This is the archive of previous Norfolk Notes.
Home
12/31 3:52pm Tax bill ...yes about an $600 or more increase with a slip of paper asking for donations and still NO TOWN SEWERAGE.... - ER
12/31 12:19pm Would someone care to explain the recent real estate bill? Not only did the mill rate increase by 4.78%, but the value of my acreage increased by 34.35% and the value of the property by 12.78%. The total tax payable increased by 28.02% from 2004 to 2005. Have other people seen as large increases on their bill? - PCS
12/30 9:48pm We all know how horrific the events have been around part of the world concerning the tsunami and the massive relief effort that is now under way. There are some great organizations that you can donate to, but be advised, some of them aren't so good handing out the money to those who need it. A lot of their donations are eaten up by overhead and bureaucracy, e.g. the Red Cross, the United Way and the UN. I gave to Samaritan's Purse which has a pretty good track record. Check out their web site samaritanspurse.org or do a little research on your own. - DG
[Odd, Samaritan's Purse chose not to submit information to give.org, the Better Business Bureau's comprehensive list of U.S. charities. Their own web page includes lots of information on how they bring Christ to the spiritually impoverished third world, including that ``Advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the singular objective of our financial conduct.'' But I could find no information disclosing their management overhead or corporate officers' salaries. It's comforting to know that the tsunami victims' spiritual needs will be taken care of, but I'd recommend charities that are up-front about their finances. - Wm.]
12/30 6:29pm What does everyone think of the new lamps in the town center? I love the concept but the globes seem far too small for the height of the posts. Also, the material looks, well, I didn't find it to be an aesthetically pleasing choice. Who is making the plans for the town center? Is there a special committee? - TS
12/30 6:28pm What is Pebble Hill? - JG
12/30 8:24am To JG - Thanks for the tip - I'd always used Duraflames as I assumed they were safer because they don't spark - yikes! To Wm - Thanks for the tsunami information and donation links...
- MD
12/29 12:27pm Looking for a babysitter to come to our Norfolk home 3 times a week to provide part time day care for our 2 daughters ages 2 and 1. If you are interested please call Pete at 508-397-2337 for more details. - PS
12/29 10:18am For those of you interested in helping out the victims of the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Amazon.com has a site [here] where you can give credit card donations which will go to the American Red Cross. As of 6:30 this morning, about 19,000 Amazon users have donated $1million. - RG
[The Amazon page goes to the American Red Cross; other aid organizaions also accept on-line credit card payments. The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, Give.org, has a page that provides detailed information about all U.S. charities - Wm.]
12/28 2:58pm Thank you to the Norfolk Fire Department for putting out our out of control fireplace fire! Just a word of caution to anyone using Duraflame firelogs - they are dangerous! We had ashes in our fireplace left over from several fires this winter - the ashes were from Duraflame logs. When we lit Christmas candles in the fireplace on Sunday, the match ignited the ashes that had the Duraflame chemicals on them and there was an explosion! Flames shot out into the living room and sparks hit the ceiling. When the fire department arrived there was another explosion. The fire chief told me that he does not recommend the Duraflames as they are dangerous. Best to use the old fashioned method of real wood and kindling to make a fire. Luckily there was no damage and no-one was hurt. - JG
12/27 6:26pm After further study I'm going with a Coopers Hawk. You can tell by the eyes. Here is a link to Cornell's "All About Birds" site. A great site if you like bird watching. [click for Cornell's Cooper's Hawk page]. - JS
12/27 6:24pm Hello - I was wondering if anyone knew of any playgroups in Norfolk or the surrounding towns for 15 month olds. I would like to have my son playing with kids his age. Thank you in advance :) - JH
12/26 8:41pm I think JS has made a correct id (Merlin Falcon). See attached photos. - JO
[The cited page is from centralpets.com [click] - Wm.]
12/26 3:37pm Merry Christmas! Hope Santa's been good to everyone!
- Wm.
12/24 5:48pm Seems that the Merlin doesn't have a spotted back, as shown in the photo. It appears to look more like a red-tailed or perhaps a broad-winged hawk. - KP
12/23 12:07pm Here is a picture of the hawk at town hall. I took it yesterday from my office window. I'm no expert but it looks like a merlin falcon. - JS
[As usual, click on the image for the larger view - Wm.]
12/23 9:12am Another aid to help dispel the doldrums toward the 88 days to the spring solstice is to log on to The Old Farmers Almanac, almanac.com. Once on, hit the astronomy button - see astronomy tools - select sun/moon, enter zip and voila! Up pops the chart with the latitude/longitude and the sunrise/sunset data. Not only that, but you can look ahead and see when we will get home in the daylight!! - JO
12/23 9:10am Hi TO, they took the dugouts out a few days ago. - NA
12/23 9:04am Does anyone know what the building on the corner of Main street and Boardman is going to be? I heard it was going to be a deli but I'm not sure. - EW
[The most plausible rumor we've heard is that the owner is waiting to see how Pebble Hill turns out before making a final decision - Wm.]
12/21 4:25pm The Norfolk Community League and the Norfolk Lions would like to take this opportunity to thank the many wonderful people who helped make the third annual Haunted Train Ride and Enchanted Walk a huge success. - TR, Norfolk Community League
12/21 10:59am The Norfolk Lions would like to thank all of the residents of Norfolk and of the surrounding towns who purchased their Christmas Tree from us this year. We had another successful and profitable year and the monies that we generated have already begun to sift back out to the community at large for charitable purposes. Paul Terrio & William Hawkins, Christmas Tree Co-Chairs, Norfolk Lions
12/21 8:27am Ya but, March is a mere 10 weeks away, yea, spring is just around the corner. - JW
12/21 12:52am Happy Winter Solstice! At 7:42am this morning (per the NOAA) the North Pole will be tilted the farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. Starting today, days begin lengthening again until summer solstice on June 21. - Wm.
12/20 4:02pm I had a question about the dugouts at the majors field at the Freeman Centennial school. They have been condemned since early last spring (a few weeks into the last baseball season). When will they be repaired/replaced? - TO
12/20 4:02pm JO, thanks for the phone book info. I will be down this week to get one! Also, the lights in Millis are phenomenal! Kids of all ages should go check them out! I think it's 6-10 pm. - TO
12/20 4:02pm The Transfer Station holiday hours have appeared on the Town Hall page: Friday, December 24, 2004 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday, December 27, 2004 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2004 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2004 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday, December 31, 2004 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.- Wm.
12/19 8:34pm Saw an awesome sight this afternoon - a stunning hawk perched on top of Town Hall surveying all - it sat there for a long time and seem to be taking in the sights - only wish I had my camera... - TS
12/19 10:46am To the person on River Road with the Christmas decorations (leaping fish, multiple Santas, etc.): Thank you! Our family decided that your house was the best one we saw on our drive last night. For anyone who hasn't seen it -- it's about one to two miles up River Road on the right side, if you're coming from Myrtle St. We sat out front for several minutes, taking it all in. It was awesome! - HPK
12/19 10:44am Another piece of gold(?) in the form of an earring has been turned in to the Town Hall. - JO
12/18 10:34pm Lost Dog - Naugatuck Ave, Noon Hill Area. We are "baby sitting" an extremely friendly Bernese Mountain Dog who wandered off this evening. We have been combing the neighborhood but haven't found her. She is dark brown, black with white chest. She is very large and walks with a limp because of a shoulder injury. Her name is Greta and usually comes when called. She is wearing a collar with tags for Lincoln Mass. If found or seen please call (508) 528-1541 ASAP Thanks! - AB
Update 12/18 11:40pm: The dog has been found! - Wm.
12/17 8:54am As some of you know I man the Information Center at the Town Hall on a volunteer basis with the objective of making your visit "User Friendly" for information about your Town Hall. Toward that end I want to alert some persons who expressed a desire for a Norfolk phone book during their visits. We managed to get about 20 of the current year, thanks to the current printer, so that should will help those who can't wait until the 2005 edition comes out in Jan/Feb., especially newcomers and would-be newcomers. - JO, Town Hall Information Desk
12/16 10:28pm In response to NB: The Purr-fect Cat Shelter in Medway has lots of kittens/cats for adoption. Their website is www.purrfectcatshelter.org and it has pictures of most of the kittens/cats available. The volunteers working there are extremely knowledgeable and friendly and will do their best to match a cat to your needs. You may want to consider adopting two cats as it's not much more work and they will keep each other company! Good luck. - KT
12/16 5:13pm I second the motion. Let's get the World Series Trophy here! - DB
12/16 11:15am William Zrike of Norfolk has been named to the Top Gun "Fighting Clams" Lacrosse All Star team. The team is comprised of twenty-eight high school varsity players selected from the more than 1700 participants in the Top Gun Indoor Lacrosse Leagues in Acton, Northboro and Plymouth. - BW, Top Gun Lacrosse
12/16 10:17am The Red Sox management has stated that it will bring the World Series = trophy to any town in Mass. that requests it. Selectman, can we bring = it to Norfolk? Please? - DS
12/15 5:09pm I am looking to adopt a kitten, but having trouble finding a young (around 9-10 week old) to adopt. Does anyone know anyone who has kitten for adoption? Thanks.... - NB
12/15 8:34am To PCD, regarding baseball signup: January 8th is deadline, and you can sign up in-person, by mail, or online. Live registration will be held at the Freeman Centennial Elementary School on January 8th from 9am until 1pm. Mail-in registrations must be received by January 10, 2005, and the registration form will be available in few days at www.norfolkbaseball.com. The mailing address for registration forms is: Norfolk Little League, c/o Jim Schmidt, PO Box 176, Norfolk, MA 02056 Any mailed registrations received after the deadline will be assessed a $25.00 late fee. Lastly, online registration is available at Active.com. The direct link is: www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1173544 - JM
12/14 9:58pm Does anybody know when sign up for t-ball and little league starts for 2005 season? Any info would be helpful. - PCD
12/14 7:21pm Regarding the roundabouts - yes, the roundabouts will be built, but after winter's over, so we won't have to practice navigating them on the icy roads. - Wm.
