Norfolk/Wrentham December 2012

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Dec. 1, 2012

Special Edition to Plainville

Ivy Music – the Best of Both Worlds

Wrentham Sisters Make Community Sweeter – and Greener Candy-Making Abbey Leases Land for Solar Array in Franklin

By J.D. O’Gara They might live a monastic life of prayer and work similar to what monks and nuns lived hundreds of years ago when their order was founded, but the 42 Cistercian nuns of Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey, located in Wrentham, have displayed an openness to new technology that might seem to leave others in the Dark Ages.

In their latest endeavor, Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey, which is known for the Trappistine quality candy it makes, will open up a portion of their 580 acres located in Franklin for a $21 million, ground mounted, 7 Megawatt solar farm to be completed in two phases – the first being a 3.6 Mw portion. The project, to be undertaken by Kearsarge Franklin LLC, will be one of the largest of its kind in New England. The

By J.D. O’Gara

Sister Christa Maria and Sister Alice are shown with a statue of Our Lady that Sr. Damian loved. She was the first sister of the Abbey to learn the candy-making trade.

town of Franklin will purchase discounted power from the array under the Green Communities act, and the Abbey will receive rental payment for the land for 20-25 years.

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IVY continued on page 6

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There’s a little white house in Norfolk – a little white house with green trim, nestled in a wood grown wild with Boston ivy. The small home at 175 Main Street, stands in quiet contrast to the busy street and neighboring plaza across the way – but it won’t be quiet for long. It will soon not only be the home of musician and teacher Todor Stoinov and his young wife and partner, Vaska, but Ivy Music also promises to be a place of growth and song in the heart of the small town.

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December 1, 2012

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CANDY

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Medway & Millis

Published Monthly Mailed FREE to the Community of Norfolk/Wrentham Circulation: 7,000 households and businesses

as earn the town $160K to $200K in-added tax revenue over the course of 20 years.

“We love not only God and our neighbor, but also our environment,” says Sr. Alice, who has been a member of Mount St. Mary’s Abbey since 1994. “We are very conscious of our environment and how to cooperate with nature.”

Publisher Chuck Tashjian

Mount St. Mary’s Abbey already uses geothermal energy to heat and cool its candy facility, borrowing the idea from its daughter house in Mississippi, says Sr. Alice. Similarly, in 2009, they erected a wind turbine that covers part of the monastery’s (but not the Candy House’s) electric bill. When their brother monks at St. Joseph’s Monastery embarked on a solar project, the sisters began looking at solar power as well.

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“We can see that it is really a way to preserve God’s creation, a need to preserve the world as much as we can besides our personal living,” says Sr. Alice.

Localtownpages assumes no financial liability for errors or omissions in printed advertising and reserves the right to reject/edit advertising or editorial submissions. ©

Sisters at Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey live a very ordered life, gathering to pray seven times a day, waking at 3:00 a.m. to begin

Copyright 2012 LocalTownPages

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Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey, located in Wrentham, will lease a portion of their land in Franklin for what will eventually be a 7 MegaWatt solar farm. The Abbey will use rental money to help run their 56-year-old candy making tradition.

each day, which ends with a 7:30 p.m. bedtime. In addition to prayer and silent contemplation, the nuns work make and sell candy in order to be self-supporting, live and work communally together. They also believe their simple work, work they do with their hands, helps them to be “mindful of God, share

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in His creation and be in solidarity with the laboring poor.”

“Work was always a very important aspect of our spirituality,” says Sister Christa Maria who has been with the Abbey since 1996. “Work and prayer go hand in hand, and this is how we came to make candy.”

The Sisters began producing candy at the Abbey back in 1956.

They sought an industry that would better conform to their monastic life style than baking bread, and through contact with St. Joseph’s Abbey met John Crand, a Greek candy maker. Crand, and his family, taught the Sisters how the trade.

They began with vanilla caramels, and eventually learned to use other flavors, finally developing a Butternut munch in 1957. As they were taught by Crand, the Sisters still use top quality ingredients and no preservatives.

In fact, says Sr. Christa Maria, Sisters Damian and Edmund became specialists in making the candy.

the Abbey was able to open a gift shop, which has been a great success in the community, says Sr. Alice.

However, for a busy Candy House, it also has a very quiet atmosphere.

“Silence is a very, very strong tradition in our order,” says Sister Christa Maria, “…but when you have a silent life, you can make the same mistakes as when speaking, but speaking gives an opportunity to clear it up.” Now, says Sister Christa Maria, “We do integrate also verbal communication with one another, but we have very strict times where we do not talk, when we learn how to listen to God, also to listen to one another. Communication with one another should be the fruit of our silence. We are still learning to communicate with each other in a loving way.”

In the meantime, the Sisters of Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey are not averse to employing technology to further their way of life.

“It was a part of their spiritual life,” she says. “Gradually, all our sisters joined making candy.” The old candy house had simple equipment, but in March of 2010, with a loan of $1.5 million and help from the community in raising $3.5 million, a brand new, state-of-the-art Candy House was built.

“When we did the fundraising, one of the sisters had permission to use Facebook to get the word to people, but it is not something that’s available to individual Sisters,” says Sr. Christa Maria. Similarly, the Abbey reaches out via its websites (www.msmabbey.org or www.trappistinecandy.com) in order to sell its candy.

“We have much more space now, which is a blessing,” says Sr. Christa Maria, who adds that the older Sisters are now able to more easily access the Candy House to pitch in. In the new Candy House,

“We use (technology) where we need to, but never in a way to indulge ourselves,” says Sr. Christa Maria. “It’s a question of how do we use it, and for what purpose and to what end.”

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 5

Norfolk Kids “Give Back” for Soldiers

Holiday Lights and Santa Spottings

By J.D. O’Gara

Through January first, 101 Summer St., Holliston, (508) 429-2144

Who would take candy from a child?—very few people in Norfolk, because Norfolk kids willingly gave up lots of their Halloween candy—to send overseas to soldiers. On November first, the Norfolk Community League sponsored a Halloween Candy Giveback at the FreemanKennedy School Lobby (70 Boardman Street, Norfolk, MA).

Candy donations received, along with letters and artwork from children

SOME members of Brownie Troop 74746: Members of Brownie Troop 74746 help with the Norfolk Community League’s Candy Giveback, which will ultimately lead the sweets to soldiers serving overseas. Left to right:Olivia MacDonald, Caroline Kizik, Sydney O'Shea, Piper McKerrow, Mia Morganelli

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in the Norfolk schools, went to an organization, "Cape Cod Cares for Our Troops," that puts together and sends care packages to soldiers who are serving our country overseas.

The lights are on every day from 5 to 9 p.m.

Every day, the hall will be opened for people who come to visit the Christmas lights, with goodies for everyone, young and old: hot chocolate, pastries, cookies, munchkins, etc. Fatima Shrine celebrates the Christmas Vigil Mass on Dec. 24th, at 8 p.m., while Christmas Day Solemn Mass will be on Dec. 25th at 11 a.m.

NCL volunteer Valerie Cleverdon estimates, from the amount of candy carloads filled on giveback day, that about 50 boxes, weighing about 15 lbs. each were collected. That’s about 750 lbs. of candy, folks!

Cleverdon and Amanda Newell chair family-based activities such as this and the upcoming Santa Breakfast for the Norfolk Community League, which supports the Norfolk community. The Norfolk Community League dispersed $28,739 back to the Norfolk Community from 2009 to 2011. Recipients have included the Norfolk Public Schools, usually for specific requests, organizations such as Norfolk Together and the Santa Foundation, local sports teams, the police department, the fire department, the Norfolk Public Library and local preschools.

Millis Winter Wonderland December 7-23, 60 Causeway Street, opens, 6-10 p.m. nightly, donations to the Salvation Army are encourage in lieu of admission to the drive-through Christmas fantasy land of lights and mechanical scenes, courtesy of the Meehan family. www.milliswonderland.com

Christmas Festival of Lights, National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette

For more information on NCL family activities, contact Valerie Cleverdon or Amanda Newell at nclfamilyactivities@gmail.com.

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Route 118, Attleboro. Visit w w w. l a s a l e t t e s h r i n e . o r g / services/Christmas.schedule.html or call (508) 222-5410. Admission and parking free.

Edaville Railroad Christmas Festival of Lights 5 Pine Street, Carver, MA 02330, info@edaville.cominfo@edaville. com, (508) 866-8190, December 1-2, 6-9, 12-24 (Closed Christmas Day), December 26-January 1J January 3-6, Weekdays 4 pm - 9 p.m., Weekends 2 - 9 p.m., $18 Ages 2-59, $16 Seniors (over 60), Under 2 free During the Christmas season, Edaville is transformed into a winter wonderland of holiday delights! Passengers can relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights. Kids of all ages will enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa. Last train leaves at 8 p.m.

Edaville Polar Express December 3-5 & 10-11, January 2 & 3 4 - 9 p.m., $30 Adults and Children, Under 2 free

5 Pine Street, Carver, MA 02330, info@edaville.cominfo@edaville.com, (508) 8668190. Inspired by the Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book, The Polar Express comes to life at Edaville this Christmas!

Bass Pro Shop Santa’s Wonderland Through December 24, One Bass Pro Drive, Foxboro, (508) 216-2000. Free 4x6 photo with Santa, free coloring book included if photo is taken Monday through Friday from 3-8 p.m., free crafts games and activities.

Mondays to Thursdays are typically days with shorter wait times to see Santa. Through December 9th, free photo with Santa Mon.-Fri. from 3-8 p.m., Sat. from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon-5 p.m., and free crafts 5-7 p.m. Mon. – Fri., 12-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

From December 10-24, Free photo with Santa 10 – 8 p.m.

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Page 6

IVY

passion, and his life, here to stay.

continued from page 1

“I have many private students in Norfolk, and I love the town,” says Stoinov. “For several years, I’ve been thinking about living here, raising my children here and starting a business, because I love the attitude and the people here. I hope I’ll be serving the community well.”

learning piano at the age of 5 in his native Bulgaria, has brought his

Stoinov also loves what he does.

“I have the best job in the world,” says Todor, an award-winning performer who has traveled the world with orchestras and holds degrees in music from the State Academy of Music in Sofia, Bulgaria and New Bulgarian University as well as here in the states from the University of Southern Mississippi

December 1, 2012

and the Longy School of Music. “I work with kids, and I work with music. It can’t get any better.”

With 20 years of teaching experience in both Bulgaria and the United States, Todov, also the Music Director of the First Parish Church in Waltham, opened his charming music school less than a month ago. Ivy Music offers three separate instruction rooms and brings together top notch music instructors under one roof: Violist Maritsa Hristova was recently awarded Second Prize at the 2012 Alexander & Buono International String Competition, NY. The performer and composer holds a Master’s in Viola Performance from the Longy School of Music of Bard College and has won numerous other distinctions and awards: James Rosamilia, a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship, is currently pursuing his BM in Cello Performance from Longy School of Music of Bard College and has taught and performed in both the United States and Canada; Steve Marchena graduated Magna Cum Laude from Berklee College of Music, teaching contemporary guitar there. The winner of the 2004 Northeast Finals of Guitarmageddon, Marchena has performed on more than 30 CD releases and toured the U.S.A. and Europe;

Stoinov envisions introducing his instructors to the area by offering free concerts at local schools, as well as regular recitals in area churches.

“In the summer, we will do concerts here and invite the public to open concerts,” says Vaska Stoinov, who will help manage the school.

Stoinov wants to help the community by bringing the “joy of music” to as many homes as possible, at the most affordable prices

in the area. He hopes Ivy Music will be “the fire of the music in Norfolk,” says the teacher, who says he loves to spread his knowledge and love for music to his students. “I want to be the center of the music here, the lighthouse of music.”

Ivy Music School, at 175 Main Street in Norfolk, will offer private music instruction in piano, strings and voice seven days per week.

For more information, visit Ivymusicacademy.com or call (781) 647-5390.

Soprano Sarah K. Orlovsky recently received her graduate degree in vocal music performance from the Longy School of Music.

She has appeared in operatic performances, serves as soprano section leader and soloist at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton and provides vocal-technique instruction to Boston-based chorus, Sharing a New Song; Tenor Justin E. Moore has earned degrees in Vocal Performance and Vocal Music Education from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master’s from the Longy School of Music at Bard College.

