This is the archive of previous Norfolk Notes.
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2/16 9:24am TB. We use Bob Arthur Roofing from Franklin. He has done several roofs of various sizes for us over the years and even told us when we did not need re roofing. Never a problem recommending him to others. 508 528 4424. - RC
[Update 2/17 9:03am: Bob Arthur is from Franklin and his telephone # is 508 528 4424 - RC]
2/16 9:23am Seeking recommendations on someone to hem a few pairs of pants. - PH
2/16 9:16am Unsolicited praise: Our son came home from college for the long weekend and mentioned that his car's rear window wasn't working, and was stuck open a couple of inches. We removed the door panels and tried to fix it, or at least pull the window up so it would close, and succeeded in getting it to be stuck at a 5" gap instead. Fortunately our local mechanic was working on this holiday, and even though new replacement parts were not available, he managed to find used parts and get it fixed same day. Imagine that, he saved us money and got it done quicker than we had expected. If you ever have any car problems, we highly recommend Sam's Auto on Rt. 1A in Wrentham. He is hands down the best and most reasonably priced auto mechanic in the area. We are posting this for your benefit, not his, and are not affiliated in any way.
- TB (TB2)
2/16 9:15am Looking for someone to plow my driveway on Longmeadow Rd for the coming storm. Glass1971@aol.com. Thanks - PR
2/16 8:56am JR: I ended up calling Burows Appliance Repair and agree that he was terrific. He was prompt, informative, and even looked at my dishwasher for no additional charge. He is a very nice and capable guy that I would recommend too. - CS
2/16 8:55am Hi, Just wanted to share a photo taken last week, a sure sign of Spring. - BF (BF 2)
2/15 1:38pm Sam Ziegler is a local treasure. If you want to see the quality of his work, take a look at the mural in the periodical reading room at the Library. Sam saved this mural, mounted it, and, after restoration work, framed it for the ages. - HRB
2/15 1:36pm To CS - I have used Burows Appliance and was pleased with his work. He repairs (whenever possible) rather than replaces. burowappliance.com - JR
2/14 4:46pm AC - Sam Ziegler did our bathroom for us last year. He is here in Norfolk. He does wonderful work - ML
2/14 4:45pm Happy Valentine's Day! 
2/13 9:13pm AL - Call Brian Smith of Millis: 508-376-2080. I recently had two sentimental pieces of furniture repaired/refinished and he did an outstanding job. One of the pieces was in such rough shape that it should have gone in the dumpster but it was my husband's great grandmother's. When Brian brought over the finished piece, I couldn't believe my eyes. He is very reasonable. Good Luck! - DCB
2/13 9:12pm It's Valentine's Day weekend! Family Florist is open and we have gorgeous roses- red and pastels- as well as tulips, daffodils and more! Stop by on Sunday- we're open 10 till 5. North St. Rt 115 508 528-2254 Hope Cupid is good to you all :-) - RB(RB4)
2/13 9:11pm We are looking for a reputable appliance repairman to take a look at our refrigerator and dishwasher. Anyone have recommendations? Thank you in advance, - CS
2/13 9:01pm Two things. #1, am looking to have our master bath redone. Want to have existing fiberglass shower taken out and have a tile floor and shower put in. Any suggestions of good craftspeople would be much appreciated. Would prefer someone who can do all but plumbing. - AC
2/13 7:20pm Free to good home: Trainium treadmill. Yours free if you pick up. Incline, programmable workouts and heartrate monitor. Contact box238@norfolknet.com - DC
[Update 2/22 9:37pm: the treadmill that was for free is gone. - DC]
2/13 11:58am I have an old needlepoint chair with a broken wooden leg. I can't bear to throw it out, grandmother would roll over, and need a suggestion for a woodworker who might be able to carve a new leg or repair this one. It's already been glued a few times, but that has not helped. Anyone know of a local person who could do handywork like this? - AL
2/13 11:57am I'm hoping that someone might be able to recommend a local roofing company that they have recently used and been very happy with. - TB
2/13 9:22am AB, The fact that the hours at the Town Clerk's office have been changed (I believe it is Mon - Thu 12:00 - 1:00 with an hour off for lunch), the last day the license fee can be paid and recorded before March 1st would be Thursday, February 25th. If anyone finds that incovenient, perhaps they could have their hours changed. After all, this is America. - KK
2/12 11:15pm Mark your calendars - Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer's first game of the spring season is April 25th. If you haven't done so already, you may still register - visit the website at www.norfolklionssoccer.com - HK
2/12 11:14pm BAM: I was at the post office this morning (Monday, Feb 1) and the same men were there with their anti-Obama signs. It's one thing to hold a sign, and quite another to antagonize patrons of the post office as they come and go. They should not be speaking to anyone in an angry threatening manner as they had spoken to me. Why aren't the police telling them to leave? Isn't it against the law to be soliciting on government property such as the post office? Why do dissenters need to be so disrespectful and juvenile? I am outraged. - MMB
2/12 11:13pm SJ - Thanks for the tips on childproofing your home, and it is sage advice. Although for some reason they still keep getting in! - MON
2/12 11:10pm Ms Bernardo: With all due respect, the piece of paper I am holding in my hand that came from your office says, "Your dog must be licensed before (with emphasis) March 1st of each year. Even the the link from the Town bylaws on the Town Clerk website link to animal regulations Article XIII, Section 3 Dog Regulations, C License and Tags, paragraph 3 states "Should any owner of a dog previously licensed in the Town of Norfolk, fail to re-license his/her dog before March 1, the owner shall pay a late fee of $50.00." There is nothing about February 25th... for dogs... that is when taxes are due. - AB
2/12 11:08pm Something Special now has fresh roses and tulips for Valentine's Day. We also have a great selection of candy, cards, and jewelry. We will be open all weekend. Any questions give us a call @ (508) 520-1314 - JA, Something Special
2/11 8:15pm If you are childproofing you home I have outlet covers/protectors. 5 cream color and 2 white. They attach with one screw in the middle. When you want to use the outlet you just slide the cover. Very easy to use. Free to whomever wants them. Email me at sbj83@msn.com - SJ
[Update 2/12 11:11pm: I already have a taker, just to save others from inquiring - SJ]
2/11 8:14pm Reminder to all dog owners: Dogs must be licensed by February 25, 2010 to avoid the $50 late fee (per dog). Please mail in your license renewals today, or stop by the office Monday - Thursday between 9am - 5pm to license your dog(s). - Gail E. Bernardo, Town Clerk, Town of Norfolk
2/11 8:11pm The Norfolk Republican Town Committee will be meeting this coming Monday February 15th at 7pm at the Public Library. Mary Connaughton who is a running for State Auditor will be joining us. Hope to see you in attendance. Any questions can be directed to Gregory M. at gmirliss@gmail.com. - GM, Norfolk Republican Town Committee
2/11 8:04pm DLG and others: The Norfolk Girl Scouts are selling cookies. We've been at the transfer station almost every Saturday. As the one in charge of our town's cookies, I can drop off cookies to your home. Just send me a message to box237@norfolknet.com. Cookies are $4.00 per box and we have 8 kinds: thin mints, short breads, peanut butter patties, peanut butter sandwiches, caramel delights, thanks a lot (short bread with chocolate), daisy-go-rounds (low calorie) and lemonades. - WWR
2/11 8:03pm For DL: The Norfolk Girl Scouts are selling cookies! There is usually a troop at the Transfer Station on Saturday mornings selling them, otherwise you can contact my troop for a sale. You can contact me at 508-384-6354 with any questions. Thanks for supporting Girl Scouts! - TMS
2/11 8:02pm Happy Thursday, everyone. I have 6 zone 5 passes, that I'd like to sell for $30... Anyone interested? Please e-mail m_t_mcguckian@comcast.net Thanks! - TM
2/11 8:01pm Of interest - there is a "Boomerang" daily in Laramie, Wyoming - JO
2/10 6:35pm JPB, Very sound advice. Our energies truly need to be focused on helping the Swensons get into housing to fit their current needs. As you stated, our voices can have a significant impact on this endeavor. Let's not let them down! - CN
2/10 6:31pm Is anyone selling Girl Scout cookies in Norfolk? How can they be contacted? At www.hergirlscouts.org a search can be done to find a sale within so many miles from here but none of the sales listed include Norfolk. Thanks - DLJ
2/10 6:30pm AL, I agree about Eric Geiger. He is awesome! I have used him for lots of various jobs (large and small) and he is always, thorough, prompt, friendly and fair. It feels great that there are still folks like Eric in this world to help out when you need it! - JEC
2/10 1:07pm Funny how the simple things make me so happy! I finally have two working doors in my home today. I called Norfolk handyman Eric Geiger to jiggle a few locks around so that they line up correctly. They no longer require us to push, pull or lift to get them to work. Simple! If you have a home project that you've always wanted done, give Eric a call (508) 541-3921. I know he has reduced rates for seniors, and he was very responsive and easy to work with. - AL
2/10 1:06pm Free college seminar this Thursday evening at the YMCA in Franklin at 7 pm. Discussion of financial strategies and admission tips. Guest speaker and author, Paul Hemphill. - PH, PreCollege Prep
2/10 1:02pm The first History on the Hill program , 2010, sponsored by the Norfolk Historical Commission is on February 24, 2010, in Room 214 at the Norfolk Town Hall at 7:00 PM. Snowdate is March 3rd. - BB, Norfolk Historical Commission
[Update 6:32pm: the correct dates should be Ferbuary 24th and snowday March 3rd - BB]
2/10 12:58pm Those who wish to help the Swensons in a meaningful way please focus on what can still be done to help them obtain affordable housing in Norfolk, not on past events. - JPB
2/10 12:56pm What is wrong with some of the people here in town? I was catching up on posts from the last week or two and saw that JN got slammed by GC. Apparently GC did not grasp what JN had said, but to judge JN's work ethic and be so [rude]? Really! - EF
2/9 5:47pm Effective immediately and until further notice the Town Clerk's Office will have the following PUBLIC hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 5:00pmIf you have any questions please don't hesitate to call the Town Clerk at 508-528-1400.
Other hours by appointment and/or as required by State mandateIt is hoped that this small change will accomplish several things:
- Eliminate confusion regarding the State cut-off for filing nominations papers, petitions, and other misc. filings, which is 5:00pm.
- Streamline the passport processing service which now requires a trip to the post office (which closes at 5pm) for traceable delivery confirmation.
- Eliminate the `split-shift' currently used in the office to accommodate the limited hours of the Assistant Town Clerk position.
- Allow more flexibility in the schedule which often requires hours outside of the normal 9-5 schedule for State requirements.
- Gail E. Bernardo, Town Clerk, Town of Norfolk
2/9 5:46pm A walk around Stony Brook Nature Center revealed that the early signs of Spring are there. I noticed chirping birds, four geese (in what little open water there is). Also: buds, and the greening and turning burnt red of the thorn bushes, especially around the boardwalk. A nice picture to keep in mind to help us through tomorrow's storm! - CR
2/9 5:45pm SF, There is a place called "Repair Center" at 14 Freeman Street in Stoughton. The number is 781-344-7333. He sells and repairs clock and watches and has fixed one of my watches. He may make house calls too. - PMM
2/9 5:44pm I have been on line talking to Hilary and thanking her. She is such a great person and I hope the town appreciates her hard work. Grissom has not left the house and probably won't for some time.Thank you Joe for coming over and explaining what had happened. - BR (BR#1)
2/9 5:42pm It is really sad that the family who was forced to relocate has to endure all of this debate about their situation on Norfolk Net. - CS
2/9 5:41pm Just to update. The cat in the post below mine is the same cat that was treed! How incredible! - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
2/8 9:29pm GC: I do not know who you are or what you are talking about. Of course we help our families. I just meant to point out that it is hard to always tell a book by its cover. People are making judgments about actions that were taken without perhaps knowing all of the facts. - JN
2/8 9:19pm SEC - We got the postcard for LPC as well and just signed up. The price is extremely reasonable and I am happy not to have to spend Saturday mornings sorting recyclables for the dump! Their single stream recycling process does it all for you. Great way to support a small town business and recycle at the same time. Their website is junkpickup.com - MM
2/8 9:16pm Do you love your house cleaner and are they taking new customers? I know this has come up from time to time, but I can only find one archived on norfolknet. Looking for someone who does a thorough job, is reliable, prompt (comes when they say they'll be here) and flexible (as our work hours vary). Please email me if you know of anyone! Thanks for sharing! box236@norfolknet.com - PB
2/8 9:14pm DV. Depending on what you are going to store, and if the items are of some value you should make sure the storage units are temperature controled. Some are not. - DH
2/8 9:13pm On Sunday evening I received a call for a treed cat on King Street in the area of Maple/King/Lee Ann Drive. This morning before the wind became a factor I climbed the tree and got this cat out. If have been missing your black, long haired, male cat for at least 24 hours then this is most likely yours. Please call for further information. 508 440 2816. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
2/8 9:12pm Our very large black male cat is missing. He was born a feral but he is a sweetheart. He went out about 12:30 am Sun. morning with another feral cat but not the same litter. We hear the coyotes sometimes but have not seen them. Usually you can hear them when they have made a kill. Has anyone in the Maple St. Essex, and King Street area seen or heard anything. My husband has walked the whole area even looking for blood but nothing has been found. Grissom is not vicious but a very gentle cat. The other cat was right at the back door yesterday morning. - BR (BR #1)
Follow-up:
Grissom just returned home. Not a mark on him.We are so glad.- BR (BR #1)
2/8 9:08pm Norfolk & Franklin Lions Club 3rd Annual Chili Fest - Saturday: February 27, 2010, 6:00pm. St. Jude's Church, Main St. Adults: $14.00, others over 5 $7.00, under 5 Free. - CW, Norfolk Lions
2/8 9:06pm Norfolk Baseball Association is in need of spring Little League team sponsorships. If you are a local business that would like to support Norfolk Youth and our community please contact me. Team sponsorships are a reasonable $250.00. Your company name is placed on the player's shirts and your business information is advertised on our website. I can be reached at pugslyfruci@aol.com or 781-467-8192. Thank you! - Karen Fruci, Norfolk Baseball Association
2/8 9:05pm I'm looking for a recommendation for someone who can repair a weight driven wall clock. I can take the clock to a shop. - SF
2/8 9:02pm Norfolk's online property viewer at [page link] has their property listed as "Buildings - $76,400" and "Land - $147,000", a far cry from the sale price of $50,000 to the nearby, caring neighbor. - BF (BF 2)
2/8 8:59pm Valentine's Day is right around the corner! Looking for the perfect gift? For the couple who works hard all week long with little time for themselves, may I suggest a couples massage in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Renovo Health and Wellness brings therapeutic massage services to the client as opposed to the client coming to us. We will transform your surroundings into the ambiance of a day spa with one major difference, you don't have to leave to go home! For the month of February we are offering a 10% discount for any couple massage booked during the month. Please see our website www.renovohealth.com for details or call Mary Sharkey at 508-528-6789. - MKS
2/8 8:57pm JN, I find your comments to be very disturbing. You, who claim to be a hospice RN, who have seen many homes in the unkempt manner as the Swenson's and have not done anything about the problem but complain about it! - GC
2/7 1:24pm Has anyone ever used a storage place in the area? If so please please tell me the pros and cons - thanks - DV
2/7 1:22pm To all these Norfolk people blasting Mr. Norton - You have no idea how many years Mr. Norton has been helping the Swensons keep their home together... replacing windows, doors, plowing and shoveling walks and driveway... fixing broken things in the household... at no cost to the Swensons. - ER
2/7 1:19pm As I posted before, we were involved in the cleanup of a family member's property in circumstances that sound very like the Swenson's. When the property was sold we were told that the price we could expect was the going rate for the land minus the demolition costs of the house. This was after the property was cleaned. If we had hired someone to do the cleanout we would have had to pay for hazmat cleaning. If the Swenson's land was assessed at $200,000 then in this market the going rate would have been much less. After you subtract the cleanout and demolition, $50,000 does not sound out of line. We were told we could expect $70-80,000 for 4+ acres in a town not far from here. - ML
2/7 1:18pm PRB, would love to talk to you about taking care of your dogs - I am a Norfolk resident with experience and with Norfolk references. Please call 774-571-8461 and ask for Sarah. - SD
2/6 2:26pm Deadline to register for the spring season of Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer is quickly approaching! NLYS is open to boys and girls who are 3 years old (by Sept. 1, 2009) to grade 12. - HK
2/6 2:25pm I am looking for someone local to care for my 2 smalls dogs during February school vacation (2/14 - 2/20). Can anyone suggest someone? - PRB
2/6 2:24pm I agree with NK. Mr. Norton, should have bought the Swensons land for more than $50,000; they needed fair market value to move to their next residence. Shame on you. This is no way to treat anyone when they are down and out. This is [an] unneighborly act from Mr Norton. - EF
2/6 2:23pm Just noticed that one of our local stores, Something Special, is now taking clothing consignments. I am very excited to consign a lot of girl's clothing! - JN
2/6 2:22pm Got an email - Here is an option for those who need supportive housing or assisted living type services and who qualify because of income. The housing in Norfolk is independent, in other words, there are no support services such as cleaning or personal care available through Norfolk Housing. [massresources.org link]- Wm.
