Norfolk/Wrentham February 2012

Vol. 1 No. 3

Free to Every Home and Business Every Month

February 1, 2012

Olympic Dreams Carry Local Equestrian

Gump’s Future Takes Shape

BY PATRICK COLEMAN

In the coming weeks, Gump’s Farm will begin to take on a new appearance. The existing home is scheduled to come down at the end of January, and the construction on four new affordable homes should be underway this February. In addition to the four new homes, plans for the use of the remaining seventeen plus acres are becoming clearer.

The new homes are being constructed by Howard Bailey. The builder started the Fox Run development on land in both Norfolk and Wrentham off Park Street. Thanks to a requirement in the town's bylaws, a developer must construct one affordable home for every ten developed.

Needing to build five homes to meet the requirement, the developer will construct the homes at no cost to the town and will use three lots that the town set aside at the time it purchased the land, as well the Gump home which was purchased by the Norfolk Municipal Housing Trust (MHT). “The Municipal Housing Trust purchased [Gump’s] with the idea of making it affordable homes,” says Selectman Jim

BY PATRICK COLEMAN

This view of Gump’s Farm will be vastly different in the coming months.

Lehan and member of the MHT committee.

According to Lehan, Howard Bailey will build all four homes at the same time, going from one foundation to the next. Three of the homes will be 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths, and use all energy star appliances. The 4th home will be a 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath cape re-

placing the home originally on the property. The homes will all be deed restricted and count towards Norfolk’s affordable home inventory. “We are looking for occupancy next summer,” Lehan says.

Preliminary plans for the remaining acres are also taking the shape. An architect has been

hired and is in the process of finalizing the financial analysis and drawings on how to use the remaining acres. When that portion of the farm was purchased, it was done so with the understanding that it would be used for passive recreation and some type of com-

GUMP’S continued on page 2

Her division is called Jumpers, and it requires a person to ride his/her horse as fast as possible and jump cleanly over obstacles. It’s about speed and control and the ability to work in unison with an animal that is stronger and bigger than you. It’s Wrentham’s Casey Lorusso’s sport and one day, she hopes, it will take her to the Olympics. But that’s down the road. First she needs to finish up at Stonehill College and continue to advance in the world of equestrians. “I have a ways to go before I try out for the Olympics,” she says but it’s definitely a goal she has had since middle school.

Lorusso started taking riding lessons at the age of 7 and early on went to different competitions. “I would ride my ponies and have fun and compete,” she explains. “My

OLYMPIC DREAMS continued on page 5

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GUMP’S continued from page 1

munity farming. The Gump’s Farm Committee, which has been generating ideas for use of the land, is planning to recommend that Kids’ Place Playground be moved from Boardman St. to Gump’s Farm. In addition, the committee plans to recommend the remaining property be used for community gardens and trails for walking and biking. Voters will have an opportunity to approve these recommendations at the May town meeting. “What we're recommending is to bring Kids’ Place onto Gump's Farm. It's the perfect place,” Lehan says. “It’s a great gateway to the town.”

Scott Dittrich, the chairman of the MHT, is pleased about the four new homes being built on Gump’s, as well as the one on Mirror Lake.

While he wished the projects were moving along faster, he believes the arrangement with Howard Bailey is a positive for Norfolk. The Town was able to purchase Gump’s Farm for $300,000 and the homes will be sold for $145,000 to $165,000. The proceeds from the home sales will go back to the MHT for additional

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property purchases. “It’s a win win situation,” Dittrich says. “It’s a win for the community and it’s a win for the builder. We’re going to end up with real quality homes and funds back into our kitty to buy more property and buy more homes.”

Wrentham Lions Club Peace Poster Winners

The MHT was created over three years ago in an effort to help Norfolk meet the state law requiring towns to have 10 percent of their housing inventory priced below market rates. The group successfully partnered with Habitat for Humanities in the development of its first affordable home on Leland Rd. The home has been occupied since March, 2011. A second Habitat Home will be built at 82 Main St. With the addition of the new homes, Norfolk will be around 3 %. “The town is struggling to get to 10 percent,” Dittrich says. “But we are working constantly trying to add to our inventory.”

Both Lehan and Dittrich stressed the quality of homes being built and the efforts placed to make sure each fit the character of the neighborhood. “We’re going to have terrific affordable houses for five families in town,” Dittrich says.

“When the project is completed, people will be shocked at how nice these homes are and how well they fit into the neighborhoods. We spent lots of time making sure that the fit the neighborhoods’ homes.”

Left to right in the picture: Wrentham Elementary School teacher Miss White, first place winner, Luke Davies, second place winner Emily Atkinson and Wrentham Elementary School teacher Mrs. Fownes.

Luke Davies and Emily Atkinson were honored at the Wrentham Lions Club dinner on Thursday night, January 5th, at Luciano’s Restaurant in Wrentham. Luke and Emily, along with their parents and teachers, were guests at the Lions Club dinner to receive awards for their entries in the 2011-2012 Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Club

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February 1, 2012

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check for taking second place.

Both also received Lions International certificates at the recognition dinner.

Luke and Emily are both in 6th grade at Wrentham Elementary School and have Miss White and Mrs. Fownes as their teachers.

Their entries were judged by a panel of Lions Club members for originality, artistic merit, and portrayal of the contest theme, “Children Know Peace.”

The Wrentham Lions Club will hold its monthly meeting Thursday, February 2nd at Luciano’s restaurant on Route 1 in Wrentham. Social time is 6:30 p.m. with dinner and the meeting starting at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in learning more about the Wrentham Lions Club may attend.

Contact Paul Strittmatter, Membership Chair at 508-384-2688 or Carl Evans, President at 508-3841190 for more information.

Luke received a $100 check for taking first place in the local competition and Emily received a $50

February 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 3

Young Scientists Meet in New Club Random Smile to Hold Gala February 11th

BY PATRICK COLEMAN

At the King Philip Middle School approximately 50 students in 7th and 8th grade meet once a month throughout the year to conduct experiments and gain additional exposure to scientific concepts in a fun environment.

Dubbed the Science Club, the group was started by the teachers in the school’s science department and meets after school. This year, the group is tackling conservation and has several initiatives planned to bring the science of energy conservation to the students and the community as well.

In January, students participated in Conservation Conquestion, a live game show sponsored by NSTAR and Radio Disney for grades 6 to 8. It focused on how students can save energy and help the environment. Students also sold CFL bulbs as part of a fundraiser for the middle school.

Another project the Science Club will tackle is on up-cycling which takes recycled materials and turns them into something useful. “We would also like to try to increase the amount of recycling that occurs in the school,” says Dr. Michele

Austin, a teacher in the KP Middle School Science Department.

The idea for the Science Club started last year. The science department took teams of students to the MIT Science Trivia Challenge last year. “We had such a positive response from students and parents who attended, as well as requests from students who were not able to participate, that the science teachers started discussing the need for a science club,” Austin says.

In the coming months the science club will conduct an energy audit of the school and hold other energy and environmental conservation activities later in the year. In addition, the club will have programs on other topics such as making ice cream, while another will focus on sending “secret messages.” The group will hold a rocketry session in the spring.

The interest in energy conservation was sparked by the science teachers attending a workshop held by the National Energy Education Development Project. It was a good source of inspiration for the school and the science program.

“As a department we felt like there

were some great messages and activities that we could take back to our students, who could then perhaps take these ideas home with them as well,” says Austin.

The success of the club has generated a few challenges. “It is difficult at times to fit all our students into a single science lab, when of course safety is always our number one priority,” says Austin.

The other challenge is to conduct the activity in a 45 minute time frame. The teachers, Jen Adams, Austin, Kelly Fecteau, Susan Hall, Emily Leone, Kathryn Post, and Jamie Wilfert, each plan the meeting to last only 45 minutes so the students may participate and have time to take the late bus home. The other issue is funding. In the fall, the group conducted a pumpkin explosion and held a foaming tower activity. The expensive chemicals needed to conduct the experiments are covered by fees the students pay. “We have tried to balance fun, hands-on activities with keeping the activity fee for meetings to a couple of dollars,” says Austin.

(This article appeared in The Wrentham Times, www.wrenthamtimes.com)

Pancake Breakfast at Federated Church of Norfolk The Federated Church of Norfolk will hold a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, February 4th, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

On the menu are homemade pancakes, ham, sausage, scrambled eggs, hash brown potatoes, cinnamon rolls, homemade biscuits and

sausage gravy. Omelets will be cooked to order.

It’s all you can eat for $7, with a Sr. citizen cost of $5. Breakfast is free for children under age 10. The Federated Church is located at the corner of Main Street and Route 115 across from the Town Com-

mon. The breakfast is served in the church vestry, which is handicapped accessible.

For more information, contact the church office, 508-528-0262.

Norfolk Cultural Council Juried Art Competition March 3-31

On February 11th, Random Smile Project will hold its annual fundraiser. The 5th Annual Random Smile Gala will be held at Christina's in Foxboro. The event is a semi formal, black tie optional affair.

There will be a surf and turf dinner with a live performance by The Marcels. A raffle for a 2012 Jeep Wrangler will be held and there will also be live and silent auctions.

A few of the items up for bid include Patriot and Red Sox memorabilia, vacations, golf related items and electronics. Tickets are

Paul Molla, president of Random Smile Project pictured with John Morrill, owner of Planet Jeep. A Jeep Wrangler will be raffled off at the organizations annual gala.

$75 and may be purchased via the Random Smile www.random smile.org.

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Applications Will Be Accepted through February 3rd The Norfolk Cultural Council is sponsoring a Juried Art Competition at the Norfolk Public Library March 3rd to March 31st.

A reception with awards, art, music and refreshments will be held on March 10th from 5-7 p.m. The competition is open to all artists; cash awards will be presented for the top ten pieces of art.

A non-refundable entry fee ($15 for one entry, $20 for a maximum of two entries) made payable to the Norfolk Cultural Council is required to be considered for the juried competition.

Applications may be sent with the payment (check or money order) from January 16th through and including February 3rd.

Artists will be notified of their accepted artwork for the juried competition by February 9th via email or phone.

Further information and an application may be requested by contacting norfolk2012@gmail. com.

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Page 4

Paying For College May Now Be Less Taxing Education Tax Rules Parents facing college expenses have several provisions in the tax law to consider. The benefits don’t apply to all, but there is something of interest for many families.

Tax Credits The Hope credit (renamed the American Opportunity Tax Credit) is available for certain tuition and fees, and it allows you to reduce taxes annually up to $2,500 per student for four years of college.

The credit is equal to 100% of the first $2,000 of qualified expenses and 25% of the next $2,000.

The lifetime learning credit covers any year of post-secondary education, with a maximum credit of $2,000, no matter how many students in the family are eligible.

Both the American Opportunity Tax Credit and lifetime learning credits phase out for taxpayers with higher incomes.

Other Education Tax Incentives Education savings accounts. You may establish an education savings account (previously called an education IRA) with a nondeductible contribution for any child under 18. The annual contribution limit is $2,000. Funds can accumulate and be paid out tax-free for qualified college expenses, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, equipment, and certain room and board costs. The funds can also be

used to pay for elementary and secondary (K-12) school expenses at public, private, or religious schools. Eligibility for an education savings account starts phasing out at $95,000 of AGI for single taxpayers and $190,000 for married folks.

Individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Existing IRAs can also be a source of college funds. You may make withdrawals before age 59—without penalty for amounts paid for college or graduate school tuition, fees, books, room and board, supplies, and equipment.

Education savings bonds. Interest on Series EE and Series I bonds issued after 1989 is nontaxable when used to pay tuition and fees for you or your dependents.

This tax break begins to phase out once income reaches certain levels.