12/14 6:55pm ML suggested I contact this web site. I do residential housecleaning, with 18 years experience in Norfolk/Franklin. I lived 20 years in Norfolk before moving to Plainville seven years ago, and still come to town most days of the week. I'm dependable, take my work seriously, and don't let bad weather, snow, sleet hold me up. I personally do all the work, including the little stuff - dusting, polishing, windexing, washing doors, cleaning fingerprints, emptying waste paper baskets. Price is by the job, not by the hour, and I give free estimates. - Debbie Taylor, Housecleaning 508-643-7396
12/14 5:32pm To NH Nana- It's Causeway Street in Millis and it's even bigger than last year! - ATB
12/14 5:31pm NH Nana - I think the farm you are looking for is on Causeway Street in Millis. I haven't been there yet myself, but I've heard great things about it! It looks like you would take 115 through Millis to Union Street, then left onto Causeway. - JL
12/14 2:36pm I am coming down from NH Friday to visit my grandson and was wondering if anyone can give me the street name where I can find the farm that you can drive through and see the Christmas light display. I caught the tail end of the story and never found out where it was, I just knew it was in Millis. Many thanks!! - NH Nana
12/13 12:31pm I saw in the paper Sunday that the School Committee voted to tear down Freeman-Centennial School. The theory is that this would cost less than expanding and renovating the existing building to accommodate the town's growing needs. Does anyone know what the next steps are for this project? - DAF
12/13 12:59am Not to open a can of worms or anything, but my longing for spring (already) got me thinking about gardening, which got me thinking about summertime watering bans. I was wondering why they don't just allot each household, based upon how many occupants, a certain gallonage per year. If the household goes over, the rate per gallon goes up. Or, x-rate for the first 10,000 gallons, x-rate for the next, and so on. The reason I'm asking is this. Just because a family refrains from watering their lawn doesn't necessarily mean they're conserving water. I know this because my family water bill (family of four) was hundreds less than a friend's bill (also family of four). How is it fair that I'm not supposed to water my lawn even though I'm using thousands of gallons less than another household? Any opinions out there? - [Name Withheld]
12/13 12:56am I am not an Art Therapist - but I am a Psychotherapist - if I can help please email me. Namaste - - Dobritte J Norris, MEd, Lakeview Therapies dobritte1@mac.com
12/12 8:44am From DLJ - Here is some contact information for local service people: George Bryant in Africa
Cpl Bryant, George
E CJTF-HOA, J-6
APO AE 09363
Jim Rose james.rose2@us.army.mil
CH (MAJ) James Rose
167th CSG
Camp Victory, Kuwait
APO AE 09328
Sheryl Lawry
SSG Sheryl Lawry
CFLCC PAO/14th PAD
Camp Arifjan-Kuwait
APO AE 09366
- DLJ
12/11 11:27pm To MJD, regarding Norfolk Lion's Soccer: If you visit www.norfolklionssoccer.com, and click the 'Registration' button on the left hand side, a registration form will come up (make sure any pop-up blockers are turned off). As you will read on the registration sheet, March 1st, 2005 is the cutoff for Spring registration; after that date, applicants may be placed on a waiting list if there's no room in the division they are applying for. - JM
[Update 12/12 8:57am: If you surf light, like I do - no images, no JavaScript, no popups - the direct link to the page is norfolklionssoccer.com/regform.htm - Wm.]
12/11 4:16pm Open question to the Lions Soccer folks out there... when does the Spring 2005 season start and when is the registration deadline? Thanks. - MJD
12/11 10:27am High School Drama Play - "The Christmas Story" If you did not get a chance to see the play last night, you should see it tonight (the last performance; arrive early before tickets sell out!) The students did a marvelous job. The play is entertaining and will put you in the holiday spirit. KP High School 7:30pm (Again - arrive early to get your tickets!) - RE
12/10 10:27am Some more details on our neighbor deployed in Iraq. Jim Rose is an Army Reserve chaplain deployed with the 167th Corps Support Group in Iraq since last December. He expects to be there until next June at least. - DAF
12/10 9:20am Anyone in town who is an art therapist? - BFS
12/9 12:17pm HPK: The wires in the flagpole on the moonscape are obviously part of the alien homing system (Help Wm!, can't find that old discussion in the archives)... [neither can I! - Wm.] - RG
12/9 10:34am To HPK: The Flagpole on the "Moonscape" is actually a cell phone tower disquised as a flagpole. There are two carriers on it. It is common practice to disquise these towers as many people dislike seeing them. There are many more cell phone installations already permitted in town but not yet in service, all of which will go on other existing structures. See all of the complaints below concerning cell phone service in town. It seems to take a long time for the cell phone companies to act on the permits they have been given. Some permits not yet acted upon are over a year old so they have technically expired. The companies will have to ask for extensions. The only reason for the "dead spots" in town is the lack of action by the cell phone companies. - JMB 12/9 9:42am On Tuesday, December 21, AT 7:00 pm there will be a special service called "Blue Christmas" at the Federated Church of Norfolk. - LD
12/9 9:40am DL - I found this Marine parents' site to be very informative [www.marinemoms.us page]. Unfortunately, it had the side effect of making me feel that I couldn't do much if I didn't know a specific soldier or marine over there. When my husband was in Somalia, he got a generic care package for "any marine" that he thought was left over from the Gulf War, because it took so long to sort out the mail! But you can apparently go through existing organizations to contribute - see [defendamerica.mil page]. Or another idea - there are a lot of wounded marines and soldiers coming home for rehabilitation, so perhaps you & your kids can contribute to a military hospital here in the States. - HPK
12/9 9:39am Has anyone noticed that the "flagpole" on the moonscape is actually wired for electricity or fiber optics or something? It has a meter box outside of its enclosure that is labeled for several cell phone providers. It also has an FCC registration number which I can't recall. Just curious if others know more info. - HPK
12/9 9:38am The pediatric dentist posts brought me back to my childhood, you know back in the ice age, my dentist was, I suppose, a pediatric dentist, I say suppose because he worked on all the kids teeth at my grammar school. We had a dentist office right next to the other dreaded principals office. No need to get picked up for an appointment, someone would come in to your classroom and give the teacher a note.The next thing you knew, you were sitting in his chair. He was as old as dirt and didn't take much time to make a child feel comfortable and after torturing us for with whatever drilling needed to be done, we went back to class to pick up where we left off. Oh yeah, there were no neat prizes either. Not everything was so good in the "good ole days." - JW
12/9 9:37am DL: Rev. Tracey Frink, who was the pastor of the Norfolk Federated Church, has a husband who I believe is stationed in Iraq. I'm sure the church would put you in touch with her. Good luck with your project! - MP
12/9 12:31am Is anyone interested in starting a cooking group for men & women - or is there one already going in the area that has openings? Email me at solon@massed.net. - SC
12/9 12:29am Re: cell phones. I too have Verizon. For the most part my calls will go through. I've learned where the dead spots are and just don't call from there; i.e. City Mills and Ceder Junction. Other than that it's adequate - not great - but I can place a call if needed. Although I do have to go to my window or outside my house to get a good reception. I've used Sprint and Cingular before and had no luck with any calls at my house and many places in town. Good luck. - HN
12/9 12:24am Driving down 115 at Tedeschi's plaza I noticed a new Century 21 real estate office in town. Does anyone know when it might be opening. It's nice to have have a Century 21 in Norfolk, I used a Century 21 for my relocation here and they were great. - IL
12/9 12:20am DL: No wireless service works all that well in Norfolk, speaking as someone who has had all of them except Nextel. Verizon is the best by far in this region (New England & New York), in my opinion. Their customer service is equally as poor as the others, but their coverage seems to be better. - JM
12/8 4:34pm Hi DL, I have Verizon and live a few houses down from the school have pretty good reception 3 bars. I haven't had any problems with reception around town. - JD
12/8 11:30am A question about cell phone service in Norfolk. I currently have AT&T/Cingular's GSM service and coverage really isn't all that great in and around Norfolk. My contract is up and I'm looking to switch to a carrier with better service. I'd also like to get my daughter (KP High student) a pay-as-you-go phone for Christmas. I know too well how frustrating it can be to not get a signal. What experiences do other folks have with T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint etc. in the area? Thanks. - DL
12/8 8:30am To LB: I agree whole heartedly with everyone's comments on Chestnut Dental. I had tried other pediatric dental offices, and had very little success. My daughter needed some pretty extensive dental work, and I was at my wits end. Then someone suggested Chestnut Dental. We now have Dr. Crissy Beard there, and my daughter actually asks me "when can I go to the dentist again?" She is very comfortable, and everyone from the receptionist on, has been a pleasure to deal with. They are absolutely fantastic with kids. I can't say enough good things about them, and as BS said, the emergency coverage is great!!! - CG
