Like a dead snake at twilight, this damnable trash tax is crawling again.
Jody Joseph is the main culprit to blame (Ward 6 city council candidates, here's your chance) and he has in tow city council prez Stephan Hay (council at large candidate), poor peacemaker "the middle child Ward 3 councilor Joel Kaddy (sheesh, Joel, don't let the playground bullies suck you in again... you're such a good guy, let this go for now will ya?), and Lisa's loyal ardent supporter Ward 1 councilor David Clark (you have to admire the man for not wavering - he has been Lisa's true blue yes man from the beginning, represents Fitchburg State College very well. Too bad they are neither a ward nor in Councilor Clark's ward). Oh yeah, the elderly, much appreciated for hard work through the years, dottering and needing desperately to retire Cleghorn Ward 2 councilor Norman Boisvert.
That's 5 out of 6 votes needed.
Firmly opposed and not wavering, the indominable bulldog Councilor at large Tom Conry, the brilliant, softspoken and trustworthy at large councilor Dean Tran, the bright, assertive heat seeking missile Marcus Dinatale, the senior stateswoman taxpayer penny watcher at large councilor Annie K. DeMartino, and the astute Ward 5 councilor Joseph Solomito, attorney and former cop.
Swing vote is Ward 4 councilor Kevin Starr, who has repeatedly said he is opposed to a trash tax, fee, pay as you throw or nom du jour.
Can Starr be coerced into changing his opinion and his vote? It has happened, but we think he clearly saw the trash tax for what it is under any name - a tax.
And as Attorney - Councilor Solomito can tell ya - all taxes have to be directly approved by the taxpayer. Yah, the rest of them know that too but his ward gets that little bonus.
Joel, peacemaker, we know your intentions. Now is not the time. This is not the way. Do the hometown hero thing and leave this alone for now. That's not a good crowd you're running with.
Film at 11.
Shalom
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The Right Thing
The Fitchburg City Council did the will of the people tonight.
By a vote of 11-0 the Trash Tax was defeated.
Thanks to Councilor Thomas J. Conry, Jr. for the motion to bring the petition out of Legislative Affairs Committe, where it lay for a year after strong community opposition.
Whether some councilors voted against the trash tax for political reasons, or all voted against it because they understood that this tax is illegal and not good for the city is a moot point.
Tonight ten men and one woman did the right thing for the citizens of Fitchburg.
We all thank you, one and all.
Shalom
By a vote of 11-0 the Trash Tax was defeated.
Thanks to Councilor Thomas J. Conry, Jr. for the motion to bring the petition out of Legislative Affairs Committe, where it lay for a year after strong community opposition.
Whether some councilors voted against the trash tax for political reasons, or all voted against it because they understood that this tax is illegal and not good for the city is a moot point.
Tonight ten men and one woman did the right thing for the citizens of Fitchburg.
We all thank you, one and all.
Shalom
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Please Fund Epilepsy Research and Treatment
Dear Readers,This letter was written by my daughter to her elected representatives to plead for Federal Funding for epilepsy research and access to treatment. I am sending a similar letter to Senators Kerry and Kennedy and to my Massachusetts Congressman. I hope you will consider doing the same.
Shalom
Really Rachel
Letter to Congress
May 1, 2009
Dear Senator/Congressman/President Obama,
I am writing to urge you to provide maximum funding for important epilepsy programs and research in the FY 2010 appropriations bill.
I have a strong personal interest in epilepsy.
My 4 year old daughter "F", is a beautiful, funny, bright, little girl. We as her parents have always done all we could to help ensure a bright future for her in which she can choose what she wants to do and be able to overcome any obstacles that are presented her in order to be happy and successful.
A month before her third birthday, she had her first seizure. Since then, she has had seventeen generalized tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures that we know of. I cannot possibly express the horror we experience each time we witness our sweet little girl unconscious, barely breathing, and stiff, as her own brain turns her body against her. And in the aftermath, trying to get her to speak so we know she is okay and hearing her slow, labored, "Hi, Momm,." before she collapses with exhaustion breaks our hearts every time.
With each seizure, we wonder if she will come out of it. If she could choke on whatever she was eating at the time. How many more of these she can have before her brain is damaged.
Every day, we wonder about her future. Will she be able to drive a car? To swim or take a bath without danger of drowning? To go on sleepovers? To live without the constant fear of having a seizure? Will she be one of those who die suddenly for no known reason other than having epilepsy?
After being seen by four pediatric neurologists, a CT scan, MRI, EEG, and numerous blood tests, we don't know why she has seizures. Epilepsy is not an explanation - it is a question. A question that continues to be unanswered.
"F" is among the fortunate whose epilepsy is currently controlled by medications. She has to take two medications twice a day and suffer the side effects and risks, and we will always have to adjust her medications as she grows and hope that they continue to work with few breakthrough seizures.
Specifically, I am urging you to support the recommendations of the Epilepsy Foundation:
- $10 million for the CDC Epilepsy Program to help nurses, teachers, law enforcement and other first responders how to recognize and treat people who have seizures.
- $4 million for HRSA Project Access, which helps families with children with epilepsy in underserved communities to access good and timely medical care
- $160 million for NIH epilepsy research, which will help unravel the mystery of the disease, prevent its development and stop sudden unexplained death from epilepsy (SUDEP).
With your support we can make America, and our community, a better place for the 3 million American families affected by epilepsy. I look forward to your response.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
"F" 's mother
Saturday, May 2, 2009
MA Confirmed Swine Flu H1N1 Influenza Cases
H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) Update; May 2, @ 5:00 p.m.
We have received no new reports from CDC for confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza (swine flu) in a Massachusetts resident for the past 24 hours. The number of confirmed H1N1 flu (swine flu) cases for Massacusetts remains at 6.
The CDC has informed us that they made an error in the case count listed on their website this morning, double-counting one case, and adding a case to Massachusetts that should have been counted by another state. We have requested that CDC officials correct the case count on their website; however they informed us that they only update their case counts once a day at 11 a.m., and cannot fix the mistake until then.
Below are the correct case counts for Massachusetts as 4:45 p.m. on May 2.
Massachusetts Confirmed H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) as of May 2, 2009
Date Confirmed County Age Hospitalized?
(as of date of confirmation)
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 47 No
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 9 Yes (Ready for Discharge)
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 14 No
Friday, May 1, 2009 Plymouth 33* No
Wed, April 29, 2009 Middlesex 13 No
Wed, April 29, 2009 Middlesex 9 No
Total Number of Cases: 6
* corrected age for this case on 5/2/09
We have received no new reports from CDC for confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza (swine flu) in a Massachusetts resident for the past 24 hours. The number of confirmed H1N1 flu (swine flu) cases for Massacusetts remains at 6.
The CDC has informed us that they made an error in the case count listed on their website this morning, double-counting one case, and adding a case to Massachusetts that should have been counted by another state. We have requested that CDC officials correct the case count on their website; however they informed us that they only update their case counts once a day at 11 a.m., and cannot fix the mistake until then.
Below are the correct case counts for Massachusetts as 4:45 p.m. on May 2.
Massachusetts Confirmed H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) as of May 2, 2009
Date Confirmed County Age Hospitalized?
(as of date of confirmation)
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 47 No
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 9 Yes (Ready for Discharge)
Friday, May 1, 2009 Middlesex 14 No
Friday, May 1, 2009 Plymouth 33* No
Wed, April 29, 2009 Middlesex 13 No
Wed, April 29, 2009 Middlesex 9 No
Total Number of Cases: 6
* corrected age for this case on 5/2/09
Voice of America: World Health Organization May Raise Alert to Phase 6
WHO Expects To Raise Flu Alert Level To Maximum
By Kent Klein
Washington
02 May 2009
The World Health Organization (WHO) says the H1N1 swine flu virus continues to spread around the world, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 615, in 17 countries. WHO officials say they expect to raise their alert to the highest level. But experts say the spread of the flu is slowing down in Mexico, where the outbreak started.
The WHO's alert level for the virus remains at phase five of six, meaning a global outbreak is imminent. Dr. Michael Ryan, the WHO Director of Global Alert and Response, says he expects that level to be raised. "At the present time, I would still propose that a pandemic is imminent because we are seeing the disease spread to other countries. We have not seen yet that sustained transmission outside one WHO region. At this point we have to expect that phase six will be reached. We have to hope that it is not," he said.
Dr. Ryan says good preparedness will help mitigate the effects of a pandemic. He also says the WHO has sent millions of treatments of the anti-flu drug Tamiflu to more than 70 developing countries, thanks to an earlier donation by a pharmaceutical company. "We have begun to dispatch 2.4 million doses of antiviral to 72 countries, including to Mexico, from stocks donated by Roche (pharmaceutical company) in 2005 and 2006," he said.
Authorities in Mexico say there are no new deaths in their country connected to the H1N1 flu. They say they are hopeful that the spread of the virus is slowing.
But Mexican and U.S. health officials warn that it is too early to determine whether the worst is over. Dr. Anne Schuchat, of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says the virus is still spreading in the United States. "While reports from Mexico appear to be encouraging, and some are cautiously optimistic, we cannot afford to let down our vigilance," she said.
U.S. President Barack Obama says his government is distributing drugs that can defeat the current strain of H1N1. He has also asked for more money for more medicine and equipment to fight the swine flu. "Out of an abundance of caution, I have also asked Congress for $1.5 billion, if it is needed, to purchase additional antivirals, emergency equipment, and the development of a vaccine that can prevent this virus as we prepare for the next flu season, in the fall," he said.
Mr. Obama talked by phone with Mexico President Felipe Calderon on Saturday, to coordinate their responses to the flu.
By Kent Klein
Washington
02 May 2009
The World Health Organization (WHO) says the H1N1 swine flu virus continues to spread around the world, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 615, in 17 countries. WHO officials say they expect to raise their alert to the highest level. But experts say the spread of the flu is slowing down in Mexico, where the outbreak started.
The WHO's alert level for the virus remains at phase five of six, meaning a global outbreak is imminent. Dr. Michael Ryan, the WHO Director of Global Alert and Response, says he expects that level to be raised. "At the present time, I would still propose that a pandemic is imminent because we are seeing the disease spread to other countries. We have not seen yet that sustained transmission outside one WHO region. At this point we have to expect that phase six will be reached. We have to hope that it is not," he said.
Dr. Ryan says good preparedness will help mitigate the effects of a pandemic. He also says the WHO has sent millions of treatments of the anti-flu drug Tamiflu to more than 70 developing countries, thanks to an earlier donation by a pharmaceutical company. "We have begun to dispatch 2.4 million doses of antiviral to 72 countries, including to Mexico, from stocks donated by Roche (pharmaceutical company) in 2005 and 2006," he said.
Authorities in Mexico say there are no new deaths in their country connected to the H1N1 flu. They say they are hopeful that the spread of the virus is slowing.
But Mexican and U.S. health officials warn that it is too early to determine whether the worst is over. Dr. Anne Schuchat, of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says the virus is still spreading in the United States. "While reports from Mexico appear to be encouraging, and some are cautiously optimistic, we cannot afford to let down our vigilance," she said.
U.S. President Barack Obama says his government is distributing drugs that can defeat the current strain of H1N1. He has also asked for more money for more medicine and equipment to fight the swine flu. "Out of an abundance of caution, I have also asked Congress for $1.5 billion, if it is needed, to purchase additional antivirals, emergency equipment, and the development of a vaccine that can prevent this virus as we prepare for the next flu season, in the fall," he said.
Mr. Obama talked by phone with Mexico President Felipe Calderon on Saturday, to coordinate their responses to the flu.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
States to receive H1N1 flu test kits May 1
CDC to start shipping H1N1 flu test kits to states tomorrow. This will allow states to declare presumed swine flu cases
Focus will be on identifying new locations and patterns rather than definitive diagnosis of suspected cases.
Focus will be on identifying new locations and patterns rather than definitive diagnosis of suspected cases.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
WHO confirms 148 swine flu cases in nine countries
www.chinaview.cn 2009-04-30 05:14:17
GENEVA, April 29 (Xinhua) -- A total of 148 laboratory-confirmed human cases of swine flu A/H1N1 infection have been officially reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) as of 19:00 GMT Wednesday, the UN agency said.
Those cases were reported from nine countries, including 91 from the United States, with one death, and 26 from Mexico, with seven deaths, the agency said in a latest update.
The other seven countries that have reported laboratory-confirmed cases with no deaths include Austria (1), Canada (13), Germany (3), Israel (2), New Zealand (3), Spain (4) and Britain (5), the agency said.
Editor: Mu Xuequan
GENEVA, April 29 (Xinhua) -- A total of 148 laboratory-confirmed human cases of swine flu A/H1N1 infection have been officially reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) as of 19:00 GMT Wednesday, the UN agency said.
Those cases were reported from nine countries, including 91 from the United States, with one death, and 26 from Mexico, with seven deaths, the agency said in a latest update.
The other seven countries that have reported laboratory-confirmed cases with no deaths include Austria (1), Canada (13), Germany (3), Israel (2), New Zealand (3), Spain (4) and Britain (5), the agency said.
Editor: Mu Xuequan
WHO: Phase 5 Global Pandemic - WASH YOUR HANDS!
WHO has announced that a phase 5 pandemic exists worldwide.
Explanation of WHO phases:
In the 2009 revision of the phase descriptions, WHO has retained the use of a six-phased approach for easy incorporation of new recommendations and approaches into existing national preparedness and response plans. The grouping and description of pandemic phases have been revised to make them easier to understand, more precise, and based upon observable phenomena. Phases 1–3 correlate with preparedness, including capacity development and response planning activities, while Phases 4–6 clearly signal the need for response and mitigation efforts. Furthermore, periods after the first pandemic wave are elaborated to facilitate post pandemic recovery activities.
Explanation of WHO phases:
In the 2009 revision of the phase descriptions, WHO has retained the use of a six-phased approach for easy incorporation of new recommendations and approaches into existing national preparedness and response plans. The grouping and description of pandemic phases have been revised to make them easier to understand, more precise, and based upon observable phenomena. Phases 1–3 correlate with preparedness, including capacity development and response planning activities, while Phases 4–6 clearly signal the need for response and mitigation efforts. Furthermore, periods after the first pandemic wave are elaborated to facilitate post pandemic recovery activities.
The current WHO phase of pandemic alert is 5.
| |
In nature, influenza viruses circulate continuously among animals, especially birds. Even though such viruses might theoretically develop into pandemic viruses, in Phase 1 no viruses circulating among animals have been reported to cause infections in humans.
In Phase 2 an animal influenza virus circulating among domesticated or wild animals is known to have caused infection in humans, and is therefore considered a potential pandemic threat.
In Phase 3, an animal or human-animal influenza reassortant virus has caused sporadic cases or small clusters of disease in people, but has not resulted in human-to-human transmission sufficient to sustain community-level outbreaks. Limited human-to-human transmission may occur under some circumstances, for example, when there is close contact between an infected person and an unprotected caregiver. However, limited transmission under such restricted circumstances does not indicate that the virus has gained the level of transmissibility among humans necessary to cause a pandemic.
Phase 4 is characterized by verified human-to-human transmission of an animal or human-animal influenza reassortant virus able to cause “community-level outbreaks.” The ability to cause sustained disease outbreaks in a community marks a significant upwards shift in the risk for a pandemic. Any country that suspects or has verified such an event should urgently consult with WHO so that the situation can be jointly assessed and a decision made by the affected country if implementation of a rapid pandemic containment operation is warranted. Phase 4 indicates a significant increase in risk of a pandemic but does not necessarily mean that a pandemic is a forgone conclusion.
Phase 5 is characterized by human-to-human spread of the virus into at least two countries in one WHO region. While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase 5 is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation measures is short.
Phase 6, the pandemic phase, is characterized by community level outbreaks in at least one other country in a different WHO region in addition to the criteria defined in Phase 5. Designation of this phase will indicate that a global pandemic is under way.
During the post-peak period, pandemic disease levels in most countries with adequate surveillance will have dropped below peak observed levels. The post-peak period signifies that pandemic activity appears to be decreasing; however, it is uncertain if additional waves will occur and countries will need to be prepared for a second wave.
Previous pandemics have been characterized by waves of activity spread over months. Once the level of disease activity drops, a critical communications task will be to balance this information with the possibility of another wave. Pandemic waves can be separated by months and an immediate “at-ease” signal may be premature.
In the post-pandemic period, influenza disease activity will have returned to levels normally seen for seasonal influenza. It is expected that the pandemic virus will behave as a seasonal influenza A virus. At this stage, it is important to maintain surveillance and update pandemic preparedness and response plans accordingly. An intensive phase of recovery and evaluation may be required.
REUTERS: SWINE FLU CONFIRMED IN BAY STATE
Massachusetts confirms two cases of swine flu
Wed Apr 29, 2009 10:53am EDT
BOSTON (Reuters) - Massachusetts authorities on Wednesday confirmed two cases of H1N1 swine flu, the first official reported cases of the virus in the New England region.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said two children had tested positive for the virus.
(Editing by Will Dunham)
Wed Apr 29, 2009 10:53am EDT
BOSTON (Reuters) - Massachusetts authorities on Wednesday confirmed two cases of H1N1 swine flu, the first official reported cases of the virus in the New England region.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said two children had tested positive for the virus.
(Editing by Will Dunham)
ER visits and health care costs rise in Massachusetts due to lack of primary care access
Article by Kevin Pho, M.D.
First Reported US Swine Flu Death 23 Month Old Child from Mexico
Reuters: Houston health official says the child who died of swine flu in Texas was a Mexican who traveled to the US for medical treatment.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
CDC Swine Flu Public Service Announcements Audio
Swine Flu Public Service Announcements (PSAs)
April 28, 2009 6:45 PM ET
CDC PSAs provide timely messages about what you can do to protect yourself and your family.
| Swine Flu Preparedness Apr 28 | ||
| Community Planning for Swine Flu Apr 28 | ||
| Hygiene Habits to Help Fight Swine Flu Apr 28 |
Spencer MA children being tested for swine flu
US, Massachusetts: Two children from Spencer being tested for swine influenza after developing symptoms following trip to Mexico.
Bona Fide Swine Flu Information
Click on the title for tremendous in depth information on the Swine Flu Public Health Emergency from Louisiana State University. Links to the latest CDC and scientific and emergency information around the U.S.
Two suspected cases being tested in Lowell, Massachusetts. There is as yet NO CONFIRMED SWINE FLU IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
Wash your hands.
Two suspected cases being tested in Lowell, Massachusetts. There is as yet NO CONFIRMED SWINE FLU IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
Wash your hands.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Twitter Swine Flu (Click Here)
Stay up to the minute on the course of the H1N1 "Swine Flu". This is a source that the CDC and WHO track.
And remember to WASH YOUR HANDS!
Shalom
And remember to WASH YOUR HANDS!
Shalom
Sunday, April 26, 2009
US Declares Public Health Emergency - NO SWINE FLU IN MASSACHUSETTS
Swine flu: United States declares public health emergency
The United States declared a public health emergency on Sunday amid an outbreak of 20 confirmed cases of swine flu.
By Alex Spillius in Washington
Last Updated: 8:19PM BST 26 Apr 2009
The emergency declaration was "standard operating procedure," said Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano as officials said there had been 20 confirmed cases of swine flu in five US states: eight in New York, seven California, two each in Kansas and Texas, and one in Ohio.
Richard Besser of the Centre for Disease Control Prevention said "we will see more cases but we are responding aggressively".
In a hastily called briefing at the White House, officials said they were confident that reserves of antiviral drugs were adequate and reminded the public that the virus could not be contracted from eating pork.
The emergency declaration allows various federal, state, and local agencies to free up their resources in the virus prevention effort, Mrs Napolitano said.
The declaration "allows us to use medication and diagnostic tests that we might not otherwise be able to use, particularly on very young children, and it releases funds for the acquisitions of additional anti-virals".
Travellers from infected countries would be asked if they felt sick and isolated, she said, but the outbreak of a new strain of flu was not yet severe enough to warrant compulsory screening, she added.
This is an official
CDC Health Advisory
Distributed via Health Alert Network
April 25, 2009, 3:00 EST (03:00 PM EDT)
CDCHAN-000281-2009-04-25-ALT-N
Investigation and Interim Recommendations:
Swine Influenza (H1N1)
CDC, in collaboration with public health officials in California and Texas, is investigating cases of febrile respiratory illness
caused by swine influenza (H1N1) viruses. As of 11 AM (EDT) April 25, 2009, 8 laboratory confirmed cases of Swine
Influenza infection have been confirmed in the United States. Four cases have been reported in San Diego County,
California. Two cases have been reported in Imperial County California. Two cases have been reported in Guadalupe
County, Texas. Of the 8 persons with available data, illness onsets occurred March 28-April 14, 2009. Age range was 7-
54 y.o. Cases are 63% male.
The viruses contain a unique combination of gene segments that have not been reported previously among swine or
human influenza viruses in the U.S. or elsewhere. At this time, CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for
the treatment of infection with swine influenza viruses. The H1N1 viruses are resistant to amantadine and rimantadine but
not to oseltamivir or zanamivir. It is not anticipated that the seasonal influenza vaccine will provide protection against the
swine flu H1N1 viruses.
CDC has also been working closely with public health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization
(WHO). Mexican public health authorities have reported increased levels of respiratory disease, including reports of
severe pneumonia cases and deaths, in recent weeks. CDC is assisting public health authorities in Mexico by testing
specimens and providing epidemiological support. As of 11:00 AM (EDT) April 25, 2009, 7 specimens from Mexico at
CDC have tested positive for the same strain of swine influenza A (H1N1) as identified in U.S. cases. However, no clear
data are available to assess the link between the increased disease reports in Mexico and the confirmation of swine
influenza in a small number of specimens. WHO is monitoring international cases. Further information on international
cases may be found at: http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_04_24/en/index.html
Clinicians should consider swine influenza infection in the differential diagnosis of patients with febrile respiratory illness
and who 1) live in San Diego or Imperial counties, California, or Guadalupe County, Texas, or traveled to these counties
or 2) who traveled recently to Mexico or were in contact with persons who had febrile respiratory illness and were in one
of the three U.S. counties or Mexico during the 7 days preceding their illness onset.
Patients who meet these criteria should be tested for influenza, and specimens positive for influenza should be sent to
public health laboratories for further characterization. Clinicians who suspect swine influenza virus infections in humans
should obtain a nasopharyngeal swab from the patient, place the swab in a viral transport medium, refrigerate the
specimen, and then contact their state or local health department to facilitate transport and timely diagnosis at a state
public health laboratory. CDC requests that state public health laboratories promptly send all influenza A specimens that
cannot be subtyped to the CDC, Influenza Division, Virus Surveillance and Diagnostics Branch Laboratory.
Persons with febrile respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infections (including
influenza and other respiratory illnesses) to others in their communities. In addition, frequent hand washing can lessen the
spread of respiratory illness.
CDC has not recommended that people avoid travel to affected areas at this time. Recommendations found at
http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluUS.aspx will help travelers reduce risk of infection and stay healthy.
Clinical guidance on laboratory safety, case definitions, infection control and information for the public are available
at:http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm.
• Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Biosafety Guidelines for Laboratory Workers:
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidelines_labworkers.htm
• Interim Guidance for Infection Control for Care of Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A
(H1N1) Virus Infection in a Healthcare Setting: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidelines_infection_control.htm
• Interim Guidance on Case Definitions for Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Human Case Investigations:
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/casedef_swineflu.htm
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports Dispatch (April 24) provide detailed information about the initial cases at
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm58d0424a1.htm
For more information about swine flu: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu
Additional information is also available by calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Categories of Health Alert messages:
Health Alert conveys the highest level of importance; warrants immediate action or attention.
Health Advisory provides important information for a specific incident or situation; may not require immediate action.
Health Update provides updated information regarding an incident or situation; unlikely to require immediate action.
##This Message was distributed to State and Local Health Officers, Public Information Officers, Epidemiologists and HAN
Coordinators as well as Clinician organizations##
====================================================
BOTTOM LINE: Don't panic. If you are sick stay home. Stay away from people who are coughing and sneezing. If you get sick, see your doctor. Remember to WASH YOUR HANDS regularly.
The CDC and Department of Homeland Security have jumped on this fast and there is no reason to believe we will experience a pandemic.