2/5 9:19pm Kudos to the community on Norfolknet for providing such great referrals, and double kudos to one of those referrals we used today to help "bail us out" of a bad situation. Came home after being gone several days to find a burst pipe and 2 inches of standing water in several rooms. Soaked carpets, mattresses, upholstery - nice homecoming! So anyway, recalled seeing some great carpet cleaning referrals on norfolknet not too long ago and within the hour, George Pasquantonio of Pasquantonio Carpet Care, (www.pasquantoniocarpetcare.com) was on the scene extracting water and dispensing helpful advice on how to get the place dried out. He even left us his "air mover" fan overnight. Nice guy! He's local, lives in Plainville, charges reasonable rates, and will be back next week to clean our carpets and upholstery. This site rocks! - JMF
2/5 9:15pm Attached is an updated slate of positions that will be on the ballot for the Annual Town Election in May, it has been ammended to reflect the addition of two 'unexpired' terms that are now vacant due to recent resignations. Norfolk Town Election - Tuesday, May 4, 2010The following positions will be on the ballot for the May 4th Election of Town Officers:
Nomination papers available starting 2/1/10 and are due back not later than 5:00pm on 3/16/10
Moderator - (1) One-year term
Selectmen - (1) Three-year term
Board of Assessors - (1) Three-year term
Board of Assessors - (1) Two-year unexpired term
Board of Health - (1) Three-year term
Housing Authority - (1) One-year term
Library Trustee - (1) Three-year term
Planning Board - (2) Three-year terms
Recreation Commission - (2) Three-year terms
Norfolk School Committee - (1) Three-year term
Norfolk School Committee - (1) One-year unexpired term- Gail E. Bernardo, Town Clerk, Town of Norfolk
2/5 9:13pm Hi Norfolk families! It's that time of the year again - Valentine's Day! I've posted on here with success before, so I thought I'd try again. I'm guessing many of you would like to get out for that romantic dinner on the 14th - I'm here to help :) I have lots of experience babysitting and I love kids. I'm 20 years old and have lived in Norfolk all my life. I went to LSU for a year and a half & I'm taking a semester off. I'm a part time nanny during the week - I love my job! Feel free to e-mail me at rachelalsu@yahoo.com for Valentine's Day, or any other time as well! I also have references if needed. Thanks! - RA
2/5 9:07pm NK, I do not want town officials assuming roles they are not qualified or trained to assume. The Swensons appear to need more services and supports then Hillcrest can provide. I would hope the Boomerang would do a follow-up story and let all know how they are doing. - JR
2/5 8:55pm Getting too cold to walk your dog? Wish you had some help caring for your pet during these long winter months? Leashrly Life can help! We offer pet sitting, dog walking and obedience training for your pet. For more information, please call 781-241-2083 or visit our website for rates and details. www.leashrlylife.com - AW, Leashrly Life
2/5 8:52pm The sale of the Swenson's home, or any home for that matter, if sold under duress, is not a free act and deed of the seller, and is therefore a defective conveyance. The buyer should be ashamed of themselves for taking advantage of the circumstances, and we as townspeople should show what we are made of by demanding action be taken by town officials to assure fair market value is paid to the Swensons. Town leadership, especially those directly causal to forced sale of the home, as well as those involved in denial of public housing to the Swensons would do well to remember they can be named individually in a lawsuit. Speaking for myself, I'll not pay for thoughtless actions made by town officials that invite lawsuits. Those of you involved know who you are, and you should know better. If not, you should resign your post. As for the Board of Selectmen and Town Administrator, unless you are comfortable drowning our fiscally-suffering town in legal fees and judgments, you would do well to get risk management training for every town employee or agent who has the power to obligate or create obligation for the town. I am ashamed by what this town has done to the Swensons, and will not be proud to say I live in Norfolk until the Swensons are made whole. The town must do the right thing, and fast. Every minute that passes is yet another minute I hope the Swensons have to find themselves a good lawyer who will get them not only their day in court, but a judgment that teaches this town a lesson it will not soon forget. Perhaps then logic will prevail in town government, and we will all be better off for it. - GH
2/5 8:51pm It's always interesting to read the various versions of "someone should do this" or "someone should do that" or the ever-popular "town officials should have done that". In the latter case, note how rarely the speaker is, was, or wants to be a such a town official. Rarely do we hear "I'm going to do this" or 'I'm going to do that". But I guess that's just the nature of the beast... - RM
2/5 8:48pm Regardless of the conditions found at the Swenson home in July, Mr. Bullock has stated that alternatives to throwing them out of their home existed and he could have worked with them to remedy the situation. - JPB
2/5 8:47pm Considering hiring a pet care professional to help out with your pet care needs? Critter Visits is a well known and trusted pet care service, with clients throughout Norfolk and surrounding towns. Owned and managed by Carin Cohen, who has over 20 years experience in pet care, we provide a variety of services including in-home visits, for all kinds of pets from small animals to cats and dogs, and even horses, sheep, and ducks (and almost anything in between!). If you are a dog owner ask us about our dog walking services and individually tailored dog training consultations. Call to schedule a complimentary interview and don't forget to ask us about our new customer special offers - our gift to you for trying us out. Thank you for your consideration. 508-922-6706 - SD, Critter Visits petsitter
2/4 8:53pm Bingo fundraiser for disaster relief in Haiti - You're invited to the area's Biggest Tupperware Party! The Party Box, 139 Mechanic Street, Route 140, Bellingham, Massachusetts - Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 6:30 PM. - LC
2/4 8:42pm Bring your family to the library this Saturday, Feb 6, between 10 am and 2 pm to make and take Valentine's Day greetings, crafts, treats and more with some help from the Junior Friends! All proceeds will go toward the Junior Friends of the Library and their Adopt-A-Whale fund from the World Wildlife fund. - VR
2/4 8:40pm I am writing to comment on the Swensons' plight. They are good people who do not deserve to be treated this way. There is no denying they were lacking the help that they needed while living in their home on Priscilla Ave and the situation had become serious. Town officials should be held responsible for not providing the help necessary to give them the opportunity to remain in their home way before July of 2009. - NK
2/4 8:38pm Tickets now on sale for Annual Random Smile Project Gala - The Random Smile Project will hold its annual Gala on February 27, 2010 from 6-12pm. This year's Gala will take place at Christina's in Foxboro and will once again include both live and silent auctions, dinner, dancing, DJ and a live performance by the Screaming Vincent's band. Tickets are $75 each. All proceeds from the Gala support the many projects Random Smile spearheads throughout the year. To learn more about the Random Smile Project or to purchase tickets for the Gala, please visit the Random Smile Project website at: www.randomsmile.org - AC, Random Smile Project
2/4 8:37pm It was disheartening to watch the teachers, parents and residents of Norfolk spend the time to attend the School Committee's public hearing about educational leadership and share their concerns, only to have an SC member state that the "[townspeople] don't want to hear what we have to say" when she thought the audio was not recording at the end of the meeting. Wasn't the whole point of the meeting to hear the public's concerns, not SC's views which we have already heard? - RD
2/4 8:36pm At 3:30 this afternoon sighted between 2 and 4 coyotes roaming the power lines between Cleveland St and Seekonk St near the end of Village Green. - JP
2/4 8:35pm We just started using LPC Junk Removal for trash pick up and recycling. Today was our first day of service and it was so great! It was very easy the recycling part was the best we just put all our items into one barrel - no sorting! I highly reccomend this local company. - CC
2/4 8:22pm Norfolk Lions to Host Awareness & Information Night - Learn about the Norfolk Lions - Thursday, Feb 18th @ 7pm. - FZ, Norfolk Lions
2/4 8:20pm I am also interested to hear if anyone has suggestions for piano lessons at home - is there a reply to this question? Thank you - LL
2/4 8:19pm Please fellow citizens note that Mr. and Mrs. Swenson are first on list at Hillcrest, and an apartment on first floor is available immediately. Mrs. St. Amand has stated"No Way" will they be accepted. We MUST speak up right away. Please contact Richard Ross State Representative at (617)-722-2810. These individuals need our help!! - CN
2/3 4:15pm I have lived in the Swenson's neighborhood probably as long as they have lived here, and the conditions of the property started as soon as they moved into the house[.] [...] - CS
2/3 3:43pm You are cordially invited to the Interfaith Foxboro Christian Women's Valentine luncheon affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries. - DLJ
2/3 3:42pm SEC - We just signed up with LPC and I couldn't be more excited! I think they are very reasonable and also very nice people! - SL
2/3 3:40pm Calling all whalers! This Thursday at the Norfolk Public Library, we will be welcoming the fine folks from Stonybrook Sanctuary to help us learn all about whales from 3:30 - 4:15. Come see how big a real whale actually is! This is for whalers in grade 1 and up. You can call or email Andrea, Youth Librarian or stop in the library to sign up. - Andrea Ingala, Youth Librarian, Norfolk Public Library
2/3 3:37pm February Vacation movie days - The Federated Church of Norfolk, 1 Union Street, Norfolk has scheduled three movie days for February Vacation. So bring your friends and come and have a fun time. Tuesday, February 16 th at 2:00 pm - Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, rated PG.The cost is $5.00 for bottomless popcorn, and drinks. Space is limited, so please call the church office at 508-528-0262 or email mail@fcon.org to make reservations.
Wednesday, February 17 th at 2:00 pm - Night at the Museum ~ Battle for the Smithsonian, rated PG.
Thursday, February 18 th at 2:00 pm - Star Trek, rated PG-13
Mommy and Me Movie Thursday, February 18 th at 10:00 am - Wall E, rated G.- KR, Federatech Church of Norfolk
2/3 3:36pm SEC, My husband (who is in the construction business) has used LPC for their containers for a while and always been happy with their service and has recommended them to others many times. We just started using LPC for our home service and it has been great! I am a big proponent of recycling and love the fact that I don't have to separate everything into many bins in the garage. And like you I like that I can use a local small business for a good price. - LA
2/3 3:34pm Hello, I am just wondering if anybody has heard anything about a possible stabbing Monday night at Guido's? I live nearby and I noticed there was quite a ruckus... - WZ
2/3 3:30pm I'm just catching up now on the story about the Swensons. Is there something as a community we can do, set up a fund? Or talk to elected officials about this situation? This seems to be two elderly people being shuttled around and not knowing what to do. Is there an elderly affairs lawyer, or maybe just a larger media outlet, available that could possibly help in this situation? I am willing to donate $100.00 towards either a lawyer, or some other avenue, if this would help. Can some one move this along through the proper channels, instead of us discussing it here? I would gladly be of any assistance, but frankly, I'm not sure where to start. - BD
2/3 3:28pm The article on the Swensons and the subsequent postings here lambasting the Housing Authority were disturbing to me. I went back through the Boomerang articles written on 7/31/09 and 8/7/09. The house is described as "overrun with fleas, ticks, animal waste... accumulating trash", with "half-dozen dead cats" inside the house. A photo shows a room so filled with trash that the door cannot open all the way. Mention is made of someone vomiting from the odor. At the time the fire chief, health inspector, and building inspector all had major issues with its safety and requested extermination and trash clean-up. When the ambulance came the following week, personnel had to don "protective suits" and line the ambulance with plastic. The ambulance was then "taken out of service" until the interior could be cleaned. These descriptions do not sound like someone falling behind on housework, but a much bigger issue. I can understand why the Housing Authority had to make the decision they did. Hopefully the Swensons can get the proper placement for their needs, which seem greater than what Hillcrest Village was designed for. - CI
2/3 3:27pm For those interested in helping the elderly couple who now have to spend the $50K they received from the sale of their home, while they were under duress and in the streets, on an attorney to appeal Ms. St. Amand's decision to deny their application to Hillcrest, you can call the below number to provide support. While it's unlikely they will discuss the case - just tell them you are from Norfolk and how unfair this poor couple is being treated. Time is running out for them, $50K does not go far when you have attorney fees and live in a motel. Lots of calls will register folks. Housing Appeals Committee
100 Cambridge St., Suite 300
Boston, Massachusetts 02114
617-573-1520Werner Lohe, Chairman Werner.Lohe@state.ma.us
Shelagh A. Ellman-Pearl, Hearing Officer Shelagh.Ellman-Pearl@state.ma.us
Lorraine Nessar, Docket Clerk Lorraine.nessar@state.ma.us- JPB
[Update 3:31pm: corrected phone, added email contacts - JPB]
2/2 11:08pm To CR on frivilous lawsuits: You are correct! Now let's see how this may relate to the elderly couple several posts have mentioned. It is possible that if the town knew they were living in a dangerous environment and didn't remove them, the town may be sued if something happened. Everyone has to cover their butts to avoid litigation. It is possible that this couple was happy and comfortable in their environment. I had an aunt and uncle that was in a similar situation. Both were happy and content with their surroundings. Most rooms were cluttered with old newspapers, furniture and clothing. The only difference was they did maintain a clean kitchen. Hopefully the Norfolk couple can find a "home" for their final years. - RW
2/2 11:06pm Hi! I friend from Millis is looking for childcare. She needs someone to put her 1st and 2nd graders on the bus 2 -3 days per week from 7:00 am to 8:00 am. If interested, please contact me through the webmaster. Thanks! [Use box234@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - SB
2/2 11:02pm A Hitler mustache in front of the post office? Seriously? - SO
2/2 10:53pm DH - A most simplistic response to an obviously complex issue. Sometimes it is best to say nothing. - JR
2/2 10:48pm Hi - Looking for a babysitter for this weekend? (Feb 4-7th) or for Valentines Day evening? My name is Erin and I'm 19 years old. I have been babysitting since I was 14 with experience in kids ages newborn-10. I go to school at Massachusetts Bay Community College for psychology and I work at the Gap Outlet. You can contact me at erinsebring@yahoo.com - ES
2/2 10:46pm
[Update 2/8 9:08pm: see revised post of 2/8 9:08pm above - Wm.]
2/2 10:45pm KID, Try Computer Consultants, Robert Larson. He is very good and reasonable. Comes to you home or office and doesn't charge travel time. Cell 617 645 1922 Office 617 273 5114. - PRB
2/2 10:44pm We received a postcard in the mail for LPC Removal...has anyone used them before? I'm thinking about signing up for the single stream recycling and trash removal, and I wanted to see if anyone had a referral or would recommend them (I am very much be in favor of supporting a local company while at the same time not having to sort through all of the recycles at the dump!) - SEC
2/2 10:33pm JPB - Isn't it nice to know that rules can be applied arbitrarily as Town Hall sees fit. I guess playing judge, jury, and executioner is in the job description of building inspector. Also, why are the Selectmen allowing the building inspector to spout off public statements which could compromise the Town - muzzle that guy - PC
2/1 9:58pm DH - You "work with the elderly and their families to make sure they are safe, eating, house is clean etc" Well I guess you didn't work with this particular family! - HMK
2/1 8:59pm KID - Try Raven Computer, next to Hess on Route 140 in Franklin. They fixed mine when I couldn't get it to show life. - RM
2/1 8:58pm I just want to inform you and I am not promoting these people. The Stop Obama people with a photo of the President with a Hitler-style mustache near the Post Office are promoting political candidates from the Lyndon LaRouche Political Action Committee, www.larouchepac.com. From a sheet the people where handing out ``Rachel Brown Democrat for Congress To Defeat Bailout Barney Frank'' www.rachelForCongress.com - DLJ
2/1 8:57pm Let's go back to the foolish lawsuits for a moment. What needs to happen is when a lawsuit is deemed to have no merit to go to trial, the person/people submitting the case should be fined for wasting the court's time. I guarantee that would get rid of most foolish lawsuits and the lawyers claiming you don't pay unless you win your case. - CR
2/1 8:47pm Re the Swensons, and others living similarly: What's difficult is that people are free to reject sensible options, and make poor decisions. They live with the sometimes awful consequences of those decisions. We, their neighbors, worry about their situation, but must respect their freedom, unless they are in danger, or harming someone else. Caring for each other must include considering peoples' privacy rights. - MJS
2/1 8:46pm You don't need to travel to Cambridge to hear a great author speak. We have a nationally recognized author coming to Norfolk tomorrow night! Nathaniel Philbrick will be speaking at King Philip Middle School tomorrow, Feb 2 at 7:00 pm. Philbrick is a Pulitzer Prize finalist and National Book Award winner. He will be speaking about his books "In the Heart of the Sea: the Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex" and "Revenge of the Whale." These books (one for adults, the other for middle schoolers) tell the actual events upon which Moby Dick is based. A reception, book sale and book signing will follow Philbrick's talk. Free tickets are available at the Public Library. - Robin Glasser, Director, Norfolk Public Library
2/1 8:45pm Can someone recommend a local TV repair person? It's an older Sony rear projection, with blue and yellow color separations. Thanks! - MJS
2/1 8:44pm To all, The story about the elderly couple is very disturbing. Please count me in to do whatever is necessary to get this couple into the housing they deserve. We have two older people who have worked their whole lives, a man that has served our country and they should not be worrying about something as basic as housing. This is what public assistance is supposed to be for. Have a heart folks... they are elderly, in poor health and live on a fixed income. I demand as a tax payer of Nofolk they be put into our elderly housing as soon as possible. - MG
2/1 8:40pm One strike and you're out! The story in the Boomerang indicates that Mr. Bullock, Norfolk Building Commissioner and the individual who forced the couple out of their home and condemned it, states that he would not have "kicked them out if I knew I was kicking them out on the street. I think I would have kept on pressuring them to get it cleaned up, and not gone to that extent." It is clear from the article that alternatives to condemning the home and throwing this 70 year-old disabled Navy Veteran and his wife out on the streets existed. One thing is clear: these partially-disabled elderly citizens are homeless due to a difficult yet subjective decision that was in hind sight a personal humanitarian-disaster for them. - JPB
2/1 8:36pm I can't believe the people in Norfolk. What mud slinging. Muriel St. Amand is doing her job. She is protecting her current residents and exercising due diligence in making a sound decision. The Swensons need more help than subsidized housing. A bigger question would be why do we have a Building Inspector that would condemn a house and then say he wouldn't of if he knew they wouldn't be "given" an apartment? Doesn't Mr. Bullock have to exercise the same due dilgence when it comes to him performing his job? Doesn't he need to have follow-thru for his actions? Or can he just walk away from his responsibility. Also, why was the concerned neighbor Mr. Norton allowed to "buy" the property for $50,000, far below the assesed value of the land? He has already boarded up the house for demolition, clearcut the lot and had it perc tested for a new septic. Does anyone think that seems that the Swensons best interests were being served? And what about Matt Macdonald's responsibility as a journalist? How about checking into all "the facts" before printing a Page One inflammatory story. How about stopping all the senseless mud slinging and name calling and finding out what the rest of the story is before you trash someone's reputation. What is due is that Muriel St. Amand should be commended for a sound decision, and an apology should be made to her. - JD
2/1 8:31pm The Norfolk Republican Town Committee will be holding its delegate selection meeting on this Wednesday, February 3rd at 7:30 pm at the Norfolk public library. - GM, Norfolk Republican Town Committee
2/1 8:30pm HMK - First, I know how hard it is for the elderly especially if they are in poor health. I work with the elderly and their families to make sure they are safe, eating, house is clean, etc. I also saw the declining health of my parents, and was there for them. I for one would have never let my parents home get in the condition it was. Why didn't the children want them? If it was that hard for them to take care of the home I would have either moved my parents into my home, or moved myself to have them live with me in a home that would make it easier on them, not blame someone else for not taking care of them. Don't worry I know my family will be there for me, and take me in if need be when I'm elderly, and in poor health. - DH
1/31 11:27pm This is a difficult one. I have a close family member whose house was condemned under similar circumstances. She was in denial about the severity of the situation and had been for several years. Many family members and friends had tried to help but gotten nowhere. When she went back and looked at her home after she had been out of it for a bit she claimed someone else must have trashed it. I did the rough cleanup on the house. It was an awful experience. - ML
1/31 11:26pm Congrats Dan... - DV
1/31 11:25pm For those of you who would like to read the story about the elderly couple for yourselves, you may do so by going to www.norfolkboomerang.com. This local newspaper is no longer going to be available in print, but is changing over to an online publication. They have very generously sent out complimentary copies to every home in Norfolk. As a long time faithful reader, I encourage you to subscribe so we can continue to have local stories such as this one brought to our attention. Let's support out local business! - JC
1/31 4:45pm DH - How do you know that is the way they "wanted to" live?? I hope that when you are elderly, in poor health, and on a fixed income, that you will be able to take care of your home by yourself. - HMK
1/31 3:53pm BF, you are spot on "I doubt I would be able to sell my home for any more than one year ago or, two or three for that matter." - SC
1/31 3:49pm John P. - Not trying to pick a fight, but I hope that you know Ms. Amand well enough to publicly label her as being without compassion... My sense is that she also has struggled with this entire matter and that her decision was not of her own doing but one that was reached after a general consensus with others who work in her office and our local and state governments. - BF (BF 2)
[Update 11:24pm: Oops, I made two typos on the signature line -- that's BF (not BG) and BF 2 (not 20) - Wm.]
1/31 3:48pm After reading the article in the Norfolk Boomerang about the situation with the Swenson family. I could not agree more with the statement by John Bermingham on the Norfolk Net page when he states: "Please, please, contact Ms. St. Amand and tell her that we have no room in or town government for people without compassion and who treat our fellow citizens this way." - JD
1/31 3:44pm SD - The Hockamock YMCA provides swimming lessons for children as young as 6 months. They have facilities in Franklin, North Attleboro and Foxboro and the prices are pretty reasonable. - JP
1/31 3:41pm I've been informed that the Housing Authority is a state agency and the director is a state employee. As such, this issue is not subject to town control. - Wm.
1/31 3:38pm Mr. Bermingham - thanks for your posting regarding the partially-disabled elderly couple, as I have not seen this Friday's Boomerang. Was there any additional information about which town officials were involved in removing this couple from their home, and why? Or was there any additional information as to why the couple's application to obtain housing at Hillcrest Village was denied by the Executive Director of the Norfolk Housing Authority? It seems that there has to be more to this story. And I would also think that sensible, rationale people can come up with a solution for this, and get our neighbors into a better living situation. I sincerely hope that this comes to a speedy resolution for this couple. - KB
1/31 3:37pm Does anyone know someone that can provide piano lessons for children in my own home? - SD
1/31 2:24pm About the elderly couple that was forcibly removed from their home. I agree with the Norfolk Housing Authority. If someone is not going to take care of their own property what makes you think they are going to take care of the town's? Think about the people that have to live around them. If they let the apartment go down hill at Hillcrest Village we are the ones that have to pay for repairs etc. They can afford to live in their hotel room because of the money they got from selling their home. They even stated "they can afford to buy furniture." - DH
1/30 4:35pm NO-GO was appalled to learn today that the partially-disabled elderly couple that was forcibly removed from their home at 7 Priscilla Avenue by town officials last July has been living in a motel in Foxborough for the past six months. - John P. Bermingham, NO-GO
[Correction, 1/31 3:40pm: I'm informed that Ms. St. Amand is not part of town government; the Housing Authority is a state agency and she's a state employee. As such, this issue is not subject to town control. - Wm.]