Section 529 plans allow individuals to set up an account on behalf of someone else (say a child or grandchild) that can be used to pay college expenses. There are two types of plans: Prepaid tuition plans are designed to hedge against inflation.

You can purchase tuition credits, at today’s rates, that your child can redeem when he or she attends one of the plan’s eligible colleges or universities. Both state and private institutions can offer prepaid tuition programs. Using tuition credits from these programs is tax-free.

February 1, 2012

Norfolk Lions Chili Fest

sponsored plans that allow you to build a fund to pay for your child’s college education. Your contributions are not tax-deductible, but once in the plan, your money grows tax-free. Provided the funds are used to pay for qualified college expenses, withdrawals are tax-free. Qualified expenses include tuition, fees, books, supplies, and certain room and board costs.

Private institutions are not allowed to set up college savings accounts.

Student loan interest deduction.

Interest on certain student loans can be deducted whether or not you itemize your deductions. The maximum deduction is $2,500 per year over the loan repayment period.

Other tax benefits. Most scholarships remain tax-free, nontaxable employer-paid tuition may be available, and education expenses related to your job still may be deductible.

When you start examining your situation, remember that many of these provisions are designed so that you can’t benefit from more than one in any given year. Your financial advisor can help guide you through the maze and help ensure that you receive the maximum possible benefit

Folks enjoying the past Chili Fest .

Save the date! The Norfolk Lions 5th annual Chili Fest will be held on Saturday, March 10 at 6:00 p.m. at St. Jude Church Hall, 86 Main Street, Norfolk. Come on out and sample, enjoy and vote for your favorite chili from some of the area’s finest restaurants.

This year’s competition will include chili from Eagle Brook Saloon, Horse N’ Carriage, Beckett’s Pub, Mr. Dooley’s Olde Irish Country Pub, Guido’s Italian Restaurant and James’ Roadside

Cafe. In addition to the chili, mac & cheese, cornbread, drinks and dessert will be served.

All proceeds from this event are donated to the Norfolk Food Pantry. Tickets are $15 for anyone over 10 years old and $5.00 for all others. Seating is limited, so advanced tickets are recommended.

Ticket sales will be announced soon.

For more information about this event, please email cwesalo@ comcast.net.

Jeffrey Schweitzer, EPA, CEP, ATP offers financial planning services at Northeast Financial Strategies Inc., in Wrentham, Mass.

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Olympic dream, but she says it takes time to advance up the divisions. “I would really like to represent the United States when I’m ready,” Lorusso says. “When I started doing the jumpers, the Olympics became my goal.”

OLYMPIC DREAMS continued from page 1

dad would trailer me to shows, but I wanted to do something more.”

To help her attain more, she turned to trainer Paul Valliere who boards horses in Plainville. He helped her find a nicer horse and worked with her to get to the next level of competition. “When I started training with Valliere things began to take off,” she says. “ I figured out what my goals were and what I wanted to do with my riding.”

It was Valliere who mentioned to her that in Wellington, Florida, riders compete in a 12-week circuit called the Winter Equestrian Festival. The WEF is considered a proving ground for the United States Equestrian Team and hosts selection trails for the Olympic Games. She returns to the festival after finishing second last year in the low-adult division. This year the festival is off to a good start.

In her first weekend at the competition all went well. “We just did one class and went clean meaning we didn't hit any jumps and were within the time allowed so we got a blue ribbon,” she says of her ride with her horse Addie, a 1,200 pound hanovarian mare.

“I can't wait for the rest of the season.”

In addition to the competition in Wellingston, FL, Lorusso will be

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To get there Lorusso says it will require a combination of hard work, a good horse and a good team supporting her. “You can be really talented, and you can try your hardest, but you’re just as good as the horse you’re sitting on and the people you surround yourself with,” she says.

Casey Lorusso hopes one day to compete in the Olympics.

competing as a member of Stone Hill College’s Equestrian team.

She is currently a junior at the Easton, MA school and will fly down to Florida on Thursday evenings, returning on Sundays.

“It’s a real balancing game competing with Stonehill and compet-

ing in Wellingston. I’ll miss two weeks [WEF] because I’ll be competing with Stonehill.”

This year Lorusso has moved up a division and will compete in the low adult amateur owner division.

It’s just one of many steps needed to take in order to get closer to her

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Page 6

Dave Russo to Perform at WEST Comedy Night Wrentham Elementary Schools Trust, Inc. (WEST) will be hosting its 4th Annual Comedy Night on Saturday, March 10th at Restaurant 3 in Franklin. The Comedy Night is WEST’s largest fundraising event, raising over $10,000 for the organization last March. This year’s feature act is Boston comedian Dave Russo. Host of “The Wicked Comedy Tour”, Dave has appeared on Comedy Central, The Today Show and E! Entertainment Network. He also has a live show every Friday from 1:00 to 2:00 pm on WCAP 980 AM. The evening will include both live and silent auctions. Some of last year’s most popular auction items included a hockey stick signed by the entire 2011 Boston Bruins team, a pair of Club Seats for a Bruins vs. Blackhawks game and a pair of tickets for the Red Sox Yankees opening weekend game.

“Last year’s event was a great

online payment of $560 until February 27 or $600 starting February 28.

WEST provides grants to Wrentham Elementary teachers, funding important curriculum enrichment programs that fall outside current school budgets. The event will run from 7:00 p.m. through 11:00 p.m. and will feature food, comedy and an auction.

success and we look forward to another good year”, says WEST President Audra Kennedy. “This event is critical in allowing WEST to fund important and innovative projects for the Wrentham Elementary Schools - projects that help us bring continued excellence to our schools. The WEST Comedy Night allows you to have a fun night out while contributing to a wonderful cause”.

Wrentham Elementary Schools Trust, Inc. (WEST) is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization responsible for raising private capital to fund innovative, educational projects for the Wrentham Elementary Schools. All monies are raised independently through fundraising, corporate sponsors, tax-deductible donations and matching corporate gifts. Established in 2007, WEST continually accepts grants, donations and legacies which it uses to maintain a standard of educational excellence in Wrentham’s Elementary schools.

The cost of $75 per person includes appetizers, a buffet dinner, dessert, cash bar and the comedy show. A table of 8 is available at a discounted rate of $560 until February 27th, and $600 starting February 28th.

Tickets can be purchased online http://www.wrenthamwest.org or via mail, with checks made out to WEST and mailed to WEST, P.O. Box 852, Wrentham, MA 02093.

For tables of 8, please include a list of attendees for that table and submit checks together, or make one

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Dave Russo to host WEST Comedy Night

February 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 7

The Village at River’s Edge Opens New Model Home The Village at River’s Edge, active adult (55+) community in Norfolk is unveiling a brand new furnished model for 2012. The new ranch style ADAMS model has over 1,550 sq ft of living space all on one floor. The open floor plan features a large eat-in kitchen with center island, an expansive dining area and fireplace family room along with two large 1st floor bedrooms. With no interior units, all of the VARE ranches have lots of windows and natural light.

Sales at The Village at River’s Edge have been very strong since developer, Tom DiPlacido introduced four new Ranch-style plans with a truss roof design that allows for flexible floor plans. Because of this flexibly, buyers are able to work with the builder to refine floor plans for their specific needs.

This is particularly important for buyers who may have special needs as in the case of handicapped accessibility features.

Marketing Director Al Rao reports that in spite of the soft economy, sales have been very strong with 17 closed sales in 2011. In fact, the

large development project recently surpassed the 50% completion point with 74 Closed & Occupied units out of a total of 136! Construction is also underway for the new 4,000 sq ft Meeting House that will be ready for use by the

residents this spring. Once the economy strengthens, DiPlacido Development Corp. will begin construction of the final piece of the project - a 25,000 sq ft commercial building and restaurant that will offer retail shopping, din-

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The Village at River’s Edge is located on Route 115 near the Norfolk-Millis border and is being marketing by Prudential Page Realty with offices in Medfield, Medway and Wrentham.

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Page 8

February 1, 2012

Sixers Tap Brown for Anthem

BY PATRICK COLEMAN

Both music and basketball have been a big part of Wrentham native Ayla Brown’s life and now they are brought together thanks to the front office of the National Basketball Association's Philadelphia 76ers. Brown is the official singer of the national anthem at all of the team’s games throughout this season. “It’s the most perfect combination I could ever ask for,” Brown says enthusiastically. “The national anthem means so much to me and I get to watch basketball. It’s perfect.”

Brown’s singing abilities were brought to the public’s attention in 2005 when she was in the top 16 of American Idol, but her talents extended beyond the stage all the way to the basketball court. She was a star player for Nobles and Greenough High School and, after her stint on American Idol, she went off to play Division I Women’s Basketball at Boston College for four years. Her love of basketball started with her father U.S. Senator Scott Brown who is known as an avid fan and player.

But a big contributing factor to her basketball passion and success was the introduction to the game she received at the after school program started by retired Wrentham Elementary School teacher Tom Stone. “My first year playing basketball was with Mr. Stone in fifth grade,” Brown says. “Besides my

father if it wasn’t for him, I would never love basketball.”

For Brown, performing the national anthem before a sports event isn’t anything new. She has sung it before Celtics and Boston College games and at different arenas all around New England. But it was one special performance she had with the Boston Pops on the Fourth of July that helped land her the gig with the 76ers. The team’s new CEO, Adam Aron, was determined to improve the pre-game experience. The team decided to hire a single person to perform the Star Spangled Banner, much like their hockey counterparts the Flyers did decades ago by hiring Kate Smith to sing before their home games. Lauren Hart now has the honor and the rendition is one of sports great traditions. Aron, attempting to do something similar, turned to YouTube and came across Brown’s performance with the Boston Pops and reached out to see if she was interested. “The power of the Internet,” Brown says with a laugh.

While Brown grew up a fan of the Celtics, she says the most important part about the job is simply the honor of singing the national anthem. “It’s really about singing our national song no matter what the team,” Brown says. Plus, the added bonus is she gets to watch the sport she grew up loving.

In addition to singing the anthem

for each game, she takes part in four half time performances and she will also sing in eight shows in the arena concourse during the game. The opportunity to expand her presence at the game is something the 76ers were interested in doing for her. “They wanted to help with my career and create a fan base as someone trying to be a country music singer,“ Brown says. She also has an opportunity to sell her CDs and merchandise during each home game.

When she is not in Philadelphia or performing around the country, home is now in Nashville. While her schedule is hectic, she does get time to return to Wrentham to be with her family. “I was home for the holidays. It was the first time in a really long time we were all together as a family,” Brown says.

Brown recently recorded and produced a new album which is right now only available at the Ayla Brown prepares to sing the national anthem before a Phildelphia 76ers games. Of the ten songs on 76er’s game. Photo by: Jesse D. Garrabrant, NBA Photo. the album, she co-wrote seven and basketball games. While in setts on Saturday, January 21st at she also started her own record Nashville she is enjoying the the Boston Center for Adult Educompany. There isn’t a hard resouthern hospitality and perform- cation and will perform on January lease date yet, but if people would ing as much as she can in an effort 26th at the Kevin Youkilis’s Not like a copy now, they simply need to hone her craft. But the athlete in Your Average Idol 2 event. For to reach out to her on her web site her is still alive and well. Before a more details on future perform(www.aylabrown.com). few of the games she has had an ances visit www.aylabrown.com.