He is a tenor section leader and soloist at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Harvard Square and serves as a choral teaching artist through the Metropolitan Opera Guild’s Urban Voices program.

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December 1, 2012

Page 7

Rick and Dick Hoyt Honored at 7th Annual Legends Ball

By ReBecca Kensil The 7th annual Legends Ball, a charity gala at Lake Pearl Luciano’s in Wrentham for the Hockomock Area YMCA, honored father and son team, Dick and Rick Hoyt, for their story of inclusion and perseverance.

“The love that Dick has for his son is something that is just beyond commendable,” says Butch

Stearns, the gala’s emcee and Boston sports personality, while speaking to the crowd.

Here is their story of love: Rick Hoyt was born with cerebral palsy, confined to a wheel chair at age five, and denied access to public schools because of his disability. His parents fought to send him to public school. Rick not only completed public school,

but finished a special education degree at Boston University. He used his degree to create The Hoyt Foundation, a nonprofit that assists people with special needs. In addition, the duo has competed in more than 1,000 athletic competitions (road races, triathlons, and marathons) together, including 30 Boston Marathons. At first, race organizers tried to exclude them unless they could qualify in Rick’s younger age group, which they did at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. The event proceeds provide opportunities for children with special needs to participate with their typically developing peers in YMCA programs, activities, and services through the Integration Initiative program, established in 2004. The program improves social skills, builds self-esteem, increases physical activity and independence, and enhances mutual respect among people of all abilities.

The 7th Annual Legends Ball, which benefits programs for children with special needs at the Hockomock YMCA, this year honored father and son team Dick and Rick Hoyt (third and fourth from left, bottom row) for their story of inclusion and perseverance. The Hoyts were the first non-New England Patriots to be given this honor.

YMCA Hockomock President Ed Hurley, in a speech at the gala, highlighted the Integration Initiative.

Hurley says, “As our legends

would attest, true greatness happens through humble, selfless, and sacrificial service. That’s what sports is all about, that’s what team is all about, and that’s what our Integration Initiative is all about.”

These honorees were a first for the Legends Ball, because past recipients were from The New England Patriots. Some Patriots shared their experience with the Hoyts.

“Well, I’d first heard about them in college. I’d been impressed with everything they’ve done and continue to do, and I think it’s an inspiration to a lot of people,” says Nate Solder, current Patriots tackle who was attending his second Legends Ball.

“It’s a great cause,” says Tim Fox, former Patriots safety who has been a strong Legends Ball supporter since its inception, helping with the gala’s live auction, and whose daughter teaches autistic children.

College. All the times seeing them run in the marathon, it is an incredible inspiration. It makes you feel like just because your child has a disability, doesn’t mean they’re not capable of doing amazing, amazing things. They are a true inspiration,” says mother Cathy Ohlson, whose son, Christopher, 12, has autism and is active with the Integration Initiative.

At the end of the night, to the crowd’s delighted surprise, John Hancock Financial Services gifted a small statue of the Hoyts racing, in addition to a life-sized one that will be placed in Hopkinton, where the Boston Marathon begins. Other big news included Patriots owner Robert Kraft contributing $10,000 to this Legends Ball because he was so inspired by the Hoyts.

Other attendees were there for their family members involved in the Integration Initiative.

Contributions also came in by auction. A silent and live auction included some unique items: an Italian villa vacation, a jet-fighter experience, and a signature football signed by all of the nights’ legends (over 30 attended).

“The Hoyts are an incredible inspiration. I sat and watched the marathon so many years at Boston

According to organizers, the Nov. 13th event is expected to surpass the goal of $150,000 raised.

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2 2.500% Initial Interest Rate; 2.868% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) effective 11/01/12 and based on $100,000. Offer is subject to credit history, loan amount, loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios and is subject to change without notice. This program is available only for single- family owner occupied detached dwellings and condominiums located in Massachusetts and Rhode Island for purchase or no cash out refinancing. A 30-year 7/1 Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) at 2.500% would be repayable in 84 payments of $395.12 with 0 points due at closing followed by 275 payments of $411.80 at an interest rate of 2.875%. Payments are based on the current one year treasury index and a margin of 2.75%. 2.00% annual cap; 5.00% lifetime cap. Minimum down payment is 20%. Minimum loan amount is $50,000. Maximum loan amount is $417,000. Jumbo loans do not qualify. Property insurance is required. Payments do not include taxes and insurance. Mortgage insurance may be required at borrower’s cost. An escrow (impound) account is required. Actual payments may be greater. Rate is variable. The interest rate may increase after consummation of loan, based on current market conditions.

Borrowers and properties must qualify under FNMA guidelines. Offer effective as of 11/01/12. $275 toward closing costs credited at closing with an auto debit from your personal checking with direct deposit. Not all consumers will qualify for these monthly payment terms. Other terms available.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 8

December 1, 2012

Friendly Fun Planned at Millis Alpaca Ranch Open Farm & Holiday Boutique

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your holiday shopping and warm up someone’s holiday and winter.

of our newest baby alpacas (called crias). An Alpaca Teddy Bear will be awarded for the best name submitted on each day of the Open House.

Among the soft alpaca clothing available will be alpaca socks, scarves, mittens, hats and other warm p ro d u c ts .

For knitting and crocheting, there is a wide variety of both natural and dyed colored yarns.

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Advent and Christmas Services at Federated Church of Norfolk To celebrate the days of Advent and preparation for Christmas, the Federated Church of Norfolk is planning a number of special services: On Thursdays, December 6, 13, and 20, Rev. Scott Cousineau will lead Advent Prayer Services at 6:30 p.m.

On Sunday, December 16th at 10 p.m, worship will include the Annual Children’s Christ-

mas Pageant. Worship at 10 p.m. on December 23rd will include an Adult Christmas Pageant.

Christmas Eve, Monday, December 24th, there will be three worship services: 5:30 p.m.

Family Service, 8 p.m. Candlelight Service, and 11 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service.

No Sunday School will be held on December 30. Chil-

All are welcome to attend the prayer and worship services.

The church is in the center of Norfolk at the corner of Main Street and Route 115 and is handicapped accessible. For further information, call the church office at (508) 528-0262.

Two local gymnasts to hit National stage They are both friends, and at the same time fierce competitors.

So it is only fitting that the story would end this way. With only six available spots and many talented gymnasts vying for a seat on the prestigious team, the two friends found out this weekend they both had been named to represent Massachusetts at a National gymnastics competition.

They earned their spot on the national team by capturing the highest all-around scores at the Judges Cup Team Challenge held at Shrewsbury High School on Nov. 3.

Maria Fabiano of Wrentham and Alexis Gaulin of Plainville won a

Fabiano, 12, a 6th grader at the Roderick Elementary School in Wrentham and Gaulin, 10, a 5th grader at the Beatrice H. Wood

Alexis Gaulin, left, and Maria Fabiano, right, will both be part of a sixmember Level 7 Massachusetts state gymnastics team, competing for the National Judges Cup to be held in Florida this coming January.

This Year Her Present Is…

dren are invited to join their parents in the sanctuary for worship that day.

Elementary School in Plainville, are teammates at the New England Sports Academy in Westwood (NESA). They are coached by Janie Murakovskaya.

place on the Level 7 Massachusetts state gymnastics team. The six-member team will travel to the National Judges Cup to be held in Daytona Beach, Florida on Jan. 5, 2013. Level 7 gymnasts in teams of 6-members representing their respective states will compete for the National title.

Page 9

They will practice with the newly formed 6-member team in December before heading to Florida in January.

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Page 10

December 1, 2012

Franklin Performing Arts Company to Present Humbug!

FRANKLIN, MA – This holiday season, the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera, an original musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. FPAC’s contemporary retelling of the Dickens holiday classic was conceived and written

by Franklin’s Nick Paone, who also co-directs the production and portrays the lead character of Scrooge. From 16 area communities, a talented ensemble cast of 150 professional artists, amateur performers, families and students of the arts will bring Paone’s fresh interpretation of Dickens’ work to

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the stage. Paone’s script features Dickens’ familiar characters and storyline, but re-imagines the allegorical tale in contemporary America. The production features musical hits of many genres with live accompaniment by a 10-piece band of professional musicians.

Humbug! will be performed on Saturday, December 15 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, December 16, at 2 p.m. at the Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium, 224 Oak Street, in Franklin.

A family favorite since debuting as part of FPAC’s 2008-09 season, Humbug! returns with updated references to current events and pop culture, so it retains an unpredictable timeliness and freshness.

Paone has reinvented the Dickens’ story for a modern audience, producing satire so current it reflects the news of the day, right up through the week of production.

As Scrooge embarks on his transformative journey of self-redemption, he faces his nighttime visitors with unexpected twists and hilari-

ous turns along the way. The plotline is supported by an entertaining and accessible score that includes creative treatments of Broadway and pop hits ranging from Duke Ellington and The Beatles to Michael Jackson and Adele.

Paone notes, “We were able to look at the entire canon of music history and pick songs suited to each moment of the show. Every person in the audience, whether they’re 5 years old or 105, will recognize at least one song.”

FPAC Executive Director Raye Lynn Mercer co-directs the production, with musical direction by Hallie Wetzell, choreography by Kellie Stamp, Mercer and Paone, and costuming and production coordination by Tracy Lane.

Tickets for FPAC’s Humbug! cost $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

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December 1, 2012

Page 11

FPAC's The Nutcracker Features Special Guest Artists Molina joined the Boston Ballet as a principal dancer, retiring from the company after six years to pursue a freelance career. As a freelance principal dancer, Molina has been a featured guest artist with many renowned companies, choreographers and schools. He has worked with noted choreographers including Jiri Kylian, William Forsythe, Nacho Duato, Martha Graham, Paul Taylor, Twayla Tharp and Choo San Goh.

Guest artists Erica Cornejo, Boston Ballet principal dancer, and Carlos Molina, former American Ballet Theatre soloist and Boston Ballet principal, will dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s presentation of The Nutcracker.

Guest artists Erica Cornejo, Boston Ballet principal dancer, and Carlos Molina, former American Ballet Theatre soloist and Boston Ballet principal, will dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s presentation of The Nutcracker. A popular FPAC tradition for more than 20 years, performances will take place on Saturday, December 8, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 9, at 2 p.m. at the Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium, 224 Oak Street in Franklin. FPAC’s production of this timeless classic features more than 100 dancers from 25 towns and many area dance schools. Under the direction of Peter Cokkinias, a professional, live orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s classic score. Austro-Italian violinist Olivia de Prato of NYC, an internationally recognized soloist and chamber musician, serves as concert mistress.

Born in Argentina, Erica Cornejo trained at the Arts Institute of the Colon Theatre in Buenos Aires. At age 14, she won a gold medal at

the Second International Ballet Competition in Argentina and was invited to join Julio Bocca’s Ballet Argentino. After joining American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company in 1998, Cornejo became a member of ABT’s corps de ballet and was promoted to soloist in 2002.

In 2006, Cornejo joined the Boston Ballet as a principal dancer. Her diverse repertoire since joining Boston Ballet includes Nissinen’s Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, Cranko’s Romeo and Juliet, Nureyev’s Don Quixote, Bournonville’s La Sylphide, Gielgud’s Giselle, Balanchine’s Coppelia, Tharp’s In the Upper Room and Forsythe’s The Second Detail.

Colombian-born Carlos Molina began his career with the Ballet de Cali before joining the Hartford Ballet in 1994 as a principal dancer. Following his win of the first Igor Youskevitch Award at the New York International Ballet Competition in 1996, Molina joined the American Ballet Theatre in 1998, quickly rising from corp member to soloist. In 2004,

Real-life husband and wife, Molina and Cornejo reprise roles danced in FPAC’s 2010 and 2011 Nutcracker productions, respectively. FPAC Executive Director Raye Lynn Mercer said, “Our company is proud to bring international ballet stars to Franklin. It is

a treat for our audiences and a thrill for the young dancers who share the stage, accompanied by our world-class musicians.”

A graduate of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts and Baldwin Wallace Conservatory, Andrew Scott Holmes also returns to the FPAC stage for this Nutcracker presentation, dancing the role of the Prince and the wellknown Russian variation in the ballet’s second act. Holmes performed previously in FPAC productions of Into the Woods, Footloose and Macbeth (FPAC’s Whatever Theater Festival), among others. Regionally, Holmes has performed in productions of Cabaret, Chicago, Hello Dolly and Hairspray and was

Tickets for The Nutcracker cost $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

Performances are expected to sell out.