1/30 4:16pm I know a very reliable and great carpenter, handyman who does all kind of home projects. Window installation is one of his specialties. He also does built-ins, painting, and excellent tile work. Kitchen and Bathroom installations. Many people I know, as well as myself, have used him to do lots of projects around our houses. He takes his time and does excellent work. Everyone always comments on how great his work is. His Name is Kevin 617-471-9022 and he runs Houde Remodeling. He is fully insured and liscensed. - CL
1/30 4:15pm Hi, I drove by the post office this morning arount 11:00 and there were two people in front of the post office with a table, some posters and signs saying something like "Stop Obama". Does anyone have any idea what that was about? When I drove back less than an hour later, they were gone along with their signs. My guess is that the wind and cold were more severe than their desire to "Stop Obama". Just wondering... - BAB
1/30 4:14pm Got my R.E. tax bills... with my "Special Assessments" but also with a pretty big increase in my property value. - BF (BF 2)
1/30 3:58pm See, that's the thing, it's not about me or my feelings (as in caring less about the Police and Firemen as you imply) it's about prudent, fiscal responsibility. That was the only point I was making. I've lived in town for a while and my kids didn't have the opportunity to enjoy the end result of the new schools. However I'm happy to pay for those schools. New schools and infrastructure do make a difference when it's time to buy or sell a home. That said, just because another new school got voted in, doesn't have any thing to do with voting in another huge project. - RC
1/30 3:47pm Dear LMM, regarding the need for a plasterer. You could try Robert Beirne of R&B plastering (508-446-6791). I have personally worked with him as a laborer and have had him do work in the home I currently own and in my previous home. Robert has over 25 years experience. - MWB
1/30 3:46pm Good for Dan Winslow and good for the people of Norfolk - We would have someone who cares for his community and the issues that face us in the community and the State. Let's support him. - MAK
1/30 3:45pm Great news for Norfolk ! Dan Winslow will be a great State Rep for all of us. I hope he can reverse the substantial loss of local aid suffered by us at the hands of the Deval. - PC
1/30 3:42pm Has anyone else noticed on the recent tax bill that the land values have increased more than the house has decreased. Is land in Norfolk at an all time premium... I don't get it. - CG
1/30 3:41pm JL--For window installation, call Bob Paquette of Norfolk Home Improvement, 508-533-4814. Local guy, great work, great prices. - DE
1/30 3:41pm My name is Sean Noonan. I am a Journeyman Electrician living in Norfolk. I am available for all your electrical needs, no job too big or small. All calls answered and reasonable rates guaranteed. Fully Licensed and Insured. Call 508-440-5531 or e-mail me at noonan.electric@yahoo.com - SN
1/28 9:25pm Hello. I am a junior who has just gotten her license and in need of an affordable starter car. I do not have much money to work with, only about $3000. If anyone has or knows somebody with a car that meets these specifications please email me at nicky3213@aol.com. - NA
1/28 9:24pm We love Mai Pearl too - they have great sushi and they deliver!!! - TO
1/28 9:18pm Come join us for some floral fun at the Norfolk Public Library! Rick Tedoldi of the Norfolk Garden Club is going to show us how to put together a live floral arrangement for someone you love! Parental participation is encouraged, but not required. Sign up at the reference desk in the library, or call or email Andrea, Youth Librarian at aingala@virtualnorfolk.org or 508-528-3380 x5. Age 6 and up. Registration Required. $5 per child. - Andrea Ingala, Youth Librarian, Norfolk Public Library
1/28 9:17pm RC, I would agree with your idea of a moratorium, but after we provide our Police and Fire with a new Safety Building. I trust you are not one of those folks who having a new school could care less for other needs. Certainly not, I am sure, not with those initials. - RC
1/28 8:48pm Dear Neighbors. With the state House of Representatives seat being vacated by Representative Ross in his quest to fill the Senate seat, I have decided after discussion with my family, friends and colleagues to seek election to the Massachusetts House from Norfolk. My experience as the Presiding Justice at the Wrentham District Court in most of the communities served by the House district, coupled with my local and state public service record of reform and results, gives me hope that I can be an effective and accessible State Representative for our communities. I'll be announcing the effort more formally next month, but I wanted to invite anyone interested in helping with my campaign to contact me at danwinslow@hotmail.com to sign up and we'll get started. I'll need your help and I promise to run a positive campaign about how best to solve the problems that our towns and families face every day. Win or lose, I hope to make Norfolk proud that I'm going to give it my all. - Dan Winslow
1/28 8:46pm Can anyone recommend a good contractor to install windows, and also someone that paints houses? - JL
1/28 8:45pm SF: We went to Mai Pearl recently and felt the same way! Very, very good! - AL
1/28 9:27am Photo contest extended! Due to several requests you now have until Fri. Feb. 5th to enter pictures of your children to grace the cover of next years Little Green Phone book. Here are the details one last time. Three photos will be selected to be on the cover. Photos must be of Norfolk residents under the age of 12. Please write your name and phone # on the backs of photos, no names will be used in publication. $10.00 entry fee (checks made payable to f-c class of 2010) with proceeds going towards this years sixth grade promotion festivities. Mail photos and payment to Photo Contest 54 Medway St norfolk. Judging will be the staff @ Village Photo Franklin. Good luck and Thank you for your support! - AD
1/28 9:26am This will be one Groundhog Day that doesn't repeat itself - National Book Award winning author and Pulitzer Prize finalist Nathaniel Philbrick will be in town next week to discuss "In the Heart of the Sea" and his other works [nathanielphilbrick.com] The event will be held at the Middle School starting at 7 pm on Tuesday, February 2, with a reception following the talk. Details regarding the talk, and other events related to the ongoing Norfolk Reads program, are at the library webpage [library page] - VR
1/28 9:22am I was wondering if anyone knows of an individual or company that can provide swim lessons at my home pool and or a place that holds swimming lessons for small children near by. - SD
1/28 9:21am Anyone know of anyone that takes propane cooking stoves for scrap metal? please email me at Norfolkk9@aol.com - HC
1/28 9:08am Aren't the new tax bills great ! Let' see what we can vote for this Spring ! This is what I vote for. Stop; put a moratorium on new projects until all of our prior debt is paid off. - RC
1/28 9:07am To SF(2) - We enjoyed Mai Pearl also. We laughed because we were at a table for 2 and the plates containing the food we ordered were so large that the empty table for 2 next to us was totally taken up by them! - EF
1/28 9:06am Norfolk Artist Jason Rafferty has updated his website to include several black and white drawings of well known musicians. Included are Jimmy Page, Duke Ellington, and Avishai Cohen. Website: jason791.deviantart.com, enjoy! - CR
1/28 9:05am LMM - I also know someone for your job. He's done a lot of work In the area and specializes on interior and finish carpentry he also owns a disposal company. Doug Palmborg 508-728-4085 or doug@dspdisposal.com - JM
1/27 2:57pm LMM - I have someone for your job. Email info@pchman.com for details. - ES
1/27 12:03pm JJ, Just telling you about the ad in the Sun Chronicle on the back page of the TV Guide. Lafayette House is serving lunch 7 days a week and dinner is not served on Friday & Saturday nights. - PRB
1/27 12:02pm Anyone looking for very good Chinese food in a nice atmosphere, I highly recommend Mai Pearl in Foxboro. It's in the shopping center across from Stop & Shop. Quality food, and you get a ton of it for the money. We will definitely be back. - SF (SF2)
1/27 12:01pm I am looking for a referral - I have some water damaged walls that need repair. The damaged sections have been removed. The repair work will include new walls that need to match the existing plaster walls and baseboards to match the existing baseboard. Also the basement ceiling was water damaged and has been removed and I need a new ceiling installed. - LMM
1/27 12:00pm Nomination papers will be available starting Monday, February 1, 2010, for the following offices for the May 4, 2010 Annual Town Election. Nomination papers must be picked up by the candidate in person or by a representative for the candidate who must have a notarized statement from the candidate which authorizes that person to pick up nomination papers on the candidate's behalf. MODERATOR - (1) one-year termCandidates must obtain the signatures of 41 registered voters. The last day to take out papers is Thursday, March 11th by 5:00PM. Nomination papers must be returned to the Town Clerk no later than 5:00PM on Tuesday, March 16th.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN - (1) three-year term
BOARD OF ASSESSORS - (1) three-year term
BOARD OF HEALTH - (1) three-year term
HOUSING AUTHORITY - (1) five-year term
LIBRARY TRUSTEE - (1) three-year term
PLANNING BOARD - (2) three-year terms
RECREATION COMMISSION - (2) three-year terms
NORFOLK SCHOOL COMMITTEE - (1) three-year term- Gail Bernardo, Town Clerk, Town of Norfolk
1/26 1:38pm KID - I can help you. I have been a NorfolkNet supporter with a paid ad, and have many satisfied customers in Norfolk. email info@pchman.com or call 508-346-3502. Thanks. - ES
1/26 1:37pm Could someone tell me what town department is using the old town hall? I only ask because the lights in the former town clerk's office have been on for almost a week now. I walk by around 5:45 AM each morning and I can't believe what a waste of electricity, not to mention money, this is. I thought the Water Department used the building but, before I call them to complain, I thought I would make sure I had the right department. - SM
1/26 1:36pm The Story of Whaling & Early New Bedford - tonight! Registration is not required. Middle School through Adults. - Robin Glasser, Director, Norfolk Public Library
1/26 1:35pm LS - The last time I applied for a passport, I was able to get a one-day (I believe) approval by going into a special office in Boston. I printed my own photos on matte photo paper with my inkjet printer and it worked fine - same for my sister. Bam, we were out passports in hand, no problem, at a little extra expense, and we raced off to a British wedding. - SO
1/26 1:34pm The Norfolk Republican Town Committee hereby announces a Meeting to be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2010, at 7:30 P.M. at the Norfolk Town Library, 139 Main Street, Norfolk, Massachusetts for the purpose of election of delegates to the Massachusetts Republican State Convention to be held on Saturday, April 17, 2010, in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Town of Norfolk is entitled to nine delegates and two alternative delegates at this convention. Any Republican Town Committee member as of December 1, 2009, is eligible to vote on delegates and to become elected as a delegate. A member must be present in order to vote for delegates, but need not be present to be nominated and elected as a delegate. - SD, Norfolk Republican Town Committee
1/26 1:33pm To KID, we use Steve Stern, who is a wonderful guy. His business is called In Home Computing. He will come to your house, and/or can access your computer remotely. Very reasonable and knows what he is doing. You can reach him at stevestern@mail.com - -EC
1/26 1:32pm To PRB: About the Lafayette House - we were there Saturday night and it was packed. No one said anything about them being closed for any length of time. - JJ
1/26 1:31pm MK - The Adirondack Club offers swimming lessons. You do not need to be a member and they have a great staff over there. - ML
1/26 1:30pm DB: I also never mentioned the TSA in my posting. My question was based on the homeland security jackets the people were wearing. Perhaps you have some information you would like to share, as in, was the TSA conducting the training exercise? Perhaps I also struck a nerve with my comment about all of the coffee being consumed. No apologies for speaking the truth. Naturally, I fully support our commitment to protecting the USA through homeland security initiatives. That was not the issue I was raising. - CS
1/26 1:28pm Norfolk & Franklin Lions to sponsor third annual Chili-Fest Contest! If you attended before, you know what to expect... mouth watering chili samples from several local restaurants. Add fresh toppings, corn bread, dessert... a beverage or two. If you think that sounds good, you are exactly right!! This is has become a very popular event and the Lions are taking steps to ensure that everyone who attends has the opportunity to enjoy the delicious chili and vote for their favorite one. Save the date... February 27, 2010. More information to follow including how to secure your tickets. Stay tuned! - GB, Norfolk Lions
1/25 4:54pm MK--My kids take swim lessons at the Foxboro YMCA and are very happy with them. Nice and caring instructors, new pool. - KID
1/25 4:53pm Does anyone have personal recommendations for PC repair? Despite virus protection, our PC was attacked by something vicious and it is currently useless. Thanks in advance for your input. - KID
1/25 4:52pm Noticed an ad in the Sun Chronicle yesterday that said the Lafayette House is closed for Dinner on Friday & Saturday nights... Anyone know what's up with that? - PRB
1/25 4:51pm Yes DB, It is clear to the American people the TSA needs all the training it can get. - MON
1/25 4:50pm I like my coffee to be as hot as "lava". If I burn myself in the process of drinking it, it's tough luck for me. People need to start taking responsibility for their actions. Stop blaming everyone else. - PMM
1/25 4:49pm DB: Obviously I don't know how they train if I asked the question. Thank you for the rude advice, but I will continue to ask questions and make observations about things that occur in town that seem curious. I prefer not to be a sheep, mindlessly herded by the government. - CS
1/25 4:48pm TRG, [Try] Mark's Automotive in Franklin. They will fix your exhaust with a lifetime warranty muffler, inspect your car from top to bottom and arrange to have your windshield replaced all at the same time. www.marksautomotivefranklin.net. 508-528-3701 - MP, Marks' Automotive
1/25 1:55pm I am requesting a couple of recommendations (as local as possible) for: Auto glass repair, need new weather-stripping (windshield is fine;) and muffler repair/service. Thank you - TRG
1/25 1:54pm CS, regarding the TSA training, you have no idea what went on nor how they train. You should not say things are a waste of resources until you know how they train and that practice is the best way to protect all of us. - DB
1/25 1:53pm Dean College will host "Test Drive the College Experience," a seminar for families of high school students. Featured speakers are Renee Vachon Danho, Dean of Professional and Continuing Studies at Dean College and Paul Hemphill, college admissions coach from Norfolk. Reservations are requested. Call Dean College to reserve: (508) 541-1624. - PH
1/25 1:52pm Hi all. I am new to Norfolk and looking to sign up my 12-month-old son for swimming lessons. Does anyone know of a local place that offers lessons for toddlers? Thanks, - MK
1/25 1:51pm All the dogs have been returned to their owners. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
1/25 1:50pm CI, does water heated "beyond the boiling point" not turn to steam? Since the coffee used at McDonald's is all prepackaged for a pot, it does not make sense to me that one would try to cut expenses in that way. - KF
1/24 9:05pm I was wondering if anyone had any information about the homeland security team that was at the MBTA station one morning last week. It seemed like one big waste of resources to me, which is why I ask. There were a bunch of officers and cars parked near the road. One person put a bag on a scale, but aside from that there was only coffee drinking going on. Just curious. - CS
1/24 9:04pm Norfolk & Franklin Lions Club 3rd Annual Chili Fest - Proceeds to benefit the Norfolk and Franklin Food Pantry. Date: February 27, 2010; Time: 6:00pm; Location: St. Jude's Church, Main St. - CW
1/24 9:00pm RW, I saw the McDonalds case mentioned in an article about how the popular press leaves details out on some high-profile lawsuits. In this case what wasn't mentioned much is that the McDonald's involved had been cited several times for having dangerously hot coffee. If the woman had accidently dropped the cup in her lap she would have been hurt as badly. - ML
1/24 2:25pm Hello! I was wondering if anyone if selling a chest freezer or knows a good place to get one? I would like one at least 10. cu ft Thanks, - PD
1/24 2:24pm In response to BC's post on 1/22... No, not without "igniting a firestorm of controversy." - RZ
1/24 2:23pm Hi DLJ - re: "1/23 9:53am Does anyone have any small or medium moving boxes to donate or lend for about 8 weeks? Please ask web master for my id." I can suggest 2 options for finding good sized moving boxes - 1. contact a local realtor and ask if they've recently had a client move in who would be willing to give you their boxes-usually they're more than happy to give them away. And 2. Liquor store boxes are great. They're really strong, usually medium sized, and best of all - they're clean as the only thing that's been in them are bottles. - CM
1/24 2:22pm To CI - There is nothing worse than having my bubble burst :-) However I am not sure we are referencing the same case. Check this link [McDonald's Wiki page] There was a mention of the coffee being too hot but here are brewing instructions from Bunn Coffee makers [Bunnomatic.com] - RW
1/24 2:19pm We live on North St. and heard/saw the helicopters and police around 7ish. It's been a while now (9:00pm) since I've heard them. Anyone know if the suspect has been caught? Scary! - ELC
1/23 8:20pm Armed robbery on Arnold St. 5 minutes ago!! It is now 7:12 PM Sat. night. - PRR
1/23 8:19pm Anyone know these three? They were all running loose today without any ID or microchip. Please call 508 440 2816 if you own (or know who does own) these dogs. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
[Update 1/24 2:20pm: The golden has been claimed. The other two, however, have not - HC]
[Update 1/25 1:51pm: All the dogs have been returned to their owners. - HC]
1/23 8:18pm LS: I just renewed my passport and was shocked by the efficient turn-around time: I sent my application via Priority Mail on New Year's Eve and had the new passport in my hand on January 15. This quick response may be due to the fact that I was renewing instead of applying for my first passport, but it seems like now is a good time to apply for rapidservice. Maybe not too many people have $75-$95 left over once they pay their holiday bills! Hope you have a similar pleasant surprise. - AB
1/23 8:17pm Open house, tomorrow, Sunday, January 24th, 12 Fleetwood Drive, 12-2:00 p.m. Sidewalks to train, selling home completely furnished. - CR
1/23 12:50pm I'm looking for a sturdy cardboard box big enough to ship two picture frames: 18" x 15." Two separate boxes would also be o.k. Please call (508)-520-1572, thanks. - CR
1/23 9:53am Does anyone have any small or medium moving boxes to donate or lend for about 8 weeks? Please ask web master for my id. Thanks [Use box232@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - DLJ
1/23 9:52am LS: I was just checking that out myself. JC is right, 4-6 weeks but of course for some money, you can expedite it. Not every post office handles them; Medfield does! And you can download the various forms from the link JC provided. - AL
1/22 10:13pm LS, Here is the info on the passport that you are looking for, basically 4-6 weeks as you can see. [state.gov link] Happy travels, - JC
1/22 10:12pm We have an upright Amana freezer that is 65"high, 24" deep and 30" wide. Is in good working condition. Come get it and it's yours...free! Please call 508 528 6189. - TH
1/22 8:21pm RW - Sorry to burst the bubble, but the issue in the McDonalds case was that McD's was 'super-heating' the water beyond the boiling point to save money by using less ground coffee in the brewer. The store involved had been cited in the past for this practice, yet continued. A customer spilled their coffee (over their hand and arm I believe) as they were carrying their tray and suffered 3rd+ degree burns requiring skin grafts... which is why the award was so high. Had this as a case study in a business class and it was an eye opener for me. - CI
1/22 5:21pm SS, Try Diane Scotti out of Walpole, she has done calligraphy for us in the past and is great. 508-668-3805. - JH
1/22 5:20pm Without igniting a firestorm of controversy that will last for days and days, can one some briefly explain the educational and philosophic differences held by the school committee and Superintendent LeClerc that led to his untimely resignation? Thanks, - BC
1/22 5:11pm Last chance to register for Norfolk Little League baseball! Time is rapidly running out to register for the 2010 spring season of Norfolk Baseball. Don't miss out on a whole season of fun. Register today at www.norfolkbaseball.com. Norfolk Baseball offers three programs for spring 2010: - DL, Norfolk Baseball
1/22 5:10pm I am a calligrapher and would be happy to send or show you samples, and provide references. You can contact me at conniesuejones@comcast.net. I live in Norfolk and can provide a quick turnaround time... - CJ
1/22 5:02pm To ALL - Excellent post. For what it is worth, here is my opinion. To rein in the cost of health care I believe we need to start with tort reform and appoint judges that have "common sense." My pet peeve is the infamous McDonalds case. If a person is so stupid that they put hot coffee in their crotch they should be fully accountable for the outcome. The lawyers are seeking to grab every dollar available. The judge should have pointed and laughed at plaintiff and lawyer and thrown it out. This does not mean suits can't be brought against doctors for negligent behavior, but the frivolous suits need to be stopped. Every hospital, doctor, nurse and insurance co. needs to cover the exorbitant expense of malpractice coverage. From the government side, now that we know we are willing to purchase AIG and GM at the blink of an eye, directly offer low interest loans/leases to hospitals for the purchase of major capital expenditures for medical purposes only such as MRI, new operating rooms etc. A national group purchasing option would reduce cost from the insurer's side. To pay for this, eliminate the income tax and the IRS. (stop cheering and read on!) Put in its place a federal sales tax on all goods sold. By doing this you are now getting taxes from everyone fairly based on income. The affluent spend more, hence pay more tax. No more loopholes. This also gets tax from illegal aliens and those working "off the books", even the local drug dealer pays tax on his new I-pod. - RW
1/22 5:00pm Does anyone know how long it takes to get a passport these days? - LS
1/22 4:58pm JC, the orange colored bird you saw was probably a male cardinal. I had the same question the first time I saw them recently, but apparently they lose some of their color during the winter months. - BD
1/22 4:56pm ALL: Many people with health insurance who pay through the roof still have poor coverage. The benefit plans that the insurance companies have deny many of real care when they most need it and they end up paying out of pocket anyway. Or going to the ER. What we need in this country is more free market access to health insurance options so that we can choose from a variety of plans, including the ability to pay into a public option such as Medicare. The insurance industry is getting richer and richer; the hospitals poorer and poorer. The people that need care most suffer from low nurse/patient ratios, limited access to preventative screening and too short hospital stays for serious illnesses. It is crazy and just giving everyone a health insurance card is not going to fix that. Plus, we have the best technology to save someone's lives, but then provide very little for post-discharge care and outcomes falter. Patients end up back in the ER or a SNF unit and the cycle begins anew. Romneycare here in MA is not great either, many businesses stopped offering their employees healthcare (too expensive) and just took the fine. Then the employees were required to get their own insurance and even though there are subsidies, they were expensive and offer poor coverage. And it is very expensive for the state. - JN
1/22 4:55pm The Norfolk Republican Town Committee is having a meeting on Monday, January 25, 2010, at 7:30 p.m. at the Norfolk Public Library. ChristyMihos, a gubernatorial candidate will be speaking. We will also be selecting delegates for the Republican Convention to take place on April 7, 2010, in Worcester. All are welcome. - Sandy DiBacco, Secretary for the Norfolk Republican Town Committee