As the official anthem singer for opportunity to shoot around the (This article appeared in The Wrenthe 76ers, other opportunities have court. “I’ve hit a few NBA three tham Times, www.wrenthamtimes.com) developed in the Philadelphia area pointers,” she says. “I’m getting to perform. Also, a few companies my shot back.” have reached out to her to provide Brown performed in Massachuher with clothing and shoes for the

SUMMER ARTS ARTS PROGRAMS JULY JUL Y 16 - 28, 2012 $450/week (two-week commitment)

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Ages 11 - 13 Explore your interest in musical theatre Participate in a full-scale production of the musical Fame at the end of the program Fully air-conditioned facilities Affordable - low cost with lunch included

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Ages 14 - 17 Professional dance instructors Prestigious opportunity for serious dancers Perform in a full-scale dance production at the end of the program Fully air-conditioned facilities Affordable - low cost with lunch included

www.dean.edu/summerarts www.dean.edu/summerarts

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

February 1, 2012

Page 9

Norfolk & Wrentham Library Calendars Norfolk Public Library 139 Main St. Norfolk, MA 02056 508-528-3380 February 1 Baby Time, Stories, rhymes, songs, and play for babies up to 12 months and their caregivers. This is a 7-week class that runs from January 5-February 15. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Multi-Age Storytime, An interactive drop-in storytime with songs, games, and a craft. For children 2 and up with a caregiver.

11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

On My Own Storytime, An independent story time experience for children 3 and up. Caregivers must stay in the building, but are encouraged to let children attend the program alone. 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Junior Friends of the Library, The monthly general meeting of the Junior Friends of the Library.

For kids in grades 4-6. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Great Decisions Discussion Group,This world affairs discussion group meets on the first Wednesday of every month. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

February 2 Mother Goose on the Loose! A highly interactive program for children up to age 3 with a caregiver. Join us for songs, rhymes, puppets, lap bounces, and more!

11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m Young Inventors, One person’s trash is another person’s treasure!

Recycle old materials to create a brilliant new invention. We’ll supply the materials; you supply the ideas! For children in grades 3-5.

Registration required. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

February 3 Picnic Playgroup, Bring a lunch and enjoy music, stories, and fun.

Funded by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

February 6 No Girls Allowed! A book discussion group just for guys in grades 5-8. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

February 7 Ed Morgan Sing-Along, Join Ed Morgan for singing, dancing, and an all-around great time. For children of all ages with a caregiver.

No registration required. 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

February 8 Baby Time, Stories, rhymes, songs, and play for babies up to 12 months and their caregivers. This

is a 7-week class that runs from January 5-February 15. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Multi-Age Storytime, An interactive drop-in storytime with songs, games, and a craft. For children 2 and up with a caregiver.

11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

On My Own Storytime, An independent story time experience for children 3 and up. Caregivers must stay in the building, but are encouraged to let children attend the program alone. 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Cupid's Craft Convention, Stop by and make a Valentine for your special sweetie! The Junior Friends of the Library provide the materials and will help children construct Valentine’s Day cards and crafts. For children age 3 and up. 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

February 9 Mother Goose on the Loose! A highly interactive program for children up to age 3 with a caregiver. Join us for songs, rhymes, puppets, lap bounces, and more!

11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

February 10 Picnic Playgroup, Bring a lunch and enjoy music, stories, and fun.

Funded by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Saturday February 11 Cupid's Craft Convention, Stop by and make a Valentine for your special sweetie! The Junior Friends of the Library provide the materials and will help children construct Valentine’s Day cards and crafts. For children age 3 and up. 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

February 13 Floral Fun, Rick Tedoldi of the Norfolk Garden Club will teach you how to make a live floral arrangement for someone you love. Parental participation encouraged. Registration required. $5 materials fee must be paid at time of registration. Register in person at the Reference Desk in the library. Fo children in grades K-6. 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

February 14 Fun with Folktales - Valentine Stories, Tales of love from around the world. We will also decorate Valentine’s Day cookies. For children in grades K-2. Registration required. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

February 15 Baby Time, Stories, rhymes, songs, and play for babies up to 12 months and their caregivers. This is a 7-week class that runs from January 5-February 15. Registra-

tion required. 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m Multi-Age Storytime, An interactive drop-in storytime with songs, games, and a craft. For children 2 and up with a caregiver.

11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

On My Own Storytime, An independent story time experience for children 3 and up. Caregivers must stay in the building, but are encouraged to let children attend the program alone. 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Junior Friends of the Library, The monthly general meeting of the Junior Friends of the Library.

For kids in grades 4-6. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

February 16 Mother Goose on the Loose! A highly interactive program for children up to age 3 with a caregiver. Join us for songs, rhymes, puppets, lap bounces, and more!

11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

February 17 Picnic Playgroup, Bring a lunch and enjoy music, stories, and fun.

Funded by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

February 20 Library Closed for Presidents Day February 22 Reading Giraffes Book Discussion, A monthly book discussion for the Teen Friends of the Library (aka the Reading Giraffes). Books can be picked up at the library's circulation desk about 3 weeks in advance. 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

MS Support Group, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

February 26 Preschool Play and Learn, A playgroup for preschoolers age 2 1/2 - 5 and their caregivers. Activities may include tactile play, movement, stories, and crafts.

Sponsored by Community Partnerships for Children. All children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday Afternoon Book Discussion Group, Monthly meeting of Norfolk Public Library book discussion group. New members are always welcome. 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

February 29 Multi-Age Storytime, An interactive drop-in storytime with songs, games, and a craft. For children 2 and up with a caregiver.

11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

On My Own Storytime, An independent story time experience for

children 3 and up. Caregivers must stay in the building, but are encouraged to let children attend the program alone. 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Fiske Public Library 110 Randall Rd. Wrentham, MA 02093 508-384-5440 February 1 Mom's Club, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m February 2 Yoga with Chris Primavera, 5th class of the first WINTER session.Sign up and prepayment of $65.00 is required. This session ends on Feb. 9. A new session will be announced. 9:30 a.m. to 10: 45 a.m.

February 3 Baby/Toddler Playgroups, Two programs – Birth to pre-walkers with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 9:30. Toddlers (walkers) to ages 2 ½ with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 10:30.

Meet new friends, play with the toys and gym equipment purchased with funds from the Friends of Fiske!!! Come join the fun! No registration required just drop in. If arriving before 10 a.m. please ring doorbell. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

February 4 Lego Club, The sessions are held in the Sweatt Meeting Room. Registration is not required, just drop in and join the fun!!!! (Lego donations always appreciated!) 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

February 9 Yoga with Chris Primavera, 5th class of the first WINTER session.Sign up and prepayment of $65.00 is required. Last class of this session. A new session will be announced. 9:30 a.m. to 10: 45 a.m.

February 10 Baby/Toddler Playgroups, Two programs – Birth to pre-walkers with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 9:30. Toddlers (walkers) to ages 2 ½ with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 10:30.

Meet new friends, play with the toys and gym equipment purchased with funds from the Friends of Fiske!!! Come join the fun! No registration required just drop in. If arriving before 10 a.m. please ring doorbell. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

February 11 Lego Club, The sessions are held in the Sweatt Meeting Room. Registration is not required, just drop in and join the fun! (Lego dona-

tions always appreciated!) 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

February 16 Learning Through Play, This monthly program is being offered

by Self Help, Inc., Community Partnerships for Children. Learning through Play is a FREE playgroup for preschool children and their families. Come join us for fingerplays, books and a craft as we Learn Through Play. Cannedgood donations will be gratefully accepted for the Wrentham Food Pantry. Sign-up at the Circulation Desk. 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

February 17 Baby/Toddler Playgroups, Two programs – Birth to pre-walkers with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 9:30. Toddlers (walkers) to ages 2 ½ with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 10:30.

Meet new friends, play with the toys and gym equipment purchased with funds from the Friends of Fiske!!! Come join the fun! No registration required just drop in. If arriving before 10 a.m. please ring doorbell. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

February 18 Lego Club, The sessions are held in the Sweatt Meeting Room. Registration is not required, just drop in and join the fun!!!! (Lego donations always appreciated!) 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

February 21, 2012 Go To Top February 23 Evening Book Group, Books will be available at the circulation desk. FACILITATOR: Jan Battikha, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

February 24 Baby/Toddler Playgroups, Two programs – Birth to pre-walkers with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 9:30. Toddlers (walkers) to ages 2 ½ with Mom, Dad or caregiver meet on Fridays at 10:30.

Meet new friends, play with the toys and gym equipment purchased with funds from the Friends of Fiske!!! Come join the fun! No registration required just drop in. If arriving before 10 a.m. please ring doorbell. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

February 25 Lego Club, The sessions are held in the Sweatt Meeting Room. Registration is not required, just drop in and join the fun!!!! (Lego donations always appreciated!) 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

February 29 Foreign Film, 7 p.m.

Page 10

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Deputy Chief Wood Retires

February 1, 2012

Franklin Performing Arts Company presents A Culinary Cabaret to Support Electric Youth A Presentation of the Culinary and Performing Arts

Deputy Chief Steve Wood retires after 36 years of service to Norfolk.

After 36 years of service, Deputy Chief Steve Wood retired at the end of 2011 leaving a hole in the Norfolk Fire Department that won’t be filled. Wood was a call member and served as an operational officer at emergency scenes.

He also served with full authority of the Fire Chief in his absence.

Wood was very active in hiring and firefighting training. “He takes a great deal of stress away from an incident commander knowing that

you have someone as competent handling the operation in terms of safety of crews inside of buildings and in terms of accountable,” says Coleman Bushnell, Norfolk Fire Chief. “His abilities as a professional and dedicated firefighter are exceptional. He usually is the first on the scene and last to leave.”

Described as quiet and proud of Norfolk, Wood provided the department with a reliable problem solver. “If you have any problem,

even if it wasn’t fire related, you could go to him,” says Lieutenant Mike Findlen. “He is the backbone behind us.”

Bushnell says Wood won’t be replaced and that the current staff will have to fill the void left by Wood’s retirement. “He’s one of those rare people,” Bushnell says.

“We wouldn’t be able to replace him.”

The Franklin Performing Arts Company will present a Culinary Cabaret, an evening of fabulous food, wine and entertainment, on Friday, March 9, at 7:00 p.m. at Clarke, The Ultimate Kitchen Resource Center in Milford. The culinary and performing arts will unite to create a feast for the senses.

Culinary Cabaret will offer demonstrations by some of the area’s best chefs, restaurants and caterers and exceptional entertainment by Electric Youth and special guest artists from the Franklin Performing Arts Company. A Culinary Cabaret will support Electric Youth, Franklin’s international touring ensemble and their 2012 European tour.

Culinary Cabaret partners include media sponsor Northeast FLAVOR Magazine, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Tavolino, Artistry Boston Catering and Events, Whole Foods and Clarke, The Ultimate Kitchen Resource Center.

This event will take place in the beautiful Clarke showroom known

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to be the nation’s most exemplary distributor with two award-winning showrooms (known as the region’s ultimate kitchen resource centers), a Culinary Center teaching cooking to homeowners throughout New England, a nationally known appliance service company and a network of stellar independent retail dealers. Clarke now represents high-performance brands including: Sub-Zero, Wolf, Asko, Best, KWC, Dawn and Scotsman.

Electric Youth members serve as ambassadors of America’s youth while presenting concerts domestically and abroad. On a 15-concert tour in Europe, EY shows will include a return performance to entertain the U.S. Troops and families stationed abroad. EY last toured Europe in 2010 when they performed 15 shows in Austria and Italy and headlined the Fourth of July celebration for the U.S. Troops and their families stationed at Aviano Air Force Base.

To purchase tickets for Culinary Cabaret, contact the Franklin Performing Arts Company at (508) 528-8668.

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February 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 11

Living Healthy Norfolk Council on Aging Senior Center 28 Medway Branch Center Norfolk, MA 508-528-4430 senator ross office hours Senator Richard Ross is pleased to once again hold an informational seminar for the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit on February 7th at 1 p.m. The Senior Circuit Breaker is a tax credit for persons 65 years of age or older.

Whisty Party Friday, February 17th at 12:30.