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Page 12

December 1, 2012

Tax Impacts of President Obama's Re-election President Obama secured a second term in office November 6, 2012, in the end winning the Electoral College by a wide margin. The President's re-election now sets in motion

what will likely be difficult negotiations between Democrats and Republicans over the fate of the Bush-era tax cuts, nearly $100 billion in automatic spending cuts, and

the more than 50 expiring tax extenders, which include the alternative minimum tax (AMT) patch for tens of millions of taxpayers. The President's re-election has also significantly changed the dynamics for reaching an eventual agreement over long-term tax reform.

Happy Holidays

Year-end tax strategies will demand more urgent attention from higher-income taxpayers as the result of President Obama's re-election. The President has consistently called for higher tax rates on individuals with incomes above $200,000 and families with incomes above $250,000 and continuation of the current lower tax rates for others.

He campaigned on reinstatement of the 36 percent and 39.6 percent income tax rates for higher-income individuals. The President also advocated a maximum capital gains rate increase from 15 percent to 20

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The Boston-basedgroup group singers TheURO URO is is a Boston-based of of 1212 singers andand instrumentalists who—for closeto toaadecade—ha decade—have instrumentalists w ho—for close ve been committed committed to thethe best of classic rock to been tobringing bringing best of classic rock to lifefor for those those w ho’ve nev er had a chance to hear live,it live, life who’ve never had a chance to ithear andthose those w anting totoreli ve the y of Epic RocRock. k. and wanting relive theheyda heyday of Epic TheUltrasonic Ultrasonic Rock Rock Orchestra Orchestra performs w-dropThe performsjajaw-dropping, ping, electrifying, dynamically diverse renditions of electrifying, dynamically diverse renditions of classic classic ’60s and ’70s British Rock. As the works of ’60s and ’70s British Rock. As the works of Mozart and Mozart and Beethoven live on in symphonies, the Beethoven on inand symphonies, the URO is a a, unique URO is a live unique unconventional orchestr and unconventional bringing to vivid life this bringing to vivid lifeorchestra, this glorious, beloved music. glorious, beloved music. Performing uninhibited Performing with uninhibited powerr, with nuance and power, and honored feeling,nuance the URO is feeling, honoredthe to URO bring is these iconicto bring these classic songs to today’s audiences. classic songsiconic to toda y’s audiences.

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Holidayy H h Variety Show Variety a Show

Filled with festive songs and stories of winter and all that it brings, Rick Adam’s holiday vaudeville extravaganza will warm up the chilly ev ening.

Laterr, the acclaimed ac North Shore Acappella will take the stage with your holiday favorites, covering everything from classic carols to pop hits.

DEC. 15th @ 7PM

Ornament is an 11 piece rock roc orchestra specializing Ornament is an 11 piece k orchestr a specializing as a tribute to the to Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

While as a tribute the Trans-Siberian Orchestr a. While smallersmaller in scale than TSO’s display, Ornament’s in scale than TSO’s display, Ornament’s mumusical production is completed by bayrock and roll roll sical production is completed a roc k and system a marvelous shoof w over of over soundsound system and aand marvelous lightlight show 6060 strobes, fog, and w machines. lights, lights, strobes, fog, and snowsno machines.

WithWith traditional carolsand andholiday holidaymusic musicset set to to rock, rock, gospel, traditional carols and blues, Ornament’ inspir s performance tellstells an inspirgospel, and blues, Ornament’s performance an tale of ofChristmas Christmaswishes wishesand and mir ingtale tale of Christmas mir acles. inspiring wishes and miracles.

Coming in 2013: January 12: Magic of Lyn January 25 - 27: Next to Normal February 9: Comedy Night featuring Don Gavin

Before the election, President Obama had predicted Democrats and the GOP could reach a "grand bargain" that permanently resolves the fate of the Bush-era tax cuts, lowers the corporate tax rate and takes a serious step toward deficit reduction with revenue raisers within four to six months. In the interim, both sides may have to settle for a temporary extension of some of the expiring provisions, including some income tax rates, and leave the long-term fate of the Bush-era tax cuts and more to the 113th Congress, which will meet in January 2013.

Whether any eventual compromise hammered out between Congress and the Obama Administration would extend lower income tax and capital gains/dividends rates for one more year, into 2013, or allow the higher top rates in 2013 to start at temporarily higher income levels than initially proposed, remains speculative. In the meantime, higher-income taxpayers must decide whether to wait-and-see or secure the benefit of current rates now, through accelerating income, postponing deductions/credits, harvesting appreciation/capital gains, having closely-held corporations declare special dividends, closing business sales/acquisitions, and executing family gift-giving strategies—all before year end 2012.

While it is not absolutely certain that tax rates will rise in 2013, it is more than certain that rates will never drop lower than they are now in 2012 for most higher-income taxpayers.

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percent and a dividend rate rise from 15 percent to 36 percent or 39.6 percent for higher-income taxpayers.

His re-election also ensures that the 3.8 percent Medicare contribution surtax on net investment income will go into effect on January 1, 2013, and continue into the foreseeable future.

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February 16: Beatlemania Again March 9: Hal McIntyre Orchestra March 16: Zoso March 22 - 24: Jesus Christ Superstar

April 20: North Shore Acappella May 4: Ronan Tynan

Effective January 1, 2013: • The Bush-era tax cuts, extended by the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010, expire; • Across-the-board spending cuts take effect under the Budget Control Act of 2011; • The employee-side payroll tax holiday ends; • More tax extenders expire, joining the ranks of extenders that expired after 2011.

Unlike 2010, when the Bush-era tax rates were extended for two years, any extension of the Bush-era tax rates will most likely be accompanied by deficit reduction measures. The extent of those deficit reduction measures is unclear at this

time. Among the likely potential revenue raisers are increased taxes on higher-income individuals, accomplished through higher marginal rates and the elimination or curtailment of certain tax preferences. Tax preferences that might be targeted for repeal would most likely include those Impacting business taxpayers, such as certain oil and gas tax breaks and the last-in-first out (LIFO) method of accounting.

One scenario calls for Congress approving an AMT patch and other popular expiring extenders in the lame-duck session. The IRS maintains that it cannot wait much longer to issue 2012 tax year forms without delaying the start of the 2013 filing season. Meanwhile, if the law isn't changed, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that over 20 million additional middle-income taxpayers will become subject to the AMT without the so-called "AMT patch" for 2012. With 2012-focused tax legislation, however, there is also speculation that Congress may buy itself some time by enacting a threemonth extension of Bush-era tax cuts (to be pro-rated over 2013). An extension of some sort may be necessary because without it, wage withholding at the higher tax rates would become mandatory for all taxpayers at all income levels.

Payroll Tax Holiday Take home pay will also be immediately reduced if Congress does not extend the employee-side payroll tax holiday, or enact some replacement for it. The employee-share of OASDI is scheduled to return to 6.2 percent instead of 4.2 percent (up to the 2013 Social Security wage base of $113,700). Proponents of an extension maintain that the economy cannot take the hit on consumer spending that would result from a sunset of the payroll tax holiday; opponents argue that it is temporary tax relief that the nation can no longer afford.

Jeffrey Schweitzer can be found at Northeast Financial Strategies Inc (NFS) at Wampum Corner in Wrentham. NFS works with individuals and small businesses providing financial and estate planning, insurance, investments and also offers full service accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, income tax preparation, and notary public services. For more information, stop by the office, call Jeffrey at 800-560-4NFS or visit online - www.nfsnet.com.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 13

Living Healthy It’s Not Enough to be Thankful for Your Health

by Christine Johnston,

owner, KoKo FitClub “When health is absent, wisdom cannot reveal itself, art cannot become manifest, strength cannot be exerted, wealth is useless, and reason is powerless.”

- Herophilus, ancient Greek physician Ready or not, the holiday season is upon us. For many families across the United States, the holidays, and especially Thanksgiving, are a time to reflect on all for which we have been thankful over the past year. At the top of that list, for those fortunate enough to have it, is often our health.

However, aside from these few times per year, most Americans do not demonstrate an appreciation for the value of their health until they no

longer have it.

Whether or not we acknowledge it, we make choices every day that will significantly impact our health in the future. Sadly, choosing the inexpensive and convenient way today often comes at a far greater expense in the future - inability to work, hospital bills, and, too often, premature death. We need to invest in nutrition and fitness today in order to avoid or reduce an investment in healthcare in the future.

I recently attended a Juice Plus+ Prevention Plus Lecture in Providence, Rhode Island where Dr. William Sears explained in very simple terms that our grandmothers,

and

great

grandmothers, have always known exactly what we need to do to maintain our health: run around and play outside and eat your fruits and vegetables. It really is that simple! In other words, make fitness and an active lifestyle a lifetime commitment and focus on filling your plates with real food, especially fruits and vegetables. Unlike our grandmothers, we have a lot working against us, including environmental factors, processed foods, and diminished growing standards for

our produce. Combining these vices with the hectic pace of today’s world produces devastating results - more chronic disease, shorter life expectancies, and a national health care crisis.

The bottom line is that we need to take responsibility for our own health; no one else can do it for us.

Fortunately, in a world where so many things are working against us, Koko FitClub has made it simple, convenient, and hassle-free to exercise! Koko’s Smartraining System was specifically designed to overcome the typical obstacles to fitness success - I don’t have time; I don’t know what to do; I don’t like gyms; and I don’t have the money for a personal trainer.

Koko Smartraining is a completely

new and different way to exercise that delivers real results, isn’t boring and fits easily into everyday life, not to mention that it is customized to you and guides you every step of the way. It is also backed by only the best research, so you can be sure that you are not wasting your time with the latest fad only to learn that your efforts would have been better invested elsewhere. In short, Koko FitClub can help change your life forever if you are ready to invest 45 minutes, 3-4 days per week in yourself.

This holiday season, now that Thanksgiving table has been cleared, make an investment that will reap many dividends to be thankful for in the years to come. Invest in a fitness solution that works for you and “commit to be fit.”

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Page 14

December 1, 2012

Living Healthy Great gifts for men and women hoping to get healthier The holidays are synonymous with many things, including gettogethers with family and friends, shopping and, at the tail end of the season, resolutions. One of the more common New Year's resolutions is a commitment to getting healthier. This year, holiday shoppers can combine the tradition of gift-giving with the tradition of making New Year's resolutions by

giving a loved one who wants to improve personal health a gift that can make keeping that resolution that much easier.

When holiday shopping this season, consider the following gift ideas for that health-conscious friend or family member who's looking to turn over a new leaf in the new year by adopting a healthier lifestyle.

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• Gym membership: Fitness centers tend to see a spike in enrollment at the dawn of a new year, as men and women who want to get healthier take the first step by signing up for a gym membership. The holiday season can be a great time to sign up for a membership, as many fitness centers waive their initiation fees in an effort to attract more customers.

When trying to help a friend or family member get back on a healthy track, offer to pay a portion of their membership fees or, if their preferred club is charging an initiation fee, offer to pay that instead. Recipients might feel more obligated to go to the gym if they know a loved one helped pay for it.

• Cardiovascular machine: Many people cite a lack of time as the primary reason they don't exercise enough. Getting to and from the gym takes time, but having a cardiovascular machine, whether it's an elliptical machine, an exercise bike or a treadmill, at home removes this hurdle, increasing the chances that people will exercise more often. And the potential benefits of routine cardiovascular exercise are considerable. Ac-

cording to the American Heart Association, as little as 30 minutes of daily cardiovascular exercise each day can significantly reduce an individual's risk for heart disease.

• Bicycle: Few activities are more enjoyable and simultaneously beneficial as riding a bicycle. Many people still enjoy riding a bike just like they did when they were children, when they might not have known just how healthy riding a bicycle was. Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness, lowering a person's risk for heart disease while helping to build and tone muscles. In addition, men and women with preexisting joint conditions often find riding a bicycle is a great low-impact exercise that encourages them to get off the couch in a way that doesn't aggravate their conditions. Many adults received a bicycle as a holiday gift when they were children, and those looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle might be just as excited to receive a bicycle once again.