1/21 9:15pm As many parents are suffering through mid-term week with their students I felt it an opportune time to discuss my tutoring services. I have lived in Norfolk for thirty years, am a certified teacher and currently have a number of students who I see on a weekly basis. I offer a variety of services including but not limited to: reading skills, writing skills, math through 8th grade, study skills, organizational skills, SAT prep with test taking skills and asstance with college application essays. I find many students are not achieving their true potential due to lack of basic skills which they need to succeed. I have several openings if you are interested. References gladly provided. Also, even though we are a bit cold right now, summer will soon be upon us. I offer summer courses in all of the above with one additional very popular course called Novel Days. This is a reading group comprised of students reading the books assigned to them to read over summer vacation. Take the onus off of yourself and put in on me! The goal of this course is to teach a student how to read a book for scholastic purposes. Students learn how to take chapter notes, character development and anaylsis, themes, motifs, plot as well as vocabulary and grammar skills. At the end of the course, the students will have a folder for each book read that contains all the information they need to review before school begins in the fall. The students love the book discussions and we work in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. You may contact me at 528-2399 for further information on any of the above topics or an individual matter. Thanks, Susan - SM
1/21 9:14pm Need a microwave? I am selling a brand new, never used GE over the range microwave. It has all the bells and whistles. Black. Retails for over $250.00 and I will sell it for $ 175.00. contact me at murraymartucci@msn.com Thanks. - SM
1/21 9:13pm LA: Hats off to you for your astute, and gracious, post. I agree that people voted out of anger and frustration, more against the status quo than for Scott Brown per se. You are so right that both parties need to start listening and stop the shady dealings. The irony in this race is that Scott successfully ran against what he frequently referred to as the Democratic Machine, but he was swept into office by the Republican Machine. (When RNC members and Congressional Republicans realized Coakley was a weak and slipping, they sent in the big guns, just as the Dems did unsuccessfully for Coakley. Only theirs were in the form of money and message: broad based tax cuts, waterboarding isn't torture, anti-choice, deregulation, etc.) Personally, I preferred the old, "pre-machine" Scott Brown, the one that may actually have been independent-minded and hadn't yet sold out to his party's tired rhetoric and failed policies. I, too, wish him, and us well. Let's hope he can resist the pull of a partisanship stalemate and actually accomplish something. - TC
1/21 9:12pm Hi - I would be happy to sell my Hand-Turned Exotic Wood Walking Sticks as well as those I import from Scotland. I live here in Norfolk, not far from the center. Simply suggest a time and date to the webmaster and I will try to comply. I can discount a bit due to lack of freight as well as adjust for size on the spot. Best - - JF
1/21 9:10pm Norfolk Reads Together at the Norfolk Public Library - Norfolk Reads Together is a community-based reading program for everyone! Norfolk was selected as one of a handful of communities in Massachusetts to receive a grant through the MA Board of Library Commissioners to underwrite this program. The trustees and staff of the NPL have selected "In the Heart of the Sea", an award-winning non-fiction book by Nathaniel Philbrick as the main title. We're sure you'll find this critically acclaimed bestseller to be compelling reading. Plenty of copies are available so check one out today! And when you visit, check out our awesome whale that was constructed by Andrea Ingala, Youth Librarian and the Jr. Friends of the Library! - Robin Glasser, Director, Norfolk Public Library
1/21 9:09pm Items for sale: golf clubs, irons, bag. Antique trunk, wooden frames, women's western tie camel boots, size 9, worn once. 508-528-0162. Thanks - PW
1/21 9:08pm Looking for a calligraphist to address some wedding invitations. Anyone have a recommendation? - SS
1/21 9:07pm I would like to know what people think should be done with the health care problem in this country, or if people even think there is a health care problem in the US. So many posts to the web seem to feel that the current health care bill is horrible... what would you like to see done differently? Do you feel that only illegal immigrants would get access to health care? Do you feel that everyone in the US has a right to health insurance? Do you feel that it would affect you adversely? Why? - ALL
1/21 9:06pm SM(2) Here's how: $10,800 yearly premium + $1,000 deductible + (say we're both sickly and each need to see our physicians twice a month, at a $25 each visit co-pay, like our parents on Medicare have had to) $1200 for that, + prescriptions, maybe some are unavailable generic or low tier in the formulary (figure conservatively $300 a month) for each person, that's $7200 = $20,200. I talked at length with a MassHealth representative; it is no cheaper or better for us. Also, we have employees, one of whose family really uses their plan we offer, and so every 2 or 3 years we are hit with huge increases in our premiums, then we have to go shop for another insurance company willing to take our tiny group. I'm so tired of it all. At the very least we need legislation to take health care plans out of the benefits game, and keep people from being discriminated against when they must use their insurance often. Small business is really hurting over this issue, and when we hurt, the country hurts. Just because people with fancy plans don't have to care, doesn't mean they shouldn't. If our premiums increase again this year, someone's job is going away. It's horrible, but there'll be no other choice. - MJS
1/21 9:05pm LA, If you ask me, just watching Coakley's campaign go from double digits ahead to losing, and how she handled herself during the campaign, she wasn't ready to go to Washington. This is not a slap against her, she just didn't seem like she was very interested in the process. She decided to go on vacation in the middle of the campaign. She believed because she had a (D) next to her name and was running in Massachusetts she would slide right in. And seeing what I've seen in this state over the years, I myself, can hardly believe she lost. - DT
1/21 9:04pm TC, You can't be serious! I'm not wishing violance against anybody. Lighten up! It was simply a little play on words. Deval Patrick could have simply filled the seat if they hadn't changed the rules when Romney was in office. Now Barney wants to change the rules in Washington thinking it will be in their favor. Is political suicide more to your liking. I know it's real life, I'm right here living it. Sorry your candidate didn't win and I'm not "PC" enough for you. - DT
1/20 10:52pm DT - My post was because it seems that some people voted with anger, not caring about experience and potential problems for our state and country down the line. Being a Coakley supporter some days I got to see that anger first hand (although sign holding at the polls was a good experience, with both Coakley and Brown supporters being friendly to each other). Both parties need to start listening and stop the behind doors wheelin' and dealin'. I want our new senator to do well. I want Massachusetts to do well. Senator-elect Brown talked about being an independent thinker and good listener, but I am afraid that Washington Republicans will change that in no time flat. I hope I am proven wrong. I will be watching without getting angry. In the meantime, I will respect the office and both of the men who represent us in the Senate. Congrats Brown Supporters and thank you Coakley voters for coming out to vote. - LA
1/20 10:51pm DT: It's extremely inappropriate to throw around thinly veiled wishes that anyone be visited by violence. ``Go ahead Barney, "make our day!"?? Congratulations to you that your candidate won. Now grow up and act like a responsible adult, not a bully after a football win. This is real life we're dealing with here, not the movies. - TC
1/20 10:50pm JF: Your walking sticks are beautiful. Do you sell them here locally as well, or only on Ebay? - JN
1/20 5:49pm Helping songbirds evade raptors: We have lived in Norfolk since 1978 and first became aware of Cooper and sharp-shinned hawks shortly after we hung our first feeders. A starling was taken from a feeder and was quickly killed by the Coopers hawk by kneading on its chest, much the way kittens do on mammary glands of their mothers. It then plucked all the feathers and ate the entire starling. - JF
1/20 5:48pm LS, Thank you for the link! Very enlightening. The democrats shot themselves in the foot, here in this state, when they voted to change the law for how the next senator would be chosen. The way this current administration and legislature are going in Washington, I wouldn't be surprised to see them shoot themselves in the head with this one. Go ahead Barney, "make our day!" - DT
1/20 10:46am Congratulations to Scott Brown and the people of Massachusetts. I held a Scott Brown sign for a couple of hours (alone) at the rotary in Norfolk center. Everyone was so enthusiast and nice to me. I want to especially thank a woman that drove by and then came back with a hot chocolate from Dunkin Donuts for me. It was such a nice gesture. Thank you. - MEH
1/20 10:45am Wow, Barney Frank now calls for changing the rules of the senate. [page link]. You cant make this stuff up. I just goggled and he is up for re-election in 2010. Another Wow is that challenger is from Norfolk! [Sholley link] - LS
1/20 10:44am Norfolk and Massachusetts - does the idiom "cut off your nose to spite your face" mean anything to you. Meaning to do something because you are angry, even if it will cause trouble for you. I hope I am wrong. The next two years will tell. - LA
1/20 10:43am MJS: If you have a 1k deductible, then how could you incur costs up to 20k? Perhaps you have a bad indemnity plan. You should look at the MA health connector website and look at different plans, because this doesn't seem right. - SM (2)
1/19 9:14pm Congratulations US Senator Brown; 70% to 29% beating. Wow - PC
1/19 8:40pm AP has live town-by-town results of the election here -- [page link] - Wm.
Norfolk is in: Coakley 29% (1394), Brown 70% (3308), Kennedy 1% (28)
1/19 8:16pm We are looking for a babysitter for occasional weekend evenings. If interested, please email me at mmc3737@comcast.net. Thanks! - MS
1/19 8:15pm My name is Ashley and I'm eighteen years old. I'm a senior at Mount Saint Charles Academy in Woonsocket, RI. I am available for babysitting hours both weekdays after 4 and any time on weekends. I have had my driver's license for a year so driving will never be a problem. I have six years of babysitting experience with kids of all ages. I work for whatever wage you find appropriate, and I love kids :) If you are interested call me at home at 1508-528-9107. - AK
1/19 11:10am H1N1 Vaccination Clinic Update - The Norfolk Board of Health will be holding an H1N1 Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 from 3:30-6:30 at the King Philip Middle School, 18 King Street, Norfolk. The clinic is open to all Norfolk residents, including children 9 and under who need a second vaccine. No appointments are necessary. Vaccine information and consent forms for adults and children are available on the Norfolk town website at www.virtualnorfolk.org and the King Philip Regional School website at [pdf link] - BF, Board of Health
1/19 10:11am LS, My self-employed husband and I have a two-person plan through a professional organization that offers us "discounted" health care plans. We pay $900 for a monthly premium, without dental, have a $1,000 deductible, and $25 co-pays for almost every type visit. If we were unhealthy, and luckily we're not, I could easily spend $20,000 in a year. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. - MJS
1/19 10:10am Our dauntless (and apparently ageless!) Wm wrote: ``One would think I'm too young for it, but I miss the good old days, back when objective facts still existed and people could come to a meeting of minds based on a common shared experience.'' - BA
1/19 10:08am LS: re. ``connected health'', you are on the right track but stop short of its potential. It isn't just connecting the back-end systems like pharmaceutical, electronic medical records, etc. - TMB
1/19 10:07am JW - Try Cornell U's webpage - allaboutbirds.org; it includes photos, bird calls, and a host of other information to help identify birds - VR
1/19 9:45am Wm. Did you not watch the video that was linked in the article? How much more proof do you need? - MJD
[ I wasn't expressing disbelief, I was commenting on the growing gap between what the senses report and what is accepted as fact. - Wm.]
1/19 9:07am I am seeing so many birds from my window, I have 2 cats at home so I supposed that is why I usually get a few chickadees, titmouse, blue jays, nuthatches. I see this very busy gray bird with a white belly and a light beak. I spent some time on line and found out it was a dark eyed junco. Maybe the orange colored bird you saw is a Baltimore Oriole. Does anyone have a web site that is easy to navigate with pictures of N. American Birds? - JW
1/19 9:06am TC: I don't want to fight with you, especially in public. I do respect your opinion. I am neither naive nor a teabagger. I just don't happen to agree with Pelosi/Reid on the healthcare issue. Perhaps if they had provided some transparency like they had promised and did not have all of those sweetheart deals, things may have swung in their favor. Backdoor deals make people nervous. - JN
1/19 9:05am PR, The "bi-partisan" thing to do would have been for open door meetings for this health care bill including the Republicans. This current president promised more openess of government during his campaign. Right out of the shoot we have cloak and dagger meetings behind closed doors, backroom deals and (what I believe to be bribery) to get this healthcare pushed through. A majority of the American people don't want this healthcare bill being forced upon us. To continue down a road of backroom deals, closed door meetings and buying votes is, in my opinion, a very perilous journey. And I for one, do not wish to follow that road. Your doom and gloom story was nice, but way off base. - DT
1/19 8:59am To LS et al: Re: health care reform and out of control costs: I am not smoking anything either LS. October 2001, Brown voted against a measure to provide financial aid to 9/11 Red Cross emergency responders. Those are the folks who made headlines for rushing into the billowing smoke and chaos of Ground Zero. In the following months, many were stricken with massive health problems that have been linked to toxic exposures at the site. Of course, it wasn't the first time these workers got the shaft from the political establishment. Their story was featured in the film, Sicko, which depicts their ongoing struggle to receive adequate medical care for their crippling illnesses. (They're now pushing for more federal relief through a pending bill.)[C o n t i n u e d . . .]- PRR
1/19 8:52am Dear PD: Okay PD, you said you are tired of all the fighting on this site. Well, please check out these 4 URL's before you call it quits as far as the possibility of your voting for Martha Coakley today. - PRR
1/19 8:47am MJD and TC - It was high school, not college but I digress. TC said families "can easily pay $20,000 for health insurance" and the point of my post is that no, people can not easily pay this. TC must of meant "the cost can easily approach $20,000". Sorry your post was not clear enough for me or I had blinders on from your first post. I agree 100% that the costs are too high right now for most but most important to me is what this will do to the future quality of our healthcare system. You will see the dumbing down of the healthcare professional over time as the risk/reward ratio decreases. (meaning you will be able to make more money doing construction than becoming a doctor) and then people like me will be able to pass the brain surgeon test (even after smoking a ton in high school) because no one else in their right mind would want to become a healthcare professional after this passes. Wait and see, we'll fill our hospitals with 3rd world educated doctors who's medical degree was purchased off the Internet and who get on the job training on real live patients. Only the rich will have access to the good doctors. Sadly that will be the future. - LS
1/19 8:46am TMB - Elaborate further on this so called "telecare (aka connected health)? that would be part of the new US Healthcare system. I just hope telecare is not something like calling a 1-800-US Health phone and being connected to a computer generated US healthcare machine and telling an automated computer your sickly symptoms then press 2 for the diagnosis and treatment but no matter what you tell it it always says "take 2 aspirin and call the computer back in the morning" I did just find this connected-health.org and some of these programs truly have merit but why do we need the Gov't to mandate this when its already happening in the private sector? My doctor (Primary Care Physician) has everything online, refill prescriptions, make appointments, request referrals for specialists, am able to view my cat scan reports, am able to view my x-rays (not that I have a clue what I'm looking at), update my insurance, review online bills, monitor blood work and its history, prescription history, etc,.. Connected health in that regard is here, the private sector will make it happen because it already is happening and the smaller hospitals will benefit form the larger ones just like now. Ok, I have a headache now and will save the US money because I'm smart enough to take 2 aspirin. - LS
1/19 8:42am PA - Do you think no one saw this display by your hero Scott Brown, "Man of the people." [Globe article] As a father of two daughters he should have been outraged but instead he found it funny and gave the guy a wink and a nod. Disgraceful. - MJD
[Probably didn't happen. Remember, there are weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Today's reality is not what it used to be. One would think I'm too young for it, but I miss the good old days, back when objective facts still existed and people could come to a meeting of minds based on a common shared experience. - Wm.]
1/19 8:35am This certainly has been a lively discussion. I encourage everyone to vote on Tuesday no matter who you are going to vote for. I think it is more important that we have a free, fair, and transparent election than that my preferred candidate win. That is, our democracy is more important than any political party. Since I need to vote for some candidate, I have looked at the candidates in Tuesday's election and have decided to vote for Martha Coakley. Here's why: - DR
1/19 8:32am Last chance to register for Norfolk Little League Baseball! Time is rapidly running out to register for the 2010 spring season of Norfolk Baseball. Don't miss out on a whole season of fun. Register today at www.norfolkbaseball.com. Norfolk Baseball offers three programs for spring 2010: - DL, Norfolk Baseball
1/18 9:31pm LS: Not smoking anything. It's bad for my health and I may or may not be able to afford medical care! You're off base, big time, on this one. Sounds like you're lucky enough to not have to worry about this. Kudos to you. When my family was paying our own it was $1400 per month. That was four years ago. Last I checked, that policy would cost $18,000 now, and is not the best plan available. - TC
1/18 9:00pm People. Stop all the fighting here. I'm tired of hearing the Republican versus Democrat arguments locally and nationally. We are all Americans and I believe that united we stand and divided we will fall. I for one will vote for Mr. Joe Kennedy. I liked his views and comments about reducing government and spending, stop the war and bring our troops home and protect our own country from within its borders. - PD
1/18 8:40pm LS - in 2006 I paid COBRA during my maternity leave. It covered my husband, our oldest child, our new baby and me. It was a pretty comprehensive plan but it was an HMO. The monthly bill was about $1,700. I imagine that price has gone up, not down. Perhaps you smoked too much in college and forgot how to multiply. - MJD
1/18 7:29pm TC - You said "A family of self-employed professionals can easily pay upwards of $20,000 for health insurance" Give me some of what your smoking please, I have not had any good smoke like that since high school. - LS
1/18 7:28pm To AC -- I don't think you can 'discourage' the natural prey behavior of your neighborhood hawk. The same thing has happened to us several times. If you put out the seeds, you invite all 'birds' to come to dinner. We were surprised last week when our neighborhood raptor took a bath in the bird bath -- we were stunned to see him sit around and dry off for several minutes, only a few feet from the kitchen window. We enjoyed his visit and hope he returns soon! - RJC
1/18 7:21pm TC: I am not advocating for anyone or anything but common sense and discussing issues instead of attacking people. - JN
1/18 5:32pm JN: Not exactly sure what, or who, you are advocating for in your post. - TC
1/18 5:31pm PR: Excellent post -- especially appropriate today, Martin Luther King day. I think he would be most supportive of your words. - RLB
1/18 5:29pm: Wm: Allow me to disagree with your assertion that the current proposed legislation and "going back to the drawing board" - i.e., the positions of the 2 candidates - have the same result. A few examples: - TMB
1/18 5:26pm: Re As to using less services, I really wish co-pays were higher. The typical consumer has no incentive to keep their healthcare spending down -- co-pays are so low, it's all free, and it's used accordingly. - Wm. - JN
1/18 5:08pm: PA: And I find your "Coak-lies" reference offensive and well beyond "poor taste." Both candidates are being supported by out of state organizations - I even heard one radio ad mention the influx of "insider Washington" money supporting Coakley while that ad itself was sponsored by an independent group! What some of those organizations "say" is beyond the control or influence of either candidate. - TMB
1/18 4:50pm: As you think about healthcare in this country, here are a few facts rather than the made up hysteria like "It will cost $1T in taxes!" or the "You won't get to choose your own doctor!" - TMB
[True, but the health care bill as it currently stands also avoids addressing the above issues. No matter which candidate is elected, meaningful health care reform is not happening either way. - Wm.]
1/18 4:47pm: CM - A group in Holliston is having a fundraising yard sale on Jan. 30 & 31. It's at Hollis Lodge, 657 Washington St., Holliston. They are looking for donations. If you are interested in donating I'll see if I can get an email address for you. - SC
1/18 4:32pm: PR: I find your "tea baggers" remark quite offensive and in poor taste (much like some of Martha Coak-lies TV spots.) Scott Brown is a man of the people for the people. Martha Coak-lie is out of touch. Forget about the fact she thought Curt Schilling was a Yankees fan. This woman stood by and watched a man get assaulted by a staff member of hers... and did nothing, and she's supposed to be our top law enforcement official in Mass.? - PA
[I had to google it. The things one learns on this page... Originally a sexual term, it was used to ridicule Tea Party protests. The word aquired enough traction to make it into the Oxford American Dictionary. - Wm.]
1/18 4:28pm: Dear PR, please read this carefully. - BC
1/18 4:02pm: To Wm: Yes, the cadillac tax is on expensive plans, I understood $8,000 per individual and 23K per family plan, although I may be wrong. However, many employees have rich benefits in lieu of salary, such as union workers (and by union, I mean teachers, municipal workers, some nurses, electricians, etc). And they have been carved out, so there is an even bigger gap to fill. Also, the whole idea, from my understanding regarding this tax, is that employees will choose a less expensive plan and therefore use less services, bringing down the cost of healthcare. I am not sure that this is true. I know many with not so great plans now that pay out of pocket to have treatments and such. If they like their plan and choose to keep it, they will be taxed on 40% of it like it was income. Many experts do not think it will be enough to pay for the healthcare plan, so we will all end up paying somehow. Including the middle class. And they will strip Medicare. That is for sure. - JN
[There's theft everywhere. The $60 billion is not all that different from the amount of credit card fraud; the difference is that the government has open books, whereas banks are reluctant to discuss their safeguards and detail their losses.