There is a fee of $2.00, which will be used for prizes. Chances to win an optional door prize are 50 cents each or 3 for $1. Every game consists of four hands and each player deals a hand. A set of rules will be available. Refreshments will be served. Please call if you plan on attending bingo — Mondays at 1 p.m.

Donation is 60 cents per card. bridge — Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. John Byrne will give lessons on “intro to bridge”. Call the Senior center for more information. computer tutorial — A 4 week course starts the first of every month on Fridays from 9-10 a.m. All other computer questions will be answered after class from 10 -11 a.m. cribbage — Wednesdays and/or Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. - 12 noon. Norfolk’s cribbage tournament started January 26th and goes until March 1st . cybex exercise cycles — These are set up in the Lower Level and can be used anytime. It will take just a minute of your time to be trained on safety and proper use of the cycles and to sign a waiver. game day — Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. Every day is game day at the Senior Center. If a game you want to play is not out, just ask. hair cuts — Thursday, March 1st at 9 a.m. Call for an appointment. Price: $10.

Knitting club — Fridays at 10 a.m. Our new project is lap robes for a retirement home for nuns.

Our chemo hats are in great demand, especially with the cold weather. When Tina delivers the hats they are gone in a few hours.

The “Knitwits” are a lively group, join us any Friday morning at 10 a.m. library — Read at home program continues with the cooperation of the Norfolk Library and the Council on Aging. If you are homebound, books will be delivered to your home. Call and ask for an application if you are interested in this program. manicure — Thursday, February 9th and 23rd. The price for a basic manicure is $6.00. A price list is posted at the Senior Center for deluxe manicure, pedicures and more. Call for an appointment. massage — Michelle Cody, Certified Massage Therapist, will be at the Senior Center Tuesday, February 21st and 28th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A 15 minute massage is $10 and 30 minutes is $20.

These are special rates for ages 65 and over. Sign up is a must, as health information must be filled out beforehand. movie — Friday, February 3rd at 1 p.m. The movie is “The Talented Mr. Ripley” starring , Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jude Law. Root Beer floats will be served.

Texas Hold’em Poker — Every Monday from 1 to 4 p.m.

Walk club — Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. Betty Ray is our certified instructor. Weather permitting.

Water color class — Thursdays at 10 a.m. Teacher Tina Addison will be at the Senior Center.

Participants must have their own supplies. Those would include: a block of watercolor paper, paints, and brushes. Bring something for the food pantry as a fee for the class. yoga — Mondays at 11:30 a.m.

At every age, YOGA can provide health benefits and some believe reverse the aging process. There is a fee of $2 per class.

Wrentham Senior Center 400 Taunton St. 508-384-5425 Fuel Assistance – Fuel Assistance applications are now available. For more information and to make an appointment call Fran Padula at 508-384-5425.

Reassurance Program – Would you like to receive a friendly telephone call every morning? Monday – Sunday around 9:00am?

Please call the center and speak

with Fran Padula Food assistance benefits – To obtain information about SNAP (food stamps) benefits and an application, call the Department of Transitional Assistance SNAP Benefits Hotline, 1-800-645-8333.

A counselor will help you fill out the application, and will stay in touch with you to ensure you receive any benefits to which you may be entitled. If you have any questions or would like an application, call Outreach Worker Fran Padula at 508-384-5425for more information. card making at A.C. Moore in Bellingham. On Monday, January 30 at 10:00 a.m., the van will take us to A.C. Moore to make cards. Space is limited to 11, and you must sign up for this special craft at the front desk. All materials and supplies will be provided for you. If you would like to include anything personal in the card (a picture, etc.), please bring it with you on the day of the trip the circuit breaker tax credit. Wednesday, February 1 at 12:30 p.m. State Senator Richard Ross and Brian Lynch, from the MA Department of Revenue, will be at the Senior Center to talk about the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit. The Circuit Breaker is a property tax credit that was de-

signed by the Legislature with the hope of alleviating some of the burdens property taxes can create. It’s called the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, because it is “triggered,” like an electrical circuit breaker when property payments exceed 10% of a senior citizen’s annual income. Senator Ross and Mr. Lynch will discuss how to determine if you are eligible for this tax credit and how to claim it if you are determined eligible. The tax credit can be claimed up to three years previous to this tax year.

Weekly Events: aerobic exercise class – Monday at 9:30, Wednesday at 10:00 Cost $2.00 YMCA Instructor sit & stretch class – Monday and Wednesday at 11:00. Cost is $2. Video shown on Friday at 11:00 is free. cribbage – Tuesday at 9:00 am $1 grocery shopping – Friday at 10:15. Call center to sign up. ceramics – Every Thursday from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Cost $3 line dancing – Tuesday from 1:00 – 2:30. Cost $3 Painting class – Tuesday from 9:30 – 11:30. Cost $3 continued on page 13

scrabble — Thursdays from 10 a.m. -12 noon. Join in on the good time and friendship. strength video — Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 9-10 a.m. “Easy Does It” video is exactly as it describes itself and is the perfect starting point for the person who is older or is post illness, injury, or surgery. swimming — Tuesdays, 9-11 a.m. and 1:30 -2:30 p.m., Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. and Fridays, 9:30-11a.m. at the Wrentham Developmental Center. Call first at 508 384-3114 x2592 tai-chi-yang style — Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Paula Sullivan instructs students who are advanced, beginners, and those who prefer chairs. Paula is a certified Tai-Chi, Yoga instructor and Reiki Practitioner. The cost of the class is $2.00.

CONCIERGE CATARACT CARE Here are what our patients and your neighbors and friends have said recently:

~ "This facility and Dr. Goodman are wonderful and this community is so fortunate to have him and it." ~ "Much better experience than having the procedure done at the hospital." ~ "Thank you for the gift of sight!" ~ "The surgical center is outstanding. The staff is professional, organized and comforting.

My records were released and everything was explained. The care I received was excellent."

Some facts about us: • The only fully certified and accredited (state, federal and medicare) ophthalmology facility in the area.

• All out nursing, anesthesia, and O.R. staff are eye specialists - hand-picked and specially trained.

• Over 12,000 cataract surgeries to date and growing.

• Nearly all insurance plans are accepted and our fees are lower than a hospital's fees.

145 West Street, Milford, Massachusetts 01757 Phone: 508•381•5600 / Fax: 508•381•5610 www.besteyedoc.com

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 12

February 1, 2012

Living Healthy How To Disinfect Water In The Case of An Emergency When a weather emergency occurs, the effects can prove devastating. Natural disasters like hurricanes have turned cities upside down, floods have caused the deaths of thousands and snowstorms have shut communities down for days.

A weather emergency, be it a natural disaster or a heavy storm, can contaminate the local supply of drinking water and disrupt the wastewater disposal system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, such a disruption or contamination can directly threaten a person's health. As a result, it's important for men and women to know how to disinfect their drinking water should an emergency occur and the supply be at risk.

The easiest way to avoid health issues that arise from a contaminated water supply is to keep plenty of bottled water on hand and use as drinking water and when cooking. So long as the bottled water has not been exposed to flood waters, it will be safe to drink.

If an emergency strikes and you don't have any bottled water at home, don't panic. Boiling water

can help make the water safe, killing most types of disease-causing organisms that might be present. Boil water for one minute before allowing it cool and then store in containers for later use.

In an emergency situation, the water could very well be cloudy.

This is also not a cause for panic.

Instead, filter the water through clean cloths or just allow it to settle. When allowed to settle, chances are the cloudy water will clear up within minutes. Once it does, use the clear water when boiling.

If there's no means to boiling the water, you can use household bleach as a disinfectant. Bleach is effective at killing some, but not all, disease-causing organisms that might be in the water. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle before attempting to disinfect it. Once the water is clear, use this clear water for disinfection. When ready to disinfect the water, the EPA recommends adding 1/8 teaspoon (or roughly eight drops) of regular, unscented liquid household bleach for each gallon of water. Do not use non-chlorine bleach to disinfect water. Once added, stir the bleach and water mixture well,

then let it stand for 30 minutes before use. Once disinfected, store the water in clean containers with covers.

The treated water should have a slight odor of chlorine. If it does not, repeat the process and allow the water to stand for an additional 15 minutes. After this step, if the treated water exhibits a strong odor of chlorine or tastes strongly of chlorine, allow the water to stand exposed to the air for a few hours or pour the water from one clean container to another several times.

For those who rely on well water, in the case of a flood have the water tested and disinfected once the flood waters have receded.

Should a weather emergency occur and the water supply be disrupted or contaminated, heed the advice of local health departments or public water systems. More information about disinfecting water and surviving a weather emergency is available at www.epa.gov.

A disruption or contamination of the water supply can threaten a person's health.

Speech-Language & Hearing Associates of Greater Boston

15 Franklin St. Wrentham, MA 02093 (774) 847-9265

TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS WELCOME! NO CONTRACT FEES Insurances Accepted/Private Pay-Sliding Scale Available Free Consultation • Preschool Assessment and Intervention

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• School-Age Speech-Lanquage and Literacy Evaluations and Therapies • Hearing and Auditory Processing Tests • Hearing Aid Fittings • Reading and Writing Strategies • Wilson, Orton-Gillingham • Tinnitus Evaluation and Treatment

Visit our website: www.speechlanguageandhearingassociates.com Two Convenient Locations 5 North Meadow Rd, Medfield (508) 359-4532

30 Man-Mar Drive, Plainville (508) 695-6848

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

February 1, 2012

Page 13

Living Healthy Milford-Franklin Eye Center Providing Eye Care for the Entire Family Milford-Franklin Eye Center provides comprehensive and excellent eye care for the entire family. With offices located in Milford and Franklin and a support staff of 14, this practice is a leading medical and surgical eye care center in the area. Two experienced eye physicians, Dr. John Hatch and Dr. Roger Kaldawy, and a third guest Ophthalmologist provide a range of services, from basic eye exams, fitting contacts and glasses, to special treatments and surgery for more complicated problems, like laser vision correction and cornea transplantations.

"We pride ourselves on giving state-of-the-art care, one patient at a time," said Dr. Kaldawy. Dr. Hatch is the only fellowship trained pediatric Ophthalmologist in the area, and is a skilled cataract surgeon with training in the latest techniques for straightening misaligned eyes. Dr. Kaldawy was the first full-time corneal disease specialist in the area. He started the corneal transplantation service at Milford Regional Medical Center.

He has performed thousands of procedures including laser vision correction and advanced accommodating cataract implants which allow patients clear vision for distance, near, and everything in between with a minimum need for glasses.

cision to have the surgery should only be made by the patient based on specific symptoms, including night vision problems or the inability to see well during every day activities.

Choosing the right Ophthalmologist for cataract surgery is also important. According to Dr. Kaldawy, ask a prospective surgeon about his or her complication rate, and more specifically about the percentage of capsular rupture, a complication of cataract surgery that occurs during the procedure and can lead to devastating problems. Any percentage of rupture higher than five percent is over the national average.

“I am blessed with a rupture rate of zero percent when my cases were reviewed for the last three years by the Director of Surgical Nursing, an independent source at Milford Hospital,” said Kaldawy.

Choosing a location is also critical.

Dr. Kaldawy performs his surgeries at Milford Hospital, recently named one of the best hospitals in the region.

For more information or to make an appointment at Milford-Franklin Eye Center, call 508-473-7939 in Milford, or 508-528-3344 in Franklin. Offices are located at 258 Main St., Milford, and 391 East Central St., Franklin. Saturday and after hours appointments are available.

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Financial advisor – Second Monday of each month. Call for appointment.