• Cookbook: Adopting a healthier lifestyle does not have to be all about exercise. In fact, eat-

Subsidizing a loved one's gym membership is a great way to help him or her realize a resolution of living healthier in the year ahead.

ing healthier is just as important as exercising more. A common misconception about eating healthy is that healthy foods don't boast the flavor of those irresistible, yet ultimately unhealthy, foods we can't get enough of. However, a healthy diet can be flavorful, so help health-conscious men and women get started with a cookbook filled with healthy and delicious recipes. Before buying a cookbook, find out if the book's eventual recipient has any specific dietary restrictions, including if he or she needs to eat gluten-free or has been told to avoid red meat.

Then find a cookbook that suits them but does so in a way that allows them to embrace healthy eating.

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December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 15

Living Healthy Floaters and Flashes – A Common Complaint John F. hatch, M.D.

may be sight threatening and require urgent treatment. Sometimes an in-office laser procedure is indicated, and sometimes surgery by a retinal specialist is required.

Early diagnosis is important.

Symptoms of floaters and flashes are a common complaint in an ophthalmologist’s office.

Although it is more common in patients over 40, it can occur at any age.

The eye goes through many changes as we get older and one of those changes occurs in the vitreous. The vitreous is a clear, jelly-like substance inside the eye that helps give the eyeball its round shape. The vitreous can go through changes due to aging, trauma or inflammation. The most common change is due to aging and is called syneresis.

When this occurs, the vitreous, a semi-rigid jelly, becomes more liquid-like and cells that are normally clear, clump together to form discreet opacities that move within the clear jelly. When light shines into the eye, these clumps cast a shadow onto the light-sensing retina. The shadows appear as balls, strings, dots or cobwebs and are referred to as floaters. As the name suggest, floaters move around within the visual field creating the sensation of bugs or dust, but no matter how hard you try to look directly at them, they move away.

Vitreous syneresis is the most common cause of floaters. Usually they only appear in one eye at a time and occur without warning. Since some causes of floaters may represent a serious eye problem such as hemorrhage or inflammation, it is recommended that all patients with new onset floaters be seen by an ophthalmologist for an exam within a few days. There is no treatment necessary for vitreous syneresis but the symptoms of floaters may persist. In some patients, it is quite distracting, but in most the symptoms slowly subside as the vision center in the brain learns to ignore them.

A smaller percentage of patients complain of flashes as well as floaters. In addition to floaters from vitreous syneresis, the jelly may separate from the retina in the back of the eye. This is called a posterior vitreous detachment, or PVD. When the vitreous contracts and pulls away from the retina, it often tugs on the retina.

When the retina is stimulated me-

The doctors, technicians and staff at the Milford-Franklin Eye Center have more than 20 years experience in taking care of patients with floaters and flashes.

chanically, it causes flashing lights, or photopsia. The flashes usually appear in an arc-like pattern in the peripheral vision.

Other causes of photopsia include trauma both direct (blow to the eye) and indirect (sudden deceleration as in a car accident). If flashes occur in both eyes at the

same time without floaters, then a migraine is often to blame, even if there is no headache.

We also have a laser on sight as well as a retina specialist, Kameran Lashkari, M.D., available to help if a procedure is required.

For more information or to make an appointment at MilfordFranklin 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.

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A PVD is more worrisome because in some patients the vitreous may separate with enough force to pull a small hole or tear in the retina. This can then lead to a retinal detachment, which

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Page 16

December 1, 2012

Living Healthy Make a difference without donating money When making charitable donations, men and women may feel a financial gift is the most valuable contribution they can make. Though charities and nonprofit organizations will always rely on the financial generosity of donors, charitable men and women can donate without writing a check. The following are a few of the many ways to make a difference even if money is tight.

• Donate blood. Donating blood is a great way for men and women to make a difference in the lives of others.

According to the American Red Cross, blood donors must be healthy, be at least 17 years old (some states allow 16-year-olds to donate blood with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 lbs. There may be additional weight requirements for certain donors, and the men and women taking blood donations will discuss prospective donors' health with them prior to drawing any blood. The advantage of donating blood is that donors can often do so several times per year.

• Become an organ donor. Organ donation is a selfless act that can save someone's life. When men and women pass away, their organs can often still be used to keep others alive. Carry an organ donor card with you in your wallet or purse and let your loved ones know that you have signed up to be an organ donor upon your death.

• Foster parent a pet. The economy and the housing market has been tough on families, and many have been forced to give up their pets when relocating from a home to an apartment. As a result, animal shelters and nonprofit rescue organizations have been overwhelmed with house broken pets whose families could no longer keep them. Such organizations rely on pet foster parents to house, care for and feed the animals until they find permanent homes. Becoming a foster pet parent is a great way for men and women to help a nonprofit rescue organization in their communities.

• Donate time. Volunteering is another great way to make a difference without donating money. By donating time,

people are helping an organization of their choosing keep its operating budget down so more of its resources can be used toward fulfilling the organization's mission statement. Rare is the charity that doesn't need volunteers, and many charitable organizations will even ask volunteers about their professions to determine if professional skills can be put to use while they're volunteering.

• Clean out closets and the garage. One of the easiest ways to make a difference is for individuals to clean out their closets and donate clothing and other items to a nearby Goodwill store. Anything from old neckties to appliances can be donated, and a person might even be able to reduce their annual tax bill when making certain donations. Goodwill stores don't simply give donations directly to the needy. In many instances, the stores sell the donations and use the money raised to support a host of charitable endeavors. So even items like an elec- Donating blood is one way men and women can make a difference when money is tight. tric drill no longer being used or a microwave since replaced can make valuable donations.

5 ways to cheer yourself up now According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults, or about 9.5 percent of the U.S. population age 18 and older, in a given year. Even those who don't have a clinical illness may feel sad at some points in their lives.

For those who need a quick boost, there are ways to improve mood that are easy.

1. Get organized. Tackling small goals, even just tidying up the kitchen or making the bed, can have a positive effect on your mood.

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5. Exercise. Get the heart pumping and you'll feel re-energized.

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 17

Living Healthy Keep Your Family Healthy Through The Holidays The holiday season is upon us once again, and with it comes the season's notoriously hectic pace.

With crowded social calendars and the stress of holiday shopping, it's easy to feel overwhelmed once the season hits full swing.

Unfortunately, many people have trouble staying healthy through the hectic holiday season.

With so much to do, it's easy to put health on the back burner during the holidays. But however hectic the holiday season can be, there are ways to keep the family happy and healthy this holiday season.

• Encourage kids to wash their hands. Germs are often spread most quickly through our hands, which are in constant contact with hotbeds for germs, including doorknobs. While adults might be quick to wash their hands after they sneeze or cough, kids are often lax in the hand washing department. But washing hands thoroughly is an effective way to ward off winter germs that attach to hands after we sneeze, cough or simply touch a doorknob. Encourage kids to be diligent about washing their hands, not only after they

use the restroom but whenever they sneeze, cough or arrive home from school.

• Keep indoor air crisp and clean. Bringing home airborne germs, such as sickness-causing bacteria and other contaminants, is inevitable during the holiday season. The kids' school is a breeding ground for such germs, as is the nearby shopping mall filled with holiday shoppers.

• Circulate indoor air. Stagnant air indoors can also increase the liklihood of cold and flu. Central heating can dry the body out and lead to dehydration, making it harder for the body to flush out poisons and germs during the winter months. The SANYO Air Washer Plus utilizes a 3-directional air flow system to maximize the flow of air, cleaning all areas of the room while increasing comfort levels. Unlike many air cleaners and purifiers that have just a single output, the Air Washer Plus has an upward stream, leftward stream and rightward stream to evenly circulate air throughout the room.

• Get outdoors. Even if the weather outside is frightful, it can be beneficial to spend some time outdoors during the winter months. While it's best to obey the local weather authority and advisories, if there's no restrictions on spending time outdoors, getting outside can help the body fend off cold and flu. Because few people spend time outdoors in the winter, germs can gather inside and circulate among those who spend significant time indoors. As a result, those who spend all their time indoors are more vulnerable to cold and flu. When possible, bundle up and spend some time outdoors in the fresh air.

• Squeeze in some daily exercise. While the holiday season is certainly hectic, adults and kids alike should still find time to fit in daily exercise. Kids might get their daily dose in gym class, but adults need to make time as well.

Exercise can prove a great means to relieving holiday stress, and a body that's strong and fit will be prove more capable of defending itself against airborne germs and bacteria.

Diabetics Can Safely Celebrate The Holidays This time of year visions of sugarplums may be dancing in one's head, as are cakes, cookies and pies. The average person may gain a few pounds around the holidays from eating too many rich and sugary foods. But someone with diabetes could be risking their health by overdoing it.

During the holidays people are exposed to more food, more sweets, more alcohol, and more stress. People with diabetes, who have to watch portion sizes and what they are consuming, may find that the holidays are even more stressful thanks to diet restrictions.

Many diabetics have reported that the holidays can be especially challenging because of the abundance of temptation, be it food or alcohol, coupled with the stress of

shopping and socializing.

Diabetics don't have to take chances with their health come the holidays, nor do they have to miss out on the enjoyment of the season.

Here are some suggestions for enjoying a safe and sound holiday season. * Keep track of carbohydrates.

Sugar plays a role in diabetes, but carbohydrates can really affect blood-sugar levels when digested.

Limit carbohydrates as much as possible. And remember, just because something is sugar-free doesn't mean it is carb-free. * Plan ahead. Ask the host or hostess what will be served so that decisions can be made about what will be eaten. If there aren't many healthy options, consider bringing something from home.

Keep Kids Fit During The Holidays Toys that encourage physical fitness are a great way to keep your children fit, active and having fun all year-round. Therefore, putting just the right activity-gift under the tree will not only ensure your kids have fun, but will also stay healthy without even realizing it.

What is an activity-toy?

One of the most popular activity gifts is the ride-on-toy. Aside from being fun, ride-on-toys offer many additional benefits, such as developing a sense of balance and coordination, and make a big contribution to a child's overall physical fitness. This year, take a look at the PlasmaCar by Plasmart Inc. It's a mechanical marvel that can be driven on any flat surface, indoors and outdoors, and is powered solely by kid-power. This attractive vehicle is a fun way for kids to ride around the neighbourhood, keep their bodies fit, and have fun at the same time. It requires no batteries or fuel, just the

occasional cookie or two for the driver.

What makes a good outdoor gift?

Outdoor toys need to be well made. Not only do they need to stand-up to rough and tumble kid treatment, they need to be able to survive all types of weather. Outdoor toys should also have rounded corners to help prevent scrapes and cuts that go hand-inhand with outdoor fun. Makers of the PlasmaCar say it's highly durable and can handle a load of up to 100 kg (220 lbs) on a smooth, flat surface, and 55 kg (120 lbs) on a rough, flat surface.

Not only will it handle the daily abuse at the hands of your children, it's so durable that parents can have fun riding it, too. The colour is highly appealing to kids -- and with its rounded curves, seat and steering wheel, this design will help reduce summer bumps and bruises.

* Let someone know you're diabetic. The symptoms of being intoxicated and lowblood sugar can be similar, so diabetics should make holiday hosts aware of their condition.

* Take a walk. After a meal, individuals should take a walk about an hour later. That's when blood sugar tends to be the highest and exercise can help to lower bloodsugar levels. * Watch alcohol consumption.

It's not just food that can affect a person's blood-sugar levels, alcoholic beverages can affect it, too.

Diabetics should monitor their sugar levels before and after eating and drinking to ensure they are on track. * Eat before you arrive. Arriving at a party famished can cause a person to overdo it -- something that can be detrimental to diabetics.

Eat a little snack before heading to the party to staunch hunger pangs. * Move away from the food.

After having the meal, steer clear of the food table and simply talk with friends and family. Make socializing less about eating and more about catching up.

* Don't deprive yourself. Enjoy the foods that are eaten in moderation. If eating is overdone a bit, get back on track the next day.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 18

Santa is Coming to Town on Sunday December 2nd Norfolk Lions Sponsor Santa Parade in Norfolk Santa Claus will roll into Norfolk on Sunday, December 2nd, and a host of groups will turn out to celebrate his arrival with a variety of activities. This year the annual Santa Parade is expanding with the singing group Inspiration. And “The Grinch” has also sent word he may show up with some tomfoolery during the festivities.

Prior to the parade, Santa stops in at Hillcrest Village to hand out cookies and treats and receive hugs and kisses from the residents.