1/18 4:01pm: These campaign phone calls are getting ridiculous. I have now decided to vote against the party that calls the most. - DH
1/18 4:00pm: CMK, as one lady in town who works nights said, does this mean that the one who calls me least gets my vote? - JW
1/18 2:58pm: Anyone have an extra 1GB DDR SODIMM (DDR-1) laptop memory stick they don't need? This is the memory for somewhat older laptops; newer machines use DDR-2. I upgraded my web browser and now it uses an extra 300MB of memory for all my open pages, which is pushing the limit. You can email andras@norfolknet.com. Thanks! - Wm.
1/18 2:55pm: In remembrance of Martin Luther King, here is an interesting article that discusses the importance of an MLK speech (other than his infamous "I Have a Dream" one) which calls for a revolution in values. Below is an excerpt from the piece and link to the full article. - RB
1/18 2:55pm: Wow, I've never felt so popular in my life - you wouldn't believe who has called me this week: Scott Brown, Martha Coakly, Bill Clinton, and, get this, President Obama himself! I just got off the phone with Ayla Brown, Scott's daughter. I have received 3-4 calls a day! Just when I was beginning to think solicitation calls were a thing of the past, a big election comes up and brings it all back! - CMK
1/18 2:54pm: I am a person who is an independent voter, and have never paid attention to politics. Watching some of the issues in our state, I started sending emails to Scott Brown several years ago, asking questions and expressing concerns. - EBC
1/18 2:45pm: Dear Norfolk Voters, Please read this carefully. There is too much at stake in Tueday's election to ignore the facts. A vote for Scott Brown, if you really decide, in your heart that that is what you want to do, will be just one more step to releasing the dragon that could very well be the end of our democracy as our forefathers envisioned it. I know I sound doom and gloomish, but if you look at where we are at now, with almost all formerly American industries now based in China, with inferior quality goods flooding global markets, people all around us without work or health care, small businesses in every town closing, more and more people becoming homeless. This is serious!! It is no longer about, "which party we've always voted for." Pres. Obama did not get us into this mess, and he has the courage, intelligence, energy and will to clean it up. We must have courage as well. Pay attention to these words, I mean them with every fiber in my body. It takes courage to leap, to try something new, to put faith into the unknown. Many of us are Republicans, have always voted Republican. Voting is a very personal thing. Many of us tie our identities into how we vote, where we go to church, what kind of friends, business associates, cars, houses, etc., we surround ourselves with. Well, perhaps change is not such a bad thing. Give this President and the Democratic Party a chance to set things right. We can always vote Pres. Obama out in a few years. There are some great minds, compassionate hearts and brilliant leaders willing to go to bat for you if only we will just give them our go ahead. By elevating and caring about each and every citizen in our nation we are raising up the entire country. that is the trickle down effect really works. We can help make it happen!! - PR
1/18 2:17pm: AR: Putting a local perspective on what you are saying, consider that, when we are asked to vote for the operating override that the Selectmen are forecasting for this Spring, it is the health care cost for municipal employees that is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, anchors on the Norfolk budget. This number continues to grow at a rate that outpaces revenue. Separate and apart from the social, moral or political reasons to support or reject fundamental health care reform, there is little doubt that if costs are not reined in by fundamental reform, your taxes will certainly go up or you will be forced to endure severe cuts in services. We do have a choice however... - JT (JT-6)
1/18 2:16pm: I took someone's advice and purchased a suet feeder and added some berry seed. The birds are going crazy, I just had a bird that had orange coloring. What type of bird is this ? - JC
1/18 2:15pm: Some contributors have suggested that we inject a little humor into the discussions. I offer the following entitled "The Least Successful Weather Report"We regret we are unable to give you the weather. We rely on weather reports from the airport, which is closed because of the weather. Whether we are able to give you the weather tomorrow depends on the weather."
- JO
1/18 2:08pm: TC: What you state is true and I see many patients on the new Mass health plan (however they still go to the ER, unfortunately--a new influx of patients) However, the insurance companies have raised premiums in the private sector to help fund that. Since our own insurance premiums have gone up, we pay 3 times the co-pay we once did on top of the increase. Furthermore, the state has increased the the state tax, more state services are being cut, if we want good schools here in our own town, a balanced municipal budget, etc.. we must pay for them ourselves by increasing our property taxes. The healthplan that Romney enacted is bankrupting our state. It has very good intentions, it just costs too much. And many of us simply cannot afford it. - JN
[By "we will all pay a 40% excise tax" you mean those of us who have health plans costing $23,000 a year or more, right? - Wm.]
1/18 2:07pm: To TC - I don't read the Huffington Post, rarely watch Fox News, don't listen to 96.9, and wouldn't buy a car from Sarah Palin or Glen Beck. I suspect that Scott Brown watches Channel 5, for obvious reasons; whether he or Martha Coakley pay any attention to any of the others is not something for which I might hazard a guess. I agree completely that voters should "do a little work and get the FACTS". I will be voting for Scott Brown tomorrow. - RM
1/18 2:06pm: Thank you TC for a well thought out discussion on how a government health care bill would affect us... please think about this when you go to vote tomorrow. - ALL
1/18 11:25am: Speaking of facts, one big problem with US health care as it exists is that 1/3 of the premiums we pay goes to the insurance company, not the doctor. This is their cut for allowing us into the health plan. I've heard of doctors offering a 50% discount for cash instead of insurance -- that's all they see of their invoice. You can't win. - AR
1/18 11:21am: So, this morning, while sitting at the table eating breakfast and reading the Globe, my eye was drawn out to my backyard by a sudden flurry of activity near my birdfeeders. Just in time to see some kind of raptor (I was too stunned to see exactly what it was) wrestling a beautiful little junco to the ground. Feathers everywhere and, not surprisingly, not one bird appeared at the birdfeeders for quite a while. (As of this moment, only the brave little titmice have returned.) I have never, in all my years here, seen this. Does anyone have any suggestions about how to "discourage this kind of behavior" (as therapists would say!)? I know this is how things go in the natural world, but I really don't want to see it in my backyard again. (A new kind of "nimby.") Thanks. - AC
1/18 9:42am: All, Since Massachusetts passed its landmark health care legislation under Mitt Romney, with Scott Brown's vote and Martha Coakley's support (she had no vote, just an opinion), has the government had any say whatsoever in your health care? No, it hasn't. Not one word. Nothing. All that health care legislation did was force uninsured individuals to get some or pay a fine. It forced insurance companies to invent products that serve a normally underserved population by creating plans with lower premiums and in most cases lesser care. The overarching goal was to provide options for under- or uninsured people, enabling them to get health care from a PCP not the ER. When uninsured people get health care at ERs it costs all of us who are carrying private coverage forcing us to pay higher premiums. The Mass system is far from perfect, and is underfunded, which critics predicted. But, progress not perfection. The federal legislation is equally flawed, but is a step in the right direction. More to the point, it has NO public option. That means there is no big government bureaucracy determining if you indeed need a cat scan. There are no death panels. It is, for all practical purposes, a bigger version of Romney's plan, with less teeth. Call it Romney light. Those of us with health care will see NO change, except that if we change carriers we cannot be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition. (Seems like a win for the consumer, no?) Those of us without coverage will have a little more leverage to try to get some. - TC
1/18 9:33am: Good morning! I wanted to let you know that applications for Girls on Ice 2010 are now available ( [application page link] ). If your daughters are interested in the environment, here is a chance for them to go to the front lines. "Girls on Ice is a unique, free, wilderness science education program for high school girls that takes place in the North Cascades in Washington state. Each year a team of 9 teenage girls and 3 instructors spend 11 days exploring and learning about mountain glaciers and the alpine landscape through scientific field studies with professional glaciologists, mountaineers and, some years, artists. This recent article by founder Erin Pettit describes the philosophy (NICL Article).A very close family friend of ours runs the program. It will look great on a college application and your daughters will have an amazing experience.The girls on the team learn not only about alpine geology, glaciology, and mountaineering, but they also challenge themselves and gain self-confidence in their physical, intellectual, and social abilities. Girls on Ice is the science version of a ``language immersion'' experience - where we connect science with all aspects of daily life with the goal of creating lifelong advocates for Earth science, specifically, and the scientific process as a whole, regardless of whether or not they decide to specialize in science in college.
Our purpose is to give girls a feeling for the natural processes that create the alpine world and provide an environment that fosters the critical thinking necessary to all scientific inquiry. We encourage the girls to observe and think like scientists through making observations and inferences. They develop their own experiments to test ideas and answer questions." [ref]c
- KID
1/18 9:30am: PR, Let me get this straight. You're trying to compare Scott Brown to Richard Nixon? How does a Nixon campaign, from 60 years ago, have anything to do with this campaign? Coakley is the candidate slinging all the mud. Brown has run the cleanest campaign I have ever seen. While Coakley's is circling the bowl and headed for the cesspool. - DT
1/17 9:26pm: ALL, the government is already in charge of social security and medicare/medicaid and they can't take care of either. I don't know how old you are, but I'm pretty sure I won't be seeing a check from social security by the time I'm ready to retire. And medicare/medicaid is so rife with fraud it is a complete joke. To believe that the government can run healthcare responsibly in this country is, at best, wishful thinking. The money that was promised just for some of the votes is probably more than we're sending to Haiti. I sympathize with your current situation, but this healthcare plan is going to bankrupt this country. - DT
1/17 9:25pm: Everyone here needs to get a chocolate latte, a tuna sandwich, and calm down. This place is getting a little bit rowdy. - TH
1/17 9:13pm: MJD: I'm not sure if your 'pay for holding signage' post is true or more spin from the Coaklie campaign, but the same rumors are flying through Walpole that Ms. Coaklie is paying people at the train station to hold signage. I'm just angry that I didn't hear about the chance to make a few extra bucks and get some fresh air and in the process. If you're for the red, white, and blue, vote Brown!! - PA
1/17 9:11pm: Here we go again. I have been through a multitude of elections over the years and could have written the scenario on sign holding that is now appearing in the Norfolk Net. It gets more ridiculus as voting time approaches. Somebody stole my sign, somebody gave me the finger, someone's uncle, aunt and minor child are being paid to hold signs, so I am told. Next it will be someone mooned me while I was holding my sign and child, someone spat at me. Someone stuck their tounge out at me. Someone aimed their car at me. Someone yelled at me that I was fat, skinny a Communist, etc. As an unpaid sign holder for Scott since his successful run for State Rep., I found people friendly, some not on my side, and quite witty. I have found this to be true holding signs for candidates at all levels. If you are going to, shall we say, exaggerate and try to slur candidates please be original I need sone fresh ones for my records. - RC
1/17 3:13pm: To LS: Do I want the government being in charge of my health care... Yes I do! I guess you are not one of the millions of people in this country who do not have health care because they can either not afford it, or cannot get it because of a pre-existing condition. I was speaking with my father who endured a blood clot in his lungs earlier this year and had to be hospitalized for a week. We were talking about the bills he was starting to receive. It was interesting... there was the charge, let's say for $1,000 for a procedure. Then there was what Medicare had contracted to be charged for it, let's say $800. Then there was what Medicare was going to pay for it, $600 and my father was responsible for the rest, $200. If you don't have health insurance, you don't pay the $200, the $600 or even the $800 - you pay the $1,000. You pay the $1,000 because you as a single payer cannot contract with the hospital like Medicare or the health insurance companies can. - ALL
1/17 3:12pm: BD - We've used Phil and Wendy Ferris in Wrentham for years. Top quality firewood, fair prices, nice people. 508 384-7892 - HB
1/17 2:50pm: To MHC - I think your "interesting yet telling perspective" about the people in the party that is judgmental and hypocritical does not warrant the conclusion. If you know anything about set theory, we can presume that: - GM
1/17 2:48pm: It is quite possible that the people that were making gestures at those holding political signs were not Norfolk residents. It is also possible that it was mainly uninformed people, simply being rude, with no idea about which political party they were insulting. At least I hope so. - CS
1/17 2:47pm: TC, MHC - The sign the people rudely gave at the roundabout is the same one the Democratic Congress gave the people of this country on Christmas Eve - sorry, Holiday Eve. Silly me I thought it was some form of secret party signal. - PC
1/17 2:45pm: PR: After reading your tome yesterday, let me be clear about one thing. I am not the least bit scared of Martha. It's her staff that scares the [jeebeez] out of me. I try to avoid be assaulted whenever possible. As far as allegations of bird-flipping, I know a couple of guys who were at the roundabout yesterday, and I heard of no such behavior. That doesn't mean it didn't happen, though, because with the oversized, by-law-busting Coakley sign that was down there, a lot of things could have been missed. - PA
1/17 1:04pm: TC - Thank you for your eloquent and important post. I too have done stand outs in the past with my young son, and have had drivers at the rotary in town center give us the finger. A very interesting yet telling perspective from the party that thinks they have the "Christian thing" all sewn up. Just another demonstration of what I have learned to be true: they are judgmental and hypocritical. - MHC
1/17 10:30am: Why, if Scott Brown is doing so well, does he have to pay people $12 an hour, time and a half for Sunday, to hold his signs and pass out his flyers? My uncle in Holliston was offered the job and so was a friend here in Norfolk. it's pretty good money but shouldn't they be volunteers? They were told not tell anyone they were being paid so I guess the Brown campaign thinks they should be volunteers too. - MJD
1/17 10:29am: To: PR - I just finished reading your posting. Huh? I'm and independant. Not a Democrat or a Republican. Please calm yourself. We disagree on a political issue, that's it dude. Yes, I do believe terrorist should be tried by the military and my "stock portfolio" consists of a 12 pack of Charmin toilet paper in my linen closet. Have a good day. Vote Scott Brown! - MEH
1/17 10:28am: Has everyone forgotten about Scott Brown's "meltdown" at King Philip Regional High School back in 2007? His string of profanities directed to an audience of 80 or so high school students was most certainly not what I call appropriate or even semi-acceptable leadership. Or his disparaging criticisms of Dem. State Senator Cheryl Jacques for deciding to have children with her domestic partner. Of course, he later backed off... claiming he may have picked the "wrong words..." The Republican money pouring into his campaign from across the country makes him "look" substantive, but let's face it, he's cut from the same cloth as Bush and Cheney. Their policies did us a lot of good... didn't they? Not! - PR
1/17 10:25am: MEH - Hold On! This is regards to your 1/14 post, ". . . Scott Brown's amendment allows hospitals and hospital staff to excuse themselves from requiremnts to administer this contraceptive (morning after pill) if it conflicts with a sincerely held religious belief. I hardly would intrepret that as dening rape victims emergency contraception." - RLB
1/17 10:24am: I plan to vote for Scott Brown for only one reason; to do what I can to kill the healthcare bill that President Obama is pushing. I am a libertarian in every other respect too, and do not believe for a minute that Scott Brown will stray far from the right wing Republican ideology if elected. Conversely, Martha would most likely end up even further out on the political spectrum (to the left of course). This would not be good for the country either, in my opinion. Once again, I feel that I am voting for the lesser of two undesirable candidates. Either way, I will exercise my right and duty to vote. - CS
1/17 10:09am: To: Ms. or Mr. PR Yikes, It's suppose to be a posting not a novel. God calm down, we simply disagree. I want to think I would still like you if I met you on the street, but I'm starting to think I might need pepper spray.- MEH
[I'm not comfortable with "hypotheticals" being presented as factual events. If you're sharing insider information about the campaign, that's fine. - Wm.]
1/17 10:07am: Question, is there any way to get off the politicians calling list? 4 calls so far today and 5 on Wednesday. - BP
1/17 10:06am: Madam Attorney General Coakley hasn't done a very good job with her campaign this time around. It's a bit different than the Democratic primary where all 4 candidates had a lovefest about who is the most liberal. The whole country is watching for the results on Tuesday. The 1972 presidential election gave Ma. the moniker the "I told you so state" for backing McGovern; on Tuesday we have a chance to do it again as in "I told you we don't need Uncle Sam to manage our health care." Like a Chicago election vote early and often for our next U.S. Senator Scott Brown. - GE
1/17 10:04am: I have lived in Norfolk for more than a decade. I love this town, the schools, my neighbors, and friends very much. I have always been proud to live in a town in which the residents are civil, respectful, and value manners and care for each other, despite perceived differences. So I was shocked and saddened today while holding a sign for my candidate of choice in the town center this morning. I called ahead to see if it would be appropriate to bring my child, as I had no child care. I was informed that while children were welcome, it was ill advised; apparently supporters of Scott Brown driving by were "flipping the bird" at the supporters of Martha Coakley. Honestly, I didn't believe it, but took the advice anyway. Lo and behold, I witnessed it with my own eyes. I know, Scott Brown wasn't out there giving the finger to his detractors, nor were the good people holding signs on his behalf. But really, is that anyway to demonstrate your support for you candidate? The candidates are getting ugly with each other, and that shouldn't surprise anyone. But us? Neighbors and friends? That motorists are using profanity and rude remarks, in the presence of many young people and children supporting the very candidate in whose name they are behaving disgracefully, does not reflect well on our town. I cannot wait until Wednesday and this nastiness has concluded. It's a real shame that the past decade has turned us in a hopelessly and sharply divided nation. I would have hoped Norfolk could rise above the fray. - TC
1/17 10:03am: Hi, Can anyone recommend a place to get some firewood? Thank you - BD
1/17 9:48am: SO - at least the penguin had the good sense to ride in the back and not drive after hitting that 6-pack. - ES
1/16 1:34pm: If this healthcare bill goes through as it is currently, the economy is only going to get worse. - DT
1/16 1:32pm: Scott Brown is consistently on the wrong side of every single issue, whether it's the health and reproductive rights of women, a clean-energy environment, financial regulations for Wall Street, gay marriage, closing corporate tax loopholes, gun control, the war in Iraq, or healthcare reform. And that makes him solid red, right-wing, and Republican and no more "independent" than Palin and McCain were "maverick." A vote for Brown will virtually guarantee a deadlocked, polarized Senate, continuing perilous stalemate and inaction (and not just in regard to healthcare reform). Is that what you really want? Vote Martha Coakley. I'm TEM and I approve this message. - TEM
1/16 1:31pm: SO, I have pictures of bluebirds eating my suet with snow on the ground. It seems things have changed for the birds because the 2 swans are still at Bush Pond. They are being fed and and are usually by the bridge on Lawrence street as most of the water has frozen. As long as food is available the birds will stay. A robin was having a bath in our heated birdbath yesterday. Don't forget the south has had some very cold weather this winter, maybe the birds knew the forcast before us. - BR (BR#1)
1/16 1:30pm: I have a slightly used wood burning stove for sale. It has a glass door, will fit at least 16" logs and comes with a blower. Easily a $1500 stove. Asking $650. If anyone is interested I can be reached at 774-244-0291. - DT
1/16 1:28pm: To PC, MEH et al, as in anyone else that has decided that Scott Brown holds the panacea need to cure our Nation's woes... Re: The need for Martha Coakley lawn signs. To Quote PC: "The Coakley signs are not needed in this town. Norfolk did *not* make the mistake of voting for Obama. Norfolk did *not* make the mistake of voting for Patrick. Norfolk will *not* make the mistake of considering Coakley fit to be Senator." - PR
1/16 1:24pm: Haiti relief websites: [continued ....] - PR
1/16 1:18pm: I might be the craziest person on this planet (apparently not), but when I'm leaving my job and see a plastic penguin head poking out of the back of a pickup truck, I'm inclined to investigate. These photos have not been doctored in any way, shape or form. A plastic penguin is twistied to the corner of the bed, with a loosey-goosey 6-pack bungied to its body. Who knows what's in the red plastic bag. I've obviously blacked out details - no need to implicate the innocent. There's a great story here and I'm curious. - SO
1/16 1:14pm: Open Burning starts today and runs to May 1st. Residents and property owners may obtain their Open Burning Permit online at the Town's Website. - Coleman C. Bushnell, Fire Chief, Norfolk Fire Department
1/16 1:13pm: You can't make this stuff up. Earlier today, Rudy Giuliani took Scott Brown out to the streets of the North End to meet the people. Bill Clinton, meanwhile, took Martha Coakley to a hotel. Enough said. - PA
1/16 1:04pm: TC - Do you really want the US Government to be in charge of your health care. If you con honestly answer Yes then I feel very sorry for you and any other people who thinks this is good for our country. Can you imagine say 10 years from now when the Department of Healthcare has grown to 100,000 Government workers with a budget of a zillion dollars but we are paying much higher rates, get put on a waiting list to get a flue shot... Look what happened when the Dept. of Energy was created. It was created with the main goal to reduce our dependency on foreign oil. Well 30+ years later, the Dept. of Energy has 17,000 workers with a budget in the billions and we are more dependent on foreign oil than anytime in our history. No Thanks to National Healthcare especially when just yesterday it came out that if you are a Union worker you will be exempt from paying the National Healthcare tax until 2018 so the rest of us poor slobs will have to deal with that. Together we can, hope for change and vote for Scott Brown. - LS
1/16 1:03pm: Anyone had trouble switching internet, cable and phone to Verizon/FiOS lately? Anyone happy with the switch? Thanks for info. - SM
1/16 1:02pm: The birds I saw were not bluebirds, they were too big, but thank you for the reply, I am beginning to think that they were indeed robins. You know the saying, if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck... I am seeing lots of birds from my window of my room. - JW
1/16 12:58pm: Re: MON (Re: What Martha did do.), MEH (Re: Comment on Big Lie), PA (Almost Scared By Martha) - Some differences between Scott Brown and Martha Coakley. And what she will do! - PR
1/16 12:55pm: I hate to be the bearer of bad news but I must let everyone know of a state law that, if enforced, could lead to fines of $50 or more for many of our friends and neighbors. Mass. General Laws, Chapter 90, section 17 indicates that no one should operate a motor vehicle faster than the posted speed limit. Now I have it on good authority that many of us often travel at 4 or 5 miles over the limit, knowing we will not get stopped. However, this is in clear violation of state law and once I inform Chief Stone of this, I expect that he will strictly enforce this law. Don't say I didn't warn you. - DL
1/16 12:54pm: January 19th - an important day in our Democracy... A day that we have "The right to choose our leadership." How exciting for us to vote for a man we know, respect , and who has repeatedly proven his dedication to his constituents. With your vote Scott Brown will serve our State and our Nation with the same tireless determination he has shown to us as State Representative and State Senator. Scotts fiscal responsibility. his realistic approach to problem solvining and his communicative skills will serve to benefit us all. We need a Scott Brown in Washington. Please vote January 19th. - NC and RC
1/16 12:53pm: To PC - Please speak for yourself, not only did we vote for Obama but we will be voting for Martha Coakly also. - DN
1/16 12:50pm: JT-6, Please talk to Scott Brown before posting about him. I believe he can explain to you how information was twisted on his view of aid to rape victims. He is not in favor of denying aid to rape victims. - KF
1/16 12:49pm: I concur. The diagrammatic patterns, excess wordage and punctuation used by JT6 are all too familiar. Naughty! Naughty! No corner office for you! - MON
1/16 12:48pm: SD: I agree with you all the way. Let's all go to the polls on January l9th and send Mr. Brown to Washington! - WC
1/16 12:47pm: I understand teachers in Norfolk received a connect ed message that Don LeClerc is retiring at the end the school year. Let the search begin. - AC
1/16 12:46pm: Just to chime in on Martha Coakley--who I did vote for in the primary. This smear campaign she is behind seems to be doing her more harm than good. Worst of all, it is being laughed at. What, do they think we will just believe anything? How much money spent on those lousy TV ads could have been sent to Haiti to help real people in need? - JN
1/16 12:45pm: PR - In defense of MEH, I felt obligated to point out that you mistakenly used the word "their" in place of "they're" in your post ("...their are paid..."). This is, of course, ironic since you were berating MEH for misspelling "Afghanistan". Having a pedantic attention to detail is not always necessary and can sometimes just come across as mean. - PMM
1/14 5:47pm: CE - you are jumping to conclusions. It is possible that there is such fervor for Coakley, that the signs were stolen merely to place on the perpetrators' own front lawns. We've seen what the mob mentality will do for Zhu Zhu Gerbils on Black Friday, so let's at least not rule it out entirely. Although you may be losing out on demonstrating personal support for your candidate, in this scenario, there's a zero sum net effect on overall support being demonstrated, so no harm done. - JH
1/14 5:46pm: JW - Someone who really knows birds will fix me up on this one, but I'm wondering if they were bluebirds. I used to keep a winter display of branches with red berries on my deck. 'Round dusk one Jan. evening, a conflagration of birds converged in a pure frenzy and devoured every berry. Lunacy. I whipped out my tome and lo and behold, bluebirds. Like I said, someone will fix me up on this one. - SO
1/14 5:45pm: Hi - We are seeking a responsible high school or college age student for occasional evening babysitting for our 10 month old. Mostly weekend evenings and the occassional afternoon. We would like a Norfolk resident with excellent local references. First aid/CPR certified preferred, non smoker, experience with infants and toddlers required. Please contact me at box216@norfolknet.com - JT
1/14 5:44pm: To: JT-6 (I hope I spelled that correctly) et als, even if you don't like Scott Brown, don't stoop to Martha Coakley's level and promote things that are not true about him. He did not vote to deny rape victims emergency contraception. As I posted previously, the "emergency contraceptive" Martha Coakley is referring to is an a pill that can be taken anywhere from 3-5 days after unprotected sexual activity. Martha Coakley's own website states that the Scott Brown's amendment allows hospitals and hospital staff to excuse themselves from requiremnts to administer this contraceptive if it conflicts with a sincerely held religious belief. I hardly would intrepret that as dening rape victims emergency contraception. - MEH
1/14 5:43pm: CE: You're being unduly presumptive about Scott Brown's supporters, and you should not cast aspersions without doing your due diligence. (But the Coakley campaign thrives on negativity, so why stop now?) Furthermore, after what happened in Washington to that poor little reporter, I don't think anyone would dare do anything illegal or intolerant towards Ms. Coakley fear for of getting beaten up. - PA
1/14 5:42pm: There are two good pieces in the Globe today about Scott Brown. They are worth a read, whether you are for him or not. [article 1] [article 2] - TC
1/14 5:41pm: Hate to once again bring up the dreaded "decoration" bylaw, but just wanted to remind those thugs that accused me of "helping the liberals" by helping to write a new political sign bylaw, to remember how outraged you felt when you thought your civil liberties were being imposed upon. I didn't mean to cause an uproar, but felt I needed to make a point. I certainly hope that people don't think that I actually thought we should impose fees for wreaths, but you have to understand that if I had mentioned it at any other time, like in the fall or in July, it would not have had any impact on the people that approached me. I like helping the town and have been honored to have been on committees, but some people just scare me. People should be allowed to have signs supporting their candidate on their yard. I supported it and I still stand by that. I particularly liked the comment about me being "just a simple housewife". Yes, what could I possibly know. Thank you. - JN
1/14 5:40pm: CE - The Coakley signs are not needed in this town. Norfolk did not make the mistake of voting for Obama. Norfolk did not make the mistake of voting for Patrick. Norfolk will not make the mistake of considering Coakley fit to be Senator. - PC
1/14 3:38pm: As you know, there will be a special election on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 to fill the vacancy caused by the death of United States Senator Edward M. Kennedy. - JG
1/14 3:37pm: Several town residents who support Martha Coakley have recently had their yard signs stolen. What does it say about Brown's supporters that they seem so unwilling to acknowledge other residents' right to participate in the democratic process? Strikes me as both intolerant and unAmerican. I, for one, hope that those responsible with have the decency to return them immediately. - CE
1/14 3:36pm: JT--re the kindergarten question, my daughters turned 5 on Aug 30, one day before the cut off. Initially, I thought I was going to send them, but then I gave it a lot more thought and am happy with the fact that I held them back. The social piece was a huge factor in my decision. They just were not ready yet. I did send them this year, right after they turned 6 and they have done great. They are going full day since they had done 3 years of preschool, seemed like they were ready for a longer day. I feel I made the right choice for my children. On the flip side, I know several children (who were classmates of my children in preschool) who had summer birthdays and did go on to Kindergarten right after turning 5 and they are all doing great as well. Most of those children did half day and it worked out well for them. So, the answer is this, it is a very personal decision, but if your daughter is in preschool, I would definitely ask for guidance from the teachers. And then go with your gut. Good luck! - RD
1/14 3:35pm: Looking for a fun and inexpensive night out with your friends. Come to Trivia Night! All adults are welcome! (the game will go past 9pm). Play for prizes and of course, bragging rights. There will be door prizes as well, so you can win even if you aren't good at trivia. It's on Saturday, January 30th at 7:00p.m. and costs $10.00 per person. Send in your team name, the player's names (up to 10) and your admittance fee to St. Jude Women's Group, P.O. Box 91, Norfolk, MA 02056. If you have any questions please call Kim at 508-520-6918. - KG
1/14 3:34pm: JW, Yes, you probably did see robins. I have been seeing flocks of them all winter in my Bradford pear trees. - LS
1/14 3:32pm: I am new to this Web page. I came here looking for any information on any efforts that Norfolk may be pulling together for the victims of the Haiti earthquake. Watching the coverage over the past couple of days, my heart aches for these people who had so little before the quake, and nothing now. I know that monetary donations are being requested, but how about clothing, blankets, shoes? Does anyone know of an organization that may have already started something? Thanks for information that anyone may have. - CM
1/14 3:29pm: MEH - Don't forget what Coakley did to the Amirault family in the Fels Acres Daycare trial and how she rail-roaded and denied clemency to Gerald Amirault. Then court wranglings to stop him from speaking out against the hysteria that bad psychologists and hyperactive investigators caused. - MON
1/14 3:28pm: Spread the word and hit the polls for Scott Brown. Let's take back our state! [youtube link] - DDM
1/14 3:21pm: Dear JT... about your 4 year old we held our son out a year and never regretted it. He also did well academically but was so shy. He is still on the shy side (he is 17 now) but what a difference a year makes! We researched this endlessly at the time and have never met anyone who has regretted holding their child out; on the other hand I have had numerous people tell me as their child reached middle school that they regretted starting school on the younger side or in your case the youngest. Good luck, I know firsthand how hard this decision is and I am sure you will do what is best for her. - JJ
1/14 3:20pm: PC, I think you overestimate the reach of our state legislators. While a provocative issue may cross their desk from time to time, their primary function is to secure local aid from the State coffers. On this score, Scott Brown has failed miserably. As to the more provocative issues, he appears to favor local casinos and denying aid to rape victims so I believe he fails there too. He seems to be against a lot, but, in my view, offers nothing productive, unless you consider fear mongering productive. - JT (JT-6)
1/14 3:19pm: JT, My husband and I had a similar situation with our daughter last year. She turned 5 right before the deadline. We went back and forth, knowing that she would probably be fine going to Kindergarten younger than her peers. After much discussion and asking friends and family who had similar experiences, we decided to hold her back one more year. We were told you will never regret holding her, just sending her too early. She is currently in full day kindergarten and has had none of the transitional difficulties (too tired, too long a day) that some of my friends children have had. We have no regrets holding her back. Best of luck. - CAR
1/14 3:18pm: Anyone have any good recommendations for paint ball birthday parties? - HC
1/14 3:17pm: JB... maybe red-wing blackbirds?? - GZ
1/14 3:16pm: JT--I highly recommend the full day kindergarten program. I think the teachers and staff at HOD have done wonders to encourage and inspire my little guy. He is really excited to talk about the things he does at school and show us projects that he brings home, etc. The HOD folks seem to really understand and work with each child's individual needs to get them ready for the next steps in their development. I don't have any personal experience with the half-day kindergarten, but a neighbor who sent her oldest to the half-day program said she felt they had to rush through things to get everything done. - KID
1/14 3:13pm: MLD, Do you honestly believe that in this economy someone else could have gotten this money for Norfolk? There are twenty one Republican state representatives in Massachusetts. That is less than five percent of the legislature. Can you possibly believe that they are responsible for the mess this economy is in right now? This state needed to make cuts somewhere. Who do you think proposed making this specific cut? Brown and Ross? If they had we probably would have gotten the money. - DT
1/13 10:25pm: To: Ms. or Mr. PR - Thank you for pointing out that I spelt Afghanistan incorrectly. Even though I hate to admit it, I guess I have more in common with Martha Coakley than I thought. She spells Massachusetts incorrectly in one of her political ads. - MEH
1/13 10:22pm: Back to the birds, I am in a rehab in Milford and this afternoon a flock of birds that looked like robins flocked to someone in another room throwing something to them. They had orange bellies, yellow straight beaks, the size of a robin. I have never seen robins flock together like that for a treat. Some is the residents feed the birds. Does anyone out there have any idea what they could have been? - JW
1/13 10:21pm: Hi folks, I have a 4yo girl who will be 5 right before 9/1 and age-eligible for Kindergarten. Academically she is advanced. Socially/emotionally, she's on the cusp. I'm wondering if anyone has held back their child a year and regretted it? Also, any feedback (pros and cons) on the half-day kindergarten vs. full-day? Thanks in advance! - JT
1/13 10:19pm: Hello, We have been receiving some fabulous pictures of some beautiful children, but we need more! You know you have that picture of your child that you always said belonged on a cover, well here's your chance! Three photos will be selected to grace the cover of the next little green phonebook. Just mail your photo (or photos) along with $10.00 (checks made out to F-C class of 2010) to Photo Contest, 54 Medway St Norfolk. Children must be Norfolk residents, under the age of 12, and no names will be used in publication. Please print your name, phone# and child's age on the back of the photo. All proceeds to benefit this years sixth grade class promotion. The staff at Village Photo Franklin will be judging. Please have photos submitted by Feb 1, 2010. Thanks! - AD
1/13 10:12pm: The Warrant is open for the Annual Town Meeting on May 11 and 12, 2010. Any citizens who wish to propose an Article at Town Meeting must collect signatures from 10 voters and file their proposal by February 25. The Town Meeting schedule is attached and a petition form is available for download at www.virtualnorfolk.org/moderator
2010 Annual Town Meeting Schedule January 11 Board of Selectmen open the warrant February 25 Warrant articles due by 4:00 p.m. (*) March 8 Board of Selectmen review draft articles March 22 Ordering of articles; warrant drafted May 5 Annual Town Meeting (*) We cannot provide for "placeholders" on the warrant. Article language is due on February 25, with no exceptions. - Dan Winslow, Town Moderator
1/13 10:11pm: In case anyone missed it, here's a link to a story, and pictures, of beat-down a reporter took trying to ask Ms. Coakley a question or two in DC last night. She doesn't seem concerned at all about the treatment her staff member afforded the innocent reporter. You'll see in the link to the video that she simply walks right by the reporter, even though he was just a victim of assault by one of her staffers. My vote's with Scott Brown. Ms. Coakley is starting to scare me. [Herald article] [youtube link] - PA
1/13 2:32pm: Maybe the problem is not so much effective representation but a corrupt legislative body controlled by one party. Therefore, I guess in order to maintain our fair share of the tax receipts our elected representatives must throw out what we believe in (as we did choose them both) and buy off on the latest social engineering on Beacon Hill. Yeah, that makes sense to me! - PC
1/13 2:31pm: LL - Try Bushell Piano Movers out of Framingham 508 877-2227. I was very pleased and know of a few other people that have used them and were also very happy. They also can tune up your piano. Good Luck! - DCB
1/13 2:30pm: Re I am curious, how did Ross and Brown advocate for Norfolk to keep the prison mitigation money? Since it wasn't just reduced, it was cut entirely, why were they so ineffective in their efforts? Will they each be at Town Meeting on January 12 to explain why they were unable to retain some of that money? I think we are owed an explanation. - MDJ - CMK
1/13 2:29pm: Hello everyone, can anyone recommend a debris/recycle type company with trailers instead of dumpsters? I don't want to make piles in my yard for 800-gotjunk to pick up. I'd like someone with small trailers that are maneuverable and can stay for a couple of days while we get organized then have them gone when I call. Dumpsters are just too bulky and take up too much space. - JM
1/13 2:26pm: To: MEH et al, Re: Attorney General Martha Coakley's office and Garden Clubs and Taliban and Terrorists.
- PR
[My apologies, I missed the typo in the original - fixed. - Wm.]
[Update 10:06pm: my apologies, the Continued links was broken, just fixed it - Wm.]
1/13 2:17pm: MG - Gotta agree with MJD. Scott Brown and Richard Ross's jobs are to represent Norfolk and protect our town's interests, especially when it comes to state funding that we deserve. That is why one of them is called a "Representative." They are supposed to represent Norfolk and protect our interests. If Scott and Richard cannot protect our rightful prison mitigation funds (for whatever reasons), then maybe they do not deserve to keep their jobs. Maybe we should elect people who can be more effective representing us. (I believe Walpole has been able to retain much of their prison mitigation funding, and they only have 1 prison as far as I know.) I also heard that KP lost most, if not all, their bus transportation funding that the state is supposed to pay to regional schools. That means less money for KP next year. Apparently, Scott and Richard have been unable to protect those state funds too. - MLD
[I've heard that Walpole has just the driveway, with the prison itself being in Norfolk. - Wm.]
1/13 2:16pm: Once again, as election time comes along, I am asking you to go to the polls and vote for State Senator Scott Brown, so that he can be our United States Senator for Massachusetts in Washington D.C. As many of you who know me know, I have strongly supported him since 2004. After watching the debate last night, I cannot imagine anybody else in that position but him. He is an honorable man, would be perfect for this position, would look out for the interests of the people of Massachusetts as well as the whole country. He really listens to what his constitutes have to say and is truly a man of his word. If he says he is going to do something, he always does. He has helped the organization that I am the treasurer of (Community VOICES) with all of the issues we have had regarding sex offenders. Because of his help, the citizens of Massachusetts are better protected against sex offenders. There is still work to be done, and we need him in the position that he has earned in order to get the work done. We have supported him in this area in the past. He has never let us down. Please don't let him down. On Tuesday, January 19, 2010, please go to the polls and vote for Senator Scott Brown. He will do us proud! - SD
1/12 9:49pm: CS: Welcome to Norfolk. - JN
1/12 9:48pm: To LL: Deathwish Piano Movers moved my piano and did an excellent job. Please try: Telephone: 617-277-8311 or info@deathwishpiano.com - JK
1/12 8:41pm: A big thank you to the womwn working at Nick's this evening... you know what you did for me, and it was greatly appreciated! One of the joys of living in a small town where people really care about you. Thanks again. - GZ
1/12 8:40pm: JN: I did not live in Norfolk when you put forth by-law changes regarding political signs. Would you be so kind as to share the changes that were made, and the rationale behind the changes? Thank you, - CS
1/12 8:37pm: This is getting repetitive... I picked up a black and white tuxedo cat today. This one is short haired, friendly and I'm guessing a boy (he's a little cranky about being in the shelter so I didn't check). He was picked up on Old Pond. So he could be from there, Valley, Hill, Everett streets. If you are missing him please call me to come claim him. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
1/12 8:36pm: Anyone who is undecided about voting for Martha Coakley or Scott Brown on Tuesday, January 19th, should read the following article that just became public. Apparently Martha Coakley is getting tough on the Garden Clubs of Massachusetts. The following is from the article: "Linda Jean Smith, president of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, has been besieged with calls from frightened, angry members after a prickly Jan. 4 letter from Coakley's office declared many of them were breaking the law for failing to file their financial records for the past four years."Martha apparently feels it's more important to go after an all volunteer organization that maintain local gardens for the enjoyment of everyone, than to go after the Taliban and terrorist in Afghanistan. Anyone in that wants to verify this information can go to [page link]... Roughly 100 garden clubs ``ranging from 12 to 100 members'' got the stern letter last week informing them they need to file four years' worth of financial records by Feb. 4... ``A lot of them do their bookkeeping with checkbooks. ..The local clubs quietly maintain traffic islands, town halls, libraries and veterans' hospitals across the state. Most take in about $5,000 to $10,000 a year in annual dues and plant sales, Smith said.