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When it comes to cataract surgery, Dr. Kaldawy, states it’s important for patients to educate themselves and maintains the de-

continued from page 11

Store Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-4pm ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

evening exercise class – Tuesday at 6pm and Thursday at 5:45pm. 45 minute high impact aerobics class, zoomba-like exercise, strength training, ab floor work and yoga stretching. Cost is $2, payable at the class. Please bring a floor mat and weights. (we can provide some weights). blood Pressure clinic – Third Wednesday of each month chair massage – Second Friday of each month. Call for appoint-

Wrentham’s veterans agent – Ken Oles, will be at the senior center on Monday’s from 1pm to 3:00pm and Tuesday’s at 5:00pm to 8:00. Call the center if you would like to meet with Ken. shine – Our SHINE Counselor will be at the Center on Fridays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Please call if you would like to make an appointment to meet with her. If you need assistance other than the times she is here, please call the HESSCO SHINE office at 1-800-462-5221

Knitting & crocheting – On Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Join us as we get together to knit/crochet scarves, hats and mittens for the school children and afghans for the Pine St. Inn. Monthly Events office hours with state senator Richard Ross, or his representative, will be at the senior center on the first Tuesday of each month at 12 noon for a private discussion.

No appointment necessary.

Trips Foxwoods - Once a month. Call Center for date at 508-384-5425.

Wrentham Seniors $13, NonWrentham Seniors $23.

A list of all our trips is posted at the Wrentham Senior Center, or on cable Channel 22.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 14

11 Tips For Winter Beauty Therapy Winter brings with it many things, including snowy days, chilly nights and the propensity for irritating beauty issues. Cold dry air outside and warm dry air inside can result in moisture loss from both the hair and skin. Not only can this be uncomfortable, but it can be unsightly as well. There are also other beauty issues that come up, like which products to use this time of year.

The primary beauty concern for most each winter is dryness. Winter is the season for dry skin and chapped lips because lower temperatures and lower humidity result in drier air, both indoors and outside. Forced-air heating sources also contribute to the problem, especially if they are not equipped with some sort of humidity adding device. Dry skin becomes itchy and turns into a nuisance.

Dry air can also contribute to dry

hair. Dry hair tends to be flyaway and prone to static. Your entire body actually may be susceptible to static-related shocks as you traverse carpeting or pull on charged clothing. The low humidity adds to the separation of electrons and protons in the materials surrounding a person, which contributes to extra static electricity. The imbalance of these microscopic particles becomes evident when you touch something metal and a shock occurs.

Revamping a health and beauty regimen for winter comfort takes just a little effort. Here are 11 tips that will benefit you and your appearance all season long.

1. Adding moisture to your environment is one of the single best ways to combat winter skin and hair issues. This means purchasing a humidifier that will put moisture to the air. Even boiling some water

on the stove and allowing the steam to seep into the air can alleviate a dry home.

2. Dry skin can feel tight and itchy. It may or may not flake off as well. Dry skin that is consistently scratched could become irritated or even infected if bacteria gets into the skin. Moisturizers applied all over the body can help the skin retain moisture and alleviate the itchiness. Creams with menthol could provide a cooling effect that also tames itchiness. But watch out for products that also contain alcohol. The alcohol might seem cooling at first, but the alcohol could eventually dry out the skin when it evaporates.

3. Experiment with your home's thermostat to find an indoor temperature that is more comfortable for your dry skin conditions.

4. Very hot showers may chase away the chill from outdoors, but

they can strip the skin and hair of moisture as well. Try showering in lukewarm water instead, and slather on a moisturizing body lotion right afterward.

5. Relying on an electric hair dryer to dry your hair after washing can compound dry, frizzy or unruly hair. It may be unwise to step outdoors on a cold day with wet hair, so leave ample time in your schedule to shower and allow hair to air dry whenever possible.

6. Licking dry lips just exacerbates the situation. Instead, use a moisturizing lip balm sparingly.

Even rubbing a little olive oil over the lips can help moisturize and prevent cracking.

7. Choose nonfoaming cleansers for the face and body when washing up. This way the soapy layer doesn't strip away essential moisture from the lipid barrier of the skin.

8. Be sure to continue to apply an SPFproduct every day before heading outdoors. Ultraviolet rays are still present during the winter, albeit in less concentration.

February 1, 2012 9. Avoid frosty eye shadows in the winter because they tend to make most people look washed out, especially when the glow of summer skin has waned. Similarly, avoid overdoing bronzer during the winter months, which can seem out of place and make the skin look artificially orange.

10. Revamp hair color to bring out golden hues during the winter months and keep you looking vivacious. Avoid highlights that are white or ashy. Don't go for more than two shades lighter or darker in any direction for a whole-head coloring.

11. Hat head is almost as dreaded as a bad hair day brought on by dry winter air. Hat head occurs when damp hair has been allowed to dry under a hat, which then causes flattening and denting. Allow hair to dry completely before donning a hat. And consider parting your hair the opposite way before putting on the hat, so it will have volume when the hat is removed and hair falls naturally back in place.

Team Fitness Franklin to Host Best Buddies Spin-a-thon On Saturday, February 18, 2012 Team Fitness Franklin and CrossFit Franklin will be hosting a three hour Best Buddies Spin-A-Thon in support of the 2012 Best Buddies Challenge.

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For the last four years, Team Fitness Franklin, has hosted the Best Buddies Spin-A-Thon, raising over $17,000 in 2011. Thanks to Front Lines Fitness in Warwick, RI, Team Fitness has 72 spin bikes available for riders, and with 50 filled already, space is filling up quickly. Whole Foods and Stop & Shop will be providing food and water for the participants for the three-hour fundraiser. The event

will be held in CrossFit Franklin, a new, 5,000 square foot facility.

Raffle tickets are available for purchase at Team Fitness Franklin, all proceeds go to Best Buddies.

Prizes include gift baskets and gift cards to spas, restaurants, Best Buddies gear, CrossFit class packages, Team Fitness personal training packages, etc.

The mission of Best Buddies is to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental abilities. The goal of the Best Buddies Challenge is to raise funds in support of this organization.

If you are interested in participating or donating to Best Buddies or for more information, please contact Christine Avedesian at: hikemaster2000@ yahoo.com.

Team Fitness Franklin is located in the Stop & Shop Plaza at 100 Franklin Village Drive. 508-5418330

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

February 1, 2012

Ain’t Nothin’ but a Groundhog

Charter Chatter

BY PATRICK COLEMAN The Wrentham Board of Selectmen is mulling over the idea of pursuing the creation of a charter to govern the town. Currently, the Town of Wrentham runs on town bylaws and state laws and uses a traditional town meeting form of government. There isn’t just one single document that lays out how the town is to govern. “The town does not have a charter,” explains Selectman Michael Carroll.

“We’re going by the statuettes and the bylaws.The bylaws were fine years ago when town government was a lot simpler. It’s much more complex today.”

The town would need to take one of two paths to develop a charter, both requiring approval at town meeting and with final approval for the charter going to the voters at the ballot box. The town could establish a charter commission which would consist of elected officials that serve for 18 months and delivers a written charter. The other path is a Special Act, which requires town meeting voters to give authority to request the state legislature to enact legislation that would become the town’s charter. “It’s a time consuming process,” says William Ketcham, Wrentham’s Town Administrator. “What I’ve said to the selectmen, which route you take really depends on whether it’s believed there is a clear idea what the town wants or there is a desire to investigate a number of options.”

Ketcham says that towns that typically go the charter commission route feel there is a need to change things but there is no consensus on exactly what those changes would look like, while a special act is faster and is a good approach when there is a clear indication on what the voters in town want done.

Page 15

Selectman Bob Leclair feels the town needs to change how it’s governed. He gives the example that all the big decisions for Wrentham are made at town meeting, but attendance is usually low.

“The present form of government that we have, the town meeting, and selectmen type of government is obsolete and dysfunctional and it has been for many years,” he says. “Something needs to be done.”

BY DAVE PASQUANTONIO

Carroll believes it’s important that the town work in developing a charter. He believes the overall structure of the town is sound.

“Wrentham does not have any really significant structural problems that would require a reorganization of the town,” he says. “We have the normal problems, but our structure of the government is not that bad. What a charter would do is allow the town’s people to refine the way we’re able to do things for what’s best for Wrentham.”

Getting rid of a groundhog is not an easy task.

They do have predators – coyotes, big hawks, bears, wolves, foxes – but a groundhog entrenched in weeks if the groundhog sees his shadow, but chances Groundhogs are vora- are that the little guy will still be hibernating for ana burrow in a fenced-in cious eaters. They like other month. backyard is pretty safe green plants – grasses, from everyone except shadow and return into its hole. shrubs, many flowers, and most angry gardeners. You can try to When German immigrants settled garden vegetables. They will strip cover the hole in late fall to disin the United States, they substithe bark off the base of a young courage them, but after that you tuted the more available groundfruit tree, because their incisors, the have to wait until any babies have hog. long teeth in front, never stop left their burrow for good next growing, and they have to wear The most famous weather-pre- summer. them down. dicting groundhog is PunxScent-based repellants like mothsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, but Many groundhogs are still hiberballs may work, but the groundAlberta has Balzac Billy, Georgia nating on Groundhog Day, Februhogs may just dig another hole. has General Beauregard Lee, and ary 2, and won’t wake up for They are timid creatures; small Staten Island has Chuck, and there another month. But according to pinwheels placed near the burrows many more. The National Climatic myth, on that day the groundhog may persuade them to move, as Data Center puts groundhog prepops out of its burrow for the first they don’t like the motion. It is ildiction success at about 40 percent, time since hibernating. If he sees legal in Massachusetts to relocate although prediction proponents say his shadow, he gets scared, runs any living wild creature, so live that the groundhogs are accurate back into his burrow, and won’t trapping isn’t an option. You may about three-quarters of the time. come out for another six weeks, have to suffer through chomped until wintry weather ends. If it’s You can make your own predic- flowers, cucumbers, and carrot overcast, he will stay out of his tions even if you don’t have your tops until the groundhog gets burrow – the cloudy weather sig- own groundhog – take note of the bored with your garden and wannifies that the weather is changing weather on February 2 at about ders away in search of something for the warmer.

7:30 a.m. If it’s sunny, prepare for tastier. more winter; if it’s cloudy, rejoice The basis for this myth is cloudy So that’s the groundhog. They in the end of winter. as well. Some say that thousands don’t really know when winter will of years ago the Romans, or maybe Once spring arrives, all the end, but each year we hope that the Greeks, observed hedgehog groundhogs, famous or not, wake they don’t see their shadow so that behavior to determine when spring from their hibernation, which they we can get on with our spring acwould arrive. There’s a Germanic began back in late fall. And they’re tivities. Like planting a garden for tradition that if the sun comes out hungry, and ready to make more them to eat.

The Board of Selectmen have not formally voted on any motions regarding the issue of developing a charter. Ultimately, any change will be decided by the voters at Town Meeting and then at a general election. There is a strong desire by the members of the board to keep the process as open to the public. “We want to make it as transparent and democratic as possible,” explains Carroll.

There are tentative plans to continue the topic at Board of Selectmen meetings in February. “I am not necessarily convinced that we have to change the charter,” says Selectman Steve Langley. “I think that the charter issue is very much on the mind of the members of the [board] and folks should see some movement soon.”

(This article appeared in The Wrentham Times, www.wrenthamtimes.com)

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They go by many names -- landbeaver, whistle-pig, woodchuck. They are part of an ancient prediction mythology, but have no special insight into the end of winter.

They have many enemies, but are thriving. They have very cute babies who can ruin your summer.

on Candlemas – 40 days after Christmas, which is February 2 – a hedgehog or badger would see its

groundhogs. A male and female share a burrow until the babies are born in the spring, and then the male leaves for good. The little groundhogs are weaned after about six weeks, and then they can leave the burrow with their mom. They’ll eat up to a third of their body weight each day as fall approaches and they prepare for hibernation.

They are groundhogs.

