasm for the little-known catastrophe is infectious"

    - New York Times

    - PS

  • 10/12 10:01am To NH, re preschools: My daughter wasn't old enough for Norfolk preschools (must be 3 yrs) so she went to Pine Acres Country Day in Franklin (2.9 yrs) on Pond Street. Loved it so much that my 2nd daughter went there also, for a total of 5 years between the 2 of them.
    Been in business for over 30 years, they are accredited, have fantastic, caring teachers, low teacher/child ratio, before and after child-care, and they are starting up a summer program, I hear.
    - LK

  • 10/12 10:00am To PN - Over the last several years we have used quite a few electricians. The one who stands out for responsiveness and capability is Gerry Martel. He's also pleasant to work with. He's in town and runs his own business; ADL Electrical Services. His number is 508-528-1726. If I remember this is the number at which you can leave a message. I don't have his cell number. Good luck.
    - BS

  • 10/11 10:39pm To KGD (looking for a barber) We have had great cuts at Henry's Barber in Wrentham Center. While Henry recently retired, the name stays the same as does the service. They are open after school and on the weekends. Give them a holler.
    - TS

  • 10/11 10:38pm Any recommendations for a local electrician? Any recommendations would be appreciated.
    - PN

  • 10/11 6:32pm Does anyone know if there is a local organization that takes old computers? We have a Macintosh Performa (1995ish?), keyboard, 17-inch monitor, and it's of no use to us. Sad, because it seemed like we spent our life savings on it 10 yrs ago, so we'd like to find a home or organization that might be interested in it.
    - DL

  • 10/11 12:49pm Thanks to all who recommended Wayne Brown to tune my piano. He was great and reasonably priced!
    - MJD

  • 10/11 8:19am The Federated Church of Norfolk's 5K Walk/Run will be held on Saturday, October 15th at 10am. Registration: 8:45-9:45 am in the parking lot behind the Federated Church.
    Course: Starting point is near the Grange Hall on Rt. 115. Heading north, participants will turn right to Boardman, right to Old Mill Drive, veering left to Standish, right to Boardman, right to Seekonk, right to Main Street and left into the church's parking lot to FINISH line.
    Entry Fee: $15 (till 10/8), $18 (after 10/8). Free t-shirt to first 25 runners registered!
    Prizes given to winners. Awards given to first male and female in selected age group categories. For additional information, and an entry application contact Jack P. at 508-520-1901. The race is held in conjunction with the Church's Flea Market and Auction.
    - CG, Federated Church of Norfolk

  • 10/11 8:17am Back by popular demand, The Norfolk Community League is hosting a Holiday Photo Shoot with Photographer Kristine Piela taking family photos at Stony Brook Nature Sanctuary. We currently have 16 slots available. If interested, please contact Michelle Consoles or Cathie M. at nclhospitality@norfolkcommunityleague.org
    When: Saturday, October 29th (Raindate: Sunday, October 30th)
    Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Cost: $35 (including 3 photos plus online access for reprints)
    We are also looking for volunteers to help with this event for 2 hour shifts. Please come and get involved!
    - LR, Norfolk Community League

  • 10/10 11:47pm BH - Rocky's is great, Marcia took good care of us! I'd recommend them highly!
    - MJD

  • 10/10 9:18pm BH: We used Rocky's on 115 and were very pleased with results, service and cost. Priced a crumpled fender repair on our Ford Explorer at Rodman (on Route 1). Then went to Rocky's for a comparison estimate. $750 (Rodman) vs. $450 (Rocky's). Rocky's work was excellent, service was friendly and repair was completed quickly. Really liked doing business w/ a local outfit as well. Good luck!
    - TN

  • 10/10 6:55pm BH, I have to say that the best auto shop experience I have ever had was at Tri-Town Collision Center Inc (508) 699-4488 in Plainville. The three owners will treat you like gold and they do the best work around. They will even deal with your insurance company directly. Unfortunately for me, I had to bring my car and my wife's car in for repair over the last 16 months, but I couldn't had picked a better shop to work with. Good luck!
    - EB

  • 10/10 4:01pm Has anyone had auto-body work done lately, preferably nearby? I'm looking for a good job at a reasonable price. The car is an older model.
    The estimate from the insurance company was just under $1,000. I was thinking about Maaco in Dedham or Attleboro. Also, we noticed that Rocky's Auto Body, 79 Pond St. (Rte. 115 nr. 1A), Norfolk // 384-7883 is listed on this site under Town Businesses, and I'll check them out. Thank you.
    - BH

    [Rocky's has had several positive mentions on Norfolknet, last in 2004 on 10/15 (2:12pm - 8:44pm) - Wm.]