12/8 8:27am I was thinking of asking my playgroup to make a holiday package for a someone in Iraq. I have wanted to do something with my daughters to teach them a bit about helping others this holiday season. I think it would be nice to locate someone with Norfolk ties, does anyone have a family member there? Also, do you know how long it take to ship there? I have heard of a cookie baking group for the people stationed in Iraq. My cousin joined one in Maine and made 3 doz. cookies. They were delivered to the local school to all be shipped together. This might be a good alternative too. - DL
12/8 12:06am To LB, We have a had great luck at Dental Associates of Walpole for pediatric dental care. My daughter has had to have sealants for some spotty enamel on her back teeth and it was a breeze. Drs Petrie and Cappola have both been great! My daughter was very freaked out by the concept at first and is now very comfortable at the dentist. She says that they have very cool prizes! - MJD
12/7 10:16pm I have to ditto everyone else's comments re Chestnut Dental. They also have wonderful emergency coverage in their Needham office until 9pm after the Franklin office is closed. This is in addition to the on-call coverage they have 24 hours a day. Can't say enough good things about them. - BS
12/7 10:13pm DF, I can't remember if I already posted about this here, or just thought about doing so. I received a letter addressed to a woman at ## Boardman (my street and house number) in BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN. I checked the zip, and yes, it was the correct one for Battle Creek. Still trying to figure that one out. I regularly get mail for other people on my street or on Needham St. As critical as I am of Franklin, I never had this problem when I lived there. - HPK
12/7 8:48pm Hi LB. As someone in the profession, I also highly recommend the pediatric dentists at Chestnut Dental in Franklin. I know them personally (and their training background). Both Dr. Shelly McBride and Dr. Krissy Beard are great. They both see my daughters. You won't go wrong at that practice. - JC
12/7 8:47pm If you showed up at my house on Main Street Saturday and delivered mail to me that was incorrectly delivered to your house (including a motorcycle registration, which I would have missed terribly), I thank you. I saw you pull up in a minivan but couldn't get outside in time to say thanks. Hopefully you are a Norfolknet reader. - DF
12/7 8:18pm Chestnut Dental in Franklin IS GREAT! Both of my kids were terrified and they were wonderful!! - EM
12/7 7:03pm Can anyone recommend summer camps/programs for a 6 year old boy for this summer's school vacation? If you could please reply to UGP2002@aol.com, that would be great. Thanks for your help. - KB
12/7 4:48pm I was wondering if anyone could recommend a pediatric dentist with a friendly and understanding rapport with toddlers - my son is terrified! Thanks for any suggestions. - LB
12/7 10:01am Thanks to the Highway Department for the lights on the trees, great job. K. C. is proud. - KC
12/7 9:59am DM - I highly recommend that you call Chris Galasso at GT Equipment and Landscape in Walpole for tree removal. He is a real pro and your yard will be cleaner when he is gone. He takes real pride in his work and has all of the equipment necessary to do any job. His # is 508-660-8838. Tell him Brock sent you. - BF
12/6 5:45pm TS: I agree that the Santa parade and celebration was a huge success. Fun was had by all! My only suggestion for next year would be to have some type of microphone or PA system so that everyone knows what's going on and possibly have a count-down for the tree-lighting, etc. - JC
12/6 12:32pm Can anyone recommend a local company that cuts down large trees? Thanks - DM
12/6 10:08am Just wanted to say what a wonderful afternoon yesterday was. The Santa Parade was a perfect kickoff to the holiday season! It was great to see the kids so excited to see Santa in the flesh. The Lions and Rec Dept did a great job at Town Hall. It's a real Norfolk tradition for our family! - TS
12/6 9:44am To VR -the house on Causeway Street in Millis will blow you away. Its unlike anything I have ever seen. Last year you could drive up their driveway with your lights off and windows open listening to the X-Mas music on their sound system. Good Luck! - LS
12/5 10:12pm To DL: My daughter's favorite Christmas house is in Medway, on Village Street. This year I plan to drive a loop -- down Myrtle to River Road, where we'll be sure to check out both the houses you mentioned, then back on Myrtle and Himmelfarb to Village, left on Village, and the house she likes is right around Oakland Street in Medway - you can't miss it! After pulling over to admire it in all its finery, we'll take the right onto Holliston Street, where there were a couple of houses worth checking out last year, stay on Holliston past 109, and then make the right onto Causeway Street. The newspaper had a write-up last year about a house on Causeway Street (in Millis) that apparently goes all out, so we'll hope they've kept up the tradition this year as well. And from Causeway we'll make the right onto Ridge and back to 109, and thence home to hot chocolate with marshmallows. - VR
12/5 9:30am In response to your search for a place to chop trees locally, I can not help you. HOWEVER, I will recommend GUMPS Farm on 115. Their trees are top quality and beautiful, I also find them to be reasonably priced. My husband and I try to support our local business and love to go there every holiday with our girls. The trees are freshly cut and clearly marked with the date. The tree we purchased this year had only been cut 5 days before we purchased it. Also, each tree has the height marked right on the tag. If you happen to be like me you think you have 10' ceilings when you pick out a tree, you get it home and they are only eight feet. We've been purchasing our trees there for a few years now and I am always amazed how few needles are in the rug when we take it down. In addition, if you haven't stopped in their gift shop, they have some very nice things and again, the prices are really good. (I love the Snowman sign, still trying to think of the perfect place to hang it.) - DL
12/5 9:21am I love to drive around with my daughters to see the holiday lights and would appreciate any help in locating any houses that are particularly worth the ride in town. Also, could you give me the street cross sections too. If you don't want to mention house numbers, I can understand that. If you are also the type that loves to do this, take a ride down River Road (Myrtle to River). The first house on the left is great, however, drive down a bit and then there's a house on your right that is so worth the ride. If either of these houses are yours, thank you for making it a bit easier to accept that it is now dark at 4:30PM! My daughters love your houses and you make their day every time we drive by! - DL
12/4 8:53pm I am looking for someone/a company that refinishes built in kitchen cabinets. Any ides? Thanks in advance. - LM
12/3 8:06pm I think that TC is right about idea of "all things in moderation." Both of my children were on soy formula and we eat veggie burgers and not dogs on a fairly regular basis. I have cut back a little since I read the new reports. - MJD
[Update 12/4 11:57am: Sorry, I sent the wrong link, it should be [this CSPI page]. - MJD]
12/3 4:25pm DH: the garage door installer you're looking for is Joliqoeur Doors/Bellingham // 508-883-4522. P.S.: Most of the favorite vendors that are listed on this site can be found if you click on "Town Favorites" over to the left. - JC
12/3 2:32pm I am looking to buy new garage doors and have them installed. I don't remember the person, but someone in the area received great service and a good price from a local business in Norfolk. Does anyone know a local business that provides this service? Thanks, - DH
12/3 11:01am Wm: Re: the health effects of soy. More and more people are questioning the health benefits of soy these days, and while it's making me anxious as can be (my daughter has been on soy for five years), I think the discussion is a good one. For women in particular, the benefits of soy seem clear, but the potential dangers are not fully understood. Soy protein can in fact feed certain estrogen-receptive cancers (some reproductive cancers are, some are not). More needs to be done. Your posting was a sober but needed reminder that until consumers can feel safe from false marketing claims, trust food labels, and be confident that the FDA is motivated to promote public health not profits for pharmaceutical companies and food manufacturers, consumers must be diligent. Perhaps "everything in moderation" should be the approach for the time being. It is also wise to pay close attention to the "little pieces of legislation" being passed all the time, like the recent one that no longer forces food manufacturers to reveal the country from which ingredients come. Less accurate and truthful food labeling is coming as well. Beware. - TC
12/3 8:41am Wm. - are you lamenting the fact that we worry too much about our food, or are you pointing out the pitfalls of our overly-processed food supply? Just curious. A nit-picking note about the article: as far as I know, only tempeh, and not tofu, is fermented. My mom made tofu from boiled soybeans, with the resulting liquid coagulated with epsom salts or a similar chemical and the curds pressed in a mold. Perhaps Chinese tofu is made differently? Does boiling, or the coagulating process, change the structure of the phytoestrogens? Maybe we should stop eating soy and eat Quorn (factory-grown mycoprotein) instead? I'm sure the country that voted for George Bush is ready to embrace fungi-based "chicken" tenders! I'm going to drink a big glass of vitamin-enriched, protein-enhanced soymilk now. Cheers. - HPK
[Actually, I was struck by the powerful side-effects of a food that is touted safe for nursing infants. - Wm.]