And if you have a garden, or live anywhere in suburbia, you’ve probably seen them, chased them, sworn at them, or tripped in one of their holes.

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Page 16

February 1, 2012

Congregational Church to Hold Book Sale February 11th The Original Congregational Church in the center of Wrentham (at the intersection of Routes 140 and 1A) will hold a book sale on Saturday, February 11, 9 a.m to 1 p.m., in the church vestry (below the sanctuary). We will have

books we weren’t able to display at our church fair last fall, and we have added more since then. People have told us this is the best church book sale in the area. Refreshments will be available, including coffee, cider, cake, and

cookies. We are still accepting donated books for this sale.

To donate books, contact Ken Graves at 508-384-8084, or contact the church office at 508-3843110. We will pick up your books if needed.

Registration for Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer Spring 2012 Now Being Accepted - Registration Is ON-LINE Now Open!

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It’s time to run and get a new dog license for the coming year.

Wrentham Dog License Applications Available

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Wrentham dog owners may now obtain dog licenses at the Town Clerk's office. The dog license applications will also be included with the census forms which will be mailed soon. All dogs need to be up to date with their rabies shots and, if applying by mail, a self addressed stamped envelope needs to be included.

Also, the Wrentham Town Clerk's office will no longer sell fishing/sporting licenses. Information and licenses may be obtained online by visiting www.mass.gov/ massfishhunt.

Norfolk Dog Licenses are now available on line.

For the first time you can apply for your dog license on line using the Norfolk town’s website www.virtualnorfolk.org and going to the Town Clerk’s page. “I realize that it is often difficult for people to get into Town Hall to license their dog so I wanted to make it as easy as possible for our residents,” said Shawn Dooley, Norfolk’s Town Clerk.

The licenses are $15 per dog and are discounted down to $10 for dogs that are spayed or neutered.

If done online there is a $1.50 charge to cover the postage. All dogs must have a current rabies vaccine in order to be registered.

This year’s license is a Green Shamrock which was voted on by the Freeman Centennial 6th grade class. Mr. Dooley taught a campaign and elections class at the school. As part of the project the students ran a campaign for the 2012 license. “It was a lot of fun until I realized that they were run-

ning a “write in campaign” for a shape which our vendor didn’t carry,” said Dooley. “But it all worked out in the end as we found a new vendor that carried the shamrock and it even saved the town $50 in expenses.”

Dooley is planning on this being an annual program with the schools.

In addition, Dog License #1 is being raffled off to support Norfolk animals in need. Anyone wishing to be entered into this drawing should also send in a separate check for $10 made payable to Town of Norfolk Animal Gift Account. If you already purchased a license you arestill eligible to participate in this drawing and if you win your license can be exchanged for #1.

The Norfolk Town Clerk’s hours are Monday 9a.m.-8p.m., Tuesday – Thursday 9a.m. – 6p.m. and Fridays by appointment.

Absentee Ballots are Now Available Absentee ballots are now available at both the Norfolk and Wrentham Town Clerk's office for the March 6, 2012 Presidential primary election. If a voter is out of town or unable to come to the polls on election day to vote because of health reasons, an application should be sent to their town's Town Clerk Office. Questions or to inquire as to the voter's status should also be directed to the appropriate Clerk's Office.

Norfolk's Town Clerk can be reached at One Liberty Lane, Norfolk, MA 02056, 508-528-1400.

The Wrentham Town Clerk's Office is located at 79 South St., Wrentham 02093, 508-384-5415

February 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 17

Valentine's Customs Then and Now Valentine's Day is a holiday during February that commemorates love and romance and also the patron Saint Valentine. The history of St. Valentine is shrouded somewhat in mystery, and there are beliefs that many different people went by the name St. Valentine.

One such individual was a holy priest who served in Rome, Italy.

Some historians surmise that he was jailed for defiance during the reign of Claudius II, sentenced to death, and became a religious martyr. Pope Gelasius marked February14 as a celebration in honor of his martyrdom in 496 AD. Today, the Catholic church recognizes at least three different martyred saints named Valentine or Valentius.

So how did St. Valentine's Day transform from a religious holiday into one far more secular? During the third century in Rome, Claudius II decided that single men served better as soldiers if they were single and had no attachments at home in the way of a wife and family. Thusly, he outlawed marriage. St. Valentine didn't agree with the views and reportedly performed marriages for young lovers in secret. It is this which may have propelled Valentine's Day to be more about love than religious obligation.

Another legend says that Valentine himself authored the first Valentine card. It has been rumored he fell in love with a woman -- the jailer's daughter --

rying later on.

Another lost custom was of a man wearing a paper heart with the person he loved's name written on it. The heart was pinned to his sleeve, which gave way to the expression, "wearing one's heart on one's sleeve." A woman could do the same type of thing by wearing a charm known as a love-badge near her heart.

Gone are the days where Valentine's Day notes were handwritten. Today we rely more on mass-produced greeting cards.

while in prison and sent her a letter.

He signed it, "from your Valentine."

No matter the origins of the holiday, today St. Valentine's Day has become a day where love is celebrated. Lovers send each other cards and tokens of their affections. It is customary to go out for dinner and send flowers. Chocolates and roses seem to go hand-inhand with Valentine's Day events.

Although certain customs have

become commonplace, some customs of Valentine's Day have fallen by the wayside. One such custom is the "drawing of names" that took place in the 18th century. Names of men and women (equal numbers of each) were placed into two different containers. A lottery of sorts took place where one man's name was drawn and matched with a woman's name. The people called were called "Valentines," and the pairing was considered a good omen of these couples mar-

I

Where now we send out massproduced Valentine's Day cards, original Valentine's were handmade and personalized letters.

Within them individuals could write their exact sentiments to a loved one.

On February 14th, people nipped by the love bug partake in many customs to show their love. How will you show that special someone you care this year?

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 18

The Perfect Paint Color paint, or a quick spruce up of any room in your home.

For many people, selecting paint colors for interior walls or the outside of their home is no easy task.

It ranks up there with preparing tax returns or installing the baby seat in the car “correctly.” It shouldn’t be a stressful ordeal, but rather a fun and creative exercise.

Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a kaleidoscope of colors in your world.

Doug Masters, owner of Masters Touch

The perfect paint color can make or break any project, whether it’s a kitchen remodel, a full exterior re-

1. Relax and have fun! It’s only a paint color and you’re supposed to enjoy picking out just the right color for you. Still, you’ve heard of road rage? Well, I’ve seen clas-

sic cases of “paint color selection rage” many times over the years.

With all the possible things in your life that could stress you out, don’t let picking paint colors be one of them!

2. Plan ahead and you will give yourself plenty of time to work through the process. It can take days or even weeks. Don’t rush through the process or make a final decision while your impatient painter is tapping his foot waiting for the fresh sample on the wall to dry.

3. Weeks! How can it take weeks to pick out a paint color?

Well, keep in mind it’s important to see an actual sample of the paint, not just a small color chip.

Many manufacturers now offer

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small jars of samples for many of their colors, but often you’ll need to purchase a quart of the desired color.

Apply a test patch right on the area you will be painting, or use poster board and tack up a sample.

You’ll want to cover an area at least 24 inches square and put on enough coats for uniform coverage. Once you have samples up, it’s important to live with them for a few days. You’ll be amazed at how bright some colors can look during the day and how dark they will look at night. Look at them in the morning and afternoon to get a good feel for how the natural light affects the overall appearance of the color. Be sure to wait for a cloudy day and see if you still like the color, it could look drab without the sun.

4. Make sure you get the sheen right! Whether you are selecting colors for interior walls and trim, or exterior areas of your home, the gloss level of the paint can have a huge impact on how you perceive the color. A good rule of thumb for interior painting is flat for ceilings, eggshell or “low luster” finishes for walls, and semi-gloss finish for woodwork. One exception is a full bathroom, where steam may affect the paint finish. Use a good mildew and moisture resistant paint, usually with a satin or semigloss sheen, in bathrooms and you’ll minimize the wear-and-tear of the paint.

For exterior paint, there are myriad options for finishes ranging from flat to high gloss, stain to paint. Each and every product will have its own look and feel, and the

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February 1, 2012 same color mixed into two different products can look dramatically different. This is another reason why painting a sample of the actual product is so important.

You’re not just evaluating the color, but ensuring you like how it looks once it’s applied in various gloss levels. A good old fashioned barn red applied in a flat stain will look a lot more authentic than the same color in a high gloss enamel, so make sure you test colors in the same product you will be using for the entire project.

5. Remember that for interior colors, other items in the room can affect the color. In a kitchen, for example, you’ll want a color that works with the cabinets, counter tops, flooring, and accessories. It’s a good idea to finalize all the other items first, and then pick a paint color that will bring harmony to the room. It’s a bad idea to pick a paint color and then think you’ll quickly be able to find fabrics and other accessories that work with them. Custom paint colors are easily accessible and affordable. On the other hand, custom fabrics, not so much!

6. Don’t be afraid to call a professional! For some people, color coordination comes easy and finding a palette of colors is a breeze.

For others, the mere thought of having to commit to a color on the walls is overwhelming. Sometimes, hiring a professional designer or color consultant is money well spent. An experienced, welltrained designer will provide expert advice on how to coordinate the colors and finishes throughout your home.

7. Relax and have fun! Refer back to number one on this list whenever you feel a little stressed or that you’re never going to find the right color, because you will. It just takes a little patience and a little time. And before you know it, everything will come together.

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

February 1, 2012

Page 19

Selectmen Candidates Discuss Wrentham When Wrentham voters hit the polls in April, they will need to fill two Board of Selectmen seats. Currently, only two candidates have stepped up and pulled papers. Incumbent Steve Langley is seeking reelection and Finance Committee member Charles Kennedy is seeking his first term. At press time, Selectman Bob Leclair had not declared his intentions on whether or not he was going to seek a return to the Board. Both Langley and Kennedy spent time separately answering questions about their motivation for seeking to be on the Board and their qualifications. Because of schedules, Langley responded to the questions via email while Kennedy discussed the issues in person.

Norfolk Wrentham News: What’s your background in serving on the Board of Selectmen?

Steve Langley: I was appointed to the Planning Board in 2001 and was elected to the Planning Board in 2002 and served as its Vice Chair for that year. In 2003 I ran for the Board of Selectmen and served until 2006. I then lost a reelection campaign in 2006 and served on the Recreation Committee as an associate member and then as a full member.

I recaptured a seat on the BOS in 2009, serving as Vice Chair until serving as Chairman in 2010.

Charles Kennedy: I’ve been in Wrentham for over 10 years. I'm the co-owner of a CPA firm in Foxboro. I have a strong financial background including an MBA and I hold my CPA in Massachusetts. My undergraduate and graduate degrees are from Boston College. In 2008-2009, I was the treasurer of Wrentham Elementary School Trust (WEST) which is Wrentham’s Educational foundation. From there, someone referred me to interview for the Finance Committee. I’ve been performing those duties since 2009. From those two experiences I have really learn how the Town functions.

NWN: What are the pressing issues facing Wrentham?

Langley: I believe that one of the pressing issues for the Town is to continue to find ways to increase revenues in order to provide the necessary services for our residents while not dipping into their pockets more deeply. We need to protect our town and our residents from inappropriate development as we

search for appropriate ones. We need to continue to keep the level of discourse at an appropriate level so that we focus on issues, not personalities.

ment. This effort has continued, and it holds tremendous promise for the future.

NWN: Economic Development is often cited as needed in Town.

What can the Town of Wrentham do to be attractive for commercial development? How does the Town protect itself from unwanted commercial development?