This is NOT "bird flu" or "avian flu" (H5N1B). It is a new version of swine flu that is transmitted from person to person.
We have one of the best public health organizations in the entire world. And at the end of the day, we trust them almost implicitly.
In the meantime, this writer has no plans to visit Mexico.
THERE HAVE BEEN NO DOCUMENTED CASES IN MASSACHUSETTS.
====================================================
The United States declared a public health emergency on Sunday amid an outbreak of 20 confirmed cases of swine flu.
By Alex Spillius in Washington
Last Updated: 8:19PM BST 26 Apr 2009
The emergency declaration was "standard operating procedure," said Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano as officials said there had been 20 confirmed cases of swine flu in five US states: eight in New York, seven California, two each in Kansas and Texas, and one in Ohio.
Richard Besser of the Centre for Disease Control Prevention said "we will see more cases but we are responding aggressively".
In a hastily called briefing at the White House, officials said they were confident that reserves of antiviral drugs were adequate and reminded the public that the virus could not be contracted from eating pork.
The emergency declaration allows various federal, state, and local agencies to free up their resources in the virus prevention effort, Mrs Napolitano said.
The declaration "allows us to use medication and diagnostic tests that we might not otherwise be able to use, particularly on very young children, and it releases funds for the acquisitions of additional anti-virals".
Travellers from infected countries would be asked if they felt sick and isolated, she said, but the outbreak of a new strain of flu was not yet severe enough to warrant compulsory screening, she added.
This is an official
CDC Health Advisory
Distributed via Health Alert Network
April 25, 2009, 3:00 EST (03:00 PM EDT)
CDCHAN-000281-2009-04-25-ALT-N
Investigation and Interim Recommendations:
Swine Influenza (H1N1)
CDC, in collaboration with public health officials in California and Texas, is investigating cases of febrile respiratory illness
caused by swine influenza (H1N1) viruses. As of 11 AM (EDT) April 25, 2009, 8 laboratory confirmed cases of Swine
Influenza infection have been confirmed in the United States. Four cases have been reported in San Diego County,
California. Two cases have been reported in Imperial County California. Two cases have been reported in Guadalupe
County, Texas. Of the 8 persons with available data, illness onsets occurred March 28-April 14, 2009. Age range was 7-
54 y.o. Cases are 63% male.
The viruses contain a unique combination of gene segments that have not been reported previously among swine or
human influenza viruses in the U.S. or elsewhere. At this time, CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for
the treatment of infection with swine influenza viruses. The H1N1 viruses are resistant to amantadine and rimantadine but
not to oseltamivir or zanamivir. It is not anticipated that the seasonal influenza vaccine will provide protection against the
swine flu H1N1 viruses.
CDC has also been working closely with public health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization
(WHO). Mexican public health authorities have reported increased levels of respiratory disease, including reports of
severe pneumonia cases and deaths, in recent weeks. CDC is assisting public health authorities in Mexico by testing
specimens and providing epidemiological support. As of 11:00 AM (EDT) April 25, 2009, 7 specimens from Mexico at
CDC have tested positive for the same strain of swine influenza A (H1N1) as identified in U.S. cases. However, no clear
data are available to assess the link between the increased disease reports in Mexico and the confirmation of swine
influenza in a small number of specimens. WHO is monitoring international cases. Further information on international
cases may be found at: http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_04_24/en/index.html
Clinicians should consider swine influenza infection in the differential diagnosis of patients with febrile respiratory illness
and who 1) live in San Diego or Imperial counties, California, or Guadalupe County, Texas, or traveled to these counties
or 2) who traveled recently to Mexico or were in contact with persons who had febrile respiratory illness and were in one
of the three U.S. counties or Mexico during the 7 days preceding their illness onset.
Patients who meet these criteria should be tested for influenza, and specimens positive for influenza should be sent to
public health laboratories for further characterization. Clinicians who suspect swine influenza virus infections in humans
should obtain a nasopharyngeal swab from the patient, place the swab in a viral transport medium, refrigerate the
specimen, and then contact their state or local health department to facilitate transport and timely diagnosis at a state
public health laboratory. CDC requests that state public health laboratories promptly send all influenza A specimens that
cannot be subtyped to the CDC, Influenza Division, Virus Surveillance and Diagnostics Branch Laboratory.
Persons with febrile respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infections (including
influenza and other respiratory illnesses) to others in their communities. In addition, frequent hand washing can lessen the
spread of respiratory illness.
CDC has not recommended that people avoid travel to affected areas at this time. Recommendations found at
http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluUS.aspx will help travelers reduce risk of infection and stay healthy.
Clinical guidance on laboratory safety, case definitions, infection control and information for the public are available
at:http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm.
• Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Biosafety Guidelines for Laboratory Workers:
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidelines_labworkers.htm
• Interim Guidance for Infection Control for Care of Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A
(H1N1) Virus Infection in a Healthcare Setting: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/guidelines_infection_control.htm
• Interim Guidance on Case Definitions for Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Human Case Investigations:
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/casedef_swineflu.htm
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports Dispatch (April 24) provide detailed information about the initial cases at
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm58d0424a1.htm
For more information about swine flu: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu
Additional information is also available by calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Categories of Health Alert messages:
Health Alert conveys the highest level of importance; warrants immediate action or attention.
Health Advisory provides important information for a specific incident or situation; may not require immediate action.
Health Update provides updated information regarding an incident or situation; unlikely to require immediate action.
##This Message was distributed to State and Local Health Officers, Public Information Officers, Epidemiologists and HAN
Coordinators as well as Clinician organizations##
====================================================
BOTTOM LINE: Don't panic. If you are sick stay home. Stay away from people who are coughing and sneezing. If you get sick, see your doctor. Remember to WASH YOUR HANDS regularly.
The CDC and Department of Homeland Security have jumped on this fast and there is no reason to believe we will experience a pandemic.
This is NOT "bird flu" or "avian flu" (H5N1B). It is a new version of swine flu that is transmitted from person to person.
We have one of the best public health organizations in the entire world. And at the end of the day, we trust them almost implicitly.
In the meantime, this writer has no plans to visit Mexico.
THERE HAVE BEEN NO DOCUMENTED CASES IN MASSACHUSETTS.
====================================================
DPH says no swine flu cases in MA
DPH says no swine flu cases in MA
NBC10
Published: April 25, 2009 (Boston)—The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is DENYING an MSNBC report of suspected cases of swine flu in Massachusetts.
The department issued a statement Saturday night, saying, in part, the DPH “...has not yet identified any swine flu cases in Massachusetts.
But given the reports from the C-D-C, we are increasing our surveillance for possible cases in the Commonwealth.“
As of 11pm Saturday, there were 11 confirmed cases of the swine flu in the United States.
The disease has already reached Texas, California and Kansas and New York.
However, authorities don’t know whether it is the same strain that is responsible for over 70 deaths in Mexico.
Massachusetts Doctors Alert For Swine Flu
No Cases Reported In State So Far
POSTED: 9:56 pm EDT April 25, 2009
UPDATED: 8:31 am EDT April 26, 2009 BOSTON -- Massachusetts public health officials are increasing their surveillance for possible cases of swine flu in the state.No cases have been identified in Massachusetts, department spokesman Tom Lyons said Saturday night.
Swine flu cases up to 7; officials expand probe
April 21st, 2009 (AP) -- Health officials are investigating a never-before-seen form of the flu that combines pig, bird and human viruses and which has infected seven people in California and Texas. All the victims recovered, but the cases are a growing medical mystery because it's unclear how they caught the virus.
NBC10
Published: April 25, 2009 (Boston)—The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is DENYING an MSNBC report of suspected cases of swine flu in Massachusetts.
The department issued a statement Saturday night, saying, in part, the DPH “...has not yet identified any swine flu cases in Massachusetts.
But given the reports from the C-D-C, we are increasing our surveillance for possible cases in the Commonwealth.“
As of 11pm Saturday, there were 11 confirmed cases of the swine flu in the United States.
The disease has already reached Texas, California and Kansas and New York.
However, authorities don’t know whether it is the same strain that is responsible for over 70 deaths in Mexico.
Massachusetts Doctors Alert For Swine Flu
No Cases Reported In State So Far
POSTED: 9:56 pm EDT April 25, 2009
UPDATED: 8:31 am EDT April 26, 2009 BOSTON -- Massachusetts public health officials are increasing their surveillance for possible cases of swine flu in the state.No cases have been identified in Massachusetts, department spokesman Tom Lyons said Saturday night.
Swine flu cases up to 7; officials expand probe
April 21st, 2009 (AP) -- Health officials are investigating a never-before-seen form of the flu that combines pig, bird and human viruses and which has infected seven people in California and Texas. All the victims recovered, but the cases are a growing medical mystery because it's unclear how they caught the virus.
Do You Know This Man?
Bears a striking resemblance to Fitchburg City Councilor At Large Thomas Conry, does he not?
In deed as well as in appearance.
Bea Arthur aka Maude
There was a time when television as an entertainment medium had social value. I'm from that fortunate generation for whom television programs like M*A*S*H, All In The Family and Maude opened eyes and minds. Bea Arthur in her role as Maude influenced the lives of many girls and young women in our generation to become who we really were, demand equal pay for equal work, and have the right to determine our own destiny.
So long, Bea. See you on the other side.
Shalom
So long, Bea. See you on the other side.
Shalom
'Golden Girls' star Bea Arthur dies at 86
LOS ANGELES – Beatrice Arthur, the tall, deep-voiced actress who considered herself lucky to be discovered by television executives after a long stage career that included a Tony award for the musical "Mame," died Saturday at age 86.
The star of the TV shows "Maude" and "The Golden Girls" died peacefully at her Los Angeles home with her family at her side, family spokesman Dan Watt said. She had cancer, he said, but declined to give details.
"She was a brilliant and witty woman," said Watt, who was Arthur's personal assistant for six years. "Bea will always have a special place in my heart."
Arthur first appeared in the landmark comedy series "All in the Family" as Edith Bunker's outspoken, liberal cousin, Maude Finley. She proved a perfect foil for blue-collar bigot Archie Bunker (Carroll O'Connor), and their blistering exchanges were so entertaining that producer Norman Lear fashioned Arthur's own series.
In a 2008 interview with The Associated Press, Arthur recalled with bemusement being discovered by CBS executives asking about the new "girl."
"I was already 50 years old. I had done so much off-Broadway, on Broadway, but they said, `Who is that girl? Let's give her her own series,'" Arthur said.
"Maude" scored with television viewers immediately on its CBS debut in September 1972, and Arthur won an Emmy Award for the role in 1977.
The comedy flowed from Maude's efforts to cast off the traditional restraints that women faced, but the series often had a serious base. Her husband Walter (Bill Macy) became an alcoholic, and she underwent an abortion, which drew a torrent of viewer protests. Maude became a standard bearer for the growing feminist movement in America.
"She was an incredible actress and a woman I will miss, and I think everyone else will," said Bud Yorkin, producer of "Maude" with partner Lear.
The ratings of "Maude" in the early years approached those of its parent, "All in the Family," but by 1977 the audience started to dwindle. A major format change was planned, but in early 1978 Arthur announced she was quitting the show.
"It's been absolutely glorious; I've loved every minute of it," she said. "But it's been six years, and I think it's time to leave."
"Golden Girls" (1985-1992) was another groundbreaking comedy, finding surprising success in a television market increasingly skewed toward a younger, product-buying audience.
The series concerned three retirees — Arthur, Betty White and Rue McClanahan — and the mother of Arthur's character, Estelle Getty, who lived together in a Miami house. In contrast to the violent "Miami Vice," the comedy was nicknamed "Miami Nice."
As Dorothy Zbornak, Arthur seemed as caustic and domineering as Maude. She was unconcerned about the similarity of the two roles. "Look — I'm 5-feet-9, I have a deep voice and I have a way with a line," she told an interviewer. "What can I do about it? I can't stay home waiting for something different. I think it's a total waste of energy worrying about typecasting."
The interplay among the four women and their relations with men fueled the comedy, and the show amassed a big audience and 10 Emmys, including two as best comedy series and individual awards for each of the stars.
McClanahan said Arthur felt constrained by the show during its later years and in 1992 she announced she was leaving "Golden Girls."
"Bea liked to be the star of the show, she didn't really like to do that ensemble playing," McClanahan said.
McClanahan first worked with Arthur on "Maude," playing her best friend, Vivian. The women quickly became close friends in real life. McClanahan recalled Arthur as a kind and caring person with a no-nonsense edge.
The three other stars returned in "The Golden Palace," but it lasted only one season.
Arthur was born Bernice Frankel in New York City in 1922. When she was 11, her family moved to Cambridge, Md., where her father opened a clothing store. At 12 she had grown to full height, and she dreamed of being a petite blond movie star like June Allyson. There was one advantage of being tall and deep-voiced: She was chosen for the male roles in school plays.
Bernice — she hated the name and adopted her mother's nickname of Bea — overcame shyness about her size by winning over her classmates with wisecracks. She was elected the wittiest girl in her class. After two years at a junior college in Virginia, she earned a degree as a medical lab technician, but she "loathed" doing lab work at a hospital.
Acting held more appeal, and she enrolled in a drama course at the New School of Social Research in New York City. To support herself, she sang in a night spot that required her to push drinks on customers.
During this time she had a brief marriage that provided her stage name of Beatrice Arthur. In 1950, she married again, to Broadway actor and future Tony-winning director Gene Saks.
After a few years in off-Broadway and stock company plays and television dramas, Arthur's career gathered momentum with her role as Lucy Brown in the 1955 production of "The Threepenny Opera."
In 2008, when Arthur was inducted in the TV Academy Hall of Fame, she pointed to the role as the highlight of her long career.
"A lot of that had to do with the fact that I felt, `Ah, yes, I belong here,'" Arthur said.
More plays and musicals followed, and she also sang in nightclubs and played small roles in TV comedy shows.
Then, in 1964, Harold Prince cast her as Yente the Matchmaker in the original company of "Fiddler on the Roof."
Arthur's biggest Broadway triumph came in 1966 as Vera Charles, Angela Lansbury's acerbic friend in the musical "Mame," directed by Saks. Richard Watts of the New York Post called her performance "a portrait in acid of a savagely witty, cynical and serpent-tongued woman."
"She was a rare and unique performer and a dear, dear friend," Lansbury said in a statement.
Arthur won the Tony as best supporting actress and repeated the role in the unsuccessful film version that also was directed by Saks, starring Lucille Ball as Mame. Arthur would play a variation of Vera Charles in "Maude" and "The Golden Girls."
"There was no one else like Bea," said "Mame" composer Jerry Herman. "She would make us laugh during `Mame' rehearsals with a look or with a word. She didn't need dialogue. I don't know if I can say that about any other person I ever worked with."
In 1983, Arthur attempted another series, "Amanda's," an Americanized version of John Cleese's hilarious "Fawlty Towers." She was cast as owner of a small seaside hotel with a staff of eccentrics. It lasted a mere nine episodes.
Between series, Arthur remained active in films and theater. Among the movies: "That Kind of Woman" (1959), "Lovers and Other Strangers" (1970), Mel Brooks' "The History of the World: Part I" (1981), "For Better or Worse" (1995).
The plays included Woody Allen's "The Floating Light Bulb" and "The Bermuda Avenue Triangle," written by and costarring Renee Taylor and Joseph Bologna. During 2001 and 2002 she toured the country in a one-woman show of songs and stories, "... And Then There's Bea."
Arthur and Saks divorced in 1978 after 28 years. They had two sons, Matthew and Daniel. In his long career, Saks won Tonys for "I Love My Wife," "Brighton Beach Memoirs" and "Biloxi Blues." One of his Tony nominations was for "Mame."
In 1999, Arthur told an interviewer of the three influences in her career: "Sid Caesar taught me the outrageous; (method acting guru) Lee Strasberg taught me what I call reality; and ('Threepenny Opera' star) Lotte Lenya, whom I adored, taught me economy."
In recent years, Arthur made guest appearances on shows including "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "Malcolm in the Middle." She was chairwoman of the Art Attack Foundation, a nonprofit performing arts scholarship organization, and was an honorary director of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
Arthur is survived by her sons and two granddaughters. No funeral services are planned.
___
Associated Press Writer Bob Thomas in Los Angeles and AP Drama Writer Michael Kuchwara and AP Television Writer Frazier Moore in New York contributed to this report.
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
MAYOR WONG: OBEY THE OPEN MEETING LAW
Open letter to Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong
Dear Mayor Wong,
You have requested that duly elected Fitchburg City Councilors meet with you serially and individually in order to avoid an Open Meeting in a properly advertised, publicly accesible venue to discuss the Fitchburg City Budget.
This is in clear violation of the Open Meeting Law Statute of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Certain city councilors have indicated a willingness to meet with you in a legally convened OPEN MEETING of the city council to discuss the budget and you have responded by reiterating the request for each city council member to meet with you privately.
Each invitation to participate in an illegal activity is an additional count of alleged illegal activity, and subject to aggregate penalties for each infraction. This could become personally expensive to you and the councilors who participate.
Madame Mayor, if you do not understand the law, we suggest you seek a legal opinion.
Your attempts to circumvent the ordinances of this city, and the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are inappropriate, unseemly, undignified, and not worthy of an elected official in the City of Fitchburg.
From the Attorney General of the Commonwealth, Martha Coakley regarding such meetings:
We ask that you cease and desist from this illegal attempt to circumvent the open meeting law and meet openly in a duly advertised and legally convened Open Meeting of the City Council of Fitchburg, Massachusetts to hold discussions about the city budget.
We also caution any city councilor who meets with the mayor in private that if a quorum of the body is involved in these illegal meetings, both the mayor and the councilors are subject to complaint, investigation and penalty under that statutes of the Commonwealth.
The law is the law is the law. Follow it please.
Sincerely,
Rachel Chana Rosenfeld
and numerous citizens of the city
Dear Mayor Wong,
You have requested that duly elected Fitchburg City Councilors meet with you serially and individually in order to avoid an Open Meeting in a properly advertised, publicly accesible venue to discuss the Fitchburg City Budget.
This is in clear violation of the Open Meeting Law Statute of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Certain city councilors have indicated a willingness to meet with you in a legally convened OPEN MEETING of the city council to discuss the budget and you have responded by reiterating the request for each city council member to meet with you privately.
Each invitation to participate in an illegal activity is an additional count of alleged illegal activity, and subject to aggregate penalties for each infraction. This could become personally expensive to you and the councilors who participate.
Madame Mayor, if you do not understand the law, we suggest you seek a legal opinion.
Your attempts to circumvent the ordinances of this city, and the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are inappropriate, unseemly, undignified, and not worthy of an elected official in the City of Fitchburg.
From the Attorney General of the Commonwealth, Martha Coakley regarding such meetings:
“Revolving door” meetings, in which a quorum of members participates in serial fashion, are meetings under the Open Meeting Law and must comply with all the Law’s requirements.
We ask that you cease and desist from this illegal attempt to circumvent the open meeting law and meet openly in a duly advertised and legally convened Open Meeting of the City Council of Fitchburg, Massachusetts to hold discussions about the city budget.
We also caution any city councilor who meets with the mayor in private that if a quorum of the body is involved in these illegal meetings, both the mayor and the councilors are subject to complaint, investigation and penalty under that statutes of the Commonwealth.
The law is the law is the law. Follow it please.
Sincerely,
Rachel Chana Rosenfeld
and numerous citizens of the city
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
What are you doing Saturday?
We're promised an exquisite day this Saturday April 18th. Whatcha doin'?
Joel Kaddy would like a hand clearing trails at Coggshall Park. His group of volunteers, named Fitchburg Promise will be getting together to work on undoing Mother Natures' worst.
Might be a nice day to bring a thermos, chain saws and expertise, see some old friends and make some new ones working together in something non-political.
Contact Ward 3 City Councilor Joel Kaddy, or just show up around 8 AM (unless you hear otherwise) at the main entrance off of Electric Ave.
Shalom
Joel Kaddy would like a hand clearing trails at Coggshall Park. His group of volunteers, named Fitchburg Promise will be getting together to work on undoing Mother Natures' worst.
Might be a nice day to bring a thermos, chain saws and expertise, see some old friends and make some new ones working together in something non-political.
Contact Ward 3 City Councilor Joel Kaddy, or just show up around 8 AM (unless you hear otherwise) at the main entrance off of Electric Ave.
Shalom
Monday, April 13, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Brief Pause From Critique
Budget sessions are ahead of us. So are elections. Wanted to tell folks clearly that these are honorable people you've put on this city council. Last budget session for some with a retirement and elections coming up this year.
Before we air criticisms and frustrations in the coming heated sessions, a pause from critique to personally thank each of you for your service. I may disagree with some (or each) of you at times - that's politics. But I sleep well knowing we have eleven honest city councilors each doing his or her level best for all of us.
To those of us so inclined, remember to pray for your leaders. These folks don't do it for the money.
Shalom
Really Rachel
- Ward 1 David Clark
- Ward 2 Norman Boisvert
- Ward 3 Joel Kaddy
- Ward 4 Kevin Starr
- Ward 5 Joseph Solomito, Esq.
- Ward 6 Jody Joseph
- At Large Annie DeMartino
- At Large Stephan Hay
- At Large Marcus DiNatale
- At Large Dean Tran
- At Large Tom Conry
Before we air criticisms and frustrations in the coming heated sessions, a pause from critique to personally thank each of you for your service. I may disagree with some (or each) of you at times - that's politics. But I sleep well knowing we have eleven honest city councilors each doing his or her level best for all of us.
To those of us so inclined, remember to pray for your leaders. These folks don't do it for the money.
Shalom
Really Rachel
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Mayor Wong, did you just threaten us?
Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong presented a list of potential revenue enhancements to the City Council Finance Committee tonight, including the "pay as you throw" unconstitutional trash tax.
She concluded her presentation with this statement:
WE WILL SHUT DOWN SERVICES IF I DON'T RECEIVE COOPERATION FROM THE THINGS I JUST MENTIONED.
Madame Mayor, I refer you to Councilor Marcus DiNatale's statement:
Cooperation goes two ways.
No one asked the mayor if she met the FEMA 60-day deadline to request the 75% FEMA reimbusement for the December 11 ice storm debris cleanup. Got those receipts? Or over 60 days later, Leominster is all cleaned up and you haven't even issued contracts?
LISA GO HOME.
To everyone else - Shalom
She concluded her presentation with this statement:
WE WILL SHUT DOWN SERVICES IF I DON'T RECEIVE COOPERATION FROM THE THINGS I JUST MENTIONED.
Madame Mayor, I refer you to Councilor Marcus DiNatale's statement:
Cooperation goes two ways.
No one asked the mayor if she met the FEMA 60-day deadline to request the 75% FEMA reimbusement for the December 11 ice storm debris cleanup. Got those receipts? Or over 60 days later, Leominster is all cleaned up and you haven't even issued contracts?
LISA GO HOME.
To everyone else - Shalom
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Open Meeting Law Lesson #1 for Fitchburg City Council
She's BAAAAAAACK!
Certain Fitchburg City Councilors are sticklers about abiding by the Open Meeting Law. In watching FATV televised City Council Meetings since January, it is apparent that CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL could use a REFRESHER COURSE.
So, in the spirit of good citizenship, with all the best intent, JUST IN CASE SOME OF YOU DON'T HAVE A COPY OR CAN'T OPEN A PDF FILE AT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S WEBSITE, here ya go.
Don't say the OPEN MEETING LAW has not been called to your attention, fellas. (I DID say "certain Fitchburg City Councilors are sticklers about abiding...) Yah we know, you don't read blogs.
You know who you are. Please understand that the voters are watching.
Read carefully. There will be a question and answer session later .... :-)
LESSON ONE: Telephone and E-Mail deliberations
From the Atty General's Open Meeting Law Guidelines at:
http://www.mass.gov/?sid=Cago&pageID=cagosearchlanding&query=open+meeting&collectorName=CAGOx
"Note: "Telephone meetings" -- discussion by telephone among members of a governmental body on an issue of public business within the jurisdiction of the body -- are a violation of the Law.
This is true even where individual telephone conversations occur in serial fashion.
“Revolving door” meetings, in which a quorum of members participates in serial fashion, are meetings under the Open Meeting Law and must comply with all the Law’s requirements.
With the advent of computers, it has become more common for persons, both at home and at work, to communicate through electronic mail, or “e-mail.”