12/2 11:27pm I know how to avoid all that scary stuff about food and what's in it: I go shopping, I don't read the labels, I come home, cook it and eat it. Yes, ignorance is bliss. - JW
12/2 6:33pm Found a rather frank article in The Guardian about something that's become taken for granted - soy-based foods. The report goes into lengthy detail about soy's ill effects on health, the economy and the global environment; below are some of the startling health-related concerns. [P]hyto-oestrogens or plant-oestrogens [...] mimic oestrogen, the powerful female hormone. These highly active compounds are found in large concentrations in soya.There used to be a time when one went to the store, bought food, cooked it, and ate it. Today, first one has to complete a dissertation on whether what one buys is fit for the table -- preservatives, steroids, growth hormones, genetic modifications, sugar, salt, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and now: estrogen.A woman drinking two glasses of soya milk a day over the course of a month will see the timing of her menstrual cycle alter.
It has been estimated that infants who are fed soya formula exclusively receive an amount of oestrogen equivalent to five birth control pills every day.
Aside from research linking soya to reduced male fertility, studies now link the phyto-oestrogens found in the plant to an increased risk of other types of cancer. It has also been claimed that it damages brain function in men and causes hidden developmental abnormalities in infants.
Soya is used to 'bulk out' and bind many processed foods ... Some research estimates that soya is present in more than 70 per cent of all supermarket products and widely used by most fast food chains.
- Wm.
12/2 12:36pm Register now for Norfolk Lions' Youth Soccer spring season. Registration form is available on website at norfolklionssoccer.com. - HMK
12/2 11:37am We were sent a link re. the posting on cut-your-own trees to the Massachusetts Christmas Trees Association web page [here]. It shows four nearby farms, in Wrentham, Plainville, Foxboro, N. Attleboro. - Wm.
12/1 11:26pm I am looking for a local place to cut down our own fresh Christmas tree that will last longer. Any ideas? - EB
12/1 11:01pm Norfolk's hazardous waste day is always the 1st Saturday of October every year. But you cannot get rid of this combination that I know of. They do take oil on Wednsdays and Saturdays but NOT any combination mixed. Sorry. - LS
12/1 4:41pm To JO re: Stink Bugs - Ymmmm! Now I know what keeps the smile on your face, and your always sunny disposition. Note to any trying this recipe: do NOT under any circumstances, omit the chicken livers! - HRB
12/1 2:32pm Effective next Monday, the Norfolk Public Library will no longer offer evening hours at the Centennial Library during the academic year. Elementary and middle school students are encouraged to borrow homework materials and pleasure reading from their school libraries during the school day. However, we also have a selection of children's magazines and young adult novels at the Adult Services Branch on Route 1A, as well as a full non-circulating reference collection and the ability to order materials from other libraries. If you have questions or want to know if we have materials on a particular topic, please give the public library a call at 508-528-3380. - Heather Pisani-Kristl, Associate Library Director
12/1 2:30pm To DFL: I can highly recommend Debbie for housecleaning. Please email me via the webmaster and I can get her phone number and information to you. Good Luck. - ML
12/1 1:29pm Thanks to all who so quickly responded to my request for the Nutcracker production! I am very excited and my daughter will be thrilled! Thanks again. - SM
12/1 12:09pm Can anyone recommend a good house cleaning service? We are very new to this area and in need of a bi-weekly "scrub". - DFL
12/1 9:32am SM - I found the Milford Nutcracker info on [Greater Milford Ballet Company web page]. - MJD
12/1 9:29am According to [Globe Metro West article] the Nutcracker Ballet will be performed at Milford High School on Dec. 10, 11 and 12. Tickets are available by calling the Deane Dance Studio at 508-473-3354 or at the Music Nook. - VR
11/30 6:35pm SM-This goes back a little but there used to be a production of the Nutcracker in Milford. I think it was at the High School but put on by all of the local dance schools. I'd think you could search the Milforddailynews.com archives. - MJD
11/30 6:31pm SM: The Franklin Center for the Performing Arts is running one, I believe the weekend of the 11th/12th, at a school in Franklin. We went two years ago and it was lovely, particularly for the 3 - 5 year old set. The Providence Performing Arts Center is doing one as well, which we saw last year. Nice theatre, more elaborate than the Franklin one, but not quite the Boston Ballet. It's a nice middle ground, the price is right - particularly for the age, and it's about 25 minutes from Norfolk and easy to park. Check out [ppacri.org Nutcracker page] - TC
11/30 4:05pm Does anyone know of a local theatre group performing the Nutcracker Ballet this season? My 4 year old daughter has expressed an interest in seeing it but I'm not sure she's ready for the Boston Ballet production quite yet. Thanks! - SM
11/30 11:35am Does Norfolk offer a hazardous waste disposal day? I have gas/oil mix in a gas can that has gone bad and I'm not sure how to safely get rid of this. Does anyone know where I could take this for disposal? I really enjoy this site and have gotten lots of useful information, hope you all are enjoying the holiday season! - KS
11/30 10:32am Looking for an unique gift for that hard to buy for person? Want to skip the parking problems and headaches of the malls? Want to find a gift that will last a lifetime? Norfolk Community League (NCL) and the Garden Club of Norfolk are sponsoring Norfolk Walkways. Norfolk Walkways is offering inscribed bricks for placement on Town Hill brick walkways that will connect the Peace Garden, Veteran's Memorial and the Gazebo. A 4 x 8 brick inscribed with 3 lines of writing is $50. A larger 8 x 8 brick with 6 lines of writing is $100. Order forms can be found in locations around town or can be downloaded from www.norfolkcommunityleague.org. This is an perfect opportunity to be a permanent part of the beautification of Town Hill. In time for holiday gift giving, Norfolk Walkways will send a gift card announcing your gift along with the inscription to the recipient. - TS, NCL
11/30 10:31am To JLH and other parents: Santa's Mailbox is at the Kids' Library in Town Hall, and letters will be accepted until Thursday, December 16th. Be sure to provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for your reply. The library's hours are approximately the same as Town Hall's, except that we open at 10. - Heather Pisani-Kristl, Associate Library Director
11/29 10:49pm To TS - Over the last few years I have used several people/shops and the one I would recommend is Althea Rothchild. She's associated with Michael's in Medfield. The number to use is 401-226-2999. This is her cell phone. She is extremely professional and has good ideas. Since she doesn't have any overhead, her rates are very good and the final product is beautiful. She uses great seamstresses and installers. Good luck. - BS
11/29 10:49pm To DF: I am a licensed contractor that does restoration work. I would love to come look at your barn. WM DiBacco Construction, 508-541-6360 (ask for Walter). - WD
[Update 12/1 10:44pm: post by WD removed by request. WD is a contractor that does restoration work and who offered to look at DF's barn, but he was simply receiving too many calls, and asked that hist post be removed. Thanks to all for the interest! - Wm.]
[Update 12/16 10:30pm: post restored on move to Archives. - Wm.]