  • 10/10 10:59am I am looking to buy an SUV with third row seating - anyone have any suggestions? Right now I am considering the Pilot or one of the Toyota models. Thoughts? Thanks!
    - JB

  • 10/8 10:31pm Re: 10/8 5:26pm Our well is acting up. Does anyone know of a good well pump service in Norfolk? Thanks, - NM He's not in Norfolk, but Dave's Pump Company, 315 Spring St, Wrentham, 508-883-7959, did a good job replacing the screen-foot-valve and venturi assembly for our deep-well jet pump a few years ago. There was about 6 inches of snow on the ground at the time, and it was cold, but Dave pulled up all of the plastic tubing and quickly changed out the bronze screen-foot-valve-and-venturi assembly which had been in service for about 25 years. The bronze screen, which is supposed to keep sand out of the assembly (and out of our water), had aged, crystallized and broken, allowing sand to damage the valve surfaces.
    - RH

  • 10/8 5:26pm Our well is acting up. Does anyone know of a good well pump service in Norfolk? Thanks,
    - NM

  • 10/7 7:47pm TO NH: Re: Preschools. There are several. Norfolk Cooperative Preschool, located in the Federated Church right in Norfolk Center. It's housed there, but as far as I understand, it's not associated with the church. There is Norolk Children's School, on Union Street. First Friends is a relatively new school on Rte 1A. The H. Olive Day School has a preschool, for which kids are selected through a lottery. I personally only have experience at Norfolk Children's School, and I can't say enough about it. Great teachers, great experience, lovely people. Truth is, I've heard mostly good things about all of them. There is also the YMCA in Franklin, which I know second hand also has an excellent program as well. Hope that helps. Good luck!
    - TC

  • 10/7 4:07pm Can someone please tell me a little about the preschool situation in Norfolk. How many are there? Are they all private? Thanks,
    - NH

  • 10/7 3:17pm To MW, King Philip Music Association - is Mass Band night on Thursday, October 20, 2005 open to students who are residents of Wrentham, Plainville, Norfolk but who attend other schools that are not part of KP & town districts?
    - KB

  • 10/6 12:12am There will be Bottle and can Fundraiser collection bins at the Center Parking Lot, Wrentham, Norfolk Center and Wood School, Plainville on Saturday October 15th 9am-12pm. You can also drop at our collection site behind the High School
    As a year-round fund raising activity, KPMA collects empty, returnable bottles and cans from the deposit bin at the back of King Philip High School,
    - MW, King Philip Music Association

  • 10/5 9:41am KD, you can take that Canon over to Service Bench in Norwood, 781-769-4337. They've seen plenty of 'em!
    - PW

  • 10/5 9:39am Thank you for the barbershop recommendations! They are very helpful. I have one more question: can anyone recommend a good chimneysweep?
    - KGD

  • 10/5 4:02pm KGD, I would recommend John's in Franklin on RT 140 as well. They are open on Saturdays. There are several barbers to choose from; I would recommend Arthur.
    - RF

  • 10/5 4:00pm Re: 10/5 1:55pm I have a digital camcorder (Canon) that appears to have shutter issues (don't we all). Can anyone recommend an electronics repair shop nearby? Thanks, KB
    I recommend returning the item to the manufacturer (or a manufacturer-approved repair shop) whenever possible. Check out the Canon support website at URL: [Canon support]
    - RH

  • 10/5 2:57pm From 7:00 until 8:30 p.m., Thursday, October 20, 2005, instrumental students from Wrentham, Norfolk and Plainville elementary schools and the King Philip Regional School North are invited to join the nationally known King Philip Marching Band for the annual Mass Band Night on Arnold Macktaz Field behind the high school.
    The elementary and King Philip North students will get a chance to find out how the marching band actually rehearses, and then join the band at midfield for a Mass Band performance. All students attending are encouraged to bring their instruments and to dress for cool autumn evening weather.
    Hot chocolate will be served, and raffle prize drawings will be conducted.
    - MW, King Philip Music Association

  • 10/5 2:56pm KGD, there is also a barber in Foxboro on Rte 140 right in the town center between CVS and the bank. They are open on Saturdays.
    - PFD

  • 10/5 1:55pm Re: Barbers. When my sons wore their hair quite short we used John's Barbershop in Franklin (Rt 140, past Ficcos and McDonalds). Now that they are liking a longer look, I've been taking them to JD Crewcuts - also in Franklin. Despite the name, this is midway between a salon & a barbershop - very unisex; it is also on 140, up by Edwins giftshop - next to VetMed pet supplies (whom I also recommend!).
    - CI

  • 10/5 1:54pm I have a digital camcorder (Canon) that appears to have shutter issues (don't we all). Can anyone recommend an electronics repair shop nearby? Thanks,
    - KB

  • 10/5 1:16pm KGD - My husband and two year old son go to the barber in Medfield on Route 109 - I believe it is next to Lords Dept Store. They did a great job, my son actually stayed in the chair the whole time! They are open on Saturdays but not sure of the time or the name of the shop... Sorry!
    - JB