Like private conversations held in person or over the telephone, e-mail conversations among a quorum of members of a governmental body that relate to public business violate the Open Meeting Law, as the public is deprived of the opportunity to attend and monitor the e-mail “meeting.”
Thus it is a violation to e-mail to a quorum messages that can be considered invitations to reply in any medium, and would amount to deliberation on business that must occur only at proper meetings.
It is not a violation to use e-mail to distribute materials, correspondence, agendas or reports so that committee members can prepare individually for upcoming meetings."
----------
Questions on course material should be addressed to the City Solicitor.
Shalom
Certain Fitchburg City Councilors are sticklers about abiding by the Open Meeting Law. In watching FATV televised City Council Meetings since January, it is apparent that CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL could use a REFRESHER COURSE.
So, in the spirit of good citizenship, with all the best intent, JUST IN CASE SOME OF YOU DON'T HAVE A COPY OR CAN'T OPEN A PDF FILE AT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S WEBSITE, here ya go.
Don't say the OPEN MEETING LAW has not been called to your attention, fellas. (I DID say "certain Fitchburg City Councilors are sticklers about abiding...) Yah we know, you don't read blogs.
You know who you are. Please understand that the voters are watching.
Read carefully. There will be a question and answer session later .... :-)
LESSON ONE: Telephone and E-Mail deliberations
From the Atty General's Open Meeting Law Guidelines at:
http://www.mass.gov/?sid=Cago&pageID=cagosearchlanding&query=open+meeting&collectorName=CAGOx
"Note: "Telephone meetings" -- discussion by telephone among members of a governmental body on an issue of public business within the jurisdiction of the body -- are a violation of the Law.
This is true even where individual telephone conversations occur in serial fashion.
“Revolving door” meetings, in which a quorum of members participates in serial fashion, are meetings under the Open Meeting Law and must comply with all the Law’s requirements.
With the advent of computers, it has become more common for persons, both at home and at work, to communicate through electronic mail, or “e-mail.”
Like private conversations held in person or over the telephone, e-mail conversations among a quorum of members of a governmental body that relate to public business violate the Open Meeting Law, as the public is deprived of the opportunity to attend and monitor the e-mail “meeting.”
Thus it is a violation to e-mail to a quorum messages that can be considered invitations to reply in any medium, and would amount to deliberation on business that must occur only at proper meetings.
It is not a violation to use e-mail to distribute materials, correspondence, agendas or reports so that committee members can prepare individually for upcoming meetings."
----------
Questions on course material should be addressed to the City Solicitor.
Shalom
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Time Machine - Back To The Future Campaign 2007
If we'd only had a crystal ball in 2007 ... here's what folks were saying back then ....
In Fitchburg, Lisa Wong, a 28-year-old daughter of Chinese immigrants is running for mayor, apparently on a platform of inundating the city with wine and martini bars.
As she passes Main Street, she points to Café Destare as an example of her vision for the future of Fitchburg: “We’re overjoyed at the opening of our first martini bar,” she says.
Says opponent City Councilor Thomas Donnelly:
“We need to stabilize the budget immediately - as soon as the mayor is elected. All this vision of wine bars is very cute, but that’s not going to be the salvation of the city.”
And a woman-on-the-street:
Susan Gariepy, 60, who has lived in the city for 40 years, said Wong is too young for the job. She also does not want any more wine bars in the city.........
Hmmm....
Shalom
In Fitchburg, Lisa Wong, a 28-year-old daughter of Chinese immigrants is running for mayor, apparently on a platform of inundating the city with wine and martini bars.
As she passes Main Street, she points to Café Destare as an example of her vision for the future of Fitchburg: “We’re overjoyed at the opening of our first martini bar,” she says.
Says opponent City Councilor Thomas Donnelly:
“We need to stabilize the budget immediately - as soon as the mayor is elected. All this vision of wine bars is very cute, but that’s not going to be the salvation of the city.”
And a woman-on-the-street:
Susan Gariepy, 60, who has lived in the city for 40 years, said Wong is too young for the job. She also does not want any more wine bars in the city.........
Hmmm....
Shalom
Sunday, February 1, 2009
State of the City - Worse on Wong's Watch
I am appalled that the Mayor of the City of Fitchburg does not know how many members are in a department. She stated that there are 15 DPW workers in the city. It was up to the head of the dpw union to correct her. Counting mechanics and others there are 'almost 20' - correctly 19 members of the Department of Public Works.
Certainly we could use more than the 19 current employees in that department. However, it speaks volumes about previous administrations that we were once bloated at a total of 100 DPW workers.
Mayor Wong, in her address, took credit for the work of others. She also laid blame onto the federal and state agencies for not being there as called for in our emergency plan. She did not mention that she waited 48 hours during the emergency before living up to her mayoral responsibility to request that assistance.
She is quick to take the credit and quick to lay the blame onto others.
Unlike Boston's Mayor Menino, there was no plan in her speech to outline her plans for dealing with the city's economic disaster. And unlike Menino, Wong continues to give raises to city employee unions and department heads rather than doing what he has done - request no raises or even pay cuts to preserve jobs.
Anyone can settle an outstanding contract by giving the bargaining unit what they're asking for. That isn't negotiation. That's signing a blank check to be paid out of the taxpayers dwindling accounts.
Why did the mayor not mention UNITIL by name in her vague comments about better service and better rates? Does she have inside information from her mentor 'Bob' Antonucci the FSC president - Unitil Director that Unitil is going to straighten up and fly right?
Overall, probably the worst state of the city address ever presented by a Fitchburg mayor.
It's little wonder that Councilor DeMartino became ill and had to leave. Hers wasn't the only upset stomach during and after that speech.
It's time for Lisa Wong's replacement to declare his/her candidacy for mayor.
Shalom
Certainly we could use more than the 19 current employees in that department. However, it speaks volumes about previous administrations that we were once bloated at a total of 100 DPW workers.
Mayor Wong, in her address, took credit for the work of others. She also laid blame onto the federal and state agencies for not being there as called for in our emergency plan. She did not mention that she waited 48 hours during the emergency before living up to her mayoral responsibility to request that assistance.
She is quick to take the credit and quick to lay the blame onto others.
Unlike Boston's Mayor Menino, there was no plan in her speech to outline her plans for dealing with the city's economic disaster. And unlike Menino, Wong continues to give raises to city employee unions and department heads rather than doing what he has done - request no raises or even pay cuts to preserve jobs.
Anyone can settle an outstanding contract by giving the bargaining unit what they're asking for. That isn't negotiation. That's signing a blank check to be paid out of the taxpayers dwindling accounts.
Why did the mayor not mention UNITIL by name in her vague comments about better service and better rates? Does she have inside information from her mentor 'Bob' Antonucci the FSC president - Unitil Director that Unitil is going to straighten up and fly right?
Overall, probably the worst state of the city address ever presented by a Fitchburg mayor.
It's little wonder that Councilor DeMartino became ill and had to leave. Hers wasn't the only upset stomach during and after that speech.
It's time for Lisa Wong's replacement to declare his/her candidacy for mayor.
Shalom
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Joel Kaddy Editorial: Fitchburg Public Library
After the resignation of the librarian it was apparent that she had no
passion for our community. It was also evident that many people were
worried about our image about not having an accredited library.
Fitchburg library has one of the largest collection of books in the
area. I was also told that Fitchburg has lent more books than it
borrowed causing us to employ more people to do so over the years.
After years of accommodating other libraries in the area, now that
Fitchburg is down and out other libraries are turning their back on
us.
It is my understanding that other communities have a choice
whether to lend books to us or not, were there any discussions with
those libraries to do the right thing or did we just quit? If the roll
was reversed I would never support a decision not to help out another
community.
What needs to happen now is we need to hire a librarian who
will do whats right for Fitchburg residents. Find ways through
voluntarism to keep the library open all day. Through voluntarism
come up with more after school programs and more programs for the
elderly.
I believe the good people of Fitchburg want to help. The new
librarian needs to be organized and come in with the right attitude to
accomplish this task. This new librarian needs to have roots in this
city so when things get tough, they don't quit.
Respectfully, Joel Kaddy
passion for our community. It was also evident that many people were
worried about our image about not having an accredited library.
Fitchburg library has one of the largest collection of books in the
area. I was also told that Fitchburg has lent more books than it
borrowed causing us to employ more people to do so over the years.
After years of accommodating other libraries in the area, now that
Fitchburg is down and out other libraries are turning their back on
us.
It is my understanding that other communities have a choice
whether to lend books to us or not, were there any discussions with
those libraries to do the right thing or did we just quit? If the roll
was reversed I would never support a decision not to help out another
community.
What needs to happen now is we need to hire a librarian who
will do whats right for Fitchburg residents. Find ways through
voluntarism to keep the library open all day. Through voluntarism
come up with more after school programs and more programs for the
elderly.
I believe the good people of Fitchburg want to help. The new
librarian needs to be organized and come in with the right attitude to
accomplish this task. This new librarian needs to have roots in this
city so when things get tough, they don't quit.
Respectfully, Joel Kaddy
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Senior Citizen Tells Unitil Outage Story
We invited a senior citizen friend to share the story of how she and her husband coped with the Great Unitil Electric Outage of 2008. There story is typical of hundreds of individuals, elderly couples and families in Fitchburg and neighboring communities "served" by FG&E (Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light Company DBA Unitil).
With no power or heat in our home for 12 days. We will never forget the nightmare of this twelve day "Ice Storm".
We were dressed in three layers of clothing besides hats, scarfs and mittens. With just candles for light and a few flashlights. We live in this nightmare of darkness that will mark my mind forever.
All we had to the outside world was our cell phone which my husband used for emergency calls only. He had to find a place in the terrible storm to charge it. We were prisoners in our own home and also seniors with nobody going around to check on us.
Tree's falling on our home and back yard. We had frayed wires hanging above our garage knocked down by the wind or ice. We had to pay an electrician to re-connect this to our home so Unitil would connect the power to our home. It took four days before that happened.
One of our friends called daily to see how we were and called Unitil for us. We lost all our food after three days.
The people of Fitchburg and surrounding towns should really think about putting fourth an investigation of dumping "Unitil" Corporation and establishing a municipal electric utility department.
The day after our power was turned on. We received a bill from Unitil of over $400.00. We were without power for 12 days and we don't use our furnace because we have a pellit stove runned by electric. Unitil is estimating all bills from last year. What a slap in the face and I refused to pay this bill. The women told me the bills should not have been sent out.
What needs to be down is a case study of how Leominster was the first city to have a fast respond to this horrible diaster. Thanks to their mayor Dean M. There is know words to describe the horrible diaster this ice storm played on our elderly and wheel chair victims.
What kind of city is Fitchburg? Nobody checking on your neighbors and the elderly? This is a disaster as far as I am concerned.
This haphazardness of the electrical infrastructure dates back to the 20th century. The state should have responded faster to this terrible disaster.
I can't even list what went on in our life that will never go away because of this disaster in Fitchburg.
I am still feeling the nightmare of everthing and can't write another thing. The fall on the ice and the carbon monoxide poisoning.
--------------------------------------------
Everything that could go wrong went wrong in this Murphy's Law Electric Outage Disaster following the Ice Storm. No preparation on the part of Unitil. No maintenance for decades. No emergency plan. No leadership - until individual City Councilors and others stepped up and volunteered. No place for people to go other than an antiquated and ill-equipped senior center (the staff was wonderful, the cleanliness was unsurpassed, but the facility was not designed for a mass evacuation of elderly, disabled, chronically ill, families with children or the general public - no showers or bathing facilities, for starters).
Where will we go from here? Or will we just stick our heads in the sand and say "this will never happen again."
Hmmm... how quickly we forget September 11, 2001.
We got off "lucky" this time, if you can call the recent disaster and the resulting mess "lucky."
Shalom
With no power or heat in our home for 12 days. We will never forget the nightmare of this twelve day "Ice Storm".
We were dressed in three layers of clothing besides hats, scarfs and mittens. With just candles for light and a few flashlights. We live in this nightmare of darkness that will mark my mind forever.
All we had to the outside world was our cell phone which my husband used for emergency calls only. He had to find a place in the terrible storm to charge it. We were prisoners in our own home and also seniors with nobody going around to check on us.
Tree's falling on our home and back yard. We had frayed wires hanging above our garage knocked down by the wind or ice. We had to pay an electrician to re-connect this to our home so Unitil would connect the power to our home. It took four days before that happened.
One of our friends called daily to see how we were and called Unitil for us. We lost all our food after three days.
The people of Fitchburg and surrounding towns should really think about putting fourth an investigation of dumping "Unitil" Corporation and establishing a municipal electric utility department.
The day after our power was turned on. We received a bill from Unitil of over $400.00. We were without power for 12 days and we don't use our furnace because we have a pellit stove runned by electric. Unitil is estimating all bills from last year. What a slap in the face and I refused to pay this bill. The women told me the bills should not have been sent out.
What needs to be down is a case study of how Leominster was the first city to have a fast respond to this horrible diaster. Thanks to their mayor Dean M. There is know words to describe the horrible diaster this ice storm played on our elderly and wheel chair victims.
What kind of city is Fitchburg? Nobody checking on your neighbors and the elderly? This is a disaster as far as I am concerned.
This haphazardness of the electrical infrastructure dates back to the 20th century. The state should have responded faster to this terrible disaster.
I can't even list what went on in our life that will never go away because of this disaster in Fitchburg.
I am still feeling the nightmare of everthing and can't write another thing. The fall on the ice and the carbon monoxide poisoning.
--------------------------------------------
Everything that could go wrong went wrong in this Murphy's Law Electric Outage Disaster following the Ice Storm. No preparation on the part of Unitil. No maintenance for decades. No emergency plan. No leadership - until individual City Councilors and others stepped up and volunteered. No place for people to go other than an antiquated and ill-equipped senior center (the staff was wonderful, the cleanliness was unsurpassed, but the facility was not designed for a mass evacuation of elderly, disabled, chronically ill, families with children or the general public - no showers or bathing facilities, for starters).
Where will we go from here? Or will we just stick our heads in the sand and say "this will never happen again."
Hmmm... how quickly we forget September 11, 2001.
We got off "lucky" this time, if you can call the recent disaster and the resulting mess "lucky."
Shalom
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Join Joel Kaddy for Senior Center Cleanup on Sunday
We received this email from City Councilor Joel Kaddy, and we want to pass it along. Please join Joel and other members of your community on Sunday, December 28 at noon at the Senior Center. Bring cleaning supplies and wear old clothes! Thanks, all of you.
Shalom
Hi, I drove around this morning looking at the after math of the storms and I began thinking about what we all went through. The heroes that were made and the stronger friendships that I walked away with. I was trying to think what I could do to thank everyone. After struggling with the idea all morning I realized that the people close to me didn't need a thank you. So here's my idea. On Sunday noon I will be at the senior center with my wife. I'm bringing a vacuum and some cleaning supplies. This is not the worst thing that could happen to Fitchburg. What makes a great city is us. I think that our group has to show that were going forward and Fitchburg will come out of this much stronger than we went in. If your available and willing please bring cleaning items. Please, pass this message on.
Thank Everyone so much for what you did. Sincerely, Joel
Shalom
Hi, I drove around this morning looking at the after math of the storms and I began thinking about what we all went through. The heroes that were made and the stronger friendships that I walked away with. I was trying to think what I could do to thank everyone. After struggling with the idea all morning I realized that the people close to me didn't need a thank you. So here's my idea. On Sunday noon I will be at the senior center with my wife. I'm bringing a vacuum and some cleaning supplies. This is not the worst thing that could happen to Fitchburg. What makes a great city is us. I think that our group has to show that were going forward and Fitchburg will come out of this much stronger than we went in. If your available and willing please bring cleaning items. Please, pass this message on.
Thank Everyone so much for what you did. Sincerely, Joel
Thursday, November 6, 2008
And back to local issues....
Mayor Lisa Wong announced her re-election bid this week - in perpetuity.
The crystal ball predicts this won't be a 75% "mandate" this time around.
Councilor Dean Tran's noise ordinance will be going to the city council for first reading a the next meeting. It is high time we limited noise pollution in this city. As Chief DeMoura said recently, quality of life issues need to be addressed here as part of the ongoing campaign to make Fitchburg safe and attractive for current and prospective residents.
Once again, thank you Councilor Tran, for yet another contribution to our community.
Is it too early to contemplate a Tran-Wong mayoral contest? Just imagine.
The possibilities are endless.
Shalom
The crystal ball predicts this won't be a 75% "mandate" this time around.
Councilor Dean Tran's noise ordinance will be going to the city council for first reading a the next meeting. It is high time we limited noise pollution in this city. As Chief DeMoura said recently, quality of life issues need to be addressed here as part of the ongoing campaign to make Fitchburg safe and attractive for current and prospective residents.
Once again, thank you Councilor Tran, for yet another contribution to our community.
Is it too early to contemplate a Tran-Wong mayoral contest? Just imagine.
The possibilities are endless.
Shalom
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Right Move - Unanimous Vote - Thank You Councilors
Fitchburg City Councilors unanimously voted tonight to set the business tax shift at 135, a two point reduction. This is the beginning of the move toward parity between business and residential tax rates that will eventually make Fitchburg a business-friendly city.
Thank you, Councilors, for this wise move. We understand that this is a small step in the right direction. However a wise physicist once told me that we get to Alpha Centauri one step at a time.
We hope business considering leaving Fitchburg will find encouragement and hope in tonight's council action, and will hang in here a bit longer. Similarly, we hope business seeking to locate will interpret this action as the good intent of our city to welcome and foster a healthy business environment.
Come grow with us.
Thank you councilors. We particularly applaud Councilor Dean Tran for his research and efforts over the years of his tenure in balancing the tax shift, and we congratulate Councilor DeMartino for having the wisdom and integrity to reverse a long-term belief in the shift that has been detrimental to business.
We saw 11 adults doing what is best for our city tonight.
It's a good thing! (Sorry, Martha)
Shalom
Thank you, Councilors, for this wise move. We understand that this is a small step in the right direction. However a wise physicist once told me that we get to Alpha Centauri one step at a time.
We hope business considering leaving Fitchburg will find encouragement and hope in tonight's council action, and will hang in here a bit longer. Similarly, we hope business seeking to locate will interpret this action as the good intent of our city to welcome and foster a healthy business environment.
Come grow with us.
Thank you councilors. We particularly applaud Councilor Dean Tran for his research and efforts over the years of his tenure in balancing the tax shift, and we congratulate Councilor DeMartino for having the wisdom and integrity to reverse a long-term belief in the shift that has been detrimental to business.
We saw 11 adults doing what is best for our city tonight.
It's a good thing! (Sorry, Martha)
Shalom
Monday, October 20, 2008
Justice, justice you shall pursue
This is a dangerous world. Violence is all around us. It touches each of us personally at some point.
My paternal grandfather was killed by another man's ax in Arkansas in the early 1920s, leaving my young father and his older siblings orphans (my grandmother had died earlier). No one was ever arrested.
I rubbed elbows with one of the Weather Underground domestic terrorists in 1987-88. The man was even in my home at one time, near my young daughters, before I was informed of his violent past. In addition to his having blown up an Eastern Airlines airplane at Logan Airport, a courthouse, and national guard vehicles and an airplane, he had a prior violent history. He had been recruited to the terrorist group from a Maine prison where he was serving a term for violent rape. Within two years of his release from prison in 1993, he was again charged with violent crimes and sentenced to ten years. If he is still alive, he is in his 70s and free, probably drawing Social Security and receiving Medicare.
Like thousands of other Americans, someone I had once considered a close friend was murdered by terrorists who flew an airplane into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
My beloved niece was murdered in July, 2002. The murderer is serving a life sentence in an Alabama prison. The continued sorrow is too deep to describe.
On December 18, 2007, a person who had been my soulmate, creative partner and friend was stabbed through the heart while performing a neighborly act for a senior citizen. The murder and his accomplice, both career felons on parole, are currently traversing the Tennessee justice system.
Why do we have such a tolerance for violence?
Prevention is a word foreign to either our justice or legislative systems. The lives of the innocent are cheap while the judicial system panders to the chronically unrehabilitated.
Everett C. Carlson was on PAROLE when he joined the Fred Hampton Brigade of the violent Weather Underground Organization, when he bombed a courthouse, Logan International Airport and the National Guard post. He was arrested with a truck full of dynamite, blasting caps and explosive paraphernalia two days later. He was ON PAROLE when he was in my home working as a carpenter and only served out the remainder of his sentence because when he was arrested for drunk driving he was found with a handgun, a violation of his parole. Within two years of completing a ridiculously short sentence, he again committed violent crimes (rape, kidnapping and assault on a state police officer.)
The first crime, violent rape, SHOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A MANDATORY LIFE SENTENCE. If the justice system had been working in the first place, this man would never have seen the light of day, would never have had the opportunity to BOMB A COURTHOUSE, A BANK, AN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND A NATIONAL GUARD POST! If the justice system was doing its job, his acts of DOMESTIC TERRORISM would have resulted in numerous consecutive life sentences without parole and he would never have had an opportunity to kidnap and sexually assault a young woman.
The events of September 11, 2001 were only possible because of lack of defensive information. Thank an administration that hamstringed our intelligence services and forbade the Central Intelligence Agency from sharing information with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Thank an administration that made it possible for terrorists to obtain state drivers licenses and state and federal identification cards that allowed them to board those airplanes.
The low-life who murdered my niece had a history of driving on the wrong side of the road while buzzed on crack cocaine. He had lost his license and continued to get high and drive at 100 mph in the wrong lane, and yet he was never tried and convicted - until he did it one too many times. Unfortunately, this time, he murdered a beautiful young woman in the prime of her life and crippled two others. The life sentence he is serving now is no consolation to this family. Why was he not taken off the streets BEFORE HE MURDERED her?
The career felon who murdered my dear friend had a record as long as my arm - convictions of violent crimes, sentenced to state prison, paroled only to repeat the cycle. Robert Earl Williams and Stephanie Lynn Hudson were both on parole from violent crimes when he stabbed my beloved friend through the heart in a Nashville, Tennessee Kroger parking lot. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE THREE STRIKES RULE?
I have staunchly opposed the death penalty my entire life.
Not only do I now no longer oppose the death penalty for murder, I could unhesitatingly pull the switch.
It is the only justice left for the innocent.
Shalom, and G-d help us all
My paternal grandfather was killed by another man's ax in Arkansas in the early 1920s, leaving my young father and his older siblings orphans (my grandmother had died earlier). No one was ever arrested.
I rubbed elbows with one of the Weather Underground domestic terrorists in 1987-88. The man was even in my home at one time, near my young daughters, before I was informed of his violent past. In addition to his having blown up an Eastern Airlines airplane at Logan Airport, a courthouse, and national guard vehicles and an airplane, he had a prior violent history. He had been recruited to the terrorist group from a Maine prison where he was serving a term for violent rape. Within two years of his release from prison in 1993, he was again charged with violent crimes and sentenced to ten years. If he is still alive, he is in his 70s and free, probably drawing Social Security and receiving Medicare.
Like thousands of other Americans, someone I had once considered a close friend was murdered by terrorists who flew an airplane into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
My beloved niece was murdered in July, 2002. The murderer is serving a life sentence in an Alabama prison. The continued sorrow is too deep to describe.
On December 18, 2007, a person who had been my soulmate, creative partner and friend was stabbed through the heart while performing a neighborly act for a senior citizen. The murder and his accomplice, both career felons on parole, are currently traversing the Tennessee justice system.
Why do we have such a tolerance for violence?
Prevention is a word foreign to either our justice or legislative systems. The lives of the innocent are cheap while the judicial system panders to the chronically unrehabilitated.
Everett C. Carlson was on PAROLE when he joined the Fred Hampton Brigade of the violent Weather Underground Organization, when he bombed a courthouse, Logan International Airport and the National Guard post. He was arrested with a truck full of dynamite, blasting caps and explosive paraphernalia two days later. He was ON PAROLE when he was in my home working as a carpenter and only served out the remainder of his sentence because when he was arrested for drunk driving he was found with a handgun, a violation of his parole. Within two years of completing a ridiculously short sentence, he again committed violent crimes (rape, kidnapping and assault on a state police officer.)