Kennedy: One of the real challenges, and it came out last year, is the fact that revenue is in decline, from State aid and auto excise taxes and new growth. Money is exceptionally tight and it impacts some of the most vulnerable people in Wrentham and some of these residents can’t even vote like the children. This impacts the children’s education and has impacted public safety. I’m not happy when I see the staffing numbers for public safety drop to such low levels. All of the different departments have seen significant reductions. Some reductions have been helpful, namely greater efficiency has been achieved but not in most instances.

NWN: Is Wrentham providing services at a level you think is acceptable?

Langley: Adequate but not acceptable - there has to be improvement. All of us have had to make choices to prioritize the funding available to us, in our personal and professional lives, and the Town is no different. We do not do enough for our schools. We need to try to do more. Wrentham Elementary does an exceptional job providing for the educational needs of our children, and they do so effectively and efficiently – and have had their share of budgetary successes both by saving and generating revenue.

The School Committee, Dr. Marsden, the staff and all of the many volunteers should all be commended for their fantastic efforts.

Police and Fire staffing has been raised to a more appropriate level, but not to the level where we need to be. It is a testament to the leaders and the staffs of these departments who continue to do battle every day. We have a tremendously successful outlet mall which brings thousands of people to town every day, many miles of roads and area to cover, along with major roadways through town. It is imperative that we improve and staff, at least partially, the Sheldonville Fire Station – the West end needs more public safety support. All of these put pressure on public safety. We continue to scrub and scour our budgets in order to focus on what is important; cut things where we can by making those tough choices and put forth a budget that works for the town. We have been creat-

Charles Kennedy

ing processes and laying the groundwork to prepare for an economic upturn that we hope will come soon. We also will continue to work with our elected officials at different government levels to either help with additional revenue or lessen the burden that unfunded mandates place on our residents.

Kennedy: For Police and Fire the staffing levels are too low which has me concerned. This is not a good situation. We have anywhere from two to four policemen on duty at any given time. The way they have it now, because of budget cuts, if one guy can’t make it in, they’re not paying overtime so that shift is not filled. For example, if there were three police officers assigned to a shift, if one cannot make his shift then it is left unfilled.

Instead of three officers only two are protecting Wrentham. I also see classroom sizes getting bigger and programs are being cut. For Wrentham Schools, the amount we spend per student, is one of the lowest in the state. How much lower can we go? Do we want to be last? As far as the high school and how they compare to the regional schools, they’ve been in decline. They are well below average on what they spend compared to their peers. As a Town, We spend less than 50% on education. The last time I looked, Plainville spends 62 % on schools. We’re well under

what other towns are willing to spend. The way to turn this around is through new revenue growth. We don’t want to raise the tax base above 2 ½ % and State aid continues to be cut so that leaves increasing new growth or cutting services.

NWN: What are your accomplishments during this most recent time on the BOS? Langley: I have been pleased to have been a member of productive Boards for almost three years, including serving as its Chair for one.

I think that we have had many successes of varying sizes.

I would classify our hiring of our Town Administrator in 2010 and the process for which that was done as a tremendous success. We also had the pleasure to hire our extraordinary Fire Chief, Jay McMorrow, who was the right man for the right job at the right time. We have generated some additional revenue with the sale of tax title property, which helped the town tremendously. We have also really opened the door for new members of revitalized committees, with the EDC and the newly reconstituted Technology Committee and the fruits of their labor will be seen soon. Finally, I helped coordinate, along with Jerry McGovern Chair of Fincom, a meeting of all Town Boards and Committees to foster better communication amongst the varying components of our govern-

Langley: The town is already reasonably attractive for commercial development because of our proximity to Routes 495, Route 1 and Route 95 – one of the major tenants of development is location, location, location. However, we also need to work to streamline or expedite our developmental process– not to do so in order to push development, but to make it easier for developers to work with our adjudicatory boards to either move forward to develop appropriate projects and areas, or to have them denied. We protect our town by continuing to reexamine our zoning and proactively define what we want our town to be, all areas by all people. It is difficult, time consuming and does not always foster total agreement, but we must find commonality in our desires for the town and work to foster those necessary changes.

Kennedy: What I want to see is smart controlled growth in specifically targeted areas. From there, I want to determine what businesses are best suited for the area and Wrentham. It could be a hotel or a grocery store and put them in areas of town that impact the Town the least. There is always an impact including the impact in doing nothing. Unfortunately we have been much too good as a Town at doing nothing. I’m sure we can accomplish this but it takes a unified effort starting with the Board of Selectmen. Route 1 is a great example of where smart controlled growth could be obtained. It’s just ridiculous that more isn’t being done on such prime real estate. It is a shame that the owners of the land are paying taxes and they can’t even use that land to generate revenue and that’s not right either.

NWN: How do we handle the budget moving forward?

Langley: Since being honored by election in 2009, I have advocated that all departments that report to the BOS present their budgets, both

continued on page 20

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 20

continued from page 19 operating and capital, to us before moving on. The BOS should be the gatekeeper for items that we do not want to move forward and to support those that we do. My first two years on the Board did not necessarily allow us to get back to this.

The first year we had a Town Administrator who had his own process, and the second we had a new Town Administrator that had to get his feet wet. This year we are moving in that direction, and I am very excited for this to happen. The Town still has significant budgetary challenges to move past, and the message that was sent last year was very clear. The majority of voters do not want to reach into their pockets to guarantee that services are kept. We therefore have no choice but to reach for additional development in appropriate areas and to make up the revenue that has been lost from state and federal cut backs. Efficiencies and cost cutting have served the town well, but we cannot continue on that path for the foreseeable future. It is not sustainable.

Kennedy: The Town is faced with a decline in revenue. We have Proposition 2 1/2, but there has been very low growth and reduced excise taxes. Wrentham is in a state of decline in what it will receive in State aid for the Town and the schools. This is not going to change, rather it will accelerate once the economy improves. The reason for the decline is the fact State aid is a calculation based on two factors. One is the property values which are higher than the State average. The second is income level of the residents in Wrentham. This information is obtained when you filed your personal income tax returns. The State, with its calculations, says that Wrentham can afford more so Wrentham is going to receive less.

What makes this especially devastating is the decline in State aid at the same time certain expenses are rising. Expenses such as health insurance are going up rapidly as well as utilities such as electricity and fuel. Most of the focus the past few years has solely been to reduce expenses. Well, we have taken that quite far and we cannot keep laying

February 1, 2012

people off. There is a point when services are greatly impacted. My focus is, improve revenue and communicate those efforts to the residents. They need to be informed and included on these efforts.

Town as cautious and slow to accept change. The reason I believe this is the case is because of a lack of communication; communication between residents and the various committees, boards and outside companies looking to conduct business in Wrentham. We really need to have much better communications. In this day and age, we can disseminate information faster, more in depth than ever before. One way to start is have everyone’s email address, so people can receive reminders and know what’s going on in Town.

The web site is being revised which is aimed at better communication.

But that is just the beginning. So much more must be done to inform residents before a Town Meeting. I too am surprised at information passed out at these meetings that should have been available weeks sooner. Another concern is the division I see in Town. I’m looking forward to bringing various groups together to improve the Town further. I will tell you right now, I’m not a person to complain about a situation or issue, I would rather work on a solution.

NWN: Describe the political climate in Wrentham and how it impacts the town? Is it better or worse these days, and what do you attribute to the change, if there is one?

Langley: The political climate in town is challenging. The various interested parties tend to focus on personality and name calling when challenging different ideas or ways of doing things. It is difficult for people to want to work in this type of environment. Having said this, I do think that things have been different since I was elected. I attribute the change to a number of things. First, and I think that most importantly, is that the vast majority of town residents had grown tired of the shenanigans that passed for politics in town and have responded accordingly. They have focused more intently on the meat

Steve Langley

of an issue as opposed to the political defamations that often swirled about them. I also think that my campaign promise 3 years ago, to communicate professionally and respectfully and focus on issues as opposed to personalities, has helped change the tenor of the board. I think that it is important to lead via that example and it makes a difference on our board and in the overall political tenor of the town.

Kennedy: I see the politics in

THE PURR-FECT CAT SHELTER Pet of the Month Three-Legs and One Great Big Heart Help “Jasper” Find a Forever Home this Valentine’s Day Looking for your special Valentine? The Purr-fect Cat Shelter has many cats that would love to be your Valentine! One of the many loving, adorable kitties looking to melt your heart is “Jasper.”

“Jasper” is a very sweet, older kitten with stunning, gray tiger markings and a story of beating very difficult odds. The shelter was working a feral colony in a neighboring community when we trapped Jasper.

It’s astonishing that he was able to even get in the trap!

You see, “Jasper” was born with a pole. Even the veterinarian said he deformed right rear leg that stuck had never seen anything quite like straight up in the air like a flag- it. Jasper had to have his leg amputated, and this amazing little

him the medical care he needed. Jasper is active, playful, loves to cuddle and would do well with a feline friend. He is adjusting remarkably, as animals do, and is ready for his new home and to be your Valentine forever.

All cats and kittens are examined by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered, tested for feline leukemia and FIV, dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped prior to adoption. Applications are available online at www.purrfectcatshelter.org guy has shown the courage of a or by calling the message center lion. There is no way he would (508) 533-5855. have survived outside, and we are happy we were able to provide Come enjoy a fun afternoon at

the FUR BOWL, Sunday, March 4 at Ryan Family Amusements, Rt. 109, Millis and help support homeless animals. Registration begins at 4pm bowling will start at 4:30pm. Your registration fee of $20 includes 2 games of bowling, shoe rental, refreshments, and a chance to win one of several raffle prizes. All ages and skill levels welcome. Prizes will be awarded in a variety of categories. Visit our website or call the message center for registration forms and more information. All proceeds directly benefit the cats and kittens of the shelter. The Purr-fect Cat Shelter is a non-profit, no-kill, all volunteer organization serving the areas surrounding Medway, Millis Norfolk, Walpole and Bellingham.

February 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 21

Sports Regular Season a Tuneup For Tourney

achieving goals and focusing on time management. Those are just some areas that can help studentathletes in real-life situations.’’

KP Wrestlers Aiming For Success In Sectionals

BY KEN HAMWEY Staff Sports Writer King Philip Regional’s wrestling team is gearing up for the Division 2 Central Sectional that gets under way on Feb. 3.

Coach Mike Ragusa’s Warriors, who had a record of 3-6 after nine dual meets, are hoping to be healthy and focused when they compete against the likes of Concord-Carlisle, Milford and Quabbin.

Ragusa, who’s in his third year as KP’s coach, knows his forces are far from favored to win the sectional but he admires the way his wrestlers have remained committed and enthusiastic.

“Our goal at the start of the season was to win the sectional tourney,’’ Ragusa said. “What we stressed during the regular season was to improve every day, stay well-conditioned, develop individual skills, get comfortable in all situations on the mat and to be mentally ready at all times. To win the sectional, we’ll need to be healthy and intense. Luck also could play a role. We’ll need good teams to have a bad day .’’

Nothing is ever a sure thing, especially in wrestling, but KP’s Logan David should be in the spot-

light at the sectional tourney. The senior, who has wrestled this season at 120 pounds, is a two-time sectional and state champion. He also has finished third and fourth the last two years in the All-State Meet. So far this season, David has managed a record of 16-0.

“Logan’s goal this year is to win a New England title,’’ Ragusa said.

“Off the mat, he’s very humble.

On it, he’s tough and mean. He’s got a refuse-to-lose attitude, he works hard every day and he’s a great technical wrestler. He’s one of the best wrestlers in the Hockomock League.’’

Ragusa expects senior Tyler Florio, who won a sectional title last year at 160, and another senior, Will Purdue (152), to produce good results this weekend. Purdue wrestled only in dual meets last year. Their regular-season records so far this year are impressive. Purdue is 11-8 and Florio is 12-3.