11/29 3:15pm I have a 24' X 32' barn that I'd like to convert into a woodshop. It was formally used as a horse barn and, thus, has a dirt floor, electricity and running water. I'm planning on constructing a wood floor in the barn but am not sure exactly how to get started. The existing dirt floor is not incredibly level -- maybe a foot's difference from one side of the barn to the other -- and I'm guessing I'll need to even that out a bit more. Also, the sills of the barn are not altogether healthy and will need to be replaced within the next few years, so I'd love not to have to actually attach the floor to the sills at this point (I'm not quite ready to replace the sills yet). Instead, I considered building several frames, setting them on concrete footings (or solidly-planted cinder blocks), attaching the frames together to create one large platform, covering it all in plywood and being done with it for now. Anyone have any thoughts on this? Or are there any contractors out there willing to come take a look and give me an estimate on what it'd cost you to do it and/or some guidelines for me to do it myself? I'd of course pay you for your time. - DF
11/29 1:19pm I'm looking for someone to make draperies for my living room. Any suggestions? - TS
11/28 5:30pm For JLH... call the prisons in town - they use to do reupholstering - or the night school at KP might have a class and need furniture to work on. - ER
11/28 2:47pm To JHL - Try Custom Cushion in Medfield on Park Street down the street from the Boka restaurant. The guy does beautiful work. He has done several items for me. However, I must warn you that he is not cheap but none of the good ones are. Good luck. - BS
11/28 9:18pm I have an old (maybe antique) wing chair I need reupholstered (and one for repair). Any local upholsterers out there you could recommend? - JLH
11/28 9:17pm Dear JL, The South Shore Santa certainly could be the real one!! I've had both of my girls' photos taken with him since they were 1+ (although we lived closer to Braintree then). Since we moved to Norfolk though (last year) we went to Emerald Square (N. Attleboro) and that Santa was really good too!! I usually go early on a weekday morning and we get plenty of time to visit with him. Good luck and enjoy your "first" visit, although, I promise, you will look forward to many more! - JLH
11/28 9:15pm JL - I always brought my children to the Santa in Walpole center. He sits in a little house on the common. His hours are generally posted, if you're going by. You take the pictures yourself, and they are free. He's a great Santa with his own real beard, & if you're lucky enough to see him "on vacation" in Walpole in the summer the kids get an extra thrill! - SC 11/28 9:11am All the talk about stink bugs has been bugging me so I would like to share this delectable item with the net readers . Please - do not send me any samples of your cookery. - JO
11/26 12:23pm Santa Claus will roll into Norfolk on Sunday December 5th and a host of groups will turn out to celebrate his arrival with a variety of activities. - JS, Norfolk Lions, Norfolk Santa Parade Committee
11/25 8:39am Happy Thanksgiving! 
11/24 3:25pm JL - It's a bit of a ride but the South Shore Plaza has the most beautiful Santa. I always have my girls pic taken with him. They also have a really nice looking backdrop. If you can figure out a way to get there at bedtime there is no line, easy when you have a really little one who goes to bed late. Most of the mall Santas out here have cheesy looking fake beards. The South Shore Santa's has always been real! I think he's the real Santa if you want to know the truth! - MJD
11/24 10:58am Does anyone know of somewhere in the area I could bring my daughter to have her first picture with Santa? - JL
11/23 12:50pm DB, Stop by on Friday. We will for the most part be setting up and pricing out the trees. But you are welcome to come in and make a purchase if you find something that you like. - PT
11/23 12:46pm Norfolk Community League's annual Santa Breakfast and Jingle Bell Fun Run will be on December 11, 2004 at the H. Olive Day School on Main Street. The breakfast is from 9-11am. Cost is $4 for NCL members, $6 for non-members and children under the age of 2 are free!! Mr. Dave, the musical elf, will entertain the children. - TR
11/22 7:01pm I would just like a confirmation that the Lions Tree Sale is starting on Saturday this year. We have gotten our tree there the last few years and it was on the day after Thanksgiving. Why the change? Do we have to go elsewhere? - DB
11/22 5:01pm The Norfolk Lions is once again setting up their Annual Christmas Tree Sales Event. This year we will be located next to the Dunkin Donuts parking lot on Main Street. - Paul H. Terrio, Christmas Tree Chairperson, Norfolk Lions
11/22 2:36pm For TS: My (nonpolitical) theory about the abundance of the Western Conifer Seed Bug (WCSB) last year but not this year is very simple. Last year you may have noticed that Norfolk's ubiquitous white pine trees produced a superabundance of pine cones. One friend who has lived in Norfolk for over 40 years said she had never seen so many in a single season. Driving along our back roads last fall you could see thousands of (mostly flattened) cones in the road. We have a small stand of pines, and last year we easily collected a whole barrel full (we use 'em to start fires, they're great). Now the "stink bug" (WCSB) feeds on the seeds or "pine nuts" that are found in the pine cones (see the informational links below). I think that an abundance of cones produced an abundance of bugs last autumn. This fall, our pines produced just a small number of cones--perhaps a tenth of what we got last year--and far fewer bugs. - HRB
11/22 1:21pm To PN - I've used Phoenix Plumbing several times and have found them to be quick, reliable and good. 508-541-7800. - PG
11/22 9:42am Can anyone recommend a plumber in the area who is reliable and reasonable in price? - PN
11/22 9:41am Butch Vito, Highway Dept. Supt. and Richard Connors are at it again. The road project in the center of town is nearly done and there are still lots of questions. Tune in to NCTV Channel 22 at either 8am, 6:30pm or 9:30pm and watch Butch and Richard tour the new center and many of your questions will be answered. - Paul Guertin, NCTV Station Manager
11/22 9:39am TS - Did you know that the ladybug is the official State bug of Massachusetts?
- In the past, doctors would mash ladybugs and put them in your mouth to cure a toothache.
- In Switzerland, ladybugs are called "good God's little fatty."
- You can fit 80,000 ladybugs into a gallon jug.
- Male ladybugs are smaller than female ladybugs. .
- Ladybugs can live for as many as three years.
- A ladybug beats its wings 85 times per second when it flies.
- A ladybug's spots fade as it gets older.
- The spotted wing covers on ladybugs are made from a material called chitin, as are our fingernails.
- BD 11/22 9:35am The King Philip Music Department will present its annual Winter Pops Concert on 7pm Saturday, December 4, in the Field House of King Philip Regional High School. The concert will feature the Chorus, the Concert Band, the Symphony Band, and the Marching Band in a concert performance of "Ghost Train", the award winning 2004 show. Light refreshments and beverages will be available. - AW, King Philip Music Association
11/22 9:34am Anyone have any reasons for that change? They've all fled to Canada. Not big George Bush fans. - DF
11/21 10:24pm Just noticed the first "stink bug" of the season. We'll have to wait and see if it reaches the magnitude of last year (lots). Our house was also hit by hundreds of ladybugs in past years, although this year I have not seen many at all. Anyone have any reasons for that change? - TS
11/19 6:09pm JM - I have no problem legislating in the interest of public safety. Those motorized scooters are a menace in the city! Right up there with bike messengers ;) ! They are very dangerous and they definitely needed to classify them as motor vehicles. People considered themselves pedestrians when riding them. Here in Norfolk the issue may seem silly, but in town it is a big deal. - MJD
11/19 4:38pm To JW: I've seen two stink bugs in the past few days. Last year we had an invasion, so this is a welcome change. Hopefully, they won't suddenly appear in large numbers again. Why the change? Any ideas? - TC
11/19 4:13pm JW - We have had the "stink bug" over the south side of town - I've seen about 4 in the last month or so - last year we had many more but they are still around... - BD
11/19 8:47am In another unfortunate case of government having to take the place of good parental judgment, Lieutenant Governor Healey yesterday signed into law legislation banning the use of motorized scooters and bikes by anyone that does not have a drivers license or learner's permit in Massachusetts. In short, children 15 years or younger may not operate these vehicles under any circumstances. The law covers all scooters or bikes on which the driver sits or stands, and that are powered by electric or gasoline engines. Licensed drivers may operate them only during the daylight hours, but must wear a helmet, the vehicle must have stop and directional lights, and they must only ride on the right side of the roadway. Specifically, this legislation is aimed at stemming the number of injuries suffered by children operating gas-powered scooters and so-called 'pocket bikes', which are gas-powered mini-bikes made to look like miniature motorcycles. 85% of the injuries that occur on these vehicles are to children 15 and under. Besides being a nuisance due to their loud engines, the pocket bikes are particularly dangerous, as they can reach speeds of 35mph. Coincidentally, the most recent issue (Dec.) of Consumer Reports magazine has the results of a test they performed on several types of these vehicles; they found that the pocket bikes had poor brakes, steering, and throttle, and their overall handling made them very dangerous. Though slower, motorized scooters were found to have similar shortcomings. More information on this legislation is available on www.mass.gov, and click the link to the Governor's office. I know there are quite a few of these scooters and pocket bikes in Norfolk, and have always been amazed that there are that many parents in this town that apparently have such little concern for their child's safety and their neighbors' eardrums. - JM
11/18 10:20pm Remember last year at this time, we were talking about the strange bugs that were invading our homes? I for one haven't had one of them this year. How about the rest of you? I just think it's very interesting the difference one year can make. - JW
[Actually, the question occurred to me, too... See around 10/28 in last year's discussions, including this writeup on the western conifer seed bug - Wm.]