The first crime, violent rape, SHOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A MANDATORY LIFE SENTENCE. If the justice system had been working in the first place, this man would never have seen the light of day, would never have had the opportunity to BOMB A COURTHOUSE, A BANK, AN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND A NATIONAL GUARD POST! If the justice system was doing its job, his acts of DOMESTIC TERRORISM would have resulted in numerous consecutive life sentences without parole and he would never have had an opportunity to kidnap and sexually assault a young woman.
The events of September 11, 2001 were only possible because of lack of defensive information. Thank an administration that hamstringed our intelligence services and forbade the Central Intelligence Agency from sharing information with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Thank an administration that made it possible for terrorists to obtain state drivers licenses and state and federal identification cards that allowed them to board those airplanes.
The low-life who murdered my niece had a history of driving on the wrong side of the road while buzzed on crack cocaine. He had lost his license and continued to get high and drive at 100 mph in the wrong lane, and yet he was never tried and convicted - until he did it one too many times. Unfortunately, this time, he murdered a beautiful young woman in the prime of her life and crippled two others. The life sentence he is serving now is no consolation to this family. Why was he not taken off the streets BEFORE HE MURDERED her?
The career felon who murdered my dear friend had a record as long as my arm - convictions of violent crimes, sentenced to state prison, paroled only to repeat the cycle. Robert Earl Williams and Stephanie Lynn Hudson were both on parole from violent crimes when he stabbed my beloved friend through the heart in a Nashville, Tennessee Kroger parking lot. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE THREE STRIKES RULE?
I have staunchly opposed the death penalty my entire life.
Not only do I now no longer oppose the death penalty for murder, I could unhesitatingly pull the switch.
It is the only justice left for the innocent.
Shalom, and G-d help us all
Monday, September 15, 2008
We join City Councilor Dean Tran....
.... in this endorsement!
Dear Friends and Supporters,
When I took the oath to serve the people of Fitchburg in 2001 as a planning board member, I made a commitment to serve the interest of the people first and foremost. Since elected to the Fitchburg City Council as a city wide councilor in 2005, I continued to embrace and be faithful to my commitment to serve the children, the seniors, the taxpayers and all residents of Fitchburg. The people come first.
It is not often that I ask you for your assistance in joining me in a cause. Tomorrow is our state’s primary election and it is very important to me that I ask my friends and supporters to exercise their civic duty and have their votes count.
Brian Knuutilla is a man of integrity. He has served the people of this district in many ways including being a police officer, firefighter, city councilor, state representative and general counsel. His service went beyond this district as he has served our country in the capacity of the military.
Brian Knuutilla is a man whom I have no doubt will serve the city of Fitchburg and our district well. Brian and I share a common goal, that is, the people come first. Your vote will count. Your voices will be heard with Brian.
Please join me and make Brian Knuutilla the next State Senator.
www.brianforsenate.com
Sincerely,
Dean A. Tran
Dear Friends and Supporters,
When I took the oath to serve the people of Fitchburg in 2001 as a planning board member, I made a commitment to serve the interest of the people first and foremost. Since elected to the Fitchburg City Council as a city wide councilor in 2005, I continued to embrace and be faithful to my commitment to serve the children, the seniors, the taxpayers and all residents of Fitchburg. The people come first.
It is not often that I ask you for your assistance in joining me in a cause. Tomorrow is our state’s primary election and it is very important to me that I ask my friends and supporters to exercise their civic duty and have their votes count.
Brian Knuutilla is a man of integrity. He has served the people of this district in many ways including being a police officer, firefighter, city councilor, state representative and general counsel. His service went beyond this district as he has served our country in the capacity of the military.
Brian Knuutilla is a man whom I have no doubt will serve the city of Fitchburg and our district well. Brian and I share a common goal, that is, the people come first. Your vote will count. Your voices will be heard with Brian.
Please join me and make Brian Knuutilla the next State Senator.
www.brianforsenate.com
Sincerely,
Dean A. Tran
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Gentlemen, thanks for tonight....
Councilors Conry, Tran, Solomito, DiNatale, Kaddy ... thanks for the unwavering firm stands on behalf of the citizens of Fitchburg.
You did your research, answered the phone calls and emails, you listened to your constituents, and you did the difficult things.
Council President Conry ran a tight meeting. It could have become quite nasty, particularly after elderly Councilor DeMartino's inappropriate tirade, but cool heads prevailed. Also impressive was freshman Ward 5 Councilor Attorney Joseph Solomito.
Councilor DiNatale led the DPW commisioner candidate into a winding, long-winded narcissistic diatribe only to deftly stick a giant hatpin into his balloon. Had it not been such a serious undertaking, it was the stuff of good black comedy ... as is, it was a piercing moment in high drama.
On both the issues before the councilors in committee or as a whole tonight, Councilor Joel Kaddy deserves the "go to the head of the class" award. Kaddy dug like a hound to get his facts together, he was prepared, asked excellent questions to draw out information for the public, and he followed through with good suggestions and sound reasoning for his votes. Of all the city councilors, Joel Kaddy has probably taken the hardest beating on the blogs the past several years. He's a Timex - he took a licking and he's kept on ticking. Kudos to Kaddy. We want to see more of this out of him.
Councilor Tran ran a legal, well oiled OPEN meeting of the Legislative Affairs committee - a difficult task with a quorum (the whole city council membership no less) attending a council committee meeting. The extra step to clarify the open meeting status of the meeting, and whether a non-committee member councilor could speak (they could not) was reassuring in demonstrating to the citizens that there would be no fast deals here. I've made no secret of my admiration for this young man. We frequently do not agree on issues, but we both always see eye to eye on one thing - the ethical, legal and moral process of government. This is an honorable man who is educated, bright, respectful, thoughtful and sincere.
The remaining city councilors can learn something from these gentlemen. And the citizens of Fitchburg can sleep better tonight thanks to them.
We hope all of the city council enjoys the August respite and returns in September committed to serving the citizens of Fitchburg above all friendships, political ties or personal interests.
Let's hope we have heard the death knell of the old boys (and girls) club.
Shalom
You did your research, answered the phone calls and emails, you listened to your constituents, and you did the difficult things.
Council President Conry ran a tight meeting. It could have become quite nasty, particularly after elderly Councilor DeMartino's inappropriate tirade, but cool heads prevailed. Also impressive was freshman Ward 5 Councilor Attorney Joseph Solomito.
Councilor DiNatale led the DPW commisioner candidate into a winding, long-winded narcissistic diatribe only to deftly stick a giant hatpin into his balloon. Had it not been such a serious undertaking, it was the stuff of good black comedy ... as is, it was a piercing moment in high drama.
On both the issues before the councilors in committee or as a whole tonight, Councilor Joel Kaddy deserves the "go to the head of the class" award. Kaddy dug like a hound to get his facts together, he was prepared, asked excellent questions to draw out information for the public, and he followed through with good suggestions and sound reasoning for his votes. Of all the city councilors, Joel Kaddy has probably taken the hardest beating on the blogs the past several years. He's a Timex - he took a licking and he's kept on ticking. Kudos to Kaddy. We want to see more of this out of him.
Councilor Tran ran a legal, well oiled OPEN meeting of the Legislative Affairs committee - a difficult task with a quorum (the whole city council membership no less) attending a council committee meeting. The extra step to clarify the open meeting status of the meeting, and whether a non-committee member councilor could speak (they could not) was reassuring in demonstrating to the citizens that there would be no fast deals here. I've made no secret of my admiration for this young man. We frequently do not agree on issues, but we both always see eye to eye on one thing - the ethical, legal and moral process of government. This is an honorable man who is educated, bright, respectful, thoughtful and sincere.
The remaining city councilors can learn something from these gentlemen. And the citizens of Fitchburg can sleep better tonight thanks to them.
We hope all of the city council enjoys the August respite and returns in September committed to serving the citizens of Fitchburg above all friendships, political ties or personal interests.
Let's hope we have heard the death knell of the old boys (and girls) club.
Shalom
Monday, July 28, 2008
Councilors: Stand Up to Wong
Do the right thing....
In a recent editorial, the Sentinel and Enterprise Editor wrote:
"It's hard to think about Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong's decision to name James Shuris the city's new commissioner of the Department of Public Works and not wonder what she was thinking about when she tapped him for the job."
On analyzing the sum of Wong's actions:
1) Coercing the FRA to put out a Request for Proposals for development of PRIVATE PROPERTY that it plans to be the product of a "friendly taking" with a specification that that property and the FRA-owned parcels be "student housing" despite an overwhelming need for affordable and accessible housing for seniors and the disabled of Fitchburg;
2) Holding up a carefully drafted Wetlands Protection Ordinance to turn it into a mockery "the purpose of this ordinance is to promote economic development" , pressuring the Conservation Commission to drop the provision for protecting our beautiful Nashua River in order to favor her developer friends;
3) The controversial appointment of Democratic Party darling former Mayor Jeffrey Bean to the Fitchburg Housing Authority despite his abysmal mayoral track record, public record of morals issues, participation in what we now know was a conspiracy to steal the city-owned hospital;
4) Proposed hiring of James Shuris, a Bean hire during his rise in the Democratic Party, who was fired for cause, sued the city over his firing, lost his case, appealed and lost that case as well - and added insult to injury by offering a substantially larger salary than he received in his prior tenure and a city vehicle for his personal use;
it becomes obvious that, contrary to the city code and the state's civil service protocol, this is a political appointment, and that Wong's actions are NOT due to any desire to aid the citizens of Fitchburg, but rather to promote her own blind ambition.
Wong is marching to the tune of the state's Democratic Party and the developers and contractors who are heavy contributors, at the expense of the voters and taxpayers of Fitchburg. She has not come up with these old ghosts on her own.
There is nothing in itself wrong with ambition. There is however, MUCH wrong with raping a city in one's ambition to climb within the state and national Democratic Party. Jeff Bean began this city on its disastrous economic decline and Lisa Wong is here to stick in the final knife and hand the keys to the plunderers.
Those of us who love this city and her people, her history and her beautiful natural resources are outraged and enraged. It is time for the city council to dig in and refuse to be accomplices. We call upon all 11 elected city councilors to turn down this appointment, move along the original Conservation Commission Wetlands Protection Ordinance and refuse all further appointments and cockamamie schemes of this political opportunist - including the ill-advised TRASH TAX masked as a "fee."
If this young woman does not soon change her tune and begin to show some respect for our city and its citizens, and if she dares to stick around long enough to run for re-election, this author will be at the front of the line holding the sign that says: LISA WONG - GO HOME.
Shalom
In a recent editorial, the Sentinel and Enterprise Editor wrote:
"It's hard to think about Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong's decision to name James Shuris the city's new commissioner of the Department of Public Works and not wonder what she was thinking about when she tapped him for the job."
On analyzing the sum of Wong's actions:
1) Coercing the FRA to put out a Request for Proposals for development of PRIVATE PROPERTY that it plans to be the product of a "friendly taking" with a specification that that property and the FRA-owned parcels be "student housing" despite an overwhelming need for affordable and accessible housing for seniors and the disabled of Fitchburg;
2) Holding up a carefully drafted Wetlands Protection Ordinance to turn it into a mockery "the purpose of this ordinance is to promote economic development" , pressuring the Conservation Commission to drop the provision for protecting our beautiful Nashua River in order to favor her developer friends;
3) The controversial appointment of Democratic Party darling former Mayor Jeffrey Bean to the Fitchburg Housing Authority despite his abysmal mayoral track record, public record of morals issues, participation in what we now know was a conspiracy to steal the city-owned hospital;
4) Proposed hiring of James Shuris, a Bean hire during his rise in the Democratic Party, who was fired for cause, sued the city over his firing, lost his case, appealed and lost that case as well - and added insult to injury by offering a substantially larger salary than he received in his prior tenure and a city vehicle for his personal use;
it becomes obvious that, contrary to the city code and the state's civil service protocol, this is a political appointment, and that Wong's actions are NOT due to any desire to aid the citizens of Fitchburg, but rather to promote her own blind ambition.
Wong is marching to the tune of the state's Democratic Party and the developers and contractors who are heavy contributors, at the expense of the voters and taxpayers of Fitchburg. She has not come up with these old ghosts on her own.
There is nothing in itself wrong with ambition. There is however, MUCH wrong with raping a city in one's ambition to climb within the state and national Democratic Party. Jeff Bean began this city on its disastrous economic decline and Lisa Wong is here to stick in the final knife and hand the keys to the plunderers.
Those of us who love this city and her people, her history and her beautiful natural resources are outraged and enraged. It is time for the city council to dig in and refuse to be accomplices. We call upon all 11 elected city councilors to turn down this appointment, move along the original Conservation Commission Wetlands Protection Ordinance and refuse all further appointments and cockamamie schemes of this political opportunist - including the ill-advised TRASH TAX masked as a "fee."
If this young woman does not soon change her tune and begin to show some respect for our city and its citizens, and if she dares to stick around long enough to run for re-election, this author will be at the front of the line holding the sign that says: LISA WONG - GO HOME.
Shalom
Friday, July 11, 2008
Stuff
Catchup and Potpurri
Mayor Wong, Chief DeMoura and Ward 5 City Councilor Joseph Solomito met Thursday evening with about 100 residents of the Ward 5 FSC neighborhood. According to newspaper reports, folks were encouraged to call the police to report suspicious behavior as the chief says he assigns police officers based upon the calls received. I used to live in that neighborhood, which unfortunately straddles Wards 4 and 5 which poses problems for the ward councilors and the residents. However, I'm sure both new councilors, Starr and Solomito, can get together on proper representation of the FSC neighborhood residents. We're counting on you, guys.
Drugs have been a problem in that area for a long time now. Several years ago I reported a drug deal going on in front of my eyes on my property, with the buyer and seller staring at me through the window as I was on the phone with the civilian dispatcher ... who, according to the neighborhood cop, never dispatched a call.
That's the way it was then. New Mayor, new Chief, police officers dispatching calls, new city councilors for both those wards. Let's give it a chance, shall we, and see how it turns out.
And particularly with the weight of FSC president Antonucci, perhaps things will change.
Other citywide stuff: Fitchburg Art Museum's juried regional art show is a smashing success. If you haven't been, why not put it on your list. Also, Sally Cragin tells me there's scholarship money available for the programs. If you have a kid who might benefit from attending a class or participating in one of the many art museum programs, there's no time like the present. Don't let shortage of funds be a deterrent.
** The trash tax isn't yet dead. **
The Legislative Affairs Committee will meet on July 29 (a Tuesday evening but not a city council meeting night) to consider the petition. These committee meetings are open to the public. Anyone interested in a POLITE, ORDERLY get together for this meeting, let's do it. The meeting starts at 6:30 PM. I believe public comment is always taken first, so be prompt. I hope to be there by 6:10 or so.
Regarding Robert Walsh's petition(s) to recall the mayor and all 11 city councilors and to petition the state to put the city in receivership ... while I see his point, I think we're farther from receivership now than we were this time last year. We'll see. Recalling all 11 city councilors would throw out the baby with the bathwater. And quite honestly, this very critical individual (who me, a critic????) sees a pretty measurable change in the attitudes and actions of this city council than in terms past.
I'm not particularly happy with Jeff Bean's appointment to the FHA and I'm quite disappointed in a certain city councilor for campaigning for him (and yes, she convinced more than one councilor to change their vote) ... I understand her reasons (based upon his supposed "connections" to bail out the failed assisted housing project).... but I see those "reasons" as excuses really for doing a political favor for an old friend. Disclaimer: I have bad blood with Jeff Bean because he and Scott Harshbarger sold us out and let our hospital be stolen, and we're left in a mess. Lives have been lost because of it, and if Jeff Bean got water out of a rock it would not change my opinion of him. And then there are other issues that I won't go into here.
The real bottom line is this: Councilor DeMartino broke her campaign promise to be part of the transition to a new way of doing things. No one else made that promise, so I expect less. I'm pretty personally disappointed in my old friend whom I love but do not always agree with. This is a pretty big disagreement. I hope she keeps the other campaign promise that this is her last term.
The big question is why did Mayor Wong appoint Bean to the Fitchburg Housing Authority in the first place? Wasn't she elected by a landslide as "the change candidate?" Fitchburg Housing Authority needs a major housecleaning. The elderly and disabled people who have no option except to live in an FHA owned property don't have an easy time of it. The privately owned and operated complexes such as Joseph House and Fitchburg Green get the same money per head (the residents DO indeed pay rent, by the way so let's dispell that myth), yet the private complexes are immaculate, quiet, properly maintained communities while the FHA properties have become crime infested ghettos. The difference is that the private owners take care to protect their investments and the screen applicants the way FHA should be screening. With Bean's track record I see little hope of improvement. Instead it will be business as usual.
Re reappointments to the Disability Commission. I've registered a mild objection with the city council regarding two of the pending reappointments on the grounds of perceived conflict of interest. The councilors have received my email, one of them (Joel Kaddy) has been good enough to respond to me, discuss my objection, do some research, and get back to me again. I won't name the individuals because it is not a personal objection, but rather one of principal. I do not believe that a city employee or family member of a city employee can properly advocate for the disabled residents of this city because they can't be objective. I've saved my emails with David Strebb from the past couple of years (he is/was the ADA compliance officer for the city) regarding inaccessible sidewalks. I've sat out two Civic Days - Fourth of July celebrations, as have many of my cohorts because of accessibility issues. Streb agreed over a year ago to do a wheelchair tour with me to see where the obstacles exist, but in the last email conversation I was told I need to contact the mayor. I've suggested inexpensive workarounds to actual curb cuts, like painting a wheelchair lane in the street where we currently have to travel and compete with cars. Still nothing has been done.
A proactive Disability Commission would have this problem resolved by now. This kind of negligence is why cities get sued. I challenge the Mayor, the Planning Department and the Disability Commission to get off your duffs and find a way to make wheelchair travel the entire length of Lunenburg St. and Main Street a SAFE reality - not just soon, but NOW! It isn't just the nice thing to do, or the right thing to do - it's the law.
Overall ... while I see some positive changes in this council (including incumbent councilors) ... other than some shuffling around, I don't see much change from the old way of doing things. Same old ghosts from the past coming back to haunt us over and over and over again ... it's almost enough to make one consider the concept of reincarnation.
But, Mr. Walsh, for now I'll pass on the petition to recall the city councilors. The great ones have been consistent - like Tran, the new ones are past the learning curve, and some of the others have been just downright surprising - Kaddy and Conry in particular. I'm happy to give them the rest of their two years. We predict Wong won't run for a second term - name your favorite reason - and if that's the case, she just might be the transition we need for now to help folks define exactly what kind of "change" they're really looking for. Two years isn't really so long. It's already more than one-fourth gone.
At the halfway point it will be time to be looking at new candidates. I hope this is a lesson to everyone to make sure no seat is unopposed.
Enjoy this beautiful weekend and don't take things too seriously. Life, indeed, is fleeting. What matters most are those closest to you.
Shalom
Mayor Wong, Chief DeMoura and Ward 5 City Councilor Joseph Solomito met Thursday evening with about 100 residents of the Ward 5 FSC neighborhood. According to newspaper reports, folks were encouraged to call the police to report suspicious behavior as the chief says he assigns police officers based upon the calls received. I used to live in that neighborhood, which unfortunately straddles Wards 4 and 5 which poses problems for the ward councilors and the residents. However, I'm sure both new councilors, Starr and Solomito, can get together on proper representation of the FSC neighborhood residents. We're counting on you, guys.
Drugs have been a problem in that area for a long time now. Several years ago I reported a drug deal going on in front of my eyes on my property, with the buyer and seller staring at me through the window as I was on the phone with the civilian dispatcher ... who, according to the neighborhood cop, never dispatched a call.
That's the way it was then. New Mayor, new Chief, police officers dispatching calls, new city councilors for both those wards. Let's give it a chance, shall we, and see how it turns out.
And particularly with the weight of FSC president Antonucci, perhaps things will change.
Other citywide stuff: Fitchburg Art Museum's juried regional art show is a smashing success. If you haven't been, why not put it on your list. Also, Sally Cragin tells me there's scholarship money available for the programs. If you have a kid who might benefit from attending a class or participating in one of the many art museum programs, there's no time like the present. Don't let shortage of funds be a deterrent.
** The trash tax isn't yet dead. **
The Legislative Affairs Committee will meet on July 29 (a Tuesday evening but not a city council meeting night) to consider the petition. These committee meetings are open to the public. Anyone interested in a POLITE, ORDERLY get together for this meeting, let's do it. The meeting starts at 6:30 PM. I believe public comment is always taken first, so be prompt. I hope to be there by 6:10 or so.
Regarding Robert Walsh's petition(s) to recall the mayor and all 11 city councilors and to petition the state to put the city in receivership ... while I see his point, I think we're farther from receivership now than we were this time last year. We'll see. Recalling all 11 city councilors would throw out the baby with the bathwater. And quite honestly, this very critical individual (who me, a critic????) sees a pretty measurable change in the attitudes and actions of this city council than in terms past.
I'm not particularly happy with Jeff Bean's appointment to the FHA and I'm quite disappointed in a certain city councilor for campaigning for him (and yes, she convinced more than one councilor to change their vote) ... I understand her reasons (based upon his supposed "connections" to bail out the failed assisted housing project).... but I see those "reasons" as excuses really for doing a political favor for an old friend. Disclaimer: I have bad blood with Jeff Bean because he and Scott Harshbarger sold us out and let our hospital be stolen, and we're left in a mess. Lives have been lost because of it, and if Jeff Bean got water out of a rock it would not change my opinion of him. And then there are other issues that I won't go into here.
The real bottom line is this: Councilor DeMartino broke her campaign promise to be part of the transition to a new way of doing things. No one else made that promise, so I expect less. I'm pretty personally disappointed in my old friend whom I love but do not always agree with. This is a pretty big disagreement. I hope she keeps the other campaign promise that this is her last term.
The big question is why did Mayor Wong appoint Bean to the Fitchburg Housing Authority in the first place? Wasn't she elected by a landslide as "the change candidate?" Fitchburg Housing Authority needs a major housecleaning. The elderly and disabled people who have no option except to live in an FHA owned property don't have an easy time of it. The privately owned and operated complexes such as Joseph House and Fitchburg Green get the same money per head (the residents DO indeed pay rent, by the way so let's dispell that myth), yet the private complexes are immaculate, quiet, properly maintained communities while the FHA properties have become crime infested ghettos. The difference is that the private owners take care to protect their investments and the screen applicants the way FHA should be screening. With Bean's track record I see little hope of improvement. Instead it will be business as usual.
Re reappointments to the Disability Commission. I've registered a mild objection with the city council regarding two of the pending reappointments on the grounds of perceived conflict of interest. The councilors have received my email, one of them (Joel Kaddy) has been good enough to respond to me, discuss my objection, do some research, and get back to me again. I won't name the individuals because it is not a personal objection, but rather one of principal. I do not believe that a city employee or family member of a city employee can properly advocate for the disabled residents of this city because they can't be objective. I've saved my emails with David Strebb from the past couple of years (he is/was the ADA compliance officer for the city) regarding inaccessible sidewalks. I've sat out two Civic Days - Fourth of July celebrations, as have many of my cohorts because of accessibility issues. Streb agreed over a year ago to do a wheelchair tour with me to see where the obstacles exist, but in the last email conversation I was told I need to contact the mayor. I've suggested inexpensive workarounds to actual curb cuts, like painting a wheelchair lane in the street where we currently have to travel and compete with cars. Still nothing has been done.
A proactive Disability Commission would have this problem resolved by now. This kind of negligence is why cities get sued. I challenge the Mayor, the Planning Department and the Disability Commission to get off your duffs and find a way to make wheelchair travel the entire length of Lunenburg St. and Main Street a SAFE reality - not just soon, but NOW! It isn't just the nice thing to do, or the right thing to do - it's the law.
Overall ... while I see some positive changes in this council (including incumbent councilors) ... other than some shuffling around, I don't see much change from the old way of doing things. Same old ghosts from the past coming back to haunt us over and over and over again ... it's almost enough to make one consider the concept of reincarnation.
But, Mr. Walsh, for now I'll pass on the petition to recall the city councilors. The great ones have been consistent - like Tran, the new ones are past the learning curve, and some of the others have been just downright surprising - Kaddy and Conry in particular. I'm happy to give them the rest of their two years. We predict Wong won't run for a second term - name your favorite reason - and if that's the case, she just might be the transition we need for now to help folks define exactly what kind of "change" they're really looking for. Two years isn't really so long. It's already more than one-fourth gone.