“Will is extremely tough and determined,’’ Ragusa said. “He’s very intelligent and he hates to lose. Tyler is willing to learn, loves to practice and relies on year-round experience.’’

Sophomore Charlie Edney (132) may be young but he shouldn’t be downplayed. As a freshman,

wrestling at 125 and 130 pounds, he compiled a 20-win season. This year, Edney has managed a 5-3 record in eight bouts.

“Charlie is determined, quick and also very coachable,’’ Ragusa enthused. “He’s got lots of mat sense, which he developed by working on the sport year-round.’’

One junior who could play a key role for KP is Joe Rico (138), who has an 8-8 record.

“Joe should be solid in the postseason,’’ Ragusa said. “He’s developed into a quality competitor.’’

The 27-year-old Ragusa, whose first two years at KP produced a pair of .500 teams, is no stranger to wrestling. He was a three-time Hockomock League all-star at Foxboro and the league’s MVP his senior year. Competing at the University of Buffalo, he earned a slot on the Mid-American Conference’s all-academic team.

“What’s so rewarding about wrestling is the wonderful life lessons that can be learned,’’ Ragusa said. “It’s about team-building, teamwork, overcoming adversity,

Ragusa lauded his corps of assistant coaches which includes Scott Flaherty and Andy McNeil.

The two assistants and Ragusa no doubt will have their eyes glued to the mat this weekend. The sectional championship has been on KP’s radar screen since the start of the season. And, now that the event is just days away, the Warriors plan to answer the bell.

They may be underdogs but they’re hoping to generate the kind of success that could lead to a major upset.

Sophomore Austin Greenstein (138-145) should be a factor in the sectional along with senior Lee Slamin. Greenstein is a talented matman who was solid during his rookie season last year. Slamin has experience in the higher weight classes (220 or heavyweight).

“As a team, our group gained experience and sharpened their technical skills,’’ Ragusa said. “The younger kids looked up to the veterans and were very coachable. We had 20 wrestlers on our roster, which was without 10 graduated seniors. I’m okay with the way the season has progressed in spite of some key injuries and I’m looking forward to seeing us compete at the sectional.’’

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February 1, 2012

Sports Norfolk Recreation Programs VACATION HORSEBACK RIDING At October Farm Ages 8 - 16 Jill Swift, Licensed Riding Instructor MONDAY – FRIDAY: 9:00a.m.– 12:00p.m.

February 20-24 and/or April 16-20 October Farm is a 26-stall boarding/training facility on Miller Street in Norfolk. Join the experienced, licensed and insured instructors for these wonderful vacation programs. Activities include: horsemanship, safety, grooming, tacking, riding, arts & crafts. Participants should wear long pants, sturdy boots with a low heel. Pack 2 snacks and at least 2 water bottle/drinks. Riders will need to bring their own riding helmet (ASTM/SEI) approved. No bike helmets please. Please bring a change of clothes-including shorts. Please call Jill directly at

chases.

Location: King Philip Middle School Auxiliary Gym Fee: $75

TUESDAYS at 10:00-11:30a.m.

DATES: 2/14, (no class 2/21), 2/28, 3/6,3/13

Grades 5-8 With King Philip’s Varsity Coach Liz Hathaway

Location: Norfolk Public Library, Fee: $ 45

Location: October Farm, 39 Miller Street, Norfolk, Fee: $295

ADVANCED INDOOR FIELD HOCKEY

MONDAYS at 4:30-6:00p.m.

DATES: 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/27 Attention Chicks with Sticks!

Are you ready for the next level?

This program, specifically designed for those with a previous season’s or clinic’s experience, is fast paced and designed to improve your handling skills and footwork. Varsity Coaches are coaching this clinic aimed at those ready for intensive skill and drill.

Girls must have own equipment.

Come join us for an action packed Monday! Field Hockey sticks will be taped. If you need a new stick, let us know, we may be able to help with loaners or new pur-

Location: Multipurpose Room, Town Hall

Fee: Session2: $59 CREATING PHOTO BOOKS WITH YOUR GIRLS FRIDAY DIGITAL IMAGES NIGHT Instructor: Bob Sheppard VOLLEYBALL

These books are phenomenal hard bound books-the quality is that of purchased coffee-table books, but these are better; the pictures are your own.! This 4-week course will teach you how to produce fantastic photo books and albums using your digital images and free software on the internet.

The books are produced on your own computer, at your own pace, with no Internet connection required until you finish. Books can be any number of pages and are available in sizes up to 11” x 14” in both hard and soft cover. This is the most economical way to preserve, collect and show your digital pictures. We will take you through the systematic production of a book and also provide assistance to you while you create your own masterpiece. Students should have a collection of digital images and an idea of the topic/subject for the book. Several examples will be presented that were created for a variety of special occasions.

978-257-1173 to arrange a visit and for inquiry forms prior to registering with Norfolk Recreation.

sions at one time. Wear comfortable, layered clothing, and bring your water bottle.

LUNCHTIME YOGA Instructor: Donna Sherman MONDAYS at Noon-1:00p.m.

Session 2: 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/9 (February classes are available for prorated price) Re-energize. Recharge. Rediscover that flexible strong and free feeling with fitness through yoga.

We will focus on stretching and strengthening virtually every muscle in your body, and focusing on calming the mind. All are welcome; but not suitable for those with current injuries. Save money for joining for two ses-

Grades 4-6 and 7-8 Instructors: Metro West Coach Kayla Marceau FRIDAYS: 7:15-8:15p.m.

Grades 4-6 6:15-7:15pm Grades 7-8 Session 1: 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17 (will prorate) Session 2: 3/2, 3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30 Girls Volleyball is back! Join us for this great instructional program which will get you on the road to playing and improving your game. Learn the game or prepare for comptetive play! Kayla is a MetroWest coach and loves to bring the sport to as many girls as possible. Join us Friday evenings for this fun, action packed sport.

Location: HOD Gym – rear of school entrance Fee: $49 per session

FUTSAL–ADULT INDOOR SOCCER WEDNESDAYS at 7:008:45p.m.

DATES: 2/1, 2/8, 2/15, (no class 2/22), 2/29, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28 FUTSAL is played in a gymnasium with a low bounce ball where the focus is on short passes. Join the fun and get some GREAT exercise. This is a friendly, co-ed activity geared toward beginner to intermediate skill levels.

Court shoes or indoor soccer shoes required.

Questions? Bob Lacasse, email: bobl99@yahoo.com Location: H.O.D. Gym (double doors at rear of school) Fee: $35

8th Grader Plays in National Playoffs Wrentham’s John Dean continued his football season making the trip to San Antonio, TX as part of the Football University 8th Grade All-Star Team from Massachusetts. The Massachusetts team faced the Texas All-Star team falling short 12-7 against the Lone Star team. The game was the firstever Football University National Championship for 8th graders.

Held in the Alamodome, Dean’s

team were in the game until the closing minutes mounting a final drive that stalled on a fourth and three play with just 1:36 left in the game. Three local seventh graders made the Massachusetts All-Star team for their grade. Daniel Loewen and Brett Mazur, both from Wrentham, and Norfolk’s JC Ralff made the seventh grade team.

WYBSA Registration is Open Wrentham Youth Baseball and Softball Association is now accepting registration for the spring season and winter clinics. The clinics start February 18th and run

every Saturday through March 31st. To register visit the group’s web site at www.wybsa.net. Registration closes on February 18th and opening day is April 22nd.

We publish the 1st of every month.

Advertisement and editorial deadline is the 15th of each month. editor@norfolkwrenthamnews.com

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February 1, 2012

Page 23

home M A R K E T P L A C E New Homes Are Getting Smaller

Simple Ways to Soundproof a Home Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever before for homeowners to create a mini movie theater in the comfort of their own homes. The affordability of home-theater systems and big-screen televisions, once deemed a luxury only available to the super-wealthy, has made it possible for everyone to enjoy theater-style entertainment at home.

From the early 1990s to the beginning of this century, "bigger is better" certainly was the mantra of the home-building industry. All across North America buyers could browse among home developments boasting homes of 3,000 square feet or larger and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. But according to new data, home buyers are seeking less space today but more in green amenities.

Research by the Canadian Home Builders' Association has found that many people now desire smaller homes with multipurpose rooms and energy saving features.

They're not ready to trade in their two- and three-car garages just yet, though. Plus, a survey of International Furnishings and Design Association members forecasts that McMansions will become a thing of the past and more emphasis will be placed on smaller, more ecofriendly homes. Family rooms will grow larger, as will kitchens. Other rooms in the home will disappear, including the living room.

Many homeowners and potential home buyers realize that with girth comes a cost. In today's fragile economy, the ability to cash in on the dream of homeownership may come at the compromise of a smaller, better-planned home.

According to Tim Bailey, the manager of Avid Canada, a re-

search and consulting firm for the building industry, "While many consumers are willing to forgo space, they are not equating this with having to forfeit functionality.

Design creativity is requisite to adapt to this changing preference."

* Thanks to an increasing number of people working from home, the presence of a dedicated home office is a given in newer homes.

Nearly 40 percent of industry forecasters say that they expect one in every home.

Here are some things that you will and will not find in newer homes moving forward.

* Home storage solutions will also be a vital component of new homes. Builders will create clever solutions for mixing storage into more compact spaces.

* The dining room is becoming extinct, with larger, eat-inkitchen/entertaining spaces the norm. The kitchen will be the main room of the home and be renamed the "kitchen lounge." * Separate rooms are evolving into spaces that serve many different purposes. * Although the sizes of bathrooms may be scaled back, the amenities will not. Spa-style bathrooms with luxurious products, high-tech features and televisions will be on the rise. * The master bedroom suite may not shrink in size, but it could be combined to form a home office and exercise space. * Expect to see more high-tech offerings, such as voice- or motion-activation devices in the home. Lighting, entertainment gear, heating/cooling systems, and even blinds could be hooked up to a master control system.

* With aging Baby Boomers comprising a larger segment of home buyers, expect to see more one-level homes, or at least homes where there is a master suite and the majority of the living space on the first level.

Part of what is driving this trend is the cost of homes in relation to space and the increased interest in environmental conservation.

Smaller, more efficient homes require less in terms of heating and cooling energy. They need less furniture, and new materials made from sustainable products help further fuel green initiatives in the building industry. Energy efficient homes are a main priority for buyers. Although the homes may be smaller, they will not be miniscule.

And home buyers can expect a host of amenities that will make the smaller size of homes barely perceptible.

But one thing that can put a damper on those home-theater plans is external noise. Movie theaters are soundproof so customers can't hear noise from the nearby freeway or their fellow moviegoers "oohing" and "aahing" in the theater next door. Private homes, however, are not so soundproof, so homeowners must take it upon themselves to soundproof their homes to create the ultimate home-theater experience. The following are some of the ways homeowners can do just that. * Add some layers of drywall.

An extra layer or two of drywall will block sound coming from neighboring rooms. Simply add a layer or two of drywall to the ex-

isting wall. * Install double-paned windows.

If it's noise from outside the home that's ruining your home theater experience, then consider installing double-paned windows with acrylic frames. Such a job can be costly, so if it's going to be a budget-buster, then sound-deadening drapes are a cheaper alternative that can also be effective. * Decorate the home with sound-absorbent items. Another way to soundproof a home is to decorate the house with sound-absorbent items. Furnishings with substantial cushioning, carpeting and fabric on the walls will each absorb sound, reducing the transfer of sound from room to room.

Upstairs rooms should be carpeted to further reduce the transfer of sound. * Install soundproofing tile on ceilings. Soundproofing tile on ceilings is another effective way to reduce the transference of sound from room to room and keep external noise out of the home-theater room.

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February 1, 2012

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SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

THE BOYS NEXT DOOR a comedy-drama by Tom .YPMÄU

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