Sssh don’t tell Mrs. Claus!

Santa’s parade will begin at 3:30 p.m. at the Hillcrest Village on

Rockwood Road. Santa’s elves, Frosty the Snowman, members of the King Philip Regional High School Band, the Norfolk Police, area Scouts and local fire trucks will lead the procession along Route 115, through the center of town, turning right onto Liberty Lane and ending at the Norfolk library.

At 4 p.m. residents are invited to visit Santa’s workshop in the Meeting Room of the library and have their pictures taken with Santa. Santa’s elves will be bustling around the room assisting all. The pictures are free, with refreshments offered by the Norfolk recreation department.

Also at 4 p.m. children are invited to bring their homemade ornaments to help the adults

decorate the town Christmas tree.

The Town Hill celebration and tree lighting ceremony will include caroling by the H. Olive Day Chorus and music by Inspiration and the King Philip Band.

A new feature of the day will be the 1st Annual Ugly Sweater Contest, so go into your closets and bring out and wear your most unfashionable attire and win major prizes! Competition is open to all who dare.

These annual community events are sponsored by the Norfolk Lions Club and the Norfolk Recreation Department, with the cooperation of the King Philip Regional High School Band, Norfolk Scouts and the Norfolk Fire, Police and Highway Departments.

Missing Collie Reunited with His Family

By Patrick coleman He was named after the guardian angel in It's a Wonderful Life, and perhaps the 13-year-old collie had one of his own to survive such a difficult ordeal.

After three cold damp days outside, Clarence is home with his family.

The story started on Sunday around 4 p.m. It wasn't uncommon for the friendly dog to wander over to the neighbors' houses to say hello. This time was different.

Clarence didn't return to the colonial he calls home on Whip Poor Will Circle in Wrentham. The beloved family dog who suffers from arthritis and other rigors of age was lost. But his family knew he was out there and was simply trying to get him home. The neighborhood mobilized, and they hit the woods looking for one of their own.

"I got help from all my neighbors to search the woods in the area," says Suzanne McDonough, Clarence’s owner. "It's a great neighborhood."

The street was lit up with all the house lights to help Clarence find his way as the sun set.

The Annual Norfolk Santa Parade, sponsored by The Norfolk Lions, will take place on December 2nd, beginning at 3:30 p.m. at Hillcrest Village and ending at 4 p.m. at Norfolk Public Library. Many town groups and organizations will take part.

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When he didn't return, the family and friends put up flyers and shared his picture on Facebook and other web sites. Always, McDonough kept looking. She thought that someone might have taken Clarence thinking he was lost and once the flyers went up around town, he would be returned. But that didn't happen. As the search continued for her beloved collie, and hours turned into days, people started saying to her that it wasn't looking good. It was mentioned that dogs his age sometimes wander off when it's time to die. "My dog has a good life," McDonough said. "I knew he wouldn't do that. I knew he was alive. I knew he would try and get home."

Then she heard about Jamie Genereux, a man from Connecticut that uses his black Labrador retriever named Trigger to help track down missing pets. After hearing the story about Clarence, Genereux agreed to help. He only asks for gas money for the trip and suggests a donation be made to an animal rescue. On Wednesday at around 3:30 p.m., 72 hours since Clarence went missing, McDonough's husband John, Genereux, and Trigger set out into the woods.

Genereux thought the collie couldn't have traveled far since he

was 13. Within 30 minutes, the missing dog was found lying down in a ditch appearing lifeless. He turned to John to express his sympathy thinking it was too late.

But Clarence heard the search party and moved. "He was in a hole with a branch over the top of him," Genereux said. "He just had enough energy to lift his head up. He would not have made it through another night."

Jubilant, they grabbed the tired and dehydrated collie and brought him home. He was fed, given water, and then brought to Cody Pet Hospital in Walpole. The pet hospital was on call for the family’s vet, Whispering Pines Animal Hospital in Norfolk. McDonough could not say enough about the staff that looked after her beloved Clarence and the staff was impressed with the strength of the old dog. "They could not believe all his bloodwork came back great," she said.

It was decided Clarence didn't need to spend the night at the hospital and would be more comfortable at home. Wednesday night he was resting on blankets and warming up in front of the fireplace.

Neighbors visited, and children on the street made him cards welcoming him home.

Clarence, named after the guardian angel from a Christmas classic, will turn 14 next December.

While it's not exactly Christmas yet, the family is celebrating early, thankful for his miraculous return.

Once considered the runt of the litter, his family just simply loves him and never doubted he would be trying to get home. If he could talk, he would probably say he knew his family would never give up on him.

"I never thought he was dead," McDonough said. "I never lost hope."

Anyone in need of Jamie Genereux and his dog Trigger's services may reach him at searchrescuek9@gmail.com.

If he can, he's willing to help.

(The article originally appeared in The Wrentham Times, www.wrenthamtimes.com) The whole neighborhood at Whip Poor Will Circle pitched in to help find Clarence, who went missing for three days until missing-dog tracker Jamie Genereux came from Connecticut to help the McDonough family. Shown, Clarence resting at Cody Hospital.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Pancake Breakfast Planned December 1 The Federated Church of Norfolk will hold a Pancake breakfast on December 1 from 8-10 a.m. in the fellowship hall of the church. In addition to our famous homemade pancakes, ham, sausage and cinnamon rolls, we will also offer fresh homemade biscuits and sausage gravy and we will cook omelets or fresh eggs to order. It’s all you can eat for $7, with a Sr. citizen cost of $5 and breakfast is free for children under age 10. The Federated Church is located at the corner of Main Street and Route 115 across from the Town Common. The church vestry and restrooms are handicapped accessible. For more information, contact the church office, (508) 528-0262.

Page 19

Norfolk Choir to Join Charles River Chorale for Holiday Concert December 8th Performance at Millis High School The Charles River Chorale presents its 28th holiday concert, Sounds of the Season, on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. The concert takes place in the auditorium of the Millis High School. The Norfolk Federated

Church Cathedral Bell Choir will also join the Chorale. In addition to the performance, festivities include an audience sing-a-long, holiday raffle, and silent auction.

Tickets are available at the door.

The Chorale is a non-audition all-volunteer group based in Millis and is comprised of over 50 singers from surrounding towns.

Just this past August, Greg Quilop

became the chair of its executive board. Led by Musical Director and founder Roy S. Kelley, the Charles River Chorale presents Chorale's 28th season entertaining local audiences. The group performs two major concerts a year Holiday and Spring Concerts - at Millis High School. Visit HYPERLINK "http://www.charlesriverchorale.net/"www.charlesrivercho rale.net for additional information.

The Charles River Chorale, shown here, will welcome the Norfolk Federated Church Cathedral Bell Choir at its 28th holiday concert at Millis High School on December 8th, at 7:30 p.m. Photo used courtesy of Charles River Chorale, taken by Tim Rice of Tim Rice Photography

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December 1, 2012

Norfolk Lions Christmas Tree Sale in Full Swing The Norfolk Lions Club is in full swing with its annual Christmas Tree Sale!! This month-long event is one of the Lions Club’s most important fundraisers and a great opportunity for the Lions to connect with so many members of the community during the holiday period. Sales began on November 23, 2012 and continue until all trees are gone, so we hope to see you down at the lot early for best selection.

All of the proceeds from the sale of the trees go right back into local Norfolk charitable programs as well as to Lions International efforts to eradicate blindness and diabetes.

The Norfolk Lions have been selling Christmas trees for over 20 years! As has been its tradition in the past 7 years, the Norfolk Lions Christmas Tree Sale is located on

the lot next to the Dunkin Donuts on Main Street in downtown Norfolk. We thank the owners of our local Dunkin Donuts for their continued support of the Norfolk Lions.

Selling hours are weekdays from 3-9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. The Lions will be happy to trim the bottom of your tree, wrap it and secure it to your car, although pickup trucks are much appreciated. We accept cash and checks to the Norfolk Lions Club; sorry no credit cards.

Did you know that it takes 10 to 12 years of growing time and professional care to bring a Christmas tree to harvest? Our trees are transported by trailer truck from northern Maine and they are fresh and beautiful! We sell the most popular types, Balsam and Frazier Fir trees, as well as wreaths. We also have

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tree bags and tree life preservative to promote needle retention and help keep your tree fresh.

“Monies that the Lions generate go to seed such research as blindness prevention, diabetes prevention and numerous other causes”, says Dave Turi this year’s President and King Lion. “Norfolk Lions has donated over $250,000 in it’s over 50 years of service to the community”.

This year we will be collecting non-perishable food donations for the benefit of the Norfolk Food Pantry. Like many of us,

THE PURR-FECT CAT SHELTER Pet of the Month

“Maya” Grew Up Too Soon, Still Loves to Play “Maya” is a beautifully marked, dilute calico, who loves people. She was surrendered to PCS as a pregnant cat, just under a year of age, and sadly, as sometimes happens with very young cats, her kittens did not survive. Maya loves to play with any type of toy but acts very kitten like when playing with a fishing rod type toy. She is not a typical calico with “catitude,” but a very sweet, gentle lady.

She is quite happy and secure, enjoying the indoor life and would be a wonderful family cat. Maya is spayed, up to date on vaccines and ready to find her new home.

For more information on adopting Maya and other cats available for adoption please visit our website www.purrfectcatshelter.org or call the message center at (508) 533-5855. All cats and kittens are examined by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered, tested for feline leukemia and FIV, vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped prior to adoption.

Please remember the homeless animals during this holiday season. Consider a donation from our wish list or a financial contribution to help us care for the cats. All donations are tax deductible and go directly to the care of the cats. The Purr-fect Cat Shelter is a non-profit, no-kill, all volunteer organization providing care and shelter to homeless cats and kittens with the ultimate goal of finding permanent, loving homes for each cat.

the food pantry has been hit hard during these economic times and we would like to help out. Dave Turi further comments, “Your contributions to the Norfolk Food Pantry would be appreciated and could not come at a better time of year.”

The Norfolk Lions Club currently has 83 men and women members and is growing! We meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Lafayette House Restaurant on Rt. 1 in Foxboro, MA. For more information on the Norfolk Lions Club,

please contact Bill Hawkins, Membership chairman at (508) 528-8164 or any other Lions member you may know.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with nearly 1.35 million members in approximately 46,000 clubs in 206 countries and geographical areas around the world.

Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strong commitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world. Check out www.lionsclubs.org.

Father/Daughter/ Special Person Dance Ticket Sales The KP Parents’ Network is holding their annual Father/Daughter/Special Person Dance on February 8, 2013 at 7 p.m. at Lake Pearl Luciano’s in Wrentham. The semiformal event encourages King Philip High School girls to invite their father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle, older brother, or other important adult male in their life to share an evening of dinner and dancing.

Tickets are on sale during lunchtime in the school cafeteria starting on December 4, 2012 and cost $30 per person. For more information, visit www.kpparentnetwork.org.

O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen.

Pray daily along with three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and Glorias.

Publication must be promised.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Norfolk Lions Youth Soccer Spring 2013 REGISTRATION

Page 21

Norfolk Community League Holds Holiday Fundraisers Dec. 8 Norfolk Community League’s Santa Breakfast

For boys and girls ages 3 to grade 12 You do NOT have to live in Norfolk to join in on the fun!

All games are played in Norfolk on Sunday afternoons.

Spring 2013 Registration is now open!

Saturday, December 8th from 9 - 10:30 a.m. in the H. Olive Day school cafeteria is NCL's annual Santa Breakfast. Ring in the season with "Small Singers and Shakers" followed by a visit from Santa himself! Admission is $10 for NCL members/$12 nonmembers. Children one year or younger are free! Register online at norfolkcommunityleague.org or by mailing your check (payable to Norfolk Community League) to NCL Santa Breakfast, PO BOX 450, Norfolk, MA 02056

Norfolk Community League’s Jingle Bell Run The Norfolk Community League has scheduled its 11th Annual Jingle Bell 5k Run/Walk for Saturday, December 8th at 11 a.m.

The road race begins and ends at the H. Olive Day School. 100% of the proceeds from this event will be donated directly to the Santa Foundation. Runners who register prior to December 1 will save $5 off the $25 registration fee! Register online at norfolkcommunityleague.org or print and mail a registration form at your convenience.

Registration is ONLINE only.

Late fees apply after Jan. 25th.