At the halfway point it will be time to be looking at new candidates. I hope this is a lesson to everyone to make sure no seat is unopposed.
Enjoy this beautiful weekend and don't take things too seriously. Life, indeed, is fleeting. What matters most are those closest to you.
Shalom
Sunday, June 29, 2008
In Memoriam - Jerry McEwen
Everly Brothers (Don and Phil), Jay Patton, Jerry McEwen in foreground
My friends know that I once had a life far away from Fitchburg and political commentary and activism. I was a music business professional in Nashville, TN, and was/am a BMI songwriter and publisher.I had failed to maintain regular contact with my former co-writer and friend - soulmate Jerry McEwen, and was shocked and devastated to learn only recently of his murder last December when he came to the assistance of a purse snatching victim. One of the world's greatest musicians and gentlest souls was stabbed through the heart by a multiple-felony parolee. The perpetrator and his parolee accomplice were apprehended and criminal proceedings will begin on July 2 in Nashville - Davidson County court.
How frustrating it is for our police officers that they do their jobs so admirably, only to have the courts and parole boards return career criminals to the street.
So deeply loved. So sorely missed. So sincerely thankful for the gift of the life of Jerry James McEwen. March 22, 1953 - December 18, 2007
Thanks for the wings.
"I Can't Be Me Without You"
(McEwen and Collins/Rosenfeld, John E Denny Music, BMI and Tuckasee Tunes BMI, c 1985)
Jerry McEwen is the lead guitar player in the closeups in the Tompall and the Glaser Brothers video here: Wembley 1985
Pray for justice and peace.
Shalom
Really Rachel
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
131 - 92
Congratulations Celtics Fans!
This is what teamwork can do.
No superstars, no out of whack egos ... a real team relying on each other.
There's a lesson here for Fitchburg. But lessons are for another day. Tonight, we revel in a well deserved NBA championship.
Shalom
This is what teamwork can do.
No superstars, no out of whack egos ... a real team relying on each other.
There's a lesson here for Fitchburg. But lessons are for another day. Tonight, we revel in a well deserved NBA championship.
Shalom
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
The most important thing in life
Update June 16, 2008 ... Whew! Beautiful Baby B.C. is out of danger, all is well, and the happy family is settling in at home. We won't be posting pictures due to privacy concerns on the internet, but she is a gorgeous girl (aren't all grandchildren beautiful?)
Thanks for the good wishes, prayers, concern and love.
Now, back to politics, Fitchburg style!
It's a GIRL!
Longmont, Colorado has a new resident tonight! My fifth grandchild landed healthy and beautiful, and all is right in Really Rachel's world.
Thanks to my friends for the prayers and support ... and thanks to my two beautiful daughters and wonderful sons-in-law for being such exemplary and loving parents.
L'Dor V'Dor
Mazel Tov, R. and A.
Welcome to the world, B. C.
Thanks for the good wishes, prayers, concern and love.
Now, back to politics, Fitchburg style!
It's a GIRL!
Longmont, Colorado has a new resident tonight! My fifth grandchild landed healthy and beautiful, and all is right in Really Rachel's world.
Thanks to my friends for the prayers and support ... and thanks to my two beautiful daughters and wonderful sons-in-law for being such exemplary and loving parents.
L'Dor V'Dor
Mazel Tov, R. and A.
Welcome to the world, B. C.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
There she goes again....
Dammit, Lisa!
Your city councilors are giving up their summer Saturday to work on the Mayor's budget. (See Excerpted Agenda Below.) Where will Mayor Lisa Wong be? See the Press Release below the council agenda.
FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET SESSIONS
WITH DEPARTMENT HEADS
Council as a Whole Committee
Council Chamber, City Hall, 718 Main St., Fitchburg
Saturday, June 14, 2008
8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Finance & Administration Department:
Auditing Division 20 – 21
Employee Benefits 68
Miscellaneous 69
Assessors Division 18 - 19
Information Technology Division 22 - 24
Purchasing Division 25 - 26
Treasurer/Collector Division 27 - 28
Debt Service 29
Beginning at 10:45 AM until finished
Public Works Department:
Engineering Division 47
Streets, Parks & Cemetery Division 48 – 49 51 50
Water Enterprise Division 76 - 78
Wastewater Enterprise Division 74 - 75
Public Facilities Division 52
And while your city councilors are doing the job you elected them to do during this all day Saturday session, here's where your mayor plans to be:
For Immediate Release: June 6, 2008
Contact: Michelle Collette, (978) 448-6606
Fitchburg’s Mayor Lisa Wong Speaks to Groton Democrats
Democrats Engage the Next Generation of Political Leadership
Fitchburg’s youthful Mayor Lisa Wong will deliver the keynote speech at the Groton Democratic Town Committee’s annual “friend-raiser” on June 14, 2008. This annual potluck will be held from 12 noon - 4 p.m. at the Groton Senior Center, 163 West Main Street, Groton. This event is open to all those interested in hearing her speak, in learning about the Democratic Party, and DISCUSSING THIS YEAR'S EXCITING PRESIDENTIAL RACE. Young voters and high school students who will soon be voters, are especially encouraged to come (no need to cook, there will be plenty of food including pizza.)
Groton Democratic Town Committee Chair Michelle Collette said, “Mayor Wong is an intelligent, energetic woman who represents the next generation of political leadership. Her education and experience in economic development combined with the fresh approach to existing problems that her youth gives her, is an inspiration to young and old alike.”
From 2001-2006, Lisa worked for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority, including two and a half years as the agency's director. Last fall, at age 28, Lisa Wong was elected mayor of the City of Fitchburg with an overwhelming percentage of the vote. While Fitchburg faces many challenges, Lisa engaged voters with new ideas of the city's potential balanced with the experience to make them happen. Since being elected into office, Lisa has been working on financial stability. Lisa’s ultimate vision for Fitchburg is to take this old-mill-town and make it new with affordable housing, job opportunity, skilled workforce and easily accessed outdoor recreation. Her leadership on protecting the Nashua River Watershed creates a very real link between Groton and Fitchburg.
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2008
Time: 12 noon - 4 p.m.
Where: Groton Senior Center, 163 West Main Street, Groton, MA
Who: Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong (speaking at 1 p.m.), elected democratic officials and candidates, members of the Groton Democratic Town Committee and friends, family and other interested parties.
I'll leave you to draw your own conclusions. But for now, Mayor Wong, I was WRONG. You still don't get it, do you?
Shalom
Your city councilors are giving up their summer Saturday to work on the Mayor's budget. (See Excerpted Agenda Below.) Where will Mayor Lisa Wong be? See the Press Release below the council agenda.
FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET SESSIONS
WITH DEPARTMENT HEADS
Council as a Whole Committee
Council Chamber, City Hall, 718 Main St., Fitchburg
Saturday, June 14, 2008
8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Finance & Administration Department:
Auditing Division 20 – 21
Employee Benefits 68
Miscellaneous 69
Assessors Division 18 - 19
Information Technology Division 22 - 24
Purchasing Division 25 - 26
Treasurer/Collector Division 27 - 28
Debt Service 29
Beginning at 10:45 AM until finished
Public Works Department:
Engineering Division 47
Streets, Parks & Cemetery Division 48 – 49 51 50
Water Enterprise Division 76 - 78
Wastewater Enterprise Division 74 - 75
Public Facilities Division 52
And while your city councilors are doing the job you elected them to do during this all day Saturday session, here's where your mayor plans to be:
For Immediate Release: June 6, 2008
Contact: Michelle Collette, (978) 448-6606
Fitchburg’s Mayor Lisa Wong Speaks to Groton Democrats
Democrats Engage the Next Generation of Political Leadership
Fitchburg’s youthful Mayor Lisa Wong will deliver the keynote speech at the Groton Democratic Town Committee’s annual “friend-raiser” on June 14, 2008. This annual potluck will be held from 12 noon - 4 p.m. at the Groton Senior Center, 163 West Main Street, Groton. This event is open to all those interested in hearing her speak, in learning about the Democratic Party, and DISCUSSING THIS YEAR'S EXCITING PRESIDENTIAL RACE. Young voters and high school students who will soon be voters, are especially encouraged to come (no need to cook, there will be plenty of food including pizza.)
Groton Democratic Town Committee Chair Michelle Collette said, “Mayor Wong is an intelligent, energetic woman who represents the next generation of political leadership. Her education and experience in economic development combined with the fresh approach to existing problems that her youth gives her, is an inspiration to young and old alike.”
From 2001-2006, Lisa worked for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority, including two and a half years as the agency's director. Last fall, at age 28, Lisa Wong was elected mayor of the City of Fitchburg with an overwhelming percentage of the vote. While Fitchburg faces many challenges, Lisa engaged voters with new ideas of the city's potential balanced with the experience to make them happen. Since being elected into office, Lisa has been working on financial stability. Lisa’s ultimate vision for Fitchburg is to take this old-mill-town and make it new with affordable housing, job opportunity, skilled workforce and easily accessed outdoor recreation. Her leadership on protecting the Nashua River Watershed creates a very real link between Groton and Fitchburg.
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2008
Time: 12 noon - 4 p.m.
Where: Groton Senior Center, 163 West Main Street, Groton, MA
Who: Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong (speaking at 1 p.m.), elected democratic officials and candidates, members of the Groton Democratic Town Committee and friends, family and other interested parties.
I'll leave you to draw your own conclusions. But for now, Mayor Wong, I was WRONG. You still don't get it, do you?
Shalom
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Not the LIBRARY again!
Little things mean a lot.....
Why am I droning on about whether certification to receive state aid for the Fitchburg Public Library requires a librarian with a Masters Degree in Library Sciences, as the Fitchburg librarian informed city council on Thursday night?
Well, the details matter. Specifically the details that make up requirements for a certification that depends upon another certification - they matter a lot. Details provided by a department chief to the city council during budget hearings - well those details matter immensely.
So let's get it right, shall we?
Is it more common these days for a librarian in a city or town of greater than 10,000 population to have a Masters degree?
Yup.
Do either Mass General Law or the Code of Massachusetts Regulations (605 CMR) require a Masters degree?
Nope
Don't take my word - read for yourself:
Here's the link to the entire regulation for certification of librarians in Massachusetts:
http://mblc.state.ma.us/mblc/laws/code/605cmr3.php
And here's the bottom line for librarians to be certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts:
1. Graduation from an accredited FOUR YEAR COLLEGE or overseas college and university programs deemed equivalent in the United States
2. The completion of 18 semester hours of library science courses
3. Experience. Minimum of three years experience
4. Passing score (70 of 100 plus passing the essay portion) of the certification examination
THOSE WHO GRADUATED FROM AN ALA ACCREDITED MASTERS DEGREE PROGRAM ARE EXEMPT FROM THE EXAMINATION.
This is not at ALL the same thing as a Masters Degree being required for certification. It's sort of like saying that in order to be a police officer one must be able to operate a machine gun.
My information comes from:
Where there is one error, there are likely to be others. Facts count. Of all the city employees one expects to provide accurate information, it should be your chief librarian.
Not knowing the state requirements for her own position, how can we trust the veracity or accuracy of ANY of the information she presented in the budget session?
Touching the untouchable.....
Regarding the sacred cow, i.e., the TRUST FUND, we know it has already been tapped once for building repairs (the $31,000 loan the trustees made to the city in 2007 at the former mayor's request), so apparently it CAN be touched for emergencies.
And here's why the loan from the trust fund to the city last year is important right now:
The $31,000 was a LOAN from the trust fund to the city, whereby the city turned around and spent the $31,000 on library building repairs. Because it was done that way, the $31,000 counted (or should have done) toward the city's appropriation to the library, which is considered by the board of library commissioners in determining certification for state aid.
So, ladies and gents, if you really want to keep your library certified so we can continue to participate in the Interlibrary Loan Program (the only real reason for maintaining state certification), and continue to lend out more books through that program than we borrow (almost 4 to 1 ratio), here's our suggestion:
Borrow the money from the Trust Fund....
Appropriate the loan amount through the budget to the library, and ....
Voila!
There's your certification.
I'm sure the trustees will negotiate a favorable rate of interest.
It will be over a year before we can pass an override for the library (too late to certify), as override ballots have to be certified by August ... so this year an override is not an option.
Or, we could calm down and realize that the major issue is that we won't be able to loan our books out through the Interlibrary Loan program to residents of other cities and towns who depend upon us so heavily.
However, special arrangements COULD be made by our trustees, with the proviso that reciprocal privileges would be granted to Fitchburg residents during our period of being uncertified.
We could also begin charging for the things that are not required to be free: renting instead of free borrowing of non-book items. Tickets with a nominal fee to cover the cost of the concerts and programs. I can afford five bucks for a concert, how about you? Discounts for seniors and children, of course.
We might even consider exploring options with similarly strapped neighboring communities to share libraries and expenses. The state has provisions for shared library systems across two or more communities. Shirley and Lunenburg are both facing financial difficulties. Why not ask them, city councilors or Mayor Wong? We have nothing to lose - but our library certification.
No campaigning or political advertising on city property!
One word about political petitions and banners on CITY PROPERTY:
Violation of city policy. You might as well have hung up John McCain, Clinton or Obama posters.
Political advertising on city property is not permitted, no how, no way, at no time. Neither is campaigning.
Pretty brazen, too, that they were re-posted after being formally instructed to take them down. There would be no difference if the DPW, Fire Department and Police Department wallpapered City Hall with petitions to maintain their budgets.
Any chief librarian who PERMITS such behavior, never mind is the instigator of it, deserves to be out looking for a job elsewhere. This woman has done more to split and upset the citizens of Fitchburg these past two years than the divisive former ward councilor cum mayoral candidate ever dared to.
Did taxpayers also provide the paper and printer ink for the banners and petitions? How much did that little campaign cost the taxpayers from the library budget?
It's time this city set some limits and demanded better adherence to standards of conduct by city employees, on and off city property.
I sincerely hope Mayor Wong accepts the resignation letter she received last week.
That would go a long way toward restoring our library to the best community resource we can afford, and is a step toward healing our city.
Holding our library hostage
To the trustees of the libraries of our neighboring communities who voted to refuse library privileges in their communities to their Fitchburg neighbors - the same neighbors who have footed the bill and who have extended our hospitality all these years:
We lend out four times as many books to your communities through Interlibrary Loan as we take in, and heaven only knows how many nonresidents physically check out books from the Fitchburg Public Library.
Cut off our residents and you will have cut off your own noses to try to force a political issue that is outside your jurisdiction.
If we decertify and you refuse our residents, you just might see me rolling around in the little red Love Bug with a picket sign right outside the Fitchburg Public Library.
The sign will read:
FITCHBURG FACILITIES FOR FITCHBURG TAXPAYERS ONLY.
Somehow, I don't think I'll be alone this time either.
Let's all do what's right. There are options on the table and none of those options include snapping our fingers to come up $800k for the library this year.
If that causes Ms. A.W. to leave for greener pastures ... don't let the door hit you, madam, on your way out.
As far as the mysterious trust fund ... show me the document ... and SHOW ME THE MONEY! $$$$$$$$$$
Shalom
Why am I droning on about whether certification to receive state aid for the Fitchburg Public Library requires a librarian with a Masters Degree in Library Sciences, as the Fitchburg librarian informed city council on Thursday night?
Well, the details matter. Specifically the details that make up requirements for a certification that depends upon another certification - they matter a lot. Details provided by a department chief to the city council during budget hearings - well those details matter immensely.
So let's get it right, shall we?
Is it more common these days for a librarian in a city or town of greater than 10,000 population to have a Masters degree?
Yup.
Do either Mass General Law or the Code of Massachusetts Regulations (605 CMR) require a Masters degree?
Nope
Don't take my word - read for yourself:
Here's the link to the entire regulation for certification of librarians in Massachusetts:
http://mblc.state.ma.us/mblc/laws/code/605cmr3.php
And here's the bottom line for librarians to be certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts:
1. Graduation from an accredited FOUR YEAR COLLEGE or overseas college and university programs deemed equivalent in the United States
2. The completion of 18 semester hours of library science courses
3. Experience. Minimum of three years experience
4. Passing score (70 of 100 plus passing the essay portion) of the certification examination
THOSE WHO GRADUATED FROM AN ALA ACCREDITED MASTERS DEGREE PROGRAM ARE EXEMPT FROM THE EXAMINATION.
This is not at ALL the same thing as a Masters Degree being required for certification. It's sort of like saying that in order to be a police officer one must be able to operate a machine gun.
My information comes from:
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners
98 North Washington St., Suite 401, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
Tel: 617-725-1860 800-952-7403 (in state) Fax: 617-725-0140
Now that we have established that fact, can we finally put to rest that the librarian made a factual error in her answer to the good city councilor!98 North Washington St., Suite 401, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
Tel: 617-725-1860 800-952-7403 (in state) Fax: 617-725-0140
Where there is one error, there are likely to be others. Facts count. Of all the city employees one expects to provide accurate information, it should be your chief librarian.
Not knowing the state requirements for her own position, how can we trust the veracity or accuracy of ANY of the information she presented in the budget session?
Touching the untouchable.....
Regarding the sacred cow, i.e., the TRUST FUND, we know it has already been tapped once for building repairs (the $31,000 loan the trustees made to the city in 2007 at the former mayor's request), so apparently it CAN be touched for emergencies.
And here's why the loan from the trust fund to the city last year is important right now:
The $31,000 was a LOAN from the trust fund to the city, whereby the city turned around and spent the $31,000 on library building repairs. Because it was done that way, the $31,000 counted (or should have done) toward the city's appropriation to the library, which is considered by the board of library commissioners in determining certification for state aid.
So, ladies and gents, if you really want to keep your library certified so we can continue to participate in the Interlibrary Loan Program (the only real reason for maintaining state certification), and continue to lend out more books through that program than we borrow (almost 4 to 1 ratio), here's our suggestion:
Borrow the money from the Trust Fund....
Appropriate the loan amount through the budget to the library, and ....
Voila!
There's your certification.
I'm sure the trustees will negotiate a favorable rate of interest.
It will be over a year before we can pass an override for the library (too late to certify), as override ballots have to be certified by August ... so this year an override is not an option.
Or, we could calm down and realize that the major issue is that we won't be able to loan our books out through the Interlibrary Loan program to residents of other cities and towns who depend upon us so heavily.
However, special arrangements COULD be made by our trustees, with the proviso that reciprocal privileges would be granted to Fitchburg residents during our period of being uncertified.
We could also begin charging for the things that are not required to be free: renting instead of free borrowing of non-book items. Tickets with a nominal fee to cover the cost of the concerts and programs. I can afford five bucks for a concert, how about you? Discounts for seniors and children, of course.
We might even consider exploring options with similarly strapped neighboring communities to share libraries and expenses. The state has provisions for shared library systems across two or more communities. Shirley and Lunenburg are both facing financial difficulties. Why not ask them, city councilors or Mayor Wong? We have nothing to lose - but our library certification.
No campaigning or political advertising on city property!
One word about political petitions and banners on CITY PROPERTY:
Illegal.
Violation of city policy. You might as well have hung up John McCain, Clinton or Obama posters.
Political advertising on city property is not permitted, no how, no way, at no time. Neither is campaigning.
Pretty brazen, too, that they were re-posted after being formally instructed to take them down. There would be no difference if the DPW, Fire Department and Police Department wallpapered City Hall with petitions to maintain their budgets.
Any chief librarian who PERMITS such behavior, never mind is the instigator of it, deserves to be out looking for a job elsewhere. This woman has done more to split and upset the citizens of Fitchburg these past two years than the divisive former ward councilor cum mayoral candidate ever dared to.
Did taxpayers also provide the paper and printer ink for the banners and petitions? How much did that little campaign cost the taxpayers from the library budget?
It's time this city set some limits and demanded better adherence to standards of conduct by city employees, on and off city property.
I sincerely hope Mayor Wong accepts the resignation letter she received last week.
That would go a long way toward restoring our library to the best community resource we can afford, and is a step toward healing our city.
Holding our library hostage
To the trustees of the libraries of our neighboring communities who voted to refuse library privileges in their communities to their Fitchburg neighbors - the same neighbors who have footed the bill and who have extended our hospitality all these years:
We lend out four times as many books to your communities through Interlibrary Loan as we take in, and heaven only knows how many nonresidents physically check out books from the Fitchburg Public Library.
Cut off our residents and you will have cut off your own noses to try to force a political issue that is outside your jurisdiction.
If we decertify and you refuse our residents, you just might see me rolling around in the little red Love Bug with a picket sign right outside the Fitchburg Public Library.
The sign will read:
FITCHBURG FACILITIES FOR FITCHBURG TAXPAYERS ONLY.
Somehow, I don't think I'll be alone this time either.
Let's all do what's right. There are options on the table and none of those options include snapping our fingers to come up $800k for the library this year.
If that causes Ms. A.W. to leave for greener pastures ... don't let the door hit you, madam, on your way out.
Shalom
Friday, June 6, 2008
Teamwork - Pulling Together
A lot has happened over the past few weeks. Hot issues have resolved or at least settled down, back burner issues have come to the forefront, we've had some surprises right out of left field. It has been anything but boring to live in Fitchburg!
It's beginning to look like the trash tax is dead. Whether those who opposed it did so on financial grounds or constitutional ones, the controversy pretty much stayed civil and between the lines. This is how it's supposed to work. City Hall proposes something that doesn't sit well with folks. People discuss and debate and make their feelings known. And citizens exercise their rights of assembly and free speech -in a respectful and orderly way, no less - to affect the outcome of proposed legislation. The really big deal is the empowerment factor - we all feel that for the first time in a very long time our city councilors and mayors heard us with more than just their ears.
Sometimes it takes a controversy to bring us together. We all now have a much clearer understanding of one another than could have happened during the campaign season. Before this, it was "us" and "them." Now we're a municipal family. It's just "us."
As one of the members of the group who appeared at city hall asking to be heard, thank you to my fellow citizens for coming together. And thank you, indeed, City Councilors and Mayor Wong, for remembering that we are all partners in the progress of Fitchburg.
We'll debate and clash and discuss again, which is what involved citizens and their elected government are supposed to do. Now that we've established two-way communication, we're empowered by the hope of participating in "righting the ship" as Councilor Conry says.
Thank you Lisa, Tom, Annie, Marcus, Stephen, Dean, David, Norman, Joel, Kevin, Joseph and Jody.
As the dust settles on this skirmish and we move forward to face the challenges ahead, this citizen can truly believe tonight in the motto on our police cruisers, "Our city, stronger together."
Shalom
It's beginning to look like the trash tax is dead. Whether those who opposed it did so on financial grounds or constitutional ones, the controversy pretty much stayed civil and between the lines. This is how it's supposed to work. City Hall proposes something that doesn't sit well with folks. People discuss and debate and make their feelings known. And citizens exercise their rights of assembly and free speech -in a respectful and orderly way, no less - to affect the outcome of proposed legislation. The really big deal is the empowerment factor - we all feel that for the first time in a very long time our city councilors and mayors heard us with more than just their ears.
Sometimes it takes a controversy to bring us together. We all now have a much clearer understanding of one another than could have happened during the campaign season. Before this, it was "us" and "them." Now we're a municipal family. It's just "us."
As one of the members of the group who appeared at city hall asking to be heard, thank you to my fellow citizens for coming together. And thank you, indeed, City Councilors and Mayor Wong, for remembering that we are all partners in the progress of Fitchburg.
We'll debate and clash and discuss again, which is what involved citizens and their elected government are supposed to do. Now that we've established two-way communication, we're empowered by the hope of participating in "righting the ship" as Councilor Conry says.
Thank you Lisa, Tom, Annie, Marcus, Stephen, Dean, David, Norman, Joel, Kevin, Joseph and Jody.
As the dust settles on this skirmish and we move forward to face the challenges ahead, this citizen can truly believe tonight in the motto on our police cruisers, "Our city, stronger together."
Shalom
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Factual Errors in Fitchburg Librarian's Statements to City Council
Just the facts, ma'am.
If you're old enough to remember Sergeant Friday and Dragnet, you're old enough to be spending some time in the library of your choice.