  • 10/5 11:21am Looking for teenagers to do yardwork in Norfolk. Must have own transportation. 8-$10/ hr. call Jack after 6PM - 508-528-0875.
    - JFO

  • 10/5 11:20am Greetings from Sweden! Dear inhabitants of Norfolk, I recently found your webpage and the reason for my letter is that I am looking for possible relatives. My great grandmothers sister, named Nanny Odina Cecilia Johansson (year of birth:1887) once immigrated from Helsingborg, Sweden to USA. The last known address that was found, was Norfolk, Massachusetts where she passed away in 1966. She had two children, a boy named Gunnar and a girl named India. India then had two boys named Wayne and Fredrik. If someone has any information about these people I would be very grateful, and if so, please e-mail me at petrasusanna@spray.se. Sincerely,
    - Petra Boije, Helsingborg, Sweden

  • 10/5 10:37am Can anyone recommend a barber that is open on the weekend? We are new in town and failed miserably finding one last weekend.
    - KGD

  • 10/5 10:36am For JB (From 9/22) - Sorry to take so long to get back to you, but thank you for the information re: the Norfolk Community League! I hope to see you at Boardman park (I'm a working mom, so it would be on the weekend).
    - KGD

  • 10/5 8:35am To MJD regarding a piano tuner... I second the info posted June 26 on this website
    6/26 10:54am For PB, Wayne Brown is a great piano tuner and has been doing ours for many years. He also rebuilt an antique piano for us several years ago. He lives in Attleboro, but does other pianos in Norfolk as well. His number is 508-222-0123.
    - LK
    - DLJ

  • 10/5 12:08am As a public service note - People should be aware of a scam that has hit the area namely labelled LVAAP (Las Vegas Actionable Award Program): For about $30 you qualify for a sweepstake prize. Also under the guise of Golden Lottery, USA. There is no phone, address, etc., but send your fee! Appearing in the area via mail although some long distance phone calls have been received. Log on -- lvaap programs scam for a whole page of the farce.
    - JO

  • 10/5 12:06am I am looking for a music/instrument introduction class for my 4 yr old son. He's done the Family Music Together program since birth and is now too old to attend. Does anyone know of a reasonably priced class in the area? Or is there someone with music/instrumental ability that would like to create a class for a few 4 yr olds? (I have friends interested too). I'm an elementary school teacher and would be willing to help create the class - but I have no musical ability at all! Please email me at lauracrop@yahoo.com if you know of anyone.
    - LM

  • 10/4 9:23pm Hi JB, About your hardwood floors, call Derry Hardwood Flooring, they are in the Yellow pages, and they are located in Franklin; ask for John Derry. A stand up business guy that knows his work so well, he has been in business for over 40 years, he did my home 7 years ago. Such a great installer and refinisher of hardwood floors. Hopes this helps with your search
    - MA

  • 10/4 9:20pm JB, we've used Derry Hardwood Floors in Franklin to refinish our floors (twice since we've lived in this house) and were very happy both times.
    - GA

  • 10/4 10:53am For KP... I do home daycare... 508-528-3235.
    - ER

  • 10/4 10:52am How about someone to refinish hardwood floors?
    - JB

  • 10/3 11:12pm Paul, My family and I love the show on NCTV, please keep up the good work. Get some makeup for you and the other guy though.
    I hope you get some real feedback, I'd love to hear it too.
    - JH

  • 10/3 8:48pm Looking for a home daycare; any suggestions?
    - KP

  • 10/3 8:26pm Norfolk Walkways presents gift of $15,000 to Town of Norfolk - Norfolk Walkways, sponsored by the Norfolk Community League and The Garden Club of Norfolk, would like to thank the individuals, families and businesses that purchased inscribed bricks for the new and improved Town Hill. Over 300 bricks were sold to pave the brick walkways that will link the gazebo, Peace Garden and Veteran's Memorials. Installation is expected this fall.
    As part of the May 2005 Town Meeting, a distribution of the Community Preservation Fund (CPF) was approved to install the walkways with the caveat that any funds raised through Norfolk Walkways would be used to reduce this distribution. We are happy to announce that over $15,000 was presented to the Town of Norfolk to reduce the CPF distribution. The presentation was made at the September 12th Board of Selectman meeting. The members of the Norfolk Walkways Committee were on hand at the presentation.
    Included in the $15,000 was a generous donation of $1,525 from the Haunted Train Ride sponsored by the Norfolk Lions and NCL last October.
    An effort such as this cannot be successful without the hard work of dedicated individuals. We would like to thank Bonnie D., Tara S., Beth S., Betty Ann W., Jackie W. and Helena D. for their enthusiasm and commitment.
    These one-time gifts will last a lifetime, as the bricks will become a permanent part of Town Hill. We look forward to the re-opening of Town Hill and the completed Norfolk Walkways. We invite you to stroll along the walkways and enjoy the view.
    - TS