To register, go to our website:

norfolklionssoccer.com For registration questions, contact the Registrar, Reynolds Lee, at our general email:

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 22

December 1, 2012

KP Students Help Bring Luminary Night to Area

By J.D. O’Gara Neighborhoods in Norfolk, Wrentham and Plainville will become a little bit brighter on the evening of December 2nd, also known as Luminary Night. At 5 p.m., residents who purchased $20 luminary kits of 12 luminaries from King Philip juniors Matthew Capobianco and his DECA partner, Nicole Chisholm will light up their walks in honor of Birthday Wishes, a Massachusetts charity that literally helps bring birthday candles (as well as parties and supplies) to thousands of homeless children in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York.

Capobianco and Chisholm are both involved in DECA, a young entrepreneurial program designed to help students apply business practices they learn in the classroom and ultimately enhance their preparation for college and careers. In the program, the two were challenged to raise money for a non-profit organization, learning aspects of marketing and promotion.

“We thought we would pick a charity that is known pretty well,” says Capobianco. “But we had absolute free options on what we wanted to pick.”

Capobianco and his partner, Nicole Chisholm opened the Birthday Wishes website, and something clicked.

“We’re both very personal with people; we like helping others. It didn’t feel like a school project,” says Capobianco. “You’re not just working for a good grade, you’re working for progress in someone’s life.”

As of Nov. 14, Capobianco and Chisholm had raised $1,620 for the charity, which puts 100% of its profits toward the birthday parties – another reason Capobianco had chosen the organization.

“The good thing about this foundation – 100% of the profit goes straight to the party supplies,” says Matthew. “Literally every single cent being distributed to us is going directly to the

cake, coordinating the parties, everything.”

Based on his experience promoting the program Capobianco says, “I have to write a 30-page report on project, and I’m judged at districts. Then, if you move on SDDC State competition, you go to the ICDC, the international competition, being held for Anaheim, California.”

The idea of Luminary Night, says Capobianco, “is basically that Birthday Wishes is a special way to bring light” to underprivileged children’s lives. “It’s a way to keep the candles lit for children’s birthday wishes.

(Birthday Wishes) came up with (the event), and I just took it under my wing to bring it to Wrentham, Norfolk and Plainville.”

Friends and DECA partners Nicole Chisholm and Matthew Capobianco worked together to raise money for Birthday Wishes, an organization which provides birthday parties to homless children. The two “Birthday Ambassadors” sold luminaries in Norfolk, Wrentham and Plainville for Luminary Night, to take place Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.

Get Your Wreath from the Boy Scouts!

Boy Scout Troop 131, of Wrentham, is holding their annual Christmas wreath sale. Each 12-inch, doorsize fresh balsam wreath comes with a red velveteen bow and cost $13 each (2 or more, $11 each), and are available to order.

Delivery in the Wrentham area will be arranged starting late November. This is Troop 131’s major fundraising event. Proceeds help purchase camping equipment and provide summer camp scholarships, as well as enable the troop to experience new camping ventures. To place orders, call (508) 384-0457 or email alan.plantamura@verizon.net.

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BSA has opportunities for boys from first grade to age 18, and they welcome new attendees at anytime of the year. You can go to BeAScout.org for more information on local scouting organizations, or contact Alan Plantamura alan.plantamura@verizon.net for more information on Troop 131.

Norfolk Senior Center Holiday Party Dec. 7 A fully catered dinner with entertainment provided by Bill Burke’s Christmas Show will usher in the holiday season for Norfolk’s seniors on Friday, December 7th. The party will begin at 10:30 a. m. A midday dinner catered by Blue-Ribbon Bar-B-Q will be offering North Carolina Pulled Pork, Texas Sliced Beef Brisquet, Barbecue Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, and Fruit Cobbler for dessert. All for just $5 per person. Join the celebration by registering at the Senior Center front desk or call in your reservations by November 30th.

Do you have a friend, neighbor, or relative residing in Norfolk, but has yet to visit the Senior Center? This year’s holiday celebration could provide an ideal introduction to the Center, its staff, its volunteers, and its many services and resources. And, remember, Norfolk’s Senior Center is open to all Norfolk residents, not just its seniors. To receive a full schedule of all Senior Center activities, call (508) 528-4430 or visit the Council on Aging site at www.virtualnorfolk.org/public_documents/norfolkma_coa/index The Center is located at 28 Medway Branch Road and is open Mon. thru Fri. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 23

Adult Entertainment Zoning Amended at Wrentham Town Meeting By: K. COvinO In mid-November the town of Wrentham held a Special Town Meeting in the auditorium of the King Phillip High School.

The hottest topic on the agenda was Article 7, which designates an undeveloped 20-acre plot in the Shire Industrial Park as an adult entertainment zone. This plot was chosen because of its distance from neighborhoods, schools and churches, and with the hopes of having the least impact upon residents as possible. Since there are currently no roads leading straight to this district, one must enter the industrial park through Norfolk to access it.

Prior to November’s meeting, Wrentham was one of the only towns in the area without regulations on adult entertainment zoning. This is not to say that any such businesses have plans to come to

Wrentham, nor that the town is inviting such development. The issue is that no town or city can completely prohibit adult entertainment, and by not designating a location, the entire town is left open to developers.

This proposal was intended to protect residents from such a situation, and it passed with unanimous support from those in attendance.

Another significant proposal was Article 11, which allows the Wrentham Police Department to conduct fingerprint checks on individuals applying for certain licenses. Those licenses include Door-to-Door Salespeople, Managers of Alcoholic Beverages, Operators of Public Conveyance, Dealers of Second-hand Articles, Pawn Dealers, Hackney Drivers, Ice Cream Truck Vendors, Tattoo Parlors, and Carnival Workers.

Article 3, which also passed without opposition, raised the pay of non-union workers by 2% for the fiscal year; the same pay raise had already been negotiated for union personnel.

In terms of town expenses, Article 5 proposed to use $68,446 in unappropriated funds from the treasury to supplement the 2013 fiscal year budget, granting requests of • $1,100 to the Board of Selectman to provide funding for the postage and printing of the Town Government Study Committee Citizen Survey, • $25,000 to the Wrentham Police Department to help supplement the special police investigation budget line • $10,000 to support the annual maintenance fees for Lake Pearl,

• $5,000 to support the 2% union salary increase for the Communications Department, • $20,000 to help support the Inspector’s Department (due to increased demand for electrical, gas, plumbing and mechanical inspectors), • and $7,346 to replace the portable radios used by DPW on remote job sites.

The passing of Article 6 approved $265,000 for items and equipment in need of replacing for the 2013 fiscal year. This includes $78,000 in new server equipment for Town Hall, $35,000 to replace the aging and nearly antiquated DPW fueling station (which serves all town vehicles), and $12,000 to replace an unreliable vehicle used by the Council of Aging to help senior citizen transportation requests. Article 6 also designates $500,000 to the replacement of

Engine #1 at the Wrentham Fire Department, which, due to maintenance concerns, is expected to be completely unserviceable by next summer. The town is planning to acquire a replacement on a seven year lease with an annual cost of $78,000.

Additionally, the DPW will receive $30,000 for a new 4x4 pickup truck. It is estimated that $15,000 will come from unappropriated funds in the treasury, and another $15,000 from Water Enterprise Retained Earnings.

The last item addressed was Article 12, which designated $50,000 in unappropriated funds to the Town Stabilization Fund and $150,000 to the Municipal Capital Stabilization Fund.

The next Special Town Meeting for Wrentham isn’t scheduled until June of 2013.

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December 1, 2012

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When King Philip Football Coach Brian Lee moved junior Bill Getchell to center last fall, he was looking for stability in his offensive line. However, when Getchell had some medical problems prior to this season getting underway, both parties were concerned.

“Without him, that leaves a huge hole right in the middle of things,” Coach Lee said. “Thank God he’s ok, and he’s done a real good job for us since coming back from those medical issues.”

As a second generation Getchell playing under Coach Lee, he has been an instrumental part in helping the Warriors to a 9-1 (3-1 in the Rex-Kelley Division of the Hock) record. At the time of this writing, King Philip had only lost to Mansfield and only had its Thanksgiving Day game against neighboring rival Franklin left on its schedule.

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said. “They look at me and think I’m not a concern, but they soon find out that they can’t toss me around. I quickly earn their respect.”

As a Warrior captain Getchell’s work shows his teammates what he is made of.

“I just go out and do my best while trying to help the younger players the best that I can,” Getchell said. “I know how intimidating it can be as a sophomore, and I just want to help them so they can continue the King Philip legacy.”

Because of what he has seen in Getchell, Coach Lee has made the senior a two-way player for the first time in his career.

“He’s one of the smallest guys on the field. He may be vertically challenged, but he’s a fierce competitor,” Lee said. “Being a twoway starter he hasn’t come off the field in some time.”

Getchell said playing on both sides of the ball took some time to get use to, but know he can’t see himself doing anything less.

“Being a two-way starter for the first time in my career was tough at first as I was getting tired fast,” he said. “As the weeks went by, my stamina was getting better and I began to adapt.”

Getchell and his teammates are hoping to end the season on a high note with a win against Franklin leaving them at 10-1 on the season.

“I was nervous. I didn’t know what was exactly wrong or how long it was going to take me to get better and back into playing shape,” he said. “The thought of not playing my senior year was very nerve wracking. Luckily the pain was gone in a couple of weeks, and I was able to resume getting ready for the season.”

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According to Getchell, he had was not feeling all that good in early August and was getting very sick, but he didn’t know why. In order to find out what was wrong the doctors did a spinal tap that only made the football player sicker. While his teammates were beginning practices for the upcoming season Getchell found that he couldn’t bend over and was constantly dizzy; at this point he didn’t know if he was even going to play football this fall.

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“Others may be twice my size and believe that I’m a pushover, but I’m lower to the ground, and this works to my benefit. I stay low and attack from there,” he

Junior Center Bill Getchell uses his small stature to his advantage for the King Philip Football team.

Register Now for Spring 2012 Travel Soccer Registration for the Spring 2012 Travel Soccer season closes December 15. Registration is open to U14 - U18 (Middle School and High School) players living in Norfolk, Plainville and Wrentham.

For more information and to register, please visit www.kpsoccer.org/. The King Philip Soccer Association (KPSA) fields competitive travel soccer teams (U13/U14 in the Fall and U14 - U18 in the Spring) in the Boston Area Youth Soccer league.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 25

Sports KP Swim Teams Earned Their Success Quickly Aaron Gustafson, who was a state champ last year in the 100 backstroke, has graduated, and so, too, has Stephanie Nasson, who was a state champion in the 200 and 500 freestyle.

The boys’ squad will be led by three returnees who qualified for the state tourney last year. They include senior captain Gordon Winget (50, 100 freestyle), junior Chris DiGiacomo (freestyle, backstroke) and sophomore Mike Choate (distance freestyle, individual medley and backstroke).

“Gordon is energetic and enthusiastic,’’ White said. “He has excellent arm speed. He’s both a leader by example and by being vocal.

Chris has good technical skills and he’s strong on the turns. Mike is our most improved swimmer. He’s got great heart and determination.’’

Kathy White takes over this year as coach of the girls’ and boys’ KP swim teams, which will open their seasons December 14th at Milford.

By KEN HAMWEy The varsity swimming program at King Philip Regional is only five years old, but both the boys and girls squads have been prime-time players.

The boys won the state title in 2011, then managed another successful season in 2012, winning the Hockomock League crown, finishing second at the sectionals and third in the states. The girls last year were 8-1 in league action, finished second in the South Sectionals and concluded the season with a thirdplace finish in the state tourney.

This year, a new coach will be directing the Warriors, and new goals

will be set. Kathy White, who served as a KP assistant last year, has replaced Heather Tomassian, who stepped down after her second child arrived. White previously coached teams with United States Swimming and most recently coached at the Adirondack Swim Club in Franklin.

“Our goals this season will be for both the boys and girls teams to contend for the Hockomock League title,’’ White emphasized.

“As far as state competition goes, I’d like to see the girls finish in the top five and the boys to manage a spot in the top 10. The boys are in a rebuilding state after losing seven swimmers to graduation.’’

The Warriors’ other two captains — seniors Chuck Altieri (butterfly, individual medley) and J.P. Sullivan (freestyle, backstroke) — will be dependable contributors. “Chuck is a hard-worker and J.P. has reduced his times and is very coachable,’’ White said.