11/18 10:19pm The Woodside Montessori Academy in Millis is holding two Open Houses for parents of prospective students on Sunday, November 21st and Monday, November 22nd. - VR
11/18 9:20am Just wanted a general post for a roaming cat in Pheasant Hill/Quail Run/Robin road neighborhood. There is a long haired, white w/ orange cat that is attempting to make a new home at a house in the neighborhood. If you own this cat or have lost a cat by this description, please contact the ACO so that the cat isn't removed or adopted. - Hilary Nolan Penlington, Norfolk Animal Control, 528-3232
11/17 9:51pm NH, we used A-1 Lock & Key Service in Foxboro. The phone is 508-543-9687. They were pretty reasonable and the service man was nice. - MFZ
11/17 9:50pm To JRP, we also used Barry John Chimney Sweeps to clean our chimney and to put on a cap. They were reasonably priced and pleasant to work with. Hope that helps. - MFZ
11/17 9:19pm To JO, thank you for the information on how a bill is enacted and put into law. I am interested in what Mr. Sciasca said to you to give you the opinion he is not holding up the bill? [Continued on Delta House page] - PFD
11/16 8:24pm On Saturday, November 27th, 9am-12pm The King Philip Music Association will hold its annual holiday wreath sale. 14 inch fresh double sided evergreen wreaths from Canada, only $12. In Wrentham - Center School Parking Lot; in Norfolk - Center. All Proceeds to support the King Philip Music Association Contact Pam P. at 508-528-7413. - AW, King Philip Music Association
11/16 11:55am Anyone know of a garage in the area I can rent for the winter to store a car? - JM
11/16 8:29am JLH-I have used Joseph's jewelers in the Shaw's plaza in Franklin. Less expensive than Vallees and the people were very nice. Turnaround time was better, too. They do not have the nice jewelry selection that Vallee's has, though, but I though that they were good for simple repairs. I grew up going to Marshall's Jewelers in Milford on Central Street. I really trust them. They reset my mom's engagement ring for me and they have done complex repairs for me too, but it's a longer ride! - MJD
11/16 7:31am To JLH: Vallee Jewelers in Franklin (across from the Franklin Post office right on Main Street) is excellent and I highly recommend them.They repaired my engagement ring setting and we have purchased jewelry from them as well. - ALB
11/15 11:10pm Much has been written about the "holdup" of House bill 2626 (placement of predators) in Norfolk. - JO
11/15 11:08pm Does any one know of a trustworthy jeweler located in or near Norfolk? My diamond engagement ring needs the setting repaired or perhaps re-set. The ring was bought in Quincy but, I'd rather have it repaired locally. Thanks in advance for any suggestions. - JLH
11/15 2:56pm For JRP, Barry John Chimney Sweeps 508-528-1777 from Franklin have been great. They have a coupon in the Verizon Phone book. You may have to ask if you can still use it since the expiration date has past. - DLJ
11/15 12:40pm The readers of Norfolknet are always so helpful. We need our chimney swept, and possibly a chimney cap fitted. Could any one recommend a chimney sweep in the area? Also, a piano teacher that teaches adults? Thanks in advance, - JRP
11/14 9:46pm The Garden Club of Norfolk invites the public to its annual Holiday Greens Sale. Wreaths, arrangements, boxwood trees, topiaries & ornaments will be available for purchase. Proceeds will be used to promote the club's civic beautification in our town. Saturday, December 4, 2004 (9am - noon), at the Federated Church (Rte.115 & Main Street) in Norfolk. - JW, Corresponding Secretary
11/13 11:52pm Webmaster note: all Delta House / sex offender related posts since Wedneday, Nov. 10, have been retroactively extracted from the main page onto their own sub-page, [here]. For historical accuracy, the Notes Archive contains a copy of the page as it existed before the separation. - Wm.
11/13 9:26am Does anyone know why Bob Markel is leaving? - SC
11/13 7:30am A ladies' gold watch was turned in by a town employee who found it in the parking area at the Town Hall. If I am not manning the Information Center, check with Betsy Fijol at the Board of Health Dept. to identify the item and claim same. Thank you, - John Olivieri, Town Hall Info Office
11/12 6:14pm Where did all the people (patients) go to that were housed in Medfield State Hospital, Wrentham State Hospital, and Foxboro State Hospital? Wrentham is still open but at about 2% of what it once was. Prison? Group homes? under a bridge in Cambridge/ (homeless)?. - LS
11/11 1:17pm I would like to stop today and thank the Veterans and Soldiers of the United States for fighting for our country. You are appreciated and commended for your bravery and heroism. - NM
11/10 2:59pm Looking for teenagers who want to make some extra cash raking leaves. Please call 508-528-1461. - JJ
11/10 12:54pm The school children of Norfolk donated 426 pounds of Halloween candy during the Norfolk Community League's (NCL) Sixth Annual Halloween Candy give back held on Nov. 1. The Candy was donated to the Norcap and North Cottage Rehabilitation Centers. D.A.R.E. officer Steve Plimpton discussed the program with all children whom participated. There were also two lucky winners in a drawing of two $25 Toys Ect. gift cards. Thank you to all who participated in this event. - TR
[Corrected 3:03 - TR]
11/9 8:51pm To JC - how could you possibly think that a shoplifting crime or stealing from one's mail box could ever compare to the violation of one's body by a sex offender?? Geez we are talking about a lifetime of damage not only to a person's body but to one's mental state for the REST of their lives - once you are a victim of this kind of crime - it's not like you can shake it off and have a chuckle when something has been taken from your mailbox. Have you not been watching the news and seeing the pain on the faces of all those violated by priests - in many cases decades ago? I think the point was raised that the Cleveland Street residents were under some sort of supervision - however, the Boardman Street resident isn't; being so close to a grade school should concern the residents of our town even more. - KR
11/9 8:47pm Does anyone know if Girard's Bistro in Franklin is still operating? The phone number has been "disconnected". If Jeff Girard has relocated, I'd be most interested in knowing where. Truly a gem of a restaurant. Thanks, - ML
11/9 3:37pm We just moved to Norfolk and have found this web-site INCREDIBLY helpful. Are there any locksmiths in town that you'd like to recommend? - NH
11/9 2:51pm Re the Car Lot: the ZBA's decision was appealed to the courts, so that's where that is. It's not that the town is ignoring the decision, it's that the decision isn't "final" yet, as it is under appeal. And the ZBA's decision didn't limit them to 1 or 2 cars, that was the selectmen's license (which I think is due up for renewal soon, check with them). - RG
11/9 11:24am RD - I also recently moved here from Norwood, where I was born and raised. You can't seriously compare a small town like Norfolk with a small city like Norwood. People like myself, and I'm guessing like you too, move to a town like Norfolk to get away from the sprawl. Norwood has, what, four times the population of Norfolk? Not to mention major highways, the automile, a functioning airport, and so on. It's no wonder that Norwood's infrastructure, then, is a little more advanced than ours. - DF
11/9 11:13am In response to RD's comments on my comments - I am not sure where he/she lives, but apparently they have not been by the lot recently. The issue is not with the car lot being there, but rather with the number of town meetings (one of which the owner of the car lot did not bother to show up to - because of "Patriots hangover") the abutters attended, the decision that was granted by the ZBA AND the Town Selectmen and the fact that the town apparently was not going to enforce their own edict. - MH
11/9 8:48am I have to respond and support what JC has said. I am a Master's Level Psychotherapist and I have worked with too many women that have been sexually abused as children. Not one of those women were victims of strangers. They were all victims of relatives or friends of relatives. - DN
11/9 8:44am I am glad to see that my end of town (Rte. 115 area) is not the only place plagued by the brown and sometimes black water. We too have complained several times to no avail to the water department, We were told that (most likely) it was dirt in the pipes and it would clear up on it's own. Well let me tell you, dirt or not it is nasty and no one wants to wash themselves or clothes in it let alone cook with it or feed it to their pets. I have noticed this town has 1001 excuses not to take care of something unless it benefits them. Maybe if every other street around here wasn't being turned into an obstacle course we wouldn't have brown and sometimes black water. You have to be a stunt person to get around here it's ridiculous. - RD
11/9 8:42am I have lived in Norfolk for 7 yrs and nothing surprises me more than people worried about a used car lot that has been there as long as I can remember... First of all it shares space with a motorcycle repair and dirt bike sales shop and has no more than like 6 or 7 cars there at a time. I will give the alleged complainant one thing though it is not a reputable place. A friend bought a car there and a week later it died. It took her nearly a month to get a hold of the gentleman who runs the place to have them have the car fixed and another month to get them to pay a bill they had the legal responsibility to pay. I wouldn't be worried about it being there I would be worried about its legal responsibility in the quality of the cars they sell. By the way she had the car six months and it died it is now in a junk yard somewhere for parts and she spent out of her pocket nearly $3000 dollars having it fixed only to lose it. $3000 in repairs for a $2500 dollar car hmmmm... Am I worried about them having a business there? Yes, but not because it's unsightly. Come on people,please the days of milk and bread at the local farm are gone; Norfolk is not "rural" anymore. People are looking for convenience now, not cows and chickens waking them up at 5 in the morning. - RD
11/8 10:53pm With regards to the fury over the sex offenders who reside in Norfolk, I think we should start identifying alcoholics who live near our children, or, heck -- live near any of us, because they might drive drunk and hit one of our kids playing out on the front lawn. Or how about identifying those people who have a shoplifting conviction -- they might steal from our mailboxes. Or how about those who smoked cigarettes (or worse!) when they were teenagers or who drank some of their parents' liquor before they were 21? -- They, too could be a danger to our kids! The point is, folks, we cannot keep limiting other people's rights (yes, even people who have been convicted of sex crimes have rights!) because WE want to feel safe. Besides, I understand that it is much more likely that a sexual predator is already known to the victim -- I'd want to be much more careful of "Friendly Uncle Frank" or "Cousin Charlie" than a mentally challenged individual who is under 24 hour supervision. - JC