Are these lousy times for the Fitchburg Public Library? Absolutely. They're lousy financial times for the City of Fitchburg as a whole due to six years of mismanagement and mayoral incompetence.
But let's straighten out some misinformation provided tonight to the city council by the Fitchburg librarian.
First, the librarian told the council that the Chief Librarian must have a Masters Degree in Library Science. According to the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, a DEGREE (Masters is not specified) in Library Science and certification as a librarian is the requirement.
Second, Councilor DeMartino specifically asked the chief librarian if a mother took her children to the Leominster Public Library and paid a fee, could they use the library. The librarian's answer was an unequivocal NO. She went on to state that she had called Ashby and all the libraries of surrounding towns and the answer was also "No" at all those libraries.
So we investigated further. From the Leominster Public Library website:
http://www.leominsterlibrary.org/library_card.htm
Services | Library Card
Applying for a library card:
• Any resident of Massachusetts may apply for a card.
• A card from any C/W MARS public library in
Central Massachusetts may be used here.
• Your first card is free. Replacement cards cost $1.00.
Library cards are issued immediately at the library’s Adult Circulation Desk upon the presentation of completed application form and acceptable identification.
Acceptable forms of identification:
Before a Leominster Public Library card can be issued, all applicants must provide identification containing their name and current address. Parents or guardians may use their identification to satisfy this requirement for their minor children. Acceptable forms of identification include:
• Driver’s License
• Automobile Registration
• Lease or Rental Agreement
• Utility Bill (issued within the last month)
• Bank Statement or Check Book
• Piece of cancelled mail (within the last month)
• Official School Documents
Library cards for minors:
A parent or guardian must sign for children under the age of 12. Teenagers between the ages of 12 – 17 may sign for themselves.
Library card expiration dates:
Library cards are renewed periodically. At that time, borrower information is verified and the same card is used.
For your convenience, you may print the Leominster Public Library Card Application. Fill it out and bring it to the library with your identification.
They even provide a pdf file library card application online.
Turns out that that's pretty much the policy around the state.
So ... yes, you may have to drive. Or Seniors and those who depend upon MART will have a longer ride. But right next door in Leominster, you're welcome. You can have a library card - FOR FREE, NO FEE. You can check out books and participate in interlibrary loan through Leominster or any other public library of your choice that receives state aid.
Ideal solution? No. Are these ideal times? No.
And about waivers: in FY 08, in addition to the 10 waivers granted every year, there were 55 additional certification waiver slots (don't know how many were requested and how many granted). The governor's FY09 proposal reduces the additional slots above 10 to an additional 25. Is there paperwork to do? Yup. That's part of the job of a librarian.
While the library is a major public focus, let's consider this. MANY of the calls to city councilors (and calls and emails to this author) about the library closing down part time have been from people in adjacent towns who use our library. Now just might be the time to look into establishing a regional library in conjunction with other cash strapped towns in this area. Economies of scale.
Other regional services have worked well for us, particularly Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School.
Let's look into it shall we?
In the interim, battle with the truth and with the facts. We and our children and grandchildren will not lose access to books if the Fitchburg Public Library temporarily decertifies. Histrionics and half truths serve no productive purpose.
Don't know about you, but my first stop this week will be at the Adult Circulation Center of the Leominster Public Library - to apply for a FREE LIBRARY CARD!
See you there!
Shalom
If you're old enough to remember Sergeant Friday and Dragnet, you're old enough to be spending some time in the library of your choice.
Are these lousy times for the Fitchburg Public Library? Absolutely. They're lousy financial times for the City of Fitchburg as a whole due to six years of mismanagement and mayoral incompetence.
But let's straighten out some misinformation provided tonight to the city council by the Fitchburg librarian.
First, the librarian told the council that the Chief Librarian must have a Masters Degree in Library Science. According to the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, a DEGREE (Masters is not specified) in Library Science and certification as a librarian is the requirement.
Second, Councilor DeMartino specifically asked the chief librarian if a mother took her children to the Leominster Public Library and paid a fee, could they use the library. The librarian's answer was an unequivocal NO. She went on to state that she had called Ashby and all the libraries of surrounding towns and the answer was also "No" at all those libraries.
So we investigated further. From the Leominster Public Library website:
http://www.leominsterlibrary.org/library_card.htm
Services | Library Card
Applying for a library card:
• Any resident of Massachusetts may apply for a card.
• A card from any C/W MARS public library in
Central Massachusetts may be used here.
• Your first card is free. Replacement cards cost $1.00.
Library cards are issued immediately at the library’s Adult Circulation Desk upon the presentation of completed application form and acceptable identification.
Acceptable forms of identification:
Before a Leominster Public Library card can be issued, all applicants must provide identification containing their name and current address. Parents or guardians may use their identification to satisfy this requirement for their minor children. Acceptable forms of identification include:
• Driver’s License
• Automobile Registration
• Lease or Rental Agreement
• Utility Bill (issued within the last month)
• Bank Statement or Check Book
• Piece of cancelled mail (within the last month)
• Official School Documents
Library cards for minors:
A parent or guardian must sign for children under the age of 12. Teenagers between the ages of 12 – 17 may sign for themselves.
Library card expiration dates:
Library cards are renewed periodically. At that time, borrower information is verified and the same card is used.
For your convenience, you may print the Leominster Public Library Card Application. Fill it out and bring it to the library with your identification.
They even provide a pdf file library card application online.
Turns out that that's pretty much the policy around the state.
So ... yes, you may have to drive. Or Seniors and those who depend upon MART will have a longer ride. But right next door in Leominster, you're welcome. You can have a library card - FOR FREE, NO FEE. You can check out books and participate in interlibrary loan through Leominster or any other public library of your choice that receives state aid.
Ideal solution? No. Are these ideal times? No.
And about waivers: in FY 08, in addition to the 10 waivers granted every year, there were 55 additional certification waiver slots (don't know how many were requested and how many granted). The governor's FY09 proposal reduces the additional slots above 10 to an additional 25. Is there paperwork to do? Yup. That's part of the job of a librarian.
While the library is a major public focus, let's consider this. MANY of the calls to city councilors (and calls and emails to this author) about the library closing down part time have been from people in adjacent towns who use our library. Now just might be the time to look into establishing a regional library in conjunction with other cash strapped towns in this area. Economies of scale.
Other regional services have worked well for us, particularly Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School.
Let's look into it shall we?
In the interim, battle with the truth and with the facts. We and our children and grandchildren will not lose access to books if the Fitchburg Public Library temporarily decertifies. Histrionics and half truths serve no productive purpose.
Don't know about you, but my first stop this week will be at the Adult Circulation Center of the Leominster Public Library - to apply for a FREE LIBRARY CARD!
See you there!
Shalom
QUEEN Lisa, no more?
Welcome to Fitchburg, MAYOR Wong!
I think she gets it. Tonight Mayor Lisa Wong, explaining her process in getting to the disastrous library budget cuts, finally stated that she can't do it alone, she needs our help. She stated that she wants to hear from the citizens.
Mayor Wong finally gets it. She gets that we will not tolerate the proposed (and now dead, we hope) trash tax. She gets it that we want a say in how our dollars are spent.
We disagree still about much, including spending money we really don't have for four police cruisers when we might have managed with one or two new ones added to the one coming from grant money, and yet having no money to keep the library functioning effectively or keep the pools and parks open, or wherever else some of that money could have gone.
But just for tonight, Queen Lisa took off the tiara and stepped down off the throne.
If this is for real, and you're really prepared to listen to the citizens, then Mayor Lisa Wong, welcome to Fitchburg. You're going to get an earful.
Please don't turn a deaf ear again. Third chances are harder to come by.
Shalom
I think she gets it. Tonight Mayor Lisa Wong, explaining her process in getting to the disastrous library budget cuts, finally stated that she can't do it alone, she needs our help. She stated that she wants to hear from the citizens.
Mayor Wong finally gets it. She gets that we will not tolerate the proposed (and now dead, we hope) trash tax. She gets it that we want a say in how our dollars are spent.
We disagree still about much, including spending money we really don't have for four police cruisers when we might have managed with one or two new ones added to the one coming from grant money, and yet having no money to keep the library functioning effectively or keep the pools and parks open, or wherever else some of that money could have gone.
But just for tonight, Queen Lisa took off the tiara and stepped down off the throne.
If this is for real, and you're really prepared to listen to the citizens, then Mayor Lisa Wong, welcome to Fitchburg. You're going to get an earful.
Please don't turn a deaf ear again. Third chances are harder to come by.
Shalom
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
City Council Budget Session - Fire Department
No shenanigans tonight, just solid, mature, respectful budget sessions as Fire Chief Roy sat in the hot seat.
First, credit to Mayor Lisa Wong, whose lateness was explained, and who indeed showed up for the meeting as promised. Wong's presence was helpful as she was able to clarify various points and answer questions for councilors.
Next, not necessarily in order, hats off to Councilor At Large Dean Tran, who told Chief Roy that he doesn't blame him or other department heads for asking to restore some functions. Tran went on to say that he is advocating for fairness, "Last night we magically found one hundred thousand (dollars) to buy vehicles. I regret participating in that vote." "I wish you the best," Tran said to Roy. Adult of the Evening Award to Councilor Tran.
Ward 6 Councilor Jody Joseph asked whether it would be feasible to recruit reserve civilian volunteer firefighters to assist the fire department. The world is a different place and Joseph's suggestion wasn't viewed as an option, but in the spirit of all pitching in during hard times, another tip of the hat to you, Jody.
Ward 5 Councilor Solomito asked Chief Roy to explain why there are so many officers in the fire department and a smaller percentage of firefighters, as compared to ranking officer to patrolmen ratios in the police department. Roy explained that no matter what rank, all fire department personnel including the Chief are working firefighters who respond, and that Lieutenants, Captains, Deputies, all have additional duties and responsibilities for firefighters and equipment.
Council President Tom Conry discussed that Councilor At Large Stephan Hay had previously submitted to a prior administration a request to hire a professional to conduct a study to determine exactly what our police and fire staffing levels should be, and how the ranks should be broken down in order for the city to achieve the most efficient and effective staffing levels. Conry mentioned that no such study had been done in the past thirty years and is long overdue.
Chief Roy said one individual at the fire department is currently approaching businesses to solicit donations for just such a study. This author fully supports this, and we encourage finding the money to do this important survey. This information would help us appropriately fund public safety in a professional manner. Taking the politics out of funding police and fire is a desperate need in Fitchburg. These decisions need to be made rationally, not emotionally.
Another discussion sparked by Councilor At Large Annie DeMartino and picked up by Ward 4 Councilor Kevin Starr and Council President Conry centered around Fitchburg State College. DeMartino requested an accounting of all the properties FSC has purchased and taken off the tax rolls. Next, Starr requested from Chief Roy a separate breakdown of fire and ambulance calls to the college campus. The councilors brought out that Fitchburg State College receives fire protection from the city, street clearing and other services, but due to its exempt status does not contribute to the cost of same. Conry requested that Chief Roy send a letter to the state asking if there might be some state money available to the city to minimize the economic impact of providing free services to the college. Roy mentioned that, ironically, if we had a state prison here we would receive equipment or financial aid from the state.
We will be following this among other town-gown issues.
A little follow-up note on the out of order vote to purchase police cruisers: It seems several of the city councilors who voted in favor last night have had a change of heart (Councilor Dean Tran, man that he is, said so publicly on camera).
This, ladies and gentlemen, is why it is NEVER a good idea to suspend the rules and vote in haste. Deliberations and viewing a thing from all sides and making an informed, rational decision - that's what we expect from our city council. Vote in haste, repent at leisure.
This is not over. This is part of a pattern of shady behavior that we really hoped would go away after last November's election.
We intend to keep the pressure on the city council and the mayor to follow the rules. The citizens deserve nothing less.
Tonight's budget session was a breath of fresh air. Thursday night with the library budget on the agenda promises fireworks. Don't miss it. 7 PM channel 10 FATV.
First, credit to Mayor Lisa Wong, whose lateness was explained, and who indeed showed up for the meeting as promised. Wong's presence was helpful as she was able to clarify various points and answer questions for councilors.
Next, not necessarily in order, hats off to Councilor At Large Dean Tran, who told Chief Roy that he doesn't blame him or other department heads for asking to restore some functions. Tran went on to say that he is advocating for fairness, "Last night we magically found one hundred thousand (dollars) to buy vehicles. I regret participating in that vote." "I wish you the best," Tran said to Roy. Adult of the Evening Award to Councilor Tran.
Ward 6 Councilor Jody Joseph asked whether it would be feasible to recruit reserve civilian volunteer firefighters to assist the fire department. The world is a different place and Joseph's suggestion wasn't viewed as an option, but in the spirit of all pitching in during hard times, another tip of the hat to you, Jody.
Ward 5 Councilor Solomito asked Chief Roy to explain why there are so many officers in the fire department and a smaller percentage of firefighters, as compared to ranking officer to patrolmen ratios in the police department. Roy explained that no matter what rank, all fire department personnel including the Chief are working firefighters who respond, and that Lieutenants, Captains, Deputies, all have additional duties and responsibilities for firefighters and equipment.
Council President Tom Conry discussed that Councilor At Large Stephan Hay had previously submitted to a prior administration a request to hire a professional to conduct a study to determine exactly what our police and fire staffing levels should be, and how the ranks should be broken down in order for the city to achieve the most efficient and effective staffing levels. Conry mentioned that no such study had been done in the past thirty years and is long overdue.
Chief Roy said one individual at the fire department is currently approaching businesses to solicit donations for just such a study. This author fully supports this, and we encourage finding the money to do this important survey. This information would help us appropriately fund public safety in a professional manner. Taking the politics out of funding police and fire is a desperate need in Fitchburg. These decisions need to be made rationally, not emotionally.
Another discussion sparked by Councilor At Large Annie DeMartino and picked up by Ward 4 Councilor Kevin Starr and Council President Conry centered around Fitchburg State College. DeMartino requested an accounting of all the properties FSC has purchased and taken off the tax rolls. Next, Starr requested from Chief Roy a separate breakdown of fire and ambulance calls to the college campus. The councilors brought out that Fitchburg State College receives fire protection from the city, street clearing and other services, but due to its exempt status does not contribute to the cost of same. Conry requested that Chief Roy send a letter to the state asking if there might be some state money available to the city to minimize the economic impact of providing free services to the college. Roy mentioned that, ironically, if we had a state prison here we would receive equipment or financial aid from the state.
We will be following this among other town-gown issues.
A little follow-up note on the out of order vote to purchase police cruisers: It seems several of the city councilors who voted in favor last night have had a change of heart (Councilor Dean Tran, man that he is, said so publicly on camera).
This, ladies and gentlemen, is why it is NEVER a good idea to suspend the rules and vote in haste. Deliberations and viewing a thing from all sides and making an informed, rational decision - that's what we expect from our city council. Vote in haste, repent at leisure.
This is not over. This is part of a pattern of shady behavior that we really hoped would go away after last November's election.
We intend to keep the pressure on the city council and the mayor to follow the rules. The citizens deserve nothing less.
Tonight's budget session was a breath of fresh air. Thursday night with the library budget on the agenda promises fireworks. Don't miss it. 7 PM channel 10 FATV.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Same old tricks from the new mayor and rubber stamp council
Fitchburg to purchase new police cruisers
Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong tonight asked the City Council to appropriate money to purchase new police cruisers from 'found money' in the police department budget and from free cash.
Once again, the Fitchburg City Council voted to suspend the rules to accomodate a late filing by the mayor, and pushed through a measure spending money without placing the item on the agenda and receiving input from the public.
With police officers' jobs being cut and the library in danger of recertification, the city will be spending every dollar in its pocket, despite the new police chief DeMoura and Captain Tasca stating to the council last week that there was no money in the budget to retain FIFTEEN POLICE OFFICERS OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS.
Wong asks for council to approve purchase of 2 police cruisers from free cash found some funding
late filed orders for appointment, out of order
Four cruisers will be purchased with money from the city and a fifth through a grant to the police department:
Rough transcription follows (pardon the shorthand)
order 70k to pd equipment against available funds
order 30k to pd equipment from personal services
suspension of the rules, motion Hay
all in favor under suspension motion to adopt
kaddy - asks if marked cruisers, mayor says yes they are marked cruisers ...
demartino - last wk police chief was asked if anywhere in budget to save money and keep policemen, stated there wasn't ... stated this was bare bones budget ... am i to believe tonight we have found this money ...
conry 4 from free cash and 5th from grant ... demartino we need men more, not going to vote for the cruisers ... we're dealing with free cash before we finish the budget .. i am against this
conry ... several of us worked through mayors office because deplorable condition of the cruisers heard from councilors we should do something ...
dinatale says 30k is from police personal services for this year would like to see all money from personal services ... that was positive taken from the pd budget ... thank the mayor for pushing this through ... this takes care of the 5 cruisers now we can focus on personnel ... what kind of cars are we buying?.... Wong understands same as in the past, kind of cars have been chosen ... dinatale reduces us to 55k free cash assume mayor's team has reviewed and we must be in good shape for 08 ... wong we're close to being in the black for 08 that's why we only took 30k from fiscal yr budget .... made decision we will be in black even after these purchases ... dinatale in favor, better than taking out a loan .... there is some money in police budget we can move around well thought out decision
hay ... 30k in personnel line item wasn't used would have gone back to free cash? Wong yes ... free cash has not been certified yet .... separate to 09 fy budget ... hay agrees with dinatale to buy now rather than take out a loan
solomito ... echo belief we need cruisers, concurs with demartino ... a wk ago two people sat in that chair and said we are at bare bones budget and have now come up with 30k ... was there, cushion ... should it be there for next year bothers me even more ... if that had it in mid june they don't need it for next year ... city can't use cushion money if we're closing the library
kaddy .. interesting point to make ... thank mayor and councilors working behind the scenes ... remind everyone we have six working groups need the sixth cruiser ... maybe someone can find some more cushion money somewhere
hay ... they were talking about next year's budget this money is from this year's budget ... many dpts will have small amt to give back ... best use of that money ... hopes we can come up with more money to save some personnel ... they went and found some money ...
dinatale ... don't believe right word is cushion ... if money available this year ... 4 straight years money has been available ... over many years same thing happens ... i think there will be money left over (holiday acct is 47k) confident we can manage ...
conry ... extremely pleased tonight several councilors mayor and me and finance team worked together to put these guys and ladies in vehicles where they will be safe protecting us
1 opposed - demartino, 9 in favor (who is absent?)
This thing was a done deal before the council meeting was called to orde
This citizen has a suggestion: Why don't we save the citizens and taxpayers the hassle of believing there is even any such thing anymore as an open meeting law? Don't bother to have meetings and publish an agenda. It is totally meaningless to Queen Lisa and her rubber stamp parliament.
No one in this city has any voice in how we are governed. Queen Lisa has spoken. Her little men have fallen into line. The only one on the city council with any balls is Councilor DeMartino.
The more things change the more they stay the same.
G-d help us all.
Shalom
Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong tonight asked the City Council to appropriate money to purchase new police cruisers from 'found money' in the police department budget and from free cash.
Once again, the Fitchburg City Council voted to suspend the rules to accomodate a late filing by the mayor, and pushed through a measure spending money without placing the item on the agenda and receiving input from the public.
With police officers' jobs being cut and the library in danger of recertification, the city will be spending every dollar in its pocket, despite the new police chief DeMoura and Captain Tasca stating to the council last week that there was no money in the budget to retain FIFTEEN POLICE OFFICERS OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS.
Wong asks for council to approve purchase of 2 police cruisers from free cash found some funding
late filed orders for appointment, out of order
Four cruisers will be purchased with money from the city and a fifth through a grant to the police department:
Rough transcription follows (pardon the shorthand)
order 70k to pd equipment against available funds
order 30k to pd equipment from personal services
suspension of the rules, motion Hay
all in favor under suspension motion to adopt
kaddy - asks if marked cruisers, mayor says yes they are marked cruisers ...
demartino - last wk police chief was asked if anywhere in budget to save money and keep policemen, stated there wasn't ... stated this was bare bones budget ... am i to believe tonight we have found this money ...
conry 4 from free cash and 5th from grant ... demartino we need men more, not going to vote for the cruisers ... we're dealing with free cash before we finish the budget .. i am against this
conry ... several of us worked through mayors office because deplorable condition of the cruisers heard from councilors we should do something ...
dinatale says 30k is from police personal services for this year would like to see all money from personal services ... that was positive taken from the pd budget ... thank the mayor for pushing this through ... this takes care of the 5 cruisers now we can focus on personnel ... what kind of cars are we buying?.... Wong understands same as in the past, kind of cars have been chosen ... dinatale reduces us to 55k free cash assume mayor's team has reviewed and we must be in good shape for 08 ... wong we're close to being in the black for 08 that's why we only took 30k from fiscal yr budget .... made decision we will be in black even after these purchases ... dinatale in favor, better than taking out a loan .... there is some money in police budget we can move around well thought out decision
hay ... 30k in personnel line item wasn't used would have gone back to free cash? Wong yes ... free cash has not been certified yet .... separate to 09 fy budget ... hay agrees with dinatale to buy now rather than take out a loan
solomito ... echo belief we need cruisers, concurs with demartino ... a wk ago two people sat in that chair and said we are at bare bones budget and have now come up with 30k ... was there, cushion ... should it be there for next year bothers me even more ... if that had it in mid june they don't need it for next year ... city can't use cushion money if we're closing the library
kaddy .. interesting point to make ... thank mayor and councilors working behind the scenes ... remind everyone we have six working groups need the sixth cruiser ... maybe someone can find some more cushion money somewhere
hay ... they were talking about next year's budget this money is from this year's budget ... many dpts will have small amt to give back ... best use of that money ... hopes we can come up with more money to save some personnel ... they went and found some money ...
dinatale ... don't believe right word is cushion ... if money available this year ... 4 straight years money has been available ... over many years same thing happens ... i think there will be money left over (holiday acct is 47k) confident we can manage ...
conry ... extremely pleased tonight several councilors mayor and me and finance team worked together to put these guys and ladies in vehicles where they will be safe protecting us
1 opposed - demartino, 9 in favor (who is absent?)
This thing was a done deal before the council meeting was called to orde
This citizen has a suggestion: Why don't we save the citizens and taxpayers the hassle of believing there is even any such thing anymore as an open meeting law? Don't bother to have meetings and publish an agenda. It is totally meaningless to Queen Lisa and her rubber stamp parliament.
No one in this city has any voice in how we are governed. Queen Lisa has spoken. Her little men have fallen into line. The only one on the city council with any balls is Councilor DeMartino.
The more things change the more they stay the same.
G-d help us all.
Shalom
Friday, May 30, 2008
From the horse's mouth - North-Snow-Main St Corner
There's been a lot of speculation lately about the possibility of a CVS at the corner formerly owned by Gerry Martel. We heard the rumors, participated in the "what-if" conversations here and at SF, and went looking for facts... not so hard to find after all.
So, to settle down the rumor mill and bring the matter into focus, here's what we know, thanks to Planning Co-ordinator David Streb:
Apparently a developer has reached agreement(s) to purchase all four private properties bounded by Snow, North and Main Street. The understanding is that the developer is interested in building a stand-alone building with a pharmacy as a tenant.
To date, nothing has been submitted to the City.
Streb says, "The city is preparing an RFP to solicit proposals for the publicly owned land to the north of those properties, to attract a mixed use retail-office-residential multi-story project that would provide significant economic benefit to the city. We have spoken to several developers interested in constructing student-oriented housing in that area."
We asked, "What was the grant you got for the FSC North St area?"
Streb's reply," The grant is a 40R Smart Growth grant that enabled us to hire a planning and development firm to advise the city in how to optimally develop the area across from the train station, a key area for the city's future. We hope to create a Smart Growth zoning district that would allow high density residential development by right, but it does not appear the lower Main Street area is suitable for that purpose.
This grant has nothing to do with the Urban Renewal payments to the Redevelopment Authority."
Everything else is speculation at this point. Have at it.
Shalom
So, to settle down the rumor mill and bring the matter into focus, here's what we know, thanks to Planning Co-ordinator David Streb:
Apparently a developer has reached agreement(s) to purchase all four private properties bounded by Snow, North and Main Street. The understanding is that the developer is interested in building a stand-alone building with a pharmacy as a tenant.
To date, nothing has been submitted to the City.