  • 10/3 8:06pm To MJD - I found a great contractor do my 2 bathrooms, soup to nuts and a great guy to do business with. His name is Casey Davis; I lost his business card, but his cell number is still in my cell phone memory, he is out of Medfield MA. Just a lead for you, he did a great job.
    - MA

  • 10/3 5:33pm Re: firewood - NC, I drive by Lovell's nursery in Medfield on 109 every day, and they look to have massive piles of wood on their property in the back. May be worth it to give them a call? We used to buy firewood from Enos Landscaping in Bridgewater, but that may be too far for you (although, they do deliver for a fee).
    - JP

  • 10/3 5:31pm For wood NC... the guy is one of the Bremilst sons... try 508-528-3296
    - RR

  • 10/3 4:27pm NC: There is a guy on Rte 115 at the Family Florist who sells wood. Apparently he's a good guy and reasonable. Not sure his name or the number, but you can apparently just drive in during business hours.
    - TC

  • 10/3 3:51pm Thank you DN, we called Jane and Paul's Farm today and they no longer sell firewood. Any other suggestions for local firewood would be greatly appreciated. Thank you,
    - NC

  • 10/3 3:03pm Absentee ballots for the November 1st special town election are now available in the Norfolk town clerk's office. Any registered voter may vote in person at the Town Clerk's office during regular working hours which are Monday through Wednesday, 9:00AM until 4:00PM, Thursday, 9:00AM until 7:00PM, and Friday, 9:00AM until 1:00PM.
    If you are unable to come into the office, you may send a written request containing your name, address, mailing address, if different, and your signature to: Town Clerk, One Liberty Lane, Norfolk, MA 02056. A ballot will be mailed to you.
    Absentee ballots may not be hand carried.
    - GB, Town of Norfolk

  • 10/3 1:04pm Does anyone have a recommendation for a contractor to do a bathroom remodel? I want someone who is professional, fairly tidy and reasonably priced!
    - MJD

  • 10/3 11:30am Norfolk Community Television supports the new "Ask the Administrator" service provided by Town Hall and seen on Norfolknet and Virtualnorfolk. As NCTV station manager it has been a part of my job to produce a show called Conversation Corner with the Town Administrator. The purpose of Conversation Corner is to provide information about important issues in town. We did the show for more than 3 and a half years with Dr. Markel, and have been doing it with Jack Hathaway for several months. We have wondered during most of this time what our viewership of that program might be since we don't get lots of questions or feedback. The new "Ask the Administrator" feature indicates that there are many questions out there looking for answers and I am curious to find out why more folks have not utilized Conversation Corner to get answers to their questions. We are tough skinned, so please let us know if you think our show is valuable and useful to you. Thanks,
    - Paul Guertin NCTV Station Manager

  • 10/3 8:24am How about a piano tuner? Anyone know of a good one locally?
    - MJD

  • 10/2 8:24pm To KM: Try KD Cleaning Co. He's VERY good and does a thorough job. 508-528-0929. Good Luck!!
    - LK

  • 10/2 6:44pm Can anyone recommend a good house cleaning service? Thanks,
    - KM

  • 10/2 4:47pm Does anyone know of a painter who can do a relatively small job, probably one or two days of exterior painting, just too high up for us to safely do ourselves? Any leads are appreciated.
    - TC

  • 10/1 11:34pm To JD: Sounds like those questions would be a good use of the new "Ask the Administrator" feature that the Town Hall website has - I followed the link our dear Wm posted, and found the ones so far to be informative :-)
    - CI

  • 10/1 4:19am I know this question has been posted in the past, but I was wondering if anyone had the skinny on what's going on with the property at the corner of Main and Boardman. The newly sided building is still the same, but the "garage" was removed and the lot has been excavated down about six feet.
    Also, does anyone have the latest update on the "Call and Wait Auto" saga?
    - JD

  • 10/1 12:09am From Town Hall Notices:
    The Norfolk Department of Public Works will be interrupting water service on Standish Road between boardman street and the cul-de-sac on

    Wednesday, October 5, 2005

    Service will be interrupted beginning at 8:00 am and should be restored by 3:00 pm. This shutdown is necessary to install new gate valves and water mains on Standish Road to improve water system control and supply a new sub division.

    The contractor will be on Standish Road Tuesday excavating test pits, but will not be interrupting water service. These test pits are needed to minimize the shut down time on Wednesday.

    Residents are urged to draw water for use during this shutdown and advised to check water before washing clothes. We apoligize for any inconvience this may cause and appreciate your patience and assistance in this matter.

    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact the DPW office at 508-528-4990.

    - RH

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