Juniors Matthew Vieira and Dillan Whyte are assets White can count on. Vieira will swim the breaststroke, butterfly and individual medley while Whyte will battle in the distance freestyle, butterfly and breaststroke. “Matthew is very versatile and Dillan is a very capable swimmer,’’ White indicated.

The girls will be banking on a trio of returning state qualifiers. Junior Emily Bakinowski will compete in the freestyle and backstroke, sophomore Cara McCarthy will battle in the breaststroke and individual medley and sophomore Emily McQuaid will swim wherever she’s needed.

“Emily Bakinoswki is an aggressive and competitive swimmer,’’

White said. “Cara is versatile and Emily McQuaid is very talented and has lots of natural ability.’’

Two sophomores — Sydney Nasson and Carly Schnabel — should play key roles for the Warriors.

Nasson swims freestyle events and Schnabel competes in the backstroke and sprint freestyle. “Sydney is a hard-worker who has a lot of energy and Carly has pure speed and good endurance,’’ White said.

Katherine Gensky, Rachel Lehman, and Megan McNeil are senior captains who’ll also be counted on. Gensky swims distance freestyle, Lehman will compete in the butterfly and backstroke, and McNeil can compete in any category. “Katherine is gritty and has a good work ethic,’’ White said. “Rachel has lots of leadership

ability and Megan is very versatile.’’

White hopes both programs can sustain the high marks they’ve achieved in the first four years of their existence.

“We have about 15 boys and 20 girls in the program,’’ White said.

“We hope we can maintain the success of the past. I’m very pleased that I got to coach with Heather last year. It was a great learning experience and also helpful for me to get comfortable at the high school level.’’

The KP swim teams, which will open their seasons on Dec. 14 at Milford, have been remarkable.

They’ve come a long way in a short period of time, and the 2012-13 season should be success story once again.

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 26

Don’t Take a “Holiday” from Working toward Financial Goals We’re well into the holiday season now. And while the holidays are joyous, they can also be expensive. In fact, at this time of year, many people make spending decisions they end up regretting. But you can enjoy the holidays and still stay on track toward your financial goals by following a few simple guidelines, including the following: • Set a budget — and stick to it.

Whether you’re buying gifts or hosting holiday parties, you need to establish a budget and not exceed it. The people to whom you’re giving gifts and entertaining do not expect you to dig yourself into a financial ditch on their account — and they wouldn’t want you to do so, either.

• Compare prices. With some searching, you can almost always find less expensive versions of those gifts you’re considering. But a word of caution: The earlier you start hunting for bargains, the better

your chances of finding good prices.

• Watch for “after-holiday” sales.

The best bargains typically appear when the holidays are over. While these sales may not benefit you this year, they can prove quite valuable if you decide to “stock up” on gifts for the next holiday season.

• Don’t over-use your credit cards.

Try to limit your credit card purchases over the holidays. If you must use a card, at least pick the one with the lowest interest rate — and do the best you can to pay off the card quickly. Over the last few years, Americans have actually done a pretty good job of lowering their household debt levels — and that’s definitely a movement in which you’ll want to participate.

Keep in mind that the higher your debts, the less money you’ll have available each month to invest for retirement, college for your children or any of your other financial

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• Avoid dipping into long-term investments. If you find yourself coming up short when dealing with holiday expenses, you may be tempted to cash out at least a portion of your long-term investments.

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By following these suggestions, you may be able to take some of the stress out of this holiday season — and possibly even brighten all the other seasons of the year, too.

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December 1, 2012

Increased Need a Challenge for Wrentham Food Pantry

By J.D. O’Gara As the holiday season and the subsequent cold winter months move in, the Wrentham Food Pantry is gearing up for increased need as its patrons decide between paying for heat or paying for food.

The past few years has brought increased patronage to the Wrentham Food Pantry, which recently provided 60-70 Wrentham families with a Thanksgiving dinner, according to volunteer Cathy Marcin.

The pantry, located in the Whiston House behind the Original Congregational Church in downtown Wrentham, serves about 30 to 35 families weekly.

“At this time, we have 60 to 70 families who come in at least once a month,” says Marcin, who says the food pantry “is fortunate to be part of such a giving community who continues to support us so we can continue with our mission of providing food assistance to struggling Wrentham families.”

Donations to the Wrentham Food Pantry come from individual families, as well as local organizations like the Holly club and Lions club. Local businesses, like the Wrentham Co-op Bank and Trader Joe's donate, says Marcin, and in the past few years, donations of fresh produce from the White Barn Farm and Harvest from the Heart Garden has allowed the pantry to offer produce during the warmer months. Prior to their generosity, she says, the pantry was only able to provide fresh vegetables at Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Volunteers run the Wrentham Food Pantry, says Marcin. A small board of volunteers opens and closes and makes different decisions for the pantry, while about 25 volunteers come to work on Saturdays and others shop for sales at local supermarkets.

All monetary donations given are used to purchase food, although the pantry is currently in need of nonperishable items - canned soups, canned vegetables, canned fruits, apple sauce and canned meats. Donations may be dropped off at the Church office during office hours – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m.-3 p.m, and Thursday 9 a.m.-noon. Donations may also be dropped off at Saint Mary’s Church, Trinity Church, and the Wrentham Public Library.

“If someone needs the pantry, all they need to do is come in on any Saturday between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. and provide proof of identity and Wrentham residency for themselves and their dependents. Proof of residency can be a bill or letter from a school. If someone is unable to come in on Saturday, we can be reached at (508) 384-3110 or by e-mail at food.wrentham@gmail.com. Alternative arrangements can be made,” says Marcin.

Monetary donations to the Wrentham Food Pantry can be mailed to Wrentham Food Pantry, P.O. Box 657, Wrentham, MA 02093, or to volunteer, call (508) 384-7266.

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Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

December 1, 2012

Sharing the Bounty Plainville Food Pantry Supports Community at Thanksgiving

By J.D. O’Gara Sunday, November 18th, the Living Bread Food Pantry—located in the basement of the Plainville United Methodist Church 16 East Bacon Street, handed out turkeys and fixings to about 39 families in need.

The effort was helped along through a donation of turkeys from members of the Deacons Motorcycle Club (MC), of Plainville, as well as a monetary contribution from Dedham Automall.

Living Bread Food Pantry Coordinator Becky Simon, who has been involved with the food pantry since 1994, notes that the small pantry, established in November of 1985, serves 50 families in Plainville.

“We’re pretty close to 50 families that use the pantry,” says Simon, “but they don’t come in every week.

Weekly, about 25 families come in.”

Simon says a lot of people donate food, especially at Christmastime, with the Post Office doing an annual

Support for a nice Thanksgiving for Living Bread Food Pantry patrons literally rolled in on November 18th, with a donation of turkeys from Deacons Motorcycle Club, of Plainville and the Dedham Automall.

Shown here are the Deacons/MC with pantry coordinator Becky Simon.

nationwide drive in May, organizations and all the schools of Plainville, Norfolk and Wrentham donating, Stop & Shop keeping a bin for donations and YMCA supporting as well. Stop & Shop, Panera and Entenmans also regularly donate bread products and cakes, while in summer months they receive vegetables from White Barn Farm in Wrentham. In particular, Simon credits St. Martha’s Parish as “probably our biggest supporters,” giving the pantry food once a month, and the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of Plainville’s recent “Scouting for Food” drive, which happens every year in the second week of November.

A grateful Simon says that empty shelves literally filled up thanks to the Scout drive, but she also cautions that donations are still needed, “because we will go through this Scout donation in approximately 3 months.” In fact, she says, the need is increasing, and “during the holidays, it can almost double for us.”

Very recently, says Simon, the Living Bread Food Pantry was recently approved to join the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB), which will allow them to save a great deal when they shop, as they can purchase extremely discounted food from the GBFB. “I keep hearing that for every dol-

Page 27

In Plainville, volunteers Becky Simon and Kathryn Stumpenhagen stand ready to hand out Thanksgiving turkeys to users of Plainville’s Living Bread Food Pantry, located at the United Methodist Church on East Bacon Street.

lar you spend, you get approximately $20 worth of food,” says Simon. “We just haven’t been able to order, yet.”

In the meantime, the pantry continues to need donations of non-perishables.

“We’re always running out of cereals, peanut butter and jelly too. We didn’t get hardly any coffee on this last delivery, and other things we run out of is rice and boxed potatoes,” says Simon. The pantry coordinator also encourages donors to make sure to check expiration dates on packages and cans, as the pantry needs to dispose of items that come in and are beyond their expiration date.

The Living Bread Food Pantry is open on Wednesday nights, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. anyone needing to use the pantry can call the church at (508) 695-9587.

“Because we are small, we make up the bags, and all the staples are in the bags, and we basically hand that out,” says Simon. “We have the (donated) bread and the vegetables, and (pantry clients) just pick out whatever bread they want and whatever vegetables they want. If the family is bigger, we give them an extra bag.” Simon explains that those who need the pantry must provide I.D., a bill or mail that proves they live in Plainville, and fill out some paperwork.

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Wrentham Lions Hold Christmas Tree Sale at American Legion The Wrentham Lions Club will be selling Christmas Trees again this season in the parking lot of the American Legion Hall on route 1A just north of Wampum Corner.

The sale will continue through Sunday December 23rd. Hours of operation will be Wednesday-Friday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and SaturdaySunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (all times weather permitting).

ities. Please help us support those that are in need during this holiday season.

For more information about the Wrentham Lions Club, please visit our website at www.wrenthamlions.org .

December 1, 2012

Wrentham Lions to Sponsor Seniors’ Holiday Party The Wrentham Lions Club is holding its annual Senior Citizens’ Holiday Party Sunday December 9, 2012 at the King Philip High School Cafeteria at 1 p.m. All Wrentham, Norfolk and Plainville Seniors are welcome. The afternoon is free of charge.

Lions provide a home cooked meal with all the fixings. King Philip LEOs serve the meal and lead the group in singing carols.

A special appearance by Saint Nick is expected as well.

For additional information please contact Greg Stahl of the Wrentham Lions at (508) 384-3495 or email trees@wrentham-lions.org.

To sign up or further information about this free event please contact your local Senior Center.

Wrentham Lions charities fund eye research in the hopes that one day, a cure will be found for blindness. For more information about the Wrentham Lions Club please visit our website at www.wrentham-lions.org.

Proceeds from the tree sale will be used towards supporting the victims of Super Storm Sandy, The Wrentham Food Pantry and other Wrentham Lions local Char-

Out-of-the-box themes for your holiday party Parties are an integral part of the holiday season, when friends and family gather to celebrate and give thanks. For holiday hosts, parties are a great opportunity to make the season even more festive with an event that guests won't soon forget. The following are just a few themes to make your holiday party as memorable as it is merry.

• Christmas sweater party: Christmas sweater parties have grown in popularity over the last decade, when revelers have tried to outdo one another with the most outrageous holiday-themed sweater. Give prizes for the most outlandish sweater and let guests know early on so they can begin their hunt for a holiday sweater

that's so ugly or outrageous you can't help but love it.

• Christmas costume party: Costume parties aren't just for Halloween. This holiday season, consider making your holiday bash a costume party, encouraging guests to dress up as their favorite characters from holiday tales like "Frosty the Snowman," "A Christmas Carol" or any of the host of beloved holiday legends.

• Caribbean Christmas: The weather come the holiday season may be the one thing to put a damper on the festivities. To combat blue feelings from potentially inclement weather, consider a Caribbean

theme for your holiday party this season. Rather than wearing sweaters and long pants, wear beach attire and give the party a touch of the Caribbean. Outfit your home in beach decor and serve food and drinks reminiscent of the Caribbean instead of more traditional holiday fare like eggnog and gingerbread cookies.

• Christmas karaoke: For those who love to belt out their favorite holiday tunes, consider throwing a Christmas karaoke party that allows guests to perform their own renditions

of their favorite Christmas carols. Purchase a home karaoke set and ask guests in advance of the party if there are any particular songs they'd like to perform.

• Film festival: Holiday movies are another tradition of the season, so why not invite friends and family over for a holiday film marathon? Include classics like It's a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story and encourage guests to submit their own favorites for consideration.

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December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Tips for getting greeting cards out on time Millions of greeting cards are sent out each holiday season. Estimates suggest that 85 percent of the United States population, or roughly 250 million people, mails out greeting cards. That adds up to billions of cards going through the postal system -- and all in a relatively short period of time.