Streb says, "The city is preparing an RFP to solicit proposals for the publicly owned land to the north of those properties, to attract a mixed use retail-office-residential multi-story project that would provide significant economic benefit to the city. We have spoken to several developers interested in constructing student-oriented housing in that area."
We asked, "What was the grant you got for the FSC North St area?"
Streb's reply," The grant is a 40R Smart Growth grant that enabled us to hire a planning and development firm to advise the city in how to optimally develop the area across from the train station, a key area for the city's future. We hope to create a Smart Growth zoning district that would allow high density residential development by right, but it does not appear the lower Main Street area is suitable for that purpose.
This grant has nothing to do with the Urban Renewal payments to the Redevelopment Authority."
Everything else is speculation at this point. Have at it.
Shalom
Thursday, May 29, 2008
About Face at Save Fitchburg?
First, let me be perfectly clear. I like and respect Jason Lefferts. I think his Save Fitchburg blog has been a great resource and I love both The Fitchburg Pride and The Leominster Champion.
But I am SO mystified. You see, Jason started the Save Fitchburg blog in December, 2005 to oppose a Prop 2 1/2 override to pay for police, schools and services and instead advocated cutting services and fiscal responsibility as the way to manage the city's finances. So imagine my surprise (and that of MANY) when Jason posted last week that he favors the trash tax in order to provide the very same services he promoted cutting and managing two and a half years ago?
What changed your mind, Jason?
Shalom
I've excerpted to save space, but I don't think I've taken anything out of context.
December 2005
http://haloscan.com/tb/jlefferts1971/113448115486205653
Residents in Fitchburg already take on an unfair portion of the tax burden. Yes, we want a safe city, good schools for our kids, and pothole-free roads. But we also need a responsible and effective government.
This sets a dangerous precedent that we don't want. Taxpayers fulfill their responsibility when they pay their bills. City leaders haven't fulfilled their's on this issue. We can't have the city relying on the state or the taxpayers to bail them out year after year. We don't want to make this a recurring problem.
We know the option is cutting city services, and at least this year we support that option. Some times tough love is the answer, and we think this is one of those times.
and now in May, 2008...
http://savefitchburg.blogspot.com/2008/05/why-i-favor-trash-fee.html
The schools stink. The roads don't get plowed. The library is being cut back. Police officers aren't getting raises and are being laid off. The sidewalks aren't disabled-friendly. We complain, we vote, but we don't make changes.
In the Police Department, the change would be real and immediate, with officers left on the street. Other areas of the city would be bolstered.
Wouldn't be good if we could put more money in the schools, create a better school system, and create something that would make the city better, make it more attractive, make one more thing to be proud of?
But that desire to improve the School Department can be extended to a lot of city services.
I know this trash fee isn't a savior, but it ... Is it a financial run-around? There is an argument for that. But sometimes the decisions aren't that attractive.
We talk about political officials making "tough choices," but now it's time for us to make a tough choice. Fewer cops and firefighters, or fewer bucks. I'm voting for the cops. It all comes down to that questions: More services, or more bucks.
--------------------
Of all the blogs in Fitchburg, Fitchburg View appears to be the only voice for folks who don't toe the Wong line. We have a lot of reasons for being here, but if that was our only one it's enough.
We don't dislike Lisa Wong, but she has a lot to learn. In order to learn, she needs to begin listening to the citizens. Fitchburg View is here to provide a voice.
Shalom
But I am SO mystified. You see, Jason started the Save Fitchburg blog in December, 2005 to oppose a Prop 2 1/2 override to pay for police, schools and services and instead advocated cutting services and fiscal responsibility as the way to manage the city's finances. So imagine my surprise (and that of MANY) when Jason posted last week that he favors the trash tax in order to provide the very same services he promoted cutting and managing two and a half years ago?
What changed your mind, Jason?
Shalom
I've excerpted to save space, but I don't think I've taken anything out of context.
December 2005
http://haloscan.com/tb/jlefferts1971/113448115486205653
Residents in Fitchburg already take on an unfair portion of the tax burden. Yes, we want a safe city, good schools for our kids, and pothole-free roads. But we also need a responsible and effective government.
This sets a dangerous precedent that we don't want. Taxpayers fulfill their responsibility when they pay their bills. City leaders haven't fulfilled their's on this issue. We can't have the city relying on the state or the taxpayers to bail them out year after year. We don't want to make this a recurring problem.
We know the option is cutting city services, and at least this year we support that option. Some times tough love is the answer, and we think this is one of those times.
and now in May, 2008...
http://savefitchburg.blogspot.com/2008/05/why-i-favor-trash-fee.html
The schools stink. The roads don't get plowed. The library is being cut back. Police officers aren't getting raises and are being laid off. The sidewalks aren't disabled-friendly. We complain, we vote, but we don't make changes.
In the Police Department, the change would be real and immediate, with officers left on the street. Other areas of the city would be bolstered.
Wouldn't be good if we could put more money in the schools, create a better school system, and create something that would make the city better, make it more attractive, make one more thing to be proud of?
But that desire to improve the School Department can be extended to a lot of city services.
I know this trash fee isn't a savior, but it ... Is it a financial run-around? There is an argument for that. But sometimes the decisions aren't that attractive.
We talk about political officials making "tough choices," but now it's time for us to make a tough choice. Fewer cops and firefighters, or fewer bucks. I'm voting for the cops. It all comes down to that questions: More services, or more bucks.
--------------------
Of all the blogs in Fitchburg, Fitchburg View appears to be the only voice for folks who don't toe the Wong line. We have a lot of reasons for being here, but if that was our only one it's enough.
We don't dislike Lisa Wong, but she has a lot to learn. In order to learn, she needs to begin listening to the citizens. Fitchburg View is here to provide a voice.
Shalom
Another fine mess?
Or Tempest in a Teapot?
The Sentinel and Enterprise reports http://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/local/ci_9414131 that the FAA sent a letter to the Airport Commission dated May 20th stating that up to 50 acres of airport land is being used by the city without FAA authorization, and that the city may owe money to the airport for said use.
One of the subject parcels may be a pretty big deal, as it's the site of the satellite Wastewater Treatment plant, which the City of Leominster has had its eye on for some time. In fact, Leominster has had its eye on the entire airport for a while now.
Also addressed in the letter is another 25 acre parcel where police vehicles are stored. We've been looking for that brand new doggy paddy wagon that was purchased last year or so with no one to drive it. Is this where it's been hiding? Councilor DeMartino or Ward 6 Councilor Joseph, could one or both of you find out?
According to the article, Mayor Wong is aware of the contents of the letter, read at the Wednesday night meeting of the Airport Commission.
No comment from anyone, including this author, as to what this means for now. The Federal Aviation Administration is one U.S. Government agency not to be messed with, so this could turn into a VERY sticky wicket ... or it could be a matter of paperwork, filing forms, having hands slapped and being told "don't do it again."
I guess we'll find out soon enough.
This does go to a trend about which we've been complaining in various ways for some time. Folks, it's like this: PROCEDURE matters. The rules are there for a reason - whether it's open meeting laws that public officials MUST follow, laws governing HOW municipalities raise revenues to operate their governments, or FAA forms to be filed and permissions to be obtained.
It is this very kind of lack of attention to detail that cost us our hospital. HealthAlliance never owned the Burbank Hospital land or facility and they still don't. The city just walked away from it without a legal challenge in 1997.
This kind of sloppiness can not be allowed to continue. A city that is prosperous and thriving dots its i's and crosses its t's. Voters overwhelmingly voted for "change." Well, now's the time to see it.
Shalom
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Moving On.... Budget Session ... Police Department
Enough about the hide and seek game of our mayor. We'll be calling her to account soon enough. Let's go on to the meat of the budget sessions.
First, a local newspaper headlined an article about Tuesday night's budget session "$1M Shortfall ... yadda yadda"... sells papers I guess. Read the article and you see that one department was short around $500k and the underfunded (remember last year's budget sessions? No snow removal money, praying for a Bahamian winter?) snow removal account ran over $500k. No kidding! Continue reading ... the padded FY08 budget (they call it a GENERAL FUND for a reason) managed to cover the so-called one million dollar shortfall, and oh surprise - THE CITY OF FITCHBURG IS FINISHING FISCAL YEAR 2008 IN THE BLACK.
Now in all my years of working with calculus, trig and theoretical and applied physics, at no point in my education or practical application have I ever seen a theory - or even a hypothesis - equating 1,000,000 to 0.
Bottom line, folks: Dean Tran was right, has been right, continues to be right. There is absolutely no reason Fitchburg property taxes should have increased the maximum 2.5% for 22 (or is it now 23?) years in a row! Let alone needing an unconstitutional trash tax to fund a "supplemental budget."
Recap from tonight as the new police chief DeMoura (hope I spelled it right, if not, email me Chief and I'll fix it) and the re-emerged competent and beloved troop leader Capt. Tasca presented, defended and explained the police department budget ...
Councilor DiNatale hounded on ad infinitum about wanting to add new police cruisers ... the number seemed to vacillate, but it appears he'd like to have five ... after repeating himself countless times I think we get the picture, Marcus. You'd rather have cars than cops to drive them. (Yup, we need new cop cars, we have for some time. But cop cars can be funded by loans. Cop salaries can't.)
Councilor DeMartino gently raised the question that perhaps we could keep our police department family together if everyone gave a little. Sorry, I was a union rep, but that was in the days when union membership looked after one another and each gave personal concessions so everyone would have a job. I guess the police union sees it otherwise. Love our great cops, some of the best in the U.S., but this "I'm going to have mine, you're on your own" mentality is why we are now "losing" 6 of the 9 unneeded additional cops added by Mylott ... to the tune of a $50k per head loss to the city in costs for their training. So ... 9 more than we needed in the first place minus 6 who may be going ... looks like we still have 3 extra.
Councilor Dean Tran was finally recognized by the chair and very simply made the point (DeMartino style) that despite lowered staffing (cops doing dispatch after we let 10 dispatchers go last year) and reduced funding and old police cars, CRIME IS DOWN. So if crime is down perhaps we won't be living in anarchy if we continue at same or slightly reduced levels?
We've raised the question, not yet answered but I understand under consideration, where the law of diminishing returns applies to the higher overtime line item requested in the new budget, ostensibly to make up for officers working additional hours due to layoffs. Is there enough money in that overtime line item to actually save one or two full time jobs, thus lowering the amount of overtime required which would reduce overtime expense? That's a little tube of toothpaste that might bear a little squeezing.
Council President Conry appears a little short-fused lately. Certainly the stress of presiding over budget sessions can put one on edge, and perhaps the phone calls and emails from an alert populous on matters including the library and the trash tax don't help. We hope he gets a bit of rest between now and next Wednesday's budget session. The simple fact is, Tom, in ten years - or five, or even one year - no one will remember this budget session. The entire future of Fitchburg doesn't depend upon the actions taken this year. Sure, this year's budget will affect the operation of the city as we'll have it compared to how we'd like it, but this shouldn't be the weight of the whole world.
A word about Captain Tasca. Nothing personal intended toward either the new Chief or former Chief Cronin ... but there sat a man many of us respect a LOT. I'm not the only one who believes Tasca should have been our chief instead of Cronin. It is indeed great to see Captain Tasca sitting with the Chief, fielding complicated financial and manpower questions without looking at his notes.
One more word about the police department and its budget. The new chief has yet to prove himself. So far so good. But please let us not overlook that former Chief Cronin left the job almost a year ago, and the economies and superb service of the FPD over so many months are due to the team building and management of former Acting Chief Kearns and the cooperation of the fraternity of police officers and supervisors with which we are truly blessed.
Like Councilor DeMartino, I'd like to see them do more with less, or the same. Like Dean Tran, I believe they can do the same great job with the same or less partly because of a nationwide declining crime trend. In an ideal world I'd pay them a fortune, provide them with all brand new cars and the finest of equipment. But this is not just the real world, it is the real world in cash strapped, economically depressed Fitchburg, which failed to grab the brass ring during days of economic prosperity.
There are those of us who believe the police department budget as presented is not bare bones. We're going to continue to press and ask the police department to do its best with real bare bones. We sincerely hope the members of the police force don't take it personally and that we don't have a war over this. Honestly, you guys are doing better financially now than many, many of the citizens you protect and defend.
I had business at police headquarters recently. As I waited for the fine young patrolman to assist me, I heard something very comforting - the sound of police officers laughing heartily and happily. With all the stress of the budget and difficult times in Fitchburg, it was truly music to this citizen's ears.
Let's all get through this as cheerfully and amicably as possible, shall we? We've made an excellent beginning.
Shalom
First, a local newspaper headlined an article about Tuesday night's budget session "$1M Shortfall ... yadda yadda"... sells papers I guess. Read the article and you see that one department was short around $500k and the underfunded (remember last year's budget sessions? No snow removal money, praying for a Bahamian winter?) snow removal account ran over $500k. No kidding! Continue reading ... the padded FY08 budget (they call it a GENERAL FUND for a reason) managed to cover the so-called one million dollar shortfall, and oh surprise - THE CITY OF FITCHBURG IS FINISHING FISCAL YEAR 2008 IN THE BLACK.
Now in all my years of working with calculus, trig and theoretical and applied physics, at no point in my education or practical application have I ever seen a theory - or even a hypothesis - equating 1,000,000 to 0.
Bottom line, folks: Dean Tran was right, has been right, continues to be right. There is absolutely no reason Fitchburg property taxes should have increased the maximum 2.5% for 22 (or is it now 23?) years in a row! Let alone needing an unconstitutional trash tax to fund a "supplemental budget."
Recap from tonight as the new police chief DeMoura (hope I spelled it right, if not, email me Chief and I'll fix it) and the re-emerged competent and beloved troop leader Capt. Tasca presented, defended and explained the police department budget ...
Councilor DiNatale hounded on ad infinitum about wanting to add new police cruisers ... the number seemed to vacillate, but it appears he'd like to have five ... after repeating himself countless times I think we get the picture, Marcus. You'd rather have cars than cops to drive them. (Yup, we need new cop cars, we have for some time. But cop cars can be funded by loans. Cop salaries can't.)
Councilor DeMartino gently raised the question that perhaps we could keep our police department family together if everyone gave a little. Sorry, I was a union rep, but that was in the days when union membership looked after one another and each gave personal concessions so everyone would have a job. I guess the police union sees it otherwise. Love our great cops, some of the best in the U.S., but this "I'm going to have mine, you're on your own" mentality is why we are now "losing" 6 of the 9 unneeded additional cops added by Mylott ... to the tune of a $50k per head loss to the city in costs for their training. So ... 9 more than we needed in the first place minus 6 who may be going ... looks like we still have 3 extra.
Councilor Dean Tran was finally recognized by the chair and very simply made the point (DeMartino style) that despite lowered staffing (cops doing dispatch after we let 10 dispatchers go last year) and reduced funding and old police cars, CRIME IS DOWN. So if crime is down perhaps we won't be living in anarchy if we continue at same or slightly reduced levels?
We've raised the question, not yet answered but I understand under consideration, where the law of diminishing returns applies to the higher overtime line item requested in the new budget, ostensibly to make up for officers working additional hours due to layoffs. Is there enough money in that overtime line item to actually save one or two full time jobs, thus lowering the amount of overtime required which would reduce overtime expense? That's a little tube of toothpaste that might bear a little squeezing.
Council President Conry appears a little short-fused lately. Certainly the stress of presiding over budget sessions can put one on edge, and perhaps the phone calls and emails from an alert populous on matters including the library and the trash tax don't help. We hope he gets a bit of rest between now and next Wednesday's budget session. The simple fact is, Tom, in ten years - or five, or even one year - no one will remember this budget session. The entire future of Fitchburg doesn't depend upon the actions taken this year. Sure, this year's budget will affect the operation of the city as we'll have it compared to how we'd like it, but this shouldn't be the weight of the whole world.
A word about Captain Tasca. Nothing personal intended toward either the new Chief or former Chief Cronin ... but there sat a man many of us respect a LOT. I'm not the only one who believes Tasca should have been our chief instead of Cronin. It is indeed great to see Captain Tasca sitting with the Chief, fielding complicated financial and manpower questions without looking at his notes.
One more word about the police department and its budget. The new chief has yet to prove himself. So far so good. But please let us not overlook that former Chief Cronin left the job almost a year ago, and the economies and superb service of the FPD over so many months are due to the team building and management of former Acting Chief Kearns and the cooperation of the fraternity of police officers and supervisors with which we are truly blessed.
Like Councilor DeMartino, I'd like to see them do more with less, or the same. Like Dean Tran, I believe they can do the same great job with the same or less partly because of a nationwide declining crime trend. In an ideal world I'd pay them a fortune, provide them with all brand new cars and the finest of equipment. But this is not just the real world, it is the real world in cash strapped, economically depressed Fitchburg, which failed to grab the brass ring during days of economic prosperity.
There are those of us who believe the police department budget as presented is not bare bones. We're going to continue to press and ask the police department to do its best with real bare bones. We sincerely hope the members of the police force don't take it personally and that we don't have a war over this. Honestly, you guys are doing better financially now than many, many of the citizens you protect and defend.
I had business at police headquarters recently. As I waited for the fine young patrolman to assist me, I heard something very comforting - the sound of police officers laughing heartily and happily. With all the stress of the budget and difficult times in Fitchburg, it was truly music to this citizen's ears.
Let's all get through this as cheerfully and amicably as possible, shall we? We've made an excellent beginning.
Shalom
Found Fitchburg Mayor! Well briefly anyway....
Mayor Wong found her way home to council chambers and appeared for the last fifteen minutes of session number two of budget deliberations.
Congratulations, Lisa! We're looking forward to repeat performances. Thanks for fifteen minutes out of your hectic schedule.
Shalom
Congratulations, Lisa! We're looking forward to repeat performances. Thanks for fifteen minutes out of your hectic schedule.
Shalom
New game - Where in the world is ....
.... Mayor Lisa Wong.
Let's have some fun boys and girls.
Rules are simple: If you spot our invisible mayor, post a comment with date and time of sighting and where seen. One point for each sighting. If spotted at a civic event, you get five points. If you spot her with a former elected official you get ten points. And if you spot her at a City Council meeting, you get twenty-five points.
Winner gets the choice of:
1) Preparing dinner for Really Rachel - vegan please
2) Taking Really Rachel to dinner at Destare - where we might BOTH spot our invisible mayor!
Lisa, Lisa, come out come out wherever you are!
Let's have some fun boys and girls.
Rules are simple: If you spot our invisible mayor, post a comment with date and time of sighting and where seen. One point for each sighting. If spotted at a civic event, you get five points. If you spot her with a former elected official you get ten points. And if you spot her at a City Council meeting, you get twenty-five points.
Winner gets the choice of:
1) Preparing dinner for Really Rachel - vegan please
2) Taking Really Rachel to dinner at Destare - where we might BOTH spot our invisible mayor!
Lisa, Lisa, come out come out wherever you are!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
I was wrong
Last October I didn't endorse a mayoral candidate. It was a mistake. I said between Donnelly and Wong, we couldn't go wrong. I was so wrong.
In the first five months of her two year mayoral term, we have seen little of Lisa Wong at important civic, and now government events.
We have seen Tom Donnelly, now private citizen, at the ward cleanups, with dirty hands and dirty jeans. We've seen private citizen Tom Donnelly at city council meetings assisting concerned citizens with drafting and presenting petitions to city council. We have seen private citizen Tom Donnelly standing with an orderly crowd of mostly gray haired citizens in silent plea for their mayor and city councilors to listen to them.
Mayor Wong has been nowhere to be found. Numerous citizens have observed that unlike her predecessors and mayoral peers elsewhere, she is conspicuously absent from ethnic, religious and community events. As a Fitchburg Jew, I was embarrassed for our city on the first Sunday of May, 2008. At the Twin Cities Holocaust Remembrance event, Leominster Mayor Dean Mazerralla was present to read his proclamation. Mayor Lisa Wong's name was called and there was dead silence in the room.
At the abbreviated public hearing on her proposed trash tax, Mayor Wong sat silent while her underlings presented and defended her proposal, refusing to address the heartfelt concerns of the citizens who elected her.
At the May 20 City Council meeting when her ill-advised trash tax petition was presented to the city council, and almost a hundred citizens - many of them former campaign workers and past or current Wong supporters gathered quietly outside to show their opposition to the trash tax proposal, Mayor Wong was conspicuously absent. "Prior commitment" was the explanation, but her assistant and others who attended the same engagement managed to be present for this important meeting.
And tonight, May 27, 2008, at both the Finance Committee meeting and the first of the City Council budget session meetings, the explanation at first was that the mayor was delayed. By the time the meeting adjourned at 10:00 PM it was apparent that Lisa had once again blown off her responsibilities as mayor to leave others holding the bag.
Guess that's what comes with immaturity and the inability to follow through on commitments. Her lack of respect was apparent during her candidacy (see this author's comments to that effect in October, 2007). People overlooked it and hoped. But now that lack of respect for the people who supported her, worked in her campaign, and voted for her, indeed her lack of respect and appreciation for both her elected position of mayor and for the City of Fitchburg as an entity is disconcerting, embarrassing, and an insult to us all.
This author is not a supporter of Barack Obama because we see treachery and deception afoot. But if he is elected, there's one positive possibility - we hope Mayor Lisa Wong will land a job in an Obama administration and we'll be rid of this mistake without having to live through the remaining two years of what has begun as a disastrous term.
So, I'm eating crow. I was dead wrong in not endorsing Tom Donnelly and in not actively working in his campaign. My only consolation is that I voted for him. I hope we all have the opportunity to do so again.
Tom Donnelly, this is my public apology to you.
I was dead wrong.
Shalom
In the first five months of her two year mayoral term, we have seen little of Lisa Wong at important civic, and now government events.
We have seen Tom Donnelly, now private citizen, at the ward cleanups, with dirty hands and dirty jeans. We've seen private citizen Tom Donnelly at city council meetings assisting concerned citizens with drafting and presenting petitions to city council. We have seen private citizen Tom Donnelly standing with an orderly crowd of mostly gray haired citizens in silent plea for their mayor and city councilors to listen to them.
Mayor Wong has been nowhere to be found. Numerous citizens have observed that unlike her predecessors and mayoral peers elsewhere, she is conspicuously absent from ethnic, religious and community events. As a Fitchburg Jew, I was embarrassed for our city on the first Sunday of May, 2008. At the Twin Cities Holocaust Remembrance event, Leominster Mayor Dean Mazerralla was present to read his proclamation. Mayor Lisa Wong's name was called and there was dead silence in the room.
At the abbreviated public hearing on her proposed trash tax, Mayor Wong sat silent while her underlings presented and defended her proposal, refusing to address the heartfelt concerns of the citizens who elected her.
At the May 20 City Council meeting when her ill-advised trash tax petition was presented to the city council, and almost a hundred citizens - many of them former campaign workers and past or current Wong supporters gathered quietly outside to show their opposition to the trash tax proposal, Mayor Wong was conspicuously absent. "Prior commitment" was the explanation, but her assistant and others who attended the same engagement managed to be present for this important meeting.
And tonight, May 27, 2008, at both the Finance Committee meeting and the first of the City Council budget session meetings, the explanation at first was that the mayor was delayed. By the time the meeting adjourned at 10:00 PM it was apparent that Lisa had once again blown off her responsibilities as mayor to leave others holding the bag.
Guess that's what comes with immaturity and the inability to follow through on commitments. Her lack of respect was apparent during her candidacy (see this author's comments to that effect in October, 2007). People overlooked it and hoped. But now that lack of respect for the people who supported her, worked in her campaign, and voted for her, indeed her lack of respect and appreciation for both her elected position of mayor and for the City of Fitchburg as an entity is disconcerting, embarrassing, and an insult to us all.
This author is not a supporter of Barack Obama because we see treachery and deception afoot. But if he is elected, there's one positive possibility - we hope Mayor Lisa Wong will land a job in an Obama administration and we'll be rid of this mistake without having to live through the remaining two years of what has begun as a disastrous term.
So, I'm eating crow. I was dead wrong in not endorsing Tom Donnelly and in not actively working in his campaign. My only consolation is that I voted for him. I hope we all have the opportunity to do so again.
Tom Donnelly, this is my public apology to you.
I was dead wrong.