11/8 6:09pm TO RD: Nobody in Norfolk has forgotten about the Level 3 on Boardman Street. Senator Scott Brown along with other senators and representatives have filed a bill, Senate Docket Number 2628, which deals with the placement of sex offenders near schools, licensed day care facilities and playgrounds. It would not allow them to live within 1.5 miles of such facilities. This bill is being held up by Representative Angelo Scaccia before it can reach the senate floor for a vote. If you would like more information about this bill, please contact Senator Brown's office directly. We are still working on this bill as a community. Nobody is going to forget about any sex offender until our children are protected and laws are put in place restricting where sex offenders can live and work! - SD
11/8 2:16pm To those who were looking for someone to plow snow this winter....I use Scott Morrison who is very reasonable and does a great job. You can reach him at 781-389-2443. - GEB
11/8 2:11pm Re: 11/8 9:46am I am writing in connection with the used car lot ... - RH
11/8 2:11pm I read about the removal of the level 2 sex offenders from the halfway house on Cleveland Street, and I am surprised at the people in this community. Did we all forget about the level 3 sex offender living within walking distance to the Freeman Centennial school? As a parent it concerns me a little bit more that a level 3 sex offender is allowed to live in a home on a street housing a school and walk the streets as though he never did anything wrong - a little bit more than supervised level 2 offenders who have a curfew and people to answer to. Where are people's priorities? I have 3 boys, 2 of whom go to school, one of whom goes to Freeman Centennial, and let me tell you Michael N. concerns me more than the level 2 offenders do. My oldest son played football at the Freeman as well and I never left him on the property a minute alone due to this man living on Boardman Street. Apparently the parents who did and do leave their kids alone there know nothing about Michael N. and should familiarize themselves with him on the Franklin PD web site. He is a lot more dangerous than those who would have been supervised on Cleveland. Just my 2 cents on the situation. - RD
11/8 9:46am I am writing in connection with the used car lot on Rockwood Road. Several months ago the Zoning Board of Appeals held monthly meetings (their regular schedule) and asked for the opinions of the abutters and other "townies". It was made clear during those meetings that the number of used cars on the lot was unacceptable and there was a clear precedent set in the past that sould limit the number of cars that were going to be allowed on the lot. I called the town a couple of weeks ago to follow up and was informed that the town said they were only allowed to have "one or two cars". At last count - last night - there were upwards of 16 cars there again! I will get pictures in the morning to prove my point. Does anyone know anything about this? Please don't tell me that the town wasted the time and energy of the other abutters to attend six months of meetings for something they are not willing to enforce. Thanks! - MH
11/8 8:05am Federated Church of Norfolk cordially invites you to our HOLLY FAIR. Saturday, November 20 from 9:00 AM~2:00 PM. Coffee & Muffins 9:00 AM, Children's Shopping, Santa 10:00~11:00 AM, Luncheon 11:30 AM, Baked Goods, Cookie Walk, Handmade Candy and Preserves, Attic Treasures, Decorations, Gifts, Plants, and Crafts. At the Corner of Rt. 115 and Main St., Norfolk, MA. 508-528-0262 - GJ
11/8 8:01am To JD, regarding the Norfolk Marketplace: 'Proceeds' was probably the wrong word to use in that context. Obviously, 100% of the 'proceeds' goes to the TPA. What the brochure meant was that 10% of the vendor sales revenue goes to the TPA. In addition, all of the entry fee, raffle, and bake sale revenue goes to the TPA, as well. This is the model used by most events of this type, as it provides both enough of an incentive to attract desirable vendors from far and wide, and enough revenue to make it interesting for the sponsoring charity. I am sure we will get a report from a TPA member, but I can tell you anecdotally that several vendors were thrilled with the attendance and very impressed with how organized things were. - JM
11/7 5:24pm Just curious how the school did with their Marketplace Fair on Saturday. What was the net results for the school? I didn't understand the line on the brochure that said "10% of proceeds go directly to the school?" I thought all the funds raised were going to the school? - JD
11/5 8:45pm To KB - I can't tell you how many times I have had my white towels turn into tie-dye brown towels, because somebody decided to flush a water main somewhere on the other side of town. The remedy: call the water department, tell them what happened, and ask if you can stop by for a container of "yellow out" powder. The man who used to run the water department used to tell me that although it looked awful, the water was actually safe to drink, and that the brown stuff was just manganese. However, he did admit that even he would have hard time chugging it down. Back then, the water department was only too happy to hand out the Yellow Out, and it worked great at getting the whites back to white, although not so great at getting the colored fabrics back to their original color. You can also buy Yellow Out in the grocery store. Good Luck. - KM
11/5 3:43pm To KB - In case you haven't discovered it--Ritz rust remover works pretty well in getting out the rust stains so long as you haven't already dried the laundry(heat sets the stains). Good luck. - BS
11/5 1:08pm Regarding "Now that the 'Roundabouts' are a dead issue", what is really going on at the intersection? I unfortunately have not been following the updates on the cable station. Has the Roundabout been nixed and it's resorting back to the 4 way stop? Will there be a traffic light put back up? If it was nixed, why? So much road work was done to prep for it. Thanks for any input! - JM
11/5 1:04pm In answer to DLJ's comments... - KB
11/5 12:54pm To DLJ - I wasn't sure if you wanted an optometrist or opthalmologist. We use an optometrist in Millis--Dr. Rach at Millis Eye Care. She seems very thorough and does all the tests you would expect. 508-376-0800. - BS
11/5 7:35am Can anyone recommend an eye doctor? - DLJ
11/5 7:34am KB, Do you have town water? This week I noticed the dirty water but only in the washing machine for the first few minutes. You should call the Norfolk Water Department 508-528-1412. - DLJ
11/4 11:19pm Now that the 'Roundabouts' are a dead issue, we can turn our attention to finishing the other town center projects. The Library seems to be making good progress and I enjoy watching the daily construction via the live webcam. The stone walls around Town Hill are nearing completion and the old Cliff's Package Store has a nice new look. It's been a long, and at times inconvenient struggle, but the end product should be something we and our grandkids will be proud of. The other 'RP' - RP
11/4 9:43am Would someone please recommend a snow plowing service for the Norfolk area. Thank you, - JRC
11/13 7:49am Oh, no, you all say, NOT JC writing twice in one night -- we just can't stand this any more! Well, folks, you are going to hear something here that rarely ever happens publicly, and that is that I apologize -- just a little bit -- for being so one-sided about the group home discussion. I realize now (after sleeping on this, literally, and waking up in the middle of the night with an epiphany) that the neighborhood, especially the people living right next to the group home, will most likely have a harder time selling their homes because of their locating there. No, duh, JC! That's what we've all been shouting at you! So some people (the immediate neighborhood) are disproportionally paying for society's push that marginalized people be re-entered into society. A true problem, yes. - JC
11/13 7:48am JC - I think once again you are conveniently missing some valid points here and I think SD is totally correct in giving up on talking reasonably to you, since it seems to fuel some sort of fire within you. I will state for myself and I think it's safe to say that I could speak for several, if not all the people in this neighborhood, that we have never had a problem with mentally challenged people living in this home. WE have a problem with sex offenders living in our midst, period. I personally have a problem with people that want to justify their actions and smooth everything over, when all you have to do is pick up a paper on any given day and read about level two sex offenders re-offending and usually the second time around is more gruesome than the first. The issue here is #1 the sex offenders living in close proximity to our children and #2 the way the agency has gone about business in an underhanded and sneaky manner, leaving us feeling unsettled and vulnerable. I am too tired talking to you about this quite frankly JC and I think that people like you are really being as closed-minded as you are trying to make US out to be!!!! We know where we stand and what our viewpoints are and what our convictions are and what we feel our rights and the rights of our children are. If you want to continue your little rant about defending these poor, innocent sex offenders, than you will have to find someone else to bicker with because I don't have time to discuss this with you any longer. It is like beating a dead horse. It seems that because you no longer have any points to argue, that you are taking the low road and trying to make this about mentally challenged people and it absolutely is not and I'm quite sure you know that. It is about sex offenders...... S-E-X O-F-F-E-N-D-E-R-S.... or in other words, people who offend, sexually. It doesn't matter if their IQ is 65 or 265--the fact that they are sex offenders is the issue, period!! The minute you start putting words into my mouth I am all done talking to you. One thing is clear--either you just like to argue or perhaps it is that you are as passionate about the rights of sex offenders, as we are about our rights and the rights of innocent children. You have a right to your opinion, as do we...I do find it interesting that you never seemed to be at any of the public discussions regarding this home--why weren't you there defending these men before your fellow townspeople?? Perhaps you were but you didn't speak up since it's obviously a very hot topic and you wouldn't be very popular.... It's easy to hide behind a posting on a web page but is it productive?? - LB
11/13 7:30am A ladies' gold watch was turned in by a town employee who found it in the parking area at the Town Hall. If I am not manning the Information Center, check with Betsy Fijol at the Board of Health Dept. to identify the item and claim same. Thank you, - John Olivieri, Town Hall Info Office