Men and women who hope to send holiday greeting cards must purchase, prepare and mail the cards early enough so they are received prior to the holiday.

It is never too early to begin greeting card preparation and assembly.

The majority of cards are bought in boxed packages or groupings of photo cards. Gone are the days of hand-picking individual greeting cards for every recipient. This trend toward generaltheme cards has streamlined the process and can help senders start their tasks earlier than ever before. Some people like to take advantage of post-holiday sales to stock up on greeting cards for the following year at a deep discount.

This means they can write the cards out at their leisure and then simply toss them into the mailbox at the appropriate time.

Much in the way people begin their holiday shopping or decorating right after the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers have been stored away, a good majority of people also begin their greeting card writing after Thanksgiving as well.

Those who want their cards to arrive first will mail them within a few days of Thanksgiving. When sent domestically, it is safe to assume that cards mailed out up to 2 weeks before Christmas will arrive on time. After that point, you may be risking lateness, particularly for rural delivery addresses unless cards are sent priority. For those who need to mail cards internationally, sticking close to the end of November will ensure they arrive in a timely manner.

People who want to make a statement and not have their greeting cards get lost in the crowd may intentionally mail them late and lean toward wishing health and prosperity for the new year, rather than sending a card tied to a specific holiday. This gives extra time for mailing and will set cards apart from the many others.

Photo cards have grown in popularity, and people interested in having a professional photographer shoot their holiday card photos would be wise to make an appointment as early as possible.

Popular photographers often start holiday photo shoots in October. Keep in mind that the photographs can take a while to be processed and arrive. For those who are on borrowed time, taking a photo with a personal camera and having prints made up at a pharmacy or retail store can save time. It is unlikely that professional photos taken in December can be printed and mailed and still arrive on time. Also, be sure to heed copyright laws concerning photographs. It may be illegal to scan an image from a photographer or photo studio and have prints made without written permission.

Postage is another thing that will have to be considered when mailing out cards. While many cards fall under the weight and size limits of a regular first class postage stamp, unusually shaped envelopes or heavy greeting cards may cost more. Rather than have them returned, it is a good idea to have at least one card weighed at the post office to ensure the right amount of postage is affixed. Some cards will be packaged with envelopes that state "Additional postage may be required" right on the box.

Greeting cards are an important component of the holiday season. Ensuring they arrive on time requires planning and sending them out with ample time to spare.

Page 29

The 12 Sites of Social Security

By Kristen AlBerino Social Security Metropolitan Public Affairs Specialist in Quincy, MA One of the most popular traditional holiday songs is “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” It’s been a holiday favorite since it was published in 1780. Last year, we introduced our own classic: “The Twelve Sites of Social Security.” It was a big hit, so we’ve remixed it for the new holiday season.

For the first site of Social Security, we present to you: our home page, www.socialsecurity.gov. It’s the place to go for all things Social Security. Everything you could want — from online services and benefit screening tools to publications and press releases — you can find easily from this starting place.

For the second site of Social Security, we present to you: our brand new online Statement. You’ll find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/myst atement. The Statement provides you with a personalized estimate of future Social Security benefits — retirement, disability, and survivors. It also provides your earnings record for your lifetime, allowing you to check to make sure your earnings are posted correctly.

For the third site of Social Security, we present to you: an easy way to learn how to replace your Social Security card at www.socialsecurity.gov/ ssnumber.

For the fourth site of Social Security, we present to you: an online application for retirement benefits that you can complete and submit in as little as 15 minutes at www.socialsecurity.gov/ applytoretire.

For the fifth site of Social Security, we present to you: five estimates of your future Social Security benefits! Or one, or as many estimates as you would like using different scenarios. Get instant, personalized estimates of your future benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator.

For the sixth site of Social Security, we present to you: a secure, convenient way to apply for disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability.

costs. You can learn more and apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pre scriptionhelp.

For the ninth site of Social Security, we present to you: our convenient publication library with online booklets and pamphlets on numerous subjects, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

For the tenth site of Social Security, we present to you: America’s most popular baby names. Learn about popular baby names and trends based on Social Security card applications over the years at www.socialsecurity.gov/OAC T/babynames.

For the eleventh site of Social Security, we present to you: a way to get your Social Security forms online, at www.socialsecurity.gov/online.

For the seventh site of Social Security, we present to you: an online application for Medicare that you can complete in as little as 10 minutes, at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly.

On the twelfth site of Social Security, we present to you: services for people who are currently receiving benefits, like the ability to replace your Medicare card, get or change a password, request a proof of income letter, or check your Social Security information or benefits. You can do these and other things at www.socialsecurity.gov/pgm/getservices-change.htm.

For the eighth site of Social Security, we present to you: Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug

And a partridge in a pear tree. Find it all (except the partridge and pear tree) at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Did you know?

The first Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center was erected in 1931, two years before the opening of Rockefeller Plaza, where the tree now draws thousands of tourists each year. The tradition began when construction workers hard at work on building Rockefeller Center decorated a roughly 20-foot tall balsam fir tree on Christmas Eve in 1931. Strings of cranberries and tin cans were among the items used to decorate the tree. While there was no tree in 1932, the first official tree was unveiled in 1933 in Rockefeller Plaza, and the lighting ceremony was broadcast over NBC Radio. The 1933 tree, at 50 feet tall, dwarfed the 1931 tree. However, the 1933 tree paled in comparison to the 10-ton Norway Spruce erected in 1999, which measured 100-feet tall and remains the tallest tree ever erected at Rockefeller Center. The tradition of the Rockefeller Center tree continues to evolve to this day, but the evergreen it is no longer lit with incandescent light bulbs. LED bulbs that consume a fraction of the energy of traditional bulbs are the bulbs of choice now. In addition, in 2007 Rockefeller Center partnered with Habitat for Humanity, who used the tree after it was taken down to furnish lumber for home construction.

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Page 30

December 1, 2012

December Calendar of Events Ongoing Norfolk Lions Christmas Tree Sale, weekdays from 3-9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., next to Dunkin Donuts on Main Street in Norfolk, will go on until trees are sold. Benefits Lions charities.

Ongoing through Dec. 23 Wrentham Lions Christmas Tree Sale, parking lot of the American

Legion Hall on route 1A just north of Wampum Corner. The sale will continue through Sunday December 23rd. Wednesday-Friday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (all times weather permitting). Benefits Lions charities.

December 1 All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast, 8-10 a.m., Federated Church of Norfolk, Corner of Rte. 115 and Main St., $7 adults, $5 seniors and children under 10 free. For more information, call (508) 528-0262 or visit http://www.fcon.org.

December 2 Santa Parade, Norfolk, sponsored

by The Norfolk Lions, begins at

3:30 p.m. at Hillcrest Village on Rockwood Road (where Santa will hand out cookies and treats prior to parade), proceeds along 115 through center of town, right onto Liberty Lane and ending at Norfolk Library. Pictures with Santa at 4 p.m. at Santa’s workshop in Meeting Room of library.

Pictures are free, with refreshments from Norfolk Recreation Dept. Also at 4 p.m., children invited to decorate town Christmas tree with homemade ornaments for town hill celebration and tree lighting.

Luminary Night, 5 p.m., Norfolk, Wrentham and Plainville (and other areas in Mass.), families will display luminary candles purchased to support Birthday Wishes December 4 Tickets go on sale for KP Parents’ Network Father/Daughter/ Special Person Dance Feb. 8.

Tickets on sale at King Philip High School during lunch at school cafeteria. Tickets $30 pp.

Visit www.kpparentnetwork.org.

December 7 Norfolk Senior Center Holiday Party, 10:30 a.m., 28 Medway Branch Road, Norfolk, features Bill Burke’s Christmas Show and a midday dinner catered by BlueRibbon Bar-B-Q. $5 per person, make reservations at the Senior Center front desk or call (508) 528-4430. For more information on the Senior Center, visit www.virtualnorfolk.org/public_ documents_coa/

December 8 Norfolk Community League’s Santa Breakfast, 9-10:30 a.m., H. Olive Day School cafeteria, $10 NCL members/$12 nonmembers.

Children one year or younger free.

Register online at Norfolk community league.org or mail check to Norfolk Community League to NCL Santa Breakfast, P.O. Box 450, Norfolk, MA 02056 11th Annual Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk, 11 a.m., 100% of proceeds go directly to Santa Foundation. Runners who register before December 1 save $5 off the $25 registration fee. Register at norfolkcommunityleague.org or print and mail registration form.

FPAC’s The Nutcracker, 7:30 p.m., Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium, 224 Oak St., Franklin, Tickets cost $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

December 9 Senior Citizens’ Holiday Party, sponsored by the Wrentham Lions Club, 1 p.m., King Philip High School Cafeteria, All Wrentham, Norfolk and Plainville Seniors are welcome. Free. Lions provide homecooked meal and all the fixings and King Philip LEOs serve the meal and lead carol singing.

Sign up at your local senior center.

Visit www.wrentham-lions.org for more information.

FPAC’s The Nutcracker, 2 p.m., Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium,

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224 Oak St., Franklin, Tickets cost $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

December 15 Franklin Performing Arts Company’s Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera, musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, 7:30 p.m., Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium, 224 Oak Street, in Franklin, Tickets $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

December 16 Franklin Performing Arts Company’s Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera, musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, 2 p.m., Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium, 224 Oak Street, in Franklin, Tickets $30, $28, and $26 and may be purchased at the FPAC Box Office (34 Main Street, Franklin), through online ticketing at www.fpaconline.com, or by phone at (508) 528-8668.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.norfolkwrenthamnews.com

Banding Together to Help a Neighbor Norfolk Together a Community Supported Safety Net

Lehan. This year’s letter was mailed in September. Says Lehan; “We get a tremendous support from our residents as well.�

By J.D. O’Gara

People in dire financial straits can find applications for Norfolk Together at the Council on Aging, the Housing Authority and the Town Clerk’s office.

About 22 years ago, Betty Lehan saw a need, and she figured out a way to fill it. Norfolk had so many organizations and groups, and she thought she could bring them together to help residents in need. In particular, she was concerned about the tax impact a new school would have on seniors with fixed incomes. “Norfolk Together was my little brainchild,� offers Lehan. “I thought of it to try to connect all the groups in town to offer financial assistance to Norfolk residents.�

“Applications are kept very confidential,� says Lehan. “It’s only the treasurer and myself who really know the names and circumstances. (The group) might have an overall discussion of who is applying but never the name.�

In December, Norfolk Together supports the Santa Foundation, a Franklin-based organization that helps hundreds of needy area families with Christmas gifts.

The nonprofit organization is privately run by about 12 to 14 volunteers, although members of the core group has changed over the years, says Lehan.

“We’re also supporters of the Santa Foundation‌our group requests Norfolk families,â€? she says.

She credits Bob Sullivan, Santa Foundation.

“We offer emergency financial assistance for anybody who applies to us who lives in Norfolk,� says Lehan, who has since found that it’s not just senior citizens who have trouble paying bills. “We don’t pay an individual, but we will pay a bill, such as fuel assistance, electricity – any bill that is an emergency. We’ve paid rent.

We’ve paid taxes. We’ve done medical – we paid for medicines and things like that,� she says.

“He does an amazing job. He will accept anybody who says they need help with Christmas giving, and then he delivers the gifts, so we ask for a Norfolk family, because in our bylaws we are supporters of Norfolk people. We usually take two or three families and go as a group and shop for the families and deliver to him. Then he delivers to the family,� says Lehan.

Most of the time, the need is for electricity or fuel, says Lehan.

Each year, Norfolk Together also co-sponsors, with the Norfolk parents and teachers’ organizations, a food drive through the elementary schools for the Norfolk Food Pantry. “Teachers really promote it with kids and end up bringing in enormous amounts,� muses Lehan, who adds that some kids will clean out Mom and Dad’s pantry to win the prize – a donut breakfast for their class.

Norfolk Together has also received help from the Norfolk Lions and the Norfolk Community League, but the group only does one fundraiser a year. “All we do at this point is send out letters to everyone in town reminding them that we are here, and we do offer this assistance, and could they help us,� says

Lehan estimates that Norfolk Together helps between 25 and 30 families each year who are in trouble.

Page 31

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