Shalom
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Guest article: Dean Tran, At-Large Council Candidate - Incumbent
My name is Dean Tran and I am your city councilor at-large. In my opening statement and as an incumbent, I’m obligated to inform you how I have served you since being elected in 2005. Before I do so, I would like to give you a brief perspective of my background.
I’m married with two young daughters in the Fitchburg School system and I, myself, am a product of our Fitchburg Schools. I hold a bachelor’s degree, a master’s in business administration and I work for a software engineering company. I’m currently the chairman of the City Council Legislative Affairs committee and I volunteer as a reserve deputy sheriff for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department.
Some of my accomplishments in the past year and half are:
I crafted one of the toughest ordinances in the state of Massachusetts to protect our children from sex offenders. The Sex Offender Residency Prohibition ordinance is stricter than any state law in the Commonwealth to keep sex offenders away from our children. Our children are our most precious commodity and any official who disagrees with me should be scrutinized.
I voted to preserve many, if not all, programs for the senior citizens of this city. I voted for measures that would provide assistance to our seniors. I also voted against a motion during one of our budget hearings which called for an end to funding for electricity and heating for the senior center. The passage of such motion would have closed the senior center and create more problems for the city.
I’m the only city councilor who argued and petitioned for a property tax relief. Providing property tax relief is an act only local officials can provide. I understand the burden inflicted upon property owners from the ever rising property tax and I will continue to advocate on your behalf to discontinue the trend of raising the property tax to the maximum which stands now at 22 consecutive years.
I understand the unfavorable financial condition that is plaguing our city. I also understand the role of a city councilor in respect to accepting and denying the budget from the executive branch. With business knowledge and experience in management, I will not vote for any budget that increases tax and fees, reduces services and is not in the best interest of the city. Thus I was the only city councilor who voted against the recently passed budget.
If you choose to put me back in office, I will address the following issues in my second term.
1. Business growth
A healthy and successful city must have elected officials who are willing and able to put forth the energy, commitment, dedication and knowledge to attract, develop and implement growth. Our city needs business growth. This is critical to the survival of our city moving forward and we cannot continue to burden our residents with tax and fees increases to supplement the city’s ever rising expenses. Achieving business growth will provide us with a new source of revenue. Make no mistake; you have my commitment to work with the mayor and the city’s agencies to achieve this goal.
2. The annual Budget
The budget has to come before me balanced and with the intention to serve the people of Fitchburg. As I’ve stated in my opening remarks, I will not vote for a budget that is not in the best interest of the city. When it comes to the city’s’ finance every elected official needs to practice fiscal responsibility. I have and will continue to assess the city’s expenditures, analyze the forecasts and made tough decisions in the past and I will continue to do so in the future.
3. Quality of life
The people of Fitchburg deserve to live in a clean and healthy environment. We need to deal with the quality of life issues and hold violators accountable. We need to be strict, enforce existing codes and implement new ones if necessary to provide the people of Fitchburg a place to live free of crimes, prostitution and litter. I will work with our mayor to put forth a quality of life initiative that we all can be proud of.
In conclusion, I have the education, professional background and a proven record of success both in the private and public sectors to achieve my goals.
My actions and accomplishments are testaments to my ability to communicate effectively, compromise and work well with my colleagues. I will continue to exhibit these qualities to achieve my goals for the next term.
Furthermore, I am proud of my record and the work that I have put forth to make our city a better place to live. I do not succumb to special interest groups. Creating a better environment and serving the city of Fitchburg is my only objective while accepting my responsibilities and holding myself accountable for my performance.
Thank you and to learn more about me, please visit my website at www.deantran.net.
I’m married with two young daughters in the Fitchburg School system and I, myself, am a product of our Fitchburg Schools. I hold a bachelor’s degree, a master’s in business administration and I work for a software engineering company. I’m currently the chairman of the City Council Legislative Affairs committee and I volunteer as a reserve deputy sheriff for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department.
Some of my accomplishments in the past year and half are:
I crafted one of the toughest ordinances in the state of Massachusetts to protect our children from sex offenders. The Sex Offender Residency Prohibition ordinance is stricter than any state law in the Commonwealth to keep sex offenders away from our children. Our children are our most precious commodity and any official who disagrees with me should be scrutinized.
I voted to preserve many, if not all, programs for the senior citizens of this city. I voted for measures that would provide assistance to our seniors. I also voted against a motion during one of our budget hearings which called for an end to funding for electricity and heating for the senior center. The passage of such motion would have closed the senior center and create more problems for the city.
I’m the only city councilor who argued and petitioned for a property tax relief. Providing property tax relief is an act only local officials can provide. I understand the burden inflicted upon property owners from the ever rising property tax and I will continue to advocate on your behalf to discontinue the trend of raising the property tax to the maximum which stands now at 22 consecutive years.
I understand the unfavorable financial condition that is plaguing our city. I also understand the role of a city councilor in respect to accepting and denying the budget from the executive branch. With business knowledge and experience in management, I will not vote for any budget that increases tax and fees, reduces services and is not in the best interest of the city. Thus I was the only city councilor who voted against the recently passed budget.
If you choose to put me back in office, I will address the following issues in my second term.
1. Business growth
A healthy and successful city must have elected officials who are willing and able to put forth the energy, commitment, dedication and knowledge to attract, develop and implement growth. Our city needs business growth. This is critical to the survival of our city moving forward and we cannot continue to burden our residents with tax and fees increases to supplement the city’s ever rising expenses. Achieving business growth will provide us with a new source of revenue. Make no mistake; you have my commitment to work with the mayor and the city’s agencies to achieve this goal.
2. The annual Budget
The budget has to come before me balanced and with the intention to serve the people of Fitchburg. As I’ve stated in my opening remarks, I will not vote for a budget that is not in the best interest of the city. When it comes to the city’s’ finance every elected official needs to practice fiscal responsibility. I have and will continue to assess the city’s expenditures, analyze the forecasts and made tough decisions in the past and I will continue to do so in the future.
3. Quality of life
The people of Fitchburg deserve to live in a clean and healthy environment. We need to deal with the quality of life issues and hold violators accountable. We need to be strict, enforce existing codes and implement new ones if necessary to provide the people of Fitchburg a place to live free of crimes, prostitution and litter. I will work with our mayor to put forth a quality of life initiative that we all can be proud of.
In conclusion, I have the education, professional background and a proven record of success both in the private and public sectors to achieve my goals.
My actions and accomplishments are testaments to my ability to communicate effectively, compromise and work well with my colleagues. I will continue to exhibit these qualities to achieve my goals for the next term.
Furthermore, I am proud of my record and the work that I have put forth to make our city a better place to live. I do not succumb to special interest groups. Creating a better environment and serving the city of Fitchburg is my only objective while accepting my responsibilities and holding myself accountable for my performance.
Thank you and to learn more about me, please visit my website at www.deantran.net.
Guest article: Rosemary Reynolds, At-Large Council Candidate
Hello.
I am Rosemary Reynolds and am running for the position of Councilor-at-Large here in Fitchburg.
I believe Fitchburg needs smart decision making now. You, the resident of our great city, are my main concern. Your needs are my priority. I believe city government is to serve you as you go about the daily work of living. Your voice is what I hear and respond to.
Often the people are forgotten, or measured only as an economic unit, as businesses and government strive to be successful and solvent.
Yet, the real purpose for the existence of these businesses and this government is primarily to serve the people, and not vice-versa.
There is is a penalty that we pay when we forget this right order. That penalty is an indifference to the actual real time needs of people.
Please vote for me to represent you. You are first with me. All my questions and research on Council matters will be to see how each item before us will serve the common good of us all.
Thankyou,
Rosemary Reynolds
I am Rosemary Reynolds and am running for the position of Councilor-at-Large here in Fitchburg.
I believe Fitchburg needs smart decision making now. You, the resident of our great city, are my main concern. Your needs are my priority. I believe city government is to serve you as you go about the daily work of living. Your voice is what I hear and respond to.
Often the people are forgotten, or measured only as an economic unit, as businesses and government strive to be successful and solvent.
Yet, the real purpose for the existence of these businesses and this government is primarily to serve the people, and not vice-versa.
There is is a penalty that we pay when we forget this right order. That penalty is an indifference to the actual real time needs of people.
Please vote for me to represent you. You are first with me. All my questions and research on Council matters will be to see how each item before us will serve the common good of us all.
Thankyou,
Rosemary Reynolds
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Guest article: John Chittick, School Committee (4 yr) Candidate
Our schools are facing a budget crunch and difficult decisions must be made in the short term that will have long term, profound consequences for the future. I want to be part of that process- I know that we can find solutions that will ensure that our students get the best education that we can afford.
I talk with many students about their school experiences. I converse with administrators, teachers and staff and learn of their professional concerns. I hear the frustration of parents who want the best for their children but at times have to settle for less. I respect the taxpayers of Fitchburg and fully understand the worries about rising taxes and diminished services. Often the goals are the same for all residents, young and old, but the means to achieve them differ and occasionally are in conflict.
With seven people meeting to determine school policy, I will contribute to the dialogue and deliberations in a cooperative and positive way. The School Committee needs members who are dedicated to the proposition that all students deserve a quality, intellectually challenging and relevant education to succeed in today’s world. Globalization is putting added pressures on the work force and schools must keep up with the changing nature of a practical education. The school experience should be their preparation for life, not just scores on standardized tests.
The good news about Fitchburg schools needs to be told. It is to the credit of the teachers and administrators that students who begin their early grades in our system have a very high likelihood of graduating from high school. Yet we are an urban community with many of the same problems encountered by other older cities with a limited tax base. One of our major challenges is that we have a large population of youth who come into the system and leave at various times interrupting their education and reducing needed state aid. Obviously, these changing demographics make teaching more difficult. Creative thinking can offer new ideas to keep them enrolled and add a measure of stability that ensures success.
I have been involved in some aspect of education most of my life, even as a businessman running one of New England’s prominent art publishing companies. I earned a state teaching certificate and taught for two years. Some of my educational experiences include teaching in a difficult inner-city school in Boston, running Fitchburg’s Friendship Village for disadvantaged children, developing educational training videodiscs for missile systems at Raytheon and lecturing in two seminars at Harvard’s School of Public Health. I have lectured in hundreds of universities and high schools across Montachusetts and the world. I understand the dynamics of the classroom and the learning process. When I was a Senior in college, I was elected to the Fitchburg City Council from Ward 4 – that was a great educational experience.
I also bring to the table an understanding of what motivates young people to be engaged and productive within the school environment. They need to be told clearly why getting a quality education is better for them than dropping out. And when more youth stay in school, they stay out of trouble. Providing incentives like sports, educational trips and the arts keep students in school and engaged in their academic pursuits. Bringing in speakers who have succeeded in life are great role models for impressionable youth. When more students stay enrolled – or if parents choose to send their children to Fitchburg schools, the city receives increased state aid and that is beneficial.
Our schools must always provide a nurturing and safe environment for all children to learn. While many students can and should attend college after graduating high school, others need to be prepared vocationally for careers. If that means alternative paths like receiving a GED outside of regular school, then that’s what we need to encourage students to do. Without a diploma, opportunities in life are greatly reduced and that negatively affects Fitchburg. The more educated our student population, the better it is for employers looking to expand in our community – and that’s another way our tax base grows.
Since 1997, I have been volunteering at Fitchburg High School with my AIDS prevention program, first under Bernie Welch and now under Rich Masciarelli. The students have been remarkable. Additionally, I have volunteered my time to teach English as a Second Language through Fitchburg’s adult evening classes. I did this because I believe that every city resident deserves the opportunity to learn English if they want to learn and because budget cuts were limiting these possibilities to better themselves. My students (ranging in age from 25-55) were hard-working immigrants who came after work to improve themselves. Each of those parents serves as a proud example to their children. I didn’t accept payment because I considered it a privilege to help them succeed and that helps all of us in the long run. I know there are other citizens who will volunteer their services if given the opportunity to help the financially-strapped schools. Such an effort could be modeled on the Fitchburg Civic Clean-Up Corps. I want to emphasize that recruiting citizens to help is not going to result in cutting present positions but will supplement valuable programs that have been sharply curtailed.
I feel compelled to point out that all of the seven candidates in the two races this election bring their own unique perspectives to the race. A good School Committee should be composed of a broad range of citizens with different educational, business and work experiences. I ask for one of your four votes in this historic election.
I hope that my tenure will truly improve the quality of education in Fitchburg public schools. I love this community and want to work together with the other members of the Committee, parents, teachers, staff and students. We can give our youth the education they need and deserve within the budgetary guidelines set by law, the Committee, the Mayor and the Council – and in accordance with what taxpayers should reasonably expect. As a person who is involved in non-profit work and living on a reduced income, I feel the same pressures like other homeowners who are paying rising property taxes with diminished services. We want the best for our youth. Yet I recognize that we are not a well-off suburb like Lincoln-Sudbury or Wellesley with greater resources to put into their schools.
The top priority for all Committee members should be what’s best for our students – working always in a cooperative spirit, not an antagonistic one. I will help lead the effort to find ways to best fund programs by presenting convincing arguments why state funds need to be increased to financially strapped school systems like ours. It is not fair when cities like Fitchburg are penalized because the complexities of their urban demographics hinder achieving strict government–mandated laws and requirements. Instead, we deserve more aid.
By partnering with similar communities and lobbying our elected representatives up to the Governor, we can try a more proactive approach that could very well yield positive results. I believe that I have the ability to help lead that debate – and to investigate all areas of a tight budget to do what’s best for our youth and affordable for everyone in the city. One of the top issues facing the Committee is the School Building Needs Assessment and the capital improvements plan. I support recent efforts to make available the school system’s warrant items for review without micro-managing the day-to-day decisions of principals who are answerable to the Superintendent -- who in turn, is answerable to the School Committee. If abuses or unwise decisions are brought to my attention, then more scrutiny will be needed.
If elected, I look forward to studying the issues in depth and make informed and reasoned decisions based on the facts of the debate. I will come to the Committee with an open mind and a willingness to work together.
I want the citizens of Fitchburg to know that I am submitting my name for their consideration because I want to be a positive part of the solution. I know the other candidates in the race are good people to offer up their names. Win or lose, we have already contributed to the process of citizen governance and that makes our city a better place. I ask that you consider me for one of your four votes in this historic School election of 2007.
Education:
Edgerly School, elementary school
Applewild School, middle school
Deerfield Academy, high school
Dartmouth College, B.A.
MIT, Masters of Science
Harvard, Masters of Education
Harvard, Doctor of Education
I talk with many students about their school experiences. I converse with administrators, teachers and staff and learn of their professional concerns. I hear the frustration of parents who want the best for their children but at times have to settle for less. I respect the taxpayers of Fitchburg and fully understand the worries about rising taxes and diminished services. Often the goals are the same for all residents, young and old, but the means to achieve them differ and occasionally are in conflict.
With seven people meeting to determine school policy, I will contribute to the dialogue and deliberations in a cooperative and positive way. The School Committee needs members who are dedicated to the proposition that all students deserve a quality, intellectually challenging and relevant education to succeed in today’s world. Globalization is putting added pressures on the work force and schools must keep up with the changing nature of a practical education. The school experience should be their preparation for life, not just scores on standardized tests.
The good news about Fitchburg schools needs to be told. It is to the credit of the teachers and administrators that students who begin their early grades in our system have a very high likelihood of graduating from high school. Yet we are an urban community with many of the same problems encountered by other older cities with a limited tax base. One of our major challenges is that we have a large population of youth who come into the system and leave at various times interrupting their education and reducing needed state aid. Obviously, these changing demographics make teaching more difficult. Creative thinking can offer new ideas to keep them enrolled and add a measure of stability that ensures success.
I have been involved in some aspect of education most of my life, even as a businessman running one of New England’s prominent art publishing companies. I earned a state teaching certificate and taught for two years. Some of my educational experiences include teaching in a difficult inner-city school in Boston, running Fitchburg’s Friendship Village for disadvantaged children, developing educational training videodiscs for missile systems at Raytheon and lecturing in two seminars at Harvard’s School of Public Health. I have lectured in hundreds of universities and high schools across Montachusetts and the world. I understand the dynamics of the classroom and the learning process. When I was a Senior in college, I was elected to the Fitchburg City Council from Ward 4 – that was a great educational experience.
I also bring to the table an understanding of what motivates young people to be engaged and productive within the school environment. They need to be told clearly why getting a quality education is better for them than dropping out. And when more youth stay in school, they stay out of trouble. Providing incentives like sports, educational trips and the arts keep students in school and engaged in their academic pursuits. Bringing in speakers who have succeeded in life are great role models for impressionable youth. When more students stay enrolled – or if parents choose to send their children to Fitchburg schools, the city receives increased state aid and that is beneficial.
Our schools must always provide a nurturing and safe environment for all children to learn. While many students can and should attend college after graduating high school, others need to be prepared vocationally for careers. If that means alternative paths like receiving a GED outside of regular school, then that’s what we need to encourage students to do. Without a diploma, opportunities in life are greatly reduced and that negatively affects Fitchburg. The more educated our student population, the better it is for employers looking to expand in our community – and that’s another way our tax base grows.
Since 1997, I have been volunteering at Fitchburg High School with my AIDS prevention program, first under Bernie Welch and now under Rich Masciarelli. The students have been remarkable. Additionally, I have volunteered my time to teach English as a Second Language through Fitchburg’s adult evening classes. I did this because I believe that every city resident deserves the opportunity to learn English if they want to learn and because budget cuts were limiting these possibilities to better themselves. My students (ranging in age from 25-55) were hard-working immigrants who came after work to improve themselves. Each of those parents serves as a proud example to their children. I didn’t accept payment because I considered it a privilege to help them succeed and that helps all of us in the long run. I know there are other citizens who will volunteer their services if given the opportunity to help the financially-strapped schools. Such an effort could be modeled on the Fitchburg Civic Clean-Up Corps. I want to emphasize that recruiting citizens to help is not going to result in cutting present positions but will supplement valuable programs that have been sharply curtailed.
I feel compelled to point out that all of the seven candidates in the two races this election bring their own unique perspectives to the race. A good School Committee should be composed of a broad range of citizens with different educational, business and work experiences. I ask for one of your four votes in this historic election.
I hope that my tenure will truly improve the quality of education in Fitchburg public schools. I love this community and want to work together with the other members of the Committee, parents, teachers, staff and students. We can give our youth the education they need and deserve within the budgetary guidelines set by law, the Committee, the Mayor and the Council – and in accordance with what taxpayers should reasonably expect. As a person who is involved in non-profit work and living on a reduced income, I feel the same pressures like other homeowners who are paying rising property taxes with diminished services. We want the best for our youth. Yet I recognize that we are not a well-off suburb like Lincoln-Sudbury or Wellesley with greater resources to put into their schools.
The top priority for all Committee members should be what’s best for our students – working always in a cooperative spirit, not an antagonistic one. I will help lead the effort to find ways to best fund programs by presenting convincing arguments why state funds need to be increased to financially strapped school systems like ours. It is not fair when cities like Fitchburg are penalized because the complexities of their urban demographics hinder achieving strict government–mandated laws and requirements. Instead, we deserve more aid.
By partnering with similar communities and lobbying our elected representatives up to the Governor, we can try a more proactive approach that could very well yield positive results. I believe that I have the ability to help lead that debate – and to investigate all areas of a tight budget to do what’s best for our youth and affordable for everyone in the city. One of the top issues facing the Committee is the School Building Needs Assessment and the capital improvements plan. I support recent efforts to make available the school system’s warrant items for review without micro-managing the day-to-day decisions of principals who are answerable to the Superintendent -- who in turn, is answerable to the School Committee. If abuses or unwise decisions are brought to my attention, then more scrutiny will be needed.
If elected, I look forward to studying the issues in depth and make informed and reasoned decisions based on the facts of the debate. I will come to the Committee with an open mind and a willingness to work together.
I want the citizens of Fitchburg to know that I am submitting my name for their consideration because I want to be a positive part of the solution. I know the other candidates in the race are good people to offer up their names. Win or lose, we have already contributed to the process of citizen governance and that makes our city a better place. I ask that you consider me for one of your four votes in this historic School election of 2007.
Education:
Edgerly School, elementary school
Applewild School, middle school
Deerfield Academy, high school
Dartmouth College, B.A.
MIT, Masters of Science
Harvard, Masters of Education
Harvard, Doctor of Education
Monday, October 29, 2007
Endorsements
Over at Save Fitchburg Jason says that while Fitchburg Pride endorses Lisa Wong for mayor, he/they will refrain from endorsing any of the candidates for city council or school committee.
The mayor's race is almost a foregone conclusion, and although commenting (see below) we will not be endorsing a mayoral candidate. Likewise, we won't be picking candidates for all the open slots, due to either no opposition for some seats or no opinion.
That said, after watching, reading, listening, watching the FATV candidate spiels and much heartfelt rumination, here's where this Fitchburg resident stands.
Mayor: No endorsement.
Choices: Tom Donnelly
One of the generation of passive city councillors who got us into this mess. Thinks our Unitil problems are because we can't read our bills. Wants to lower our taxes by raising them the maximum 2.5% every year. He's been drinking the Fitchburg water too long.
Up side, he knows where the bodies are buried, and probably has a better understanding than his opponent of what's going to be uncovered. He's right about the city being headed for receivership.
I like Tom. I respect him. In another time when we could have afforded a congenial mayor to continue our prosperity and stability, I would probably have endorsed and voted for him, maybe even campaigned for him. This is a different time.
Lisa Wong
Has the education to get part of the picture. Idealistic, good work ethic, goal setter. Has the mindset of a CFO, not a COO or CEO, so it should be an interesting couple of years. We do need to set our financial house in order before we can move forward as a city.
Short on people skills, short on respect for lifelong residents including those who worked in her campaign. In throwing out the baby with the bathwater she's building her own clique of "insiders." Will the replacement clique really be any better than the "old boys" of the present/past?
Nobody's perfect. She's young and perhaps she will learn something about foundations, history, legacy and respect with maturity. She has no idea what she's truly going to be facing as mayor. Guaranteed, there will be tears. Will they be public or private ones?
In the end, who is our next mayor may not matter as much this term as in recent memory. Receivership takes away mayoral control and authority.
I don't need my elected representatives to walk in lockstep and to see everything my way. I do need them to abide by the open meeting law, make their own decisions from an informed conscience, and do their best honestly, without seeking politically or economic gain for themselves or their friends.
To that end, here goes.
Council races, in no particular order:
Endorsement: Dean Tran
Practical intelligence - common sense, education, experience, plus a lifelong history in the idiosyncracies of Fitchburg. Has a grasp on the entire demographic of the city, not stuck in the past, and not so "out there" in dreams for the future that the present gets ignored. Not afraid to take the unpopular (with fellow councillors) stand.
Dean's a keeper. He is a good man, an honest one, and a smart man who cares deeply about Fitchburg and about the freedoms and opportunities afforded in this country.
Dean and I have frequently disagreed on issues. Sometimes I have come around to his way of thinking, and sometimes I have continued to believe he was mistaken. But I always felt he listened, took into account what I had to say, and that he honestly has followed his informed conscience. As a voter, I could not possibly ask for more.
And I am proud to call him my friend.
I hope the voters recognize his tremendous qualities and re-elect him.
I hope one day to see Dean Tran elected mayor, if he chooses to run. I'll race to the front of the line to sign the papers.
Endorsement: Annie DeMartino
Surprisingly, this was the most difficult decision I had to make. Annie is my oldest friend in Massachusetts. We know one another's faults inside out, and one of my worst ones is that I'm tough on people I care about. I can be a bitter pill when I have my mind made up, and I learned much of that singlemindedness from Annie. Not sure she knows that.
Don't let the malapropisms fool you. I've known several brilliant people who are not masters of debate. My own father could neither read nor write until he learned along with his first child, and his vocabulary was somewhat limited, but he was a brilliant man. He helped me with my physics homework and he taught me how many acres of corn and hay you have to grow to feed the livestock through the winter. That kind of common sense and setting aside for economic dormancy is direly needed. Like my dad, Annie gets it.
This woman has some tremendous qualities and abilities - her ability to grasp and dissect deliberately complicated and obfuscated financial reports is phenomenal, and she has an uncanny ability to see the padding and shell game transfers that have gone on for years.
Her "no" votes have been discredited as being consistently anti-Mylott. In truth, she and Mylott are friendly. She