- MEH
1/12 5:21pm: I'm keeping it safe and sticking with birds. - SO
1/12 4:55pm: I am so excited to see that Boston and Gillette Stadium were selected as host cities for the USA bid for FIFA World Cup in 2018/2022. If you haven't signed the petition already, please go to [page link]. It would be wonderful to have such an amazing event so close to home. - KID
1/12 4:53pm: I am a nurse at one of the Boston hospitals and have a patient that has delivered twin boys. She has had some bad luck and made some poor decisions in the past. She is trying to turn things around. She was hospitalized for about 9 weeks before she delivered. During that time she finished her GED. So many people in Norfolk have already been so generous giving her a crib, bassinet, and changing table. I was wondering if anyone had a twin or double stroller or any baby equipment they would like to donate to her. Thanks so much. Keri (508)847-6191 cell. - KR
1/12 4:51pm: Big Bird's Nest Nursery School In Millis is now accepting registrations for the 2010/2011 school year. We offer 1/2 day programs for children ages 2.9-4 years old. We are conveniently located on Main St in Millis directly next to the police/fire station. Our exceptional staff of early childhood teachers provide a loving and stimulating learning environment for our students. Please call 508 376-0134 for more information or to visit our program. Thank you - SG, Big Bird's Nest Nursery School
1/12 4:49pm: MJD... Please give me a break. Why is it Richard Ross and Scott Brown's fault that the mitigation money is gone? We are not the only town losing mitigation money. The decision came from the Department of Corrections. I think both men have done a good job in the positions they hold. I can not wait until Scott Brown wins the election next week. His winning would be a good thing for the state and the country. Good luck Senator Brown!! - MG
1/12 2:21pm: Norfolk Dinner Club - January 26, 2010. Chase away the cold and dark with some homemade comfort food and fellowship! The next Norfolk Dinner Club will be held on January 26th at the Norfolk Senior Center. The menu will be beef stew, biscuits, and fresh salad. Anyone who has attended in the past will tell you that we have an equally good time preparing and consuming our efforts! The cost to participate is $10.00 per person. We welcome participation by all Norfolk adults. Because of the long cooking time required to properly prepare the main dish this month, we will be prepping the beef stew on Monday afternoon the 25th. Tuesday morning a few of us will assemble to start the cooking. Late Tuesday afternoon, we will meet to prepare the biscuits, salad and a dessert and set up for dinner. Dinner itself is scheduled for 6:15; we welcome diners who aren't interested or able to assist with cooking. Please call or email the senior center at 508-528-4430 ( shruhan@virtualnorfolk.org ) by January 21st to sign up. - BV
1/12 2:20pm: It's hard to say how the sign bylaw came to be but I suspect that it was part of a one-size-fits-all bylaw that was adopted without much thought as to how or if it would be used (or if it is legal). Note though that the mere existence of the bylaw does not mean that it must be enforced in draconian fashion. Nor does the Town's current fiscal predicament mean that residents should turn against residents so that we can blindly squeeze every last drop of revenue out of our pockets. Indeed, enforcement of local bylaws is entirely discretionary and I give credit to the Building Inspector for refraining from enforcing this bylaw. - JT (JT-6)
1/12 2:19pm: A big thank you to Hillary, Norfolk's awesome Animal Control Officer, and the Acorn Animal Hospital for everything they do to help animals that need immediate treatment. Let's show our support for the comedy night fund raiser! - CR
1/12 2:18pm: MON - I am strapping on my cowboy boots right now. Yeehaw! Gilleys North rides again! - DCL
1/12 2:17pm: MJD, With the state of the economy here in Mass., cuts had to be made somewhere. Scott Brown is one of a very few (R) in public office in this state. Do you think, even if he stood up against this particular cut, his voice would have been heard? He would have been steamrolled. You seem to be concerned about this pittance of money when just a short time ago a new school got passed that is going to cost us a lot more. As I recall we didn't get the money last year either. So to be expecting it this year, as the economy is even worse, sounds like poor planning by the town to me. - DT
1/12 11:22am: One of our dogs decided to go for a walk in the street after the UPS guy came by and fed him cookies, and promptly got hit by a car tis evening. Fortunately, the guy that hit him stopped and came to our door, or other drivers might have run over him as he lay on the street. - TB (TB2)
1/12 11:18am: Just a reminder that we are collecting gently used shoes, boots, sneakers, etc., in Norfolk to give to Soles4Souls, Inc. until Jan. 24. This charity distributes these shoes free of charge to people in need. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has given away over 5.5 million pairs of shoes in 125 countries, including the US. Collection boxes are at: Norfolk Town Library, Town Hall, Carols Place, Senior Center, St. Jude's Catholic Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, H.Olive Day & Freeman/Centennial Schools, KP Middle & High Schools & Blessed Sacrament School, Walpole. More info. about Soles4Souls visit their website at www.giveshoes.org. - DD
1/12 11:11am: Oh my. [W]hat [...] is in the water over there? Relax, deep breath. Go out and build a snowman, just like the one up in the top corner of NNET (or is that against the bylaw, too?). I admire agents of change, but you have brought things to an absurd low on Norfolknet. - AL
1/12 11:10am: This is the cat that was picked up today curled up in the snow. If you own him please contact me at 508 440 2816. He's out of the hospital now and seems to be on the right track. - HC
1/11 6:33pm: Actually Scott is up for Election on Tuesday the 19th. Barney Frank is also up for re-election but in November hopefully he'll Dodd out. - PC
1/11 6:32pm: PC - Barney Frank has held two Town Meetings here in the past two years. Where were you? Scott and Richard should be held accountable for the loss of that mitigation money. If they have no power in the legislature, then we should vote someone in who knows how to advocate for our town. - MJD
1/11 6:31pm: My lights are for Valentines Day. Thank you very little. Khanacka is also popular this time of year. - AW
1/11 5:55pm: CS: No, the decorations were already there. I had nothing to do with that. We changed the political sign bylaw. - JN
1/11 5:48pm: I think Barney Frank should be at Town Meeting for the wholesale looting he masterminded of the mortgage industry. - PC
[But he's not up for re-election, whereas Brown is - Wm.]
1/11 5:37pm: Can anyone recommend a piano mover? I have an upright that needs to go from a 1st floor in Walpole to a 1st floor in Norfolk. Thank you for any help and recommendations! - LL
1/11 5:36pm: I have an old snowblower (ariens) that Norfolk Power has informed me will cost more to repair than it is worth. I can get it to idle but not much more. Not sure if I should sell it for scrap metal or if it has 'parts' value. Any ideas? - DS
1/11 5:34pm: Buyer beware - both Fridigaire appliances and their customer service are a waste of time & money. Do yourselves a favor and do not buy their products. When we moved to Norfolk we bought a washer, a dryer, a refrigerator and dishwasher made by this company. We've had issues with every single unit. The dryer they sent was shipped broken, the washer did not drain, the dishwasher does not clean the dishes and the fridge leaks. Thanks for listening! - TM
1/11 5:33pm: I received a call today for another cat in the snow and not moving. I will post a picture in a bit but he was found on Myrtle Street near the horse farm. This cat is at Acorn animal hospital and is being treated. This cat was lying in the snow but he had a good body temp and he's undergoing some treatment for a blocked bladder and bowel. He is roughly a 1 yr old non neutered (not for long) male cat, black/white tuxedo, medium haired, and incredibly friendly. He has been combo tested today which was negative and some other blood work is ongoing. If everything turns out well and we cannot find his owner, then he will be available for adoption. He is an absolutely awesome cat. If you are missing a cat by this description please call me at 508 440 2816. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
1/11 5:31pm: Hello all and Happy New year! I am currently looking for two bureaus. These would be for a child's room. If you are looking to get rid of any at a low price please contact me via the webmaster. [Use box231@norfolknet.com - Wm.] - HM
1/11 5:26pm: Now that things are winding down I'd like to thank Andras, the webmaster from Norfolknet, for the post that was heard around the world. Literally (no joke). Annie the cat is still doing really well as of the last check in today [Sunday]. For those who would like updates on Annie, please visit www.norfolkanimalcontrol.net to go to her page. Annie, as many know, was found on 1/2/2010 during a snow storm. Annie should have been deceased, but she had other plans. She was 86 degrees and a comatose 3.25 lbs ball of feline fury. After Annie recovered from her hypothermia and the initial trauma she went home to her owners after gaining 1.5 lbs. Annie has hit a few speed bumps but is doing ok. Being 13 years old, ok so 68 human years, she's not as spry as she used to be. She's not without some age related issues, but she is doing awesome back at home. Most importantly, Annie and her family, are totally excited to be reunited. How rare is it that you can bring a cat home to their owner. Let me tell you... very rare... I maybe return one cat to their family each year. Hopefully with chipping we'll have a better rate. PS: if Annie regains all of her lives and tries to make a break for it again you know I'll be the first to go and microchip her. - HC, Norfolk Animal Control
1/11 5:23pm: To JC, AT and others who have posted negative comments about the post by JN (those initials were the only ones I saw this morning when I went on the site)--I just re-read the original post, and it still seems straightforward to me. It was made to point out the fact that a section of the sign bylaw does exist regarding holiday decorations. If you don't like it, try to change it--it was likely put there for a reason at one time and it's still there--it appears that the PDF file in an earlier post showed that changes had been made in late 2007 to our Bylaws and voted on at TM. I think we have made other changes since then, too(?), so it seems that no one had a big problem with this part of the Bylaw when Bylaws were reviewed and still wanted it there for a reason... - EF
1/11 5:22pm: JN: You helped draft and pass the by-law about signs and holiday decorations that you referenced in your first two posts?? I get it now. I have a lot of comments, but there is really no point anymore. - CS
1/11 5:14pm: Hey AT, Who are you, Sigmund Freud? Stick to the issue and if anyone needs psychoanalyzed via Norfolknet it is you. [...] - MON
1/11 5:12pm: I am curious, how did Ross and Brown advocate for Norfolk to keep the prison mitigation money? Since it wasn't just reduced, it was cut entirely, why were they so ineffective in their efforts? Will they each be at Town Meeting on January 12 to explain why they were unable to retain some of that money? I think we are owed an explanation. - MJD
1/11 5:08pm: CS: My whole point of illustrating this bylaw was not to say that it should be enforced. It was to show that the bylaws are selectively enforced. Why should the town uphold the sign bylaw and not this one? - JN
1/11 5:04pm: Hey AT: This is what happens when anyone posts on NN (unless they are talking about birds). All the rabid schoolyard bullies come out and attack. You should all just mellow out and back off a bit. Your anger will only harm your health in the end. - JN
[Some of this discussion must take place off-line... as I'm the only one who sees both the initials and the email addresses, how would anyone else know whether the initials match the address? - Wm.]
1/8 11:17pm: College student wanted for Deputy Moderator post: There will be a brief Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, January 12 at 7 p.m. at the H. Olive Day School cafetorium to balance the town budget in view of declining revenues. With so many college students at home on Winter break, I would like to invite participation by college students who are registered voters to join us, so they can see and participate in the Town Meeting process of direct democracy. Any college student who would like to be appointed as Deputy Moderator for this Town Meeting should send me a one paragraph email at Winslow@virtualnorfolk.org about why they think it is important for citizens to be involved in town government. I will select one applicant from the submissions and appoint him/her as Deputy Moderator to assist me with Town Meeting. It will look good on a student's college resume and be a great introduction to college students to the process of making a difference in public life. - Dan Winslow, Town Moderator
1/8 11:16pm: The birds have returned to our feeders in great numbers with more juncos than I have ever seen. Very few chickadees, several doves, two cardinals/ and two blue jays. Unfortunately for the birds a red tailed hawk has found a feeding ground. A rabbitt has found shelter under my deck and has also joined the feed group. I hope I am not violating a by-law having him living uner there, I am not charging rent. - RC
1/8 11:11pm: JN - My two cents - if you wanted to avoid being bashed on this issue, then you should have simply (and objectively) stated the text of the bylaw, thereby putting it up for discussion here. The latter part of your original post (the part on what the town and the building commissioner should do) is what fueled tempers and made others to believe that you are in fact being "bah-humbug". Your subsequent posts only fueled the fire even more. Sorry. But you kind of asked for it... :) - JC
1/8 11:10pm: This whole argument about lights and decorations seems foolish to me. If, in this economy you can afford to keep your lights on, then you most certainly can afford the fine if there is one forthcoming. Which I doubt. Sounds to me someone has a neighbor with a gazillion lights (LOL!) that keep them up at night and they're just trying to find a way for them to take them down. Not that I was in the holiday spirit this year either but, lighten up. - DT
1/8 11:08pm: Re: JN's post and the comments that followed - the point here isn't not whether the bylaw is legal or whether it should be enforced. Rather, the point here is that one person's sad [...] cry for attention was, unfortunately, successful... and hilarious. - AT
1/8 11:06pm: This question is for any one of the school committee members. I had asked it twice earlier with no response. I was reminded of that when I received the warrant for the special town meeting on 1/12 to transfer funds to where they are most needed. The warrant mentioned budgetary cuts in departments and also that nothing would be cut regarding schools. The question I have is what % of medical insurance is paid for by the town, and what % increase have Norfolk teachers received in each of the last 3 years. What part of those increases, if any, are COLA increases? Thanks in advance. - EF
1/8 11:05pm: AMG - Thanks for setting me straight on the Black Phoebes. You know I thought they might be Juncos, but when I Googled them, none of the images I found showed birds that were dark enough. The Cornell link is you provided, however, is definitely the little guys that have been swarming our feeders from dawn to dusk - so thanks. This is the first year I've seen them in such numbers. - JMF
1/8 11:04pm: DCL: I don't have a cause, but it appears you do. - JN
1/8 11:03pm: JN: I did not mean to bash you, and I apologize for coming across strongly. The reason is that I feel strongly about this issue. Your point about enforcing all by-laws equally makes sense. What does not make sense is the by-law itself, particularly the lack of clarity and how it conflicts with other fundamental American rights. - CS
1/8 8:36pm: Regarding the bylaw below. Reads pretty clearly to me. If you don't like the way it reads and feel it is archaic, or an attack on civil liberties, get involved. I believe that the Bylaw Study Committee was looking for a couple of new members not too long ago(?) It is what it is. Until such time as the bylaw is changed, abide by it. Article IX
Section 4:
F. Temporary displays or decorations customarily associated with national, state, local, or religious holiday or celebration. Such displays or decorations shall be erected no more than thirty-five (35) days before and removed no later than fourteen (14) days after the celebration;- EF
1/8 8:35pm: JGP - Westwood has a Summer Enrichment Program for entering K-8 that runs from 8:30 to noon. The web site isn't up yet for this summer, but should be before too long. - SC
1/8 8:27pm: JN - the best part of it is that your comments clearly demonstrate that you do not know the bylaw. While the bylaw may refer to displays related to religious holidays or celebrations, good luck to anyone who thinks that they are going to try and restrict the use of Christmas lights. They are no different than my display of Pink flamingoes that arrive mid June or the corn stalks that are wrapped around my mailbox pole. They are Lawn Ornaments. I took the time to review the bylaws for restrictions on lawn ornaments and failed to find them. The bylaw will not restrict my Christmas decorations. You can keep insisting that it does but you are wrong. - DCL
[Isn't "you do not know the bylaw" rather different from "the bylaw is not enforceable?" You accuse of the former but argue the latter. The law is as it's written, not as would be sensible, and takes legislation (or litigation) to reinterpret. But until such, it stands. PS: Corn stalks are Thanksgiving decor, same deal. Laws are laws, no? - Wm.]
1/8 8:12pm: Ok everyone.before you continue to bash JN--please reread the post(s). It was I that stated (and apparently with not enough clarity) "if they had to take down their political sign (maybe it wasn't theirs) and they stated "due to bylaw _______", then why shouldn't the town have to adhere to the same". - SC
1/8 8:11pm: RLB and CS: I do not need to soul search. Good grief, you act as tough I am stealing candy from babies and pushing the elderly down a flight of stairs. All I did was post a town bylaw. It is not a comment on anything other than we have this law in our town and gee, did anyone know that? This is not about being a mean-spirited person. I decorate, too. Sorry that we have laws, but we do. I know all about the liberties granted by the constitution. But we also have to abide by the laws in our own town. That is just the way it is. We cannot pick and choose the ones we like. We are supposed to follow them all. Otherwise, we are breaking them. - JN
1/8 1:51pm: It is interesting how all of my comments have been taken out of context. Christmas is considered a federal holiday celebrated on December 25th--not an "American Christmas". Get over yourselves. I was not talking about anyone's religious beliefs nor commenting on anything else. Do not make this about something it is not. - JN
1/8 1:50pm: I was just wondering if anyone knew of any 1/2 day camps out there for a 10 year old? - JGP
1/8 1:38pm: JN: The simple act of bringing attention to this bylaw at this time of year perhaps warrants some honest soul searching on your part. How could you not know that by raising this issue at this time, the good people of Norfolk, who wish to keep alive good will and peace associated w/ Christmas by leaving some lights or decorations up in a picturesque winter wonderland, will feel pressured to remove them or feel guilty and/or fear potential consequences if they don't. It certainly reeks of hum-bug spirit to me! I hope the town officials have sense enough to show a little tolerance (as we all should) in the spirit of the season. - RLB
1/8 1:33pm: JN: Perhaps you forgot that America was founded by people who wrote the Constitution and other laws to ensure freedom of religion and a separation between church and state. It is very bold of you to assert that we all celebrate Christmas on December 25th. Clearly many, many Americans do not limit their religious observances to this day. Heck, many people in America are not Christian. - CS
1/8 1:30pm: Re "As far as reading into the bylaw to say that we should honor other holidays, like Swedish Christmas, I think that is a bit of a stretch. And you know it. In America, we celebrate Christmas on December 25th." - JC
1/8 1:29pm: JN - It would be helpful if you had actually spoken to the building inspector. As AB points out, holiday decorations aren't covered by the sign bylaw. If you had taken the time to read and understand the bylaw, and spoken to the building inspector, you would have saved yourself the anguish of being attacked by pathetic and mean-spirited neighbors. - DCL
1/8 1:28pm: Last day to sign up for Christmas tree disposal service offered by the Boy Scouts of Troop 80. You may call or email any time today up until 7pm this evening to schedule pick up, 508-291-2121 or www.xmastree.troop80.net. Please remember to have your tree curbside by 9am tomorrow morning. The cost for pickup is $10 for trees up to 10 feet, $15 for larger trees. Thank you to all who have supported Troop 80 once again this year! - KC
1/8 1:19pm What a stupid law. The town can come and try and put my Christmas lights and my political sign out of my cold dead hands in April. I'll take them down when I'm good and ready. - PJT
1/8 1:18pm You know what surprises me about the discussion on decorations and bylaws ? How many messages (including this one) it has generated. I am not taking one side or the other because I think with all the other issues we face (e.g. terrorism, the economy, health care, a senatorial race, high taxes, etc,) it is so far down my radar, it is a non issue. - JFO
1/8 1:17pm Hello everyone, I had two point, we received about 14 inches of snow at the Stony Brook Nature Center although the wind kept it drifting quite a bit so some areas were much deeper than that while others (sections of the boardwalks were bare). - DW
1/8 1:16pm I fully intend to keep my outside Christmas lights on well into February. It's a tradition, much like watching Elf or A Christmas Story mid December. I love rounding the corner on my way home from work, it's dark, it's dreary, and there... coming 'round the bend... is my beacon of light! Haven't heard a complaint yet, so I think the neighbors might enjoy it as much as I do. - AL
1/8 1:14pm AB: I think we all know what a holiday decoration is. New Snow Removal By-law (WESTON MA)We could adopt a similar bylaw. Perhaps you, AB, would like to draft something and place it on the warrant for the next town meeting since this seems to be of concern to you.
"Please be advised that the Weston Annual Town Meeting held on May 11, 2009 unanimously approved a Snow Removal By-law. This new by-law prohibits the depositing of snow onto or across any public way, including sidewalks or public property. The by-law addresses the on-going problem of private contractors plowing snow from private driveways into the public way, which causes unsafe road conditions that must be corrected by the DPW.Violation tickets will be issued to the contracted snow removal contractor and/or the property owner under the non-criminal disposition by-law. The by-law reads as follows:
By-law - No Snow Deposited in Public Way
Town of Weston, MASection 5: No person, other than an employee or other person in the service of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the Town of Weston shall direct, discharge, dump, shovel, pile, push, blow, plow or deposit snow, ice, or water under conditions where water would be subject to freezing onto, into or across any public way, including sidewalks or public property, or cause, direct, sanction or authorize any such activity involving snow, ice, or water on a public way or public property.
This By-law may be enforced as provided in Article V, Sections 1 and 2 of the general By-laws, including non-criminal disposition.
This new by-law will be strictly enforced. Your anticipated cooperation is appreciated."
- JN
1/8 8:13am To all of you who think I am being a Scrooge just because I am informing you of an actual law we have in the town, I find many of your remarks pathetic and mean spirited. - JN
1/8 8:11am JN: I really, really, really, really hope that this is just [an] attempt at humor. There is nowhere in the bylaw that a "sign" means a light display, wreath etc. There is no definition of what a decoration is - to someone it could mean a pile of rusting hulk of metal or it could mean a real pretty plastic unicorn. The bylaw is flawed in that the bylaw doesn't define whether the decoration or sign or display (but not lights or wreaths) has to be outside or it could even be in the privacy of my home. In all seriousness who are you or anyone who enforces this nonsense and make decisions for me about what my religious celebrations are or when my holidays end. If you really want to make a difference why don't go after residents and snow removal companies that plow snow into the street and create a real public hazard. - AB
1/7 10:54pm Does the bylaw apply to stores that decorate for upcoming holidays months in advance? I can see certain advantages... - AR
1/7 10:53pm I don't think that JN was trying to enforce the taking down of Christmas lights, but merely stating that, if they had to take down their political sign (maybe it wasn't theirs) and they stated "due to bylaw _______", then why shouldn't the town have to adhere to the same. I do recall the lights on the common being on quite sometime after Christmas in '08 (late into January) and it infuriated me at how wasteful it was. - SC
1/7 10:31pm JN: Or is it Scrooge? My Christmas lights are frozen to my trees. I am not turning them on, but they are there. Should it cost me $300? I don't think so. Am I going to turn in my neighbors to the "holiday police" so they can be fined $300 when the economy is in shambles and people are scraping by? No, that would only create a rotten neighborhood full of bitter people. I find it sad that this is even being suggested. Pathetic. - CS
1/7 10:30pm If anyone near the Overlea Road and Rockwood area are missing a black cat with white on it's face it was just in my backyard. I noticed cat tracks coming into my driveway the other day when cleaning the snow and the only reason I notice this is because it is highly unusual because of the 2 very large dogs I have, one with a very strong prey drive. If it is your cat you may want to try to keep it closer to home as Rockwood is a death trap for pets and there are foxes and coyotes behind my yard if it somehow continues to get past the dogs. Also if it is your pet and it has been missing just post and I will try to catch it if I see it again. - SC
1/7 10:27pm JN - I wonder what date the "event" will be specific to. Regiously, the Christmas celebration is not just one day, but runs to Epiphany, or January 6th. So, would the date run to 14 days after that? Or is the date around the Greek Christmas, which is today and therefore lights could be left up until 14 days from now?? It seems to me that neighbors could be celebrating a different date for their religious celebration, or ... Just thoughts. - JHR
1/7 10:26pm For all the fellow birdwatchers, I came across something interesting in this months Country Living magazine. The National Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology are asking people to keep an eye out for birds Feb. 12-15, then record your sightings at birdcount.org. The data helps researchers understand the ways birds respond to the changing temperatures and other environmental changes. - KAS
1/7 10:25pm JN, if you hate being a bah-humbug type of gal, then why are you being so? Were those who were told to take down political signs actually fined? My Swedish friends always celebrated the 12 days of Christmas ending with January 6 Little Christmas so does that give them until the 20th to take down their decorations? - KF
1/7 5:57pm I hate to be a bah-humbug kind of gal, but tomorrow, (the 8th of January) the town and many of its citizens, will be in violation of a town bylaw. Article IXThe fine is $300 per violation. That ought to bring some pretty good revenue into the town. The town should take the lead and take down all holiday lights. They are costing the town money, anyway. We can ill-afford any wasteful spending this year.
Section 4:F. Temporary displays or decorations customarily associated with national, state, local, or religious holiday or celebration. Such displays or decorations shall be erected no more than thirty-five (35) days before and removed no later than fourteen (14) days after the celebration;
- JN
1/7 5:51pm On Saturday, January 9th, a "Fun Run" will be held in memory of Larry Olsen. Larry "Legend" Olsen, the most widely admired runner in New England, who died on Dec. 6, 2009 at age 63, had grown up in Norfolk. - HK
1/7 5:49pm Hi all - we too have lots and lots of birds at our feeder and are really enjoying them... they look beautiful against the white snow! Just wanted to point out that the birds you are seeing are not black phoebes which only live in the southwest, but are instead dark-eyed juncos (also known as slate juncos) which are winter visitors to our area. Check out the following sites for more info on each species: [Cornell page 1] and [Cornell page 2] - Happy Birding! - AMG
1/7 5:46pm Hi JHR & JMF, That is sad about the Cat. It was a great way to go if you wanted to get directly to Yarmouth with a vehicle. I hear there are some pretty reasonable flights from Providence to Halifax and I believe you can fly Halifax to PEI. I would probably opt to drive if the time was available. So much to do and see between here and there and that run up the west side of the Bay of Fundy is pretty stunning. Good luck with the planning. - REW
1/7 12:11am JMF... Thanks for those who have been helpful in our still in the planning stages of a trip to Nova Scotia and PEI. I too, saw the article about the CAT from Portland and Bar Harbor, but thought that did not apply to the real Ferry, what used to be called the Prince of Fundy. I assume that still runs but that it is the CAT that's been "grounded", no pun intended. Hope so. I really don't want to drive via New Brunswick. Tommorow I'll do some phoning and report back to the net. - JHR
1/7 12:10am At the recent Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Norfolk Public Library, the following slate of officers was elected: President: Cathy ElderThe Friends of the Norfolk Public Library is a non-profit organization designed to stimulate community interest in library services and to support the library in providing these services. Through a program of volunteer, promotional, and fundraising activities, "Friends" help acquire important materials and equipment beyond the limit of the library's regular operating budget. They also aim to inform the community of the library's resources, services, and needs.
Vice-president: Maureen Buck
Secretary: Beverly Baldoni
Co-treasurers: Thayer Olson and Beth Vallee
Nominating Committee: Maureen Buck- JR
1/6 4:55pm Just heard about a wonderful kitty who needs a home by Friday... "I just went to see him last night again and I think he is closer to 3 years old. He is way too fat and because of that he can't reach his back to groom it that well, but other than that he looks great. He loves to play and loves attention. He is currently living in with an elderly woman that is in a wheel chair in a small apartment. I need to find a home for his ASAP because the management of the apartment complex said if he is not gone by Friday then they will take the cat from her and have him euthanized. Any way you can help would be great. Phone 508-254-6129 or email me at HelloRonaele@verizon.net."
- SD
1/6 1:46pm The 6th Annual Gary Mirliss Memorial Blood and Bone Marrow Drive, in partnership with Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, will be taking place this Saturday, January 9, 2010 from 9:30-2 at the King Philip Middle School. - GM
1/6 1:44pm Absentee Voting for the 1/19/10 State Election - You may vote by absentee ballot if you: - Gail Bernardo, Town Clerk, Town of Norfolk
1/6 1:43pm I am looking for a dorm size fridge for my daughter's room at college. If anyone has a working unit that they no longer need and is interested in selling it to her, call 508-520-4374. - RH
1/6 1:42pm In only a couple of days the Commonwealth will be holding the special election for the United States Senate Seat once held by the late Edward Kennedy. One of the candidates is our own State Senator Scott Brown of Wrentham. Senator Brown has been representing Norfolk for over a decade first as our State Representative and presently as our State Senator. If you are interested in learning more about Senator Brown please check out his campaign Website (brownforussenate.com). If you would like a yard signs, bumper stickers, or are interested in volunteering to help elect Senator Brown to the United States Senate please feel free to contact me at GMirliss@gmail.com. Vote Brown Jan. 19th. - GM
1/6 1:41pm Looking for extra academic/organizational help for your child? I have my Master's Degree in Teaching Grades K-6, hold a MA Teaching Certification, and am a former fourth and sixth grade teacher in the Dover and Newton School Systems. I have tutoring hours available both weekdays and weekends. Competitive rates. Please contact me via email at klbeirne@yahoo.com. - KB
1/6 1:40pm Does anyone know how much snow we actually got in Norfolk this past weekend? - JH
1/6 1:39pm REW - Thanks for the great post about travel to Nova Scotia and PEI. Sadly, I was stunned the other day to hear that they are discontinuing the CAT Ferry from Portland to Yarmouth. ([article]) That trip is been on my To Do list for forever, but now we'll have to either do the long drive through New Brunswick or fly. Just goes to shows you should never wait too long to do these things! - JMF
1/6 1:38pm PFD, Try Barmarkian's in Framingham. We have bought alot there and they have been fantastic - KO
1/6 1:37pm To PFD: Try Cindi's Jewelery Shop in Foxborough. She does beautiful work at a reasonable price. Her business card is posted on this site. - SDB
1/5 10:43pm AL, I second the response from BHS. Ski shops will not sell or trade in used helmets for the reasons BHS mentions. If they do, run out the door to another store as fast as you can. If you just need one for a weekend or something than it is probably OK to borrow one, but ask if the regular wearer has ever had a bad crash. If you want one to use often and/or for a few years definitely buy a new one. There are some good discussions about ski gear on epicski.com. Check out my site at new-england-ski-mountain-resorts.com for info on the resorts. - SC
1/5 10:42pm BHS: Good info, thank you! - AL
1/5 10:41pm If anyone is looking for an entertainment center, please take a look at the Notice Board below. - PFD
1/5 10:40pm I am looking for a local jeweler that could reset a wedding ring and engagement ring. It appears that my wife has some sort of allergy to the gold now. I originally purchased it at the jewelers building in Boston, but I simply do not have the time to get into Boston at this point. Any local suggestions that are reasonable in prices? Thanks. - PFD
1/5 10:39pm TW - We too are out there every day. They are going through all my feeders. Thanks to the poster who identified the black phoebe. We were unfamiliar with that bird and they are the really ravenous ones. Cheers! - BS
1/5 10:38pm Brushburning season is from 1/15-5/1. - NR
1/5 4:25pm I know where all of the Norfolk birds are... my house. They have been having a banquet at our feeders. We have been refilling all 3 almost every day. It must be the happy hour 2 for 1 cocktails we are offering as an enticement!! - TW
1/5 4:23pm Travel Soccer Registration, Soccer Club of Norfolk, Spring 2010. Visit our web site at www.norfolksoccer.com to register! - CB
1/5 4:21pm A reminder that the Boy Scouts will be out this Saturday, January 9th, to pickup and dispose of Christmas trees.Those trees that were not picked up last Saturday due to the weather will be taken this week. The Scouts will be out with the trucks for a good part of the day. It is not too late to schedule a pickup at your house. Please call 508-291-2121 or email the Scouts at www.xmastree.troop80.net. - KC
1/5 4:20pm AL - A word of caution when buying a used ski helmet (or bike helmet). Most ski and bike helmets are designed to withstand only a single blow and then need to be replaced. Helmets self destruct by design, taking the energy from the impact to protect the noggin. Only a trained eye can determine if a used helmet still has the intended protection. Most helmet manufacturers will replace helmets after an accident at a reduced price. Ski helmets are on deep discounts this time of year (after the new year) at stores such as Sport Authority, sometimes at TJ Maxx, etc. I'd suggest going with new for a helmet if you truly want to protect the head. - BHS
1/5 9:50am Hello... I'm looking to find a used exercise bike - if anyone has one that needs a new home please let me know. Thanks. - JHR
1/5 9:48am Norfolk Democratic Caucus will be held on Saturday February 13, 2010 starting at 12 noon in the Norfolk Town Library Community meeting room. All registered Norfolk Democrats as of January 31, 2010 are eligible to run for a Delegate position to the State Annual Convention in Worcester on June 5th 2010. As a Delegate you will participate in electing the Democratic slate of candidates for Statewide Office in the November 2010 election. - JG, Norfolk Democratic Town Chair
1/5 9:46am Hi JHR, Here are four links for some good info about Nova Scotia: [novascotia.com page] , www.catferry.com , www.tourismpei.com/index.php3 , and www.nfl-bay.com. Due to time constraints, I only got to spend a day out on PEI my last trip up. The Cat from Portland, ME to Yarmouth, NS and then the the Northumberland ferry from Caribou to Wood Island, PEI is the way to go unless you plan to drive all the way to New Brunswick and go over on the Confederation Bridge. The drive from Yarmouth to Caribou is easy and beautiful. I believe you now need a passport to cross into Canada. You can find a bit more info on Nova Scotia here: [russellwaldronphotography.com page] . Have a great trip. - REW
1/5 9:40am DS, try checking with the Fire Department, 528-3207. I think the burning season is now until May 1. - DLJ
1/5 9:39am SO - You can buy hot water bottles at CVS. My kids each take one to bed with them. - BMS
1/4 8:40pm Looking to buy teen sized ski helmet, if you are cleaning out and come = upon one that is not being used. - AL
1/4 8:37pm HC - That is an absolute miracle, beyond all belief. Where the heck did you get that hot water bottle? - SO
1/4 8:35pm I've noticed a big drop-off on birds at my feeders too. Chickadees, jays, titmice, nuthatches and doves are down big time. I haven't seen any house finches, red-breasted nuthatches, hairy woodpeckers, towhees or rose-breasted grosbeaks. It's really weird. I can't think of who else is missing, but the goldfinches are also lean in numbers. Juncos and cardinals are doing just fine it seems. I was trying to save money, but I may have to plug in the birdbath heater and see if that makes a difference. It was awfully warm late into the season this year. Any thoughts that this might have had an effect? - SO
1/4 8:32pm To AP, I second that recomendation for Mark's Upholstering. He just completed my new front seat on my classic car. The quality is superior. - PJT
1/4 8:31pm Hello fellow birdwatchers! We have seen a slight decline this fall, but all my winter visitors have returned. We have the usual bluejays, chickadees, juncos, woodpeckers, and finches (always remember the finches change color in the winter and they are hard to tell apart from other birds), Carolina wrens, and most recently 4 bluebirds. The most important thing to put out for the birds in the winter is fresh water. We have 2 birdbaths with heaters, and this ensures the water won't freeze. Just leave out a shallow container with a couple of inches of water, and you will get a lot of birds coming by foe a drink or even a bath, despite the cold. We also leave out suet, shelled nuts and seeds, raisins, and mealworms. Good luck! - IS
1/4 8:16pm Getting too cold for you to walk your dog? Wish you had some help taking care of your pets during these long winter months? Leashrly Life can help! - AW, Leashrly Life
1/4 8:15pm RC: We have not had nearly as many birds at our feeders this winter either. I have seen quite a few birds fall victim to the hawks though. We still use the same bird foods, in the same places, but there are just not many birds out there in our neighborhood either. - CS
1/4 8:14pm Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer - time to register for Spring 2010 soccer! Registration will be on-line only - www.norfolklionssoccer.com No registrations will be accepted after the March 1, 2010 deadline!! - MD
1/4 8:13pm Does anyone know when brush burning season begins? - DS
1/4 8:12pm I am looking for a reliable, inexpensive used car. I you have one or know someone who has one, please post car description and contact information. - TS
1/4 8:11pm Hello, My husband and I, seniors, plan to finally travel to Prince Edward Island this summer. But, where to go and how to do this? I understand it is all lovely, but as a first time, where should we head for a week or 2 in a cottage. All help is appreciated. Thanks. - JHR
1/4 11:00am Just a reminder that registration for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer's Spring 2010 season is now open. Registration will be on-line only - go to our website at www.norfolklionssoccer.com No registrations will be accepted after the March 1, 2010 deadline!! - HK
1/4 10:59am Happy 2010 Norfolk! In a couple of weeks we will be voting on our new Senator from Massachusetts. We are lucky to have such great candidates that are devoted to our state for better or worse. I represent Martha Coakley here in town and if you are interested in a yard sign, bumper sticker or volunteering to stand with me in the town center some day, send me an email and I will get right back to you. Most importantly, now that the Holiday crazies are over, spend a little time getting to know the candidates so you can make an informed choice on Election Day! Go Martha! l.antonellis@yahoo.com - LA
1/4 10:57am Wanted: Treadmill for husband - no, this isn't a joke! my husband is convinced that if he has a treadmill, he will exercise every day. I am hoping someone has one that they are not using and would like to get out of their house. If you have a treadmill in good working condition, and would like to either sell it cheaply or give it away, could you please contact me? Thanks! cmkearins@verizon.net - CK
1/4 8:19am The Southeastern Massachusetts Community Concert Band will begin rehearsals for the spring concert season on Monday, February 1. The band meets every Monday, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m, at the Community Church, 193 Main Street, Medway. Membership is open to anyone who plays a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument. At this time, there is a need for additional trumpet, clarinet, tuba, and percussion players. There are no auditions, and musicians of high school age and up are invited to attend. For more information, visit the band's website: www.smccb.com, or call (508)-520-1572. - CR
1/3 8:53pm AP: Quite a number of years ago I had to have a zipper resewn into a suitcase. I think I used KMK Cleaners in Millis near Roche Brothers. I believe they sent it out - it was not inexpensive, but less cost than a new suitcase! We got many more years out of that suitcase! - CA
1/3 8:50pm RC - We live close to Highland Lake, and were inundated with black Phoebes today (maybe 20-30 at a time) but I haven't seen any chickadees in quite a while. Come to think of it, I haven't seen any goldfinches either. The downy woodpeckers are regulars to our feeders (4-6) as well as nuthatches and titmice (though never more than 2-4 at a time). Later in the day, 4 mourning doves made an appearance and I think I saw one blue jay. - JMF
1/3 4:33pm I remember the hard time the town gave Dunkin Donuts when they started building in town! - HMK
1/3 12:04pm I, too, have seen a reduction in the amounts of birds at my feeders, especially since summer ended. I've put out thistle seed, and a mixture and have seen virtually no birds at my feeders. My only (limited) succes has been the suet feeder, which has had nuthatches and some woodpeckers. I miss my finches! - SC
1/3 12:03pm Update on the cat: big thanks to Acorn Animal Hospital. They had 5 minutes warning of me bringing this cat in, and they worked on her like it was one of their own personal pets. She left the hospital yesterday after being reheated into the low 90's, some steroids, blood sugar monitoring and some fluids. She's slowly recuperating with lots of rest, heating pad, and food in my living room. She seems to be heading in the right direction. I am still looking for her owners. She was definitely someone's cat as she just loves to be held and patted. Because she only weighs 3 1/4 lbs this cat may have been living on her own for a substantial amount of time. - HC
1/3 12:01pm RC: On the contrary, we have had more birds at our backyard feeder this year than ever before. I try to put out fresh food for them daily. Perhaps that is the trick? Happy 2010. - JN
1/3 11:59am Can you believe that the govt was too busy? [Estate Tax Reform Fails and The Dirty Little Secret of the Law] - JO
1/3 11:58am To AP looking for an upholstery repair shop, I have not used any of them but you could try - DLJ
1/3 11:57am HRB #1 - How many years have you been in town? I have been here for 48 years and watched town officials chew up and spit out many people trying to open businesses in town... All of a sudden things are changing... - ER
1/2 8:50pm I have about 12 bolts of fabric. Various colors/patterns. Each has a substantial amount on the roll. Looking to give them someone. Maybe someone who does crafting or teaches classes. They come as a unit so if anyone is interested please email sbj83@msn.com. - SJ
1/2 8:49pm Happy New Year everyone! I am have been given a chance to enjoy a trip to Europe via the People to People Student Ambassador program. To raise the necessary amount of money to make this journey, I am asking you to help me by participating in a can drive. Just email me you address and leave out all your returnable cans and bottles from parties, etc next to your mailbox on January 3, 2010 and I will pick them up. I thank you greatly for helping me with my once in a lifetime experience. Thank you and have a happy new year! My email is: p2pgirl13@yahoo.com - HRB (#2)
1/2 8:47pm Do you own this cat? I normally wouldn't post a picture like this but it was the only one I could snap with everyone helping this little girl. She was found emaciated, comatose and hypothermic an hour ago. Thank you so much for the person who found her lying in the snow outside. We've named her "86" because that was her body temperature upon arrival to the hospital. Normal cat temperature is 100 to 102.5. If you own her please call the ACO at 508 528 3232. If she makes it through the warming process she'll be one very lucky girl. - HC, Norfolk ACO
1/2 8:44pm Looking for a used GPS system. Only need it once therefore not looking to purchase a new one. If you got a new one for x-mas, and looking to get rid of your old one please let webmaster get it touch with me. Thanks! - DH
1/2 8:43pm The graduating sixth grade class is having a contest to raise funds for our graduation festivities. The fabulous folks at the Little Green Phonebook have given us the cover of the next issue, so we need pictures of your children. Imagine your childon the cover! Its easy, just send in your favorite photo, or as many as you like, along with $10.00 per photo. The contest is open to Norfolk residents only, children must be under the age of 12. Photos must be received before Feb. 1, 2010 and winners will be contacted by Feb. 13th. The staff atVillage Photo, Franklin & the owners of the Little Greenphone will be judging. Send photos along with cash or check (made out to F-C Class of 2010) to Photo Contest, 54 Medway St, Norfolk. Also please print your name, phone # and child's age on the back of each photo. No names will be used in publication and three photos will appear on the cover, so three chances to win! If you have questions contact annedicenso@verizon.net. - AD
1/2 8:41pm When is Norfolk Community Day in June 2010? - KO
1/2 8:40pm Has anyone else seen a decline in birds at the feeder? Does not seem to be as many as last year. Last fall Stony Brook indicated that they saw fewer birds. - RC
1/2 8:39pm Happy New Year! I hope this is a great year for all of us! - SF
1/2 8:38pm AB-G, What on earth are you talking about? ``...whoever has any jurisdiction will fight tooth and nail to keep businesses out of town.'' The Town has made major investments to attract business to the town center, including the road system that connects the new Walgreens and a huge stormwater retention system under Town Hill that makes larger-scale commercial construction feasible. The 1992 Master Plan clearly envisions and encourages business expansion and Town Meeting voted to change the zoning in the center of town (twice) to make it more business-friendly. - HRB (#1)
1/2 9:23am For households participating in the Boy Scout Xmas Tree pickup, today's (1/2) pickups are postponed to next Saturday (1/9) with the snow. - KC