11/12 8:48pm After all of this discussion in the last few days, I have to admit that I am somewhat baffled. (Let's see if someone is willing to stoop low enough to make a comment on that!) The house on Cleveland Street was bought with state money to provide housing for people with mental retardation; do people have a problem with providing such housing to these folks? The state does not, as far as I know, provide housing specifically for sex offenders; in this case, the state has provided housing because these individuals in question are mentally retarded and cannot live on their own. - JC
11/12 6:14pm Where did all the people (patients) go to that were housed in Medfield State Hospital, Wrentham State Hospital, and Foxboro State Hospital? Wrentham is still open but at about 2% of what it once was. Prison? Group homes? under a bridge in Cambridge/ (homeless)?. - LS
11/12 10:02am Regarding the sex offenders. It is a shame that there is no way these criminals could have prevented being the subject of such negative attitudes... WAIT !! There was an option for them! They could have not committed the crimes! I don't care if they have trouble fitting into society... It is like the article in last Sunday's Globe about mothers in prison that want more time with their children.... maybe these criminals should have considered the ramifications before making the mistake. How many teachers, police officers, or firefighters could we hire for the $430k the taxpayers spent on that house??? Never mind the cost of 24 hour supervision. That money comes out of OUR pockets. Isn't it strange that if I choose not to pay my taxes to fund this, I go to jail, these people get a house that is above the median home value in the town. - MR
11/12 9:57am JC - It was not my intent to get into a full fledged discussion with you on this subject but I guess I would like to respond to your post... First of all, let's remember who the victims are in this situation. It is not the person who was intending to rape and got caught and it is not the person who molested a child and got caught. they are not the victims. If they are having problems finding open arms to welcome them into a community, then they should have thought about that before they committed their crimes and if they were not capable of thinking it thru then, then what is to prevent them from thinking it thru now?? The victims in this stituation and other situations is the person that was almost raped and the child that was molested first and foremost, BUT also the victims in this situation are the parents and the children living in these neighborhoods that have literally had their lives changed and their way of doing things changed because the state came along and said, we're going to plop these people down here and we don't care what the zoning laws are for the town and we don't care what sort of discomfort this causes the neighbors, this is where they're going. If you look at the house that this agency chose--I mean really look at it--how much they paid, the fact that it only has three bedrooms for 4 adult men, it didn't have an adequate septic system, surrounded by woods, it has a pool, which to me could put these men at risk, unless they all know how to swim...the list goes on and on... Clearly, when taking these things into consideration, this house was a very poor choice even if you don't add in the population of children and the fact that it is set back into the woods and not easily monitored by the police. Of course the list of victims in the situation goes on and on also--how about the incident where one of these men was looking at the child across the street, not once but TWICE with binoculars??!! Is that child and the play date she had over, victims?? Of course they are--it was very upsetting to them, BUT guess what??!! They have as much as been told that they were lying about the incident by the people running the home, even though the psychologist for these men came over and removed the binoculars....So, then that bring us back into the dark ages when victims kept their mouths shut about being abused or uncomfortable because they felt nobody would believe them anyway....These little children know what they saw and yet now they are being told they made it up.....yet again not protecting the innocent but protecting the the person that caused the problem in the first place!!!! Lastly, I would like to say that anyone in this neighborhood that owns a home is a victim. The older couple I spoke about in my last post, that lives next door to this house, happens to be my parents. Never mind that my family lives two doors down from the house, it burns me up inside because I know my parents worked hard their whole lives to settle down into this new house that they built 4 years ago. They have lived in this town for almost 40 years, been law abiding citizens, paid their taxes, attended town meetings, sent 3 of us thru the school system and after retiring a few years ago, built their beautiful home--so now what....what if they want to sell their home a few years down the road, or what if they don't want to but they have to sell??? Who would want to buy a home next to a sex offender house, no matter how beautiful it is??? The point is that all of us are trapped now and probably couldn't sell our homes even if we wanted to, or if we did sell, we would have to take a huge loss. So, there you have it, we the home owners are victims of these people's crimes as well. I don't feel sorry for them, I feel sorry for the victims and maybe this is why you are finding more than just a few of us that don't agree with your overly compassionate viewpoint. Oh and incidentally, I think it's ironic that in a town like Norfolk, where housing prices are so high, that the state would pay a ridiculous amount of money for a house like the one they are living in....Norfolk is one of the towns that is untouchable by most people who are law abiding citizens just starting out, like newly weds.....and yet if you commit a sex crime, you might beable to move here....this does not make any sense!! Is this how you want your tax dollars spent??? - LB
11/11 8:21pm LB: Thank you for your calm, organized manner in explaining some of the issues dealing with the Cleveland Street group home. Their apparent behavior (I say that only because I did not experience it firsthand) certainly makes a difficult situation a little more complicated, as we are really talking about two issues rolled into one: first, the way in which THIS group home came into the community, and second, how we as a society deal with people who might be a danger to the rest of us. As I have had no firsthand interaction with the group home personnel, I cannot comment on how it was handled, although it certainly appears to have been less than productive for both sides. - JC
11/11 1:17pm I would like to stop today and thank the Veterans and Soldiers of the United States for fighting for our country. You are appreciated and commended for your bravery and heroism. - NM
11/11 1:20pm TO JC: This is my final comment to you. Do not put words in my mouth. I have a problem with sex offenders. All those other undesirables [...] were words you put in my mouth. And let me remind you that WE bought that house for them. They didn't purchase it with their own money. Did we also buy their victims houses, or do we leave them to fend for themselves and get their own mental care treatment that they need for the rest of their lives after being raped??? No, we take care of the criminals but not the victims. You will never see my side of the story. I will never see yours. So let's just end this now. - SD
11/11 11:31am To JC--Just a comment regarding the idea of bringing a cake over to the group home.....I happen to know that the older couple living right next door to the home already tried to bring them some homemade bread as a good will gesture, and to introduce themselves as their neighbors. Several months ago, we had been encouraged to meet these men and told that if we just met them, that we would like them. So, after baking bread and trying to take it to them to be neighborly, this older couple was told to leave the property and they were spoken to very rudely by the person in charge. Even after calling the woman who had encouraged them to meet them in the first place, and explaining to her what had happened when they tried to meet them, there wasn't even an apology for how they had been treated. - LB
11/11 8:49am JC - Are you serious or are you trying to be ironic? Are you really claiming that folks who question the safety of having sex offenders in their neighborhoods are engaging in witch hunts? Are you really all that concerned about infringing upon the rights of sex offenders? Because I'll tell you, no one else is. - DF
11/10 10:59pm To SD: I don't want sex offenders in my neighborhood, I don't want drug addicts in my neighborhood, I don't want convicts in my neighborhood. In fact, I don't want lots of different types of unsavory people in my neighborhood. And some people probably don't want ME in their neighborhood, because I think differently than they do. But guess what? We all have the right to live wherever we want, because this is America. Even if our thoughts and actions are unpopular. So let's stop the witch hunt mentality and realize that when we are hell-bent on limiting other people's rights, we are chipping away at the foundation of liberty that we all so cherish. - JC
11/10 10:31pm TO JC: Let me remind you and everybody else who has a question about this group home situation: Do you know whether or not these men committed their crimes while they were being supervised twenty-four hours a day? Because when we met with a representative from the Department of Mental Retardation we asked that question to him, and he refused to answer it, which led us all to believe that the crimes could have been committed while they were being "supervised." So, unless you know otherwise, it is safe to assume that they committed their crimes while they were being supervised. End of story. - SD
11/10 3:57pm To Name Withheld by Request: Yes, it was a tragedy that you were raped by a stranger -- I certainly don't deny you that, and I hope that you are somehow able to put one foot in front of the other every day to continue on with your life. My heart goes out to you for your struggle. - JC
11/10 3:06pm TO JC: There is a difference in my opinion from "rumors flying around" and actual facts. The two men on Cleveland Street are "convicted" sex offenders. There is a difference between a "rumor" and a "conviction." I know about supervising my children. I have always supervised my children, but I do have a problem with the state putting sex offenders so close to my children. There is no safe place to live in this world, and I know it. But moving convicted sex offenders away from a neighborhood with 25 children is a good start. You can also stop with your statistics. I am not interested in my children become one of the statistics of children who get raped by neighbors rather than relatives or "Friendly Uncle Frank." - SD
11/10 2:59pm Looking for teenagers who want to make some extra cash raking leaves. Please call 508-528-1461. - JJ
11/10 12:54pm The school children of Norfolk donated 426 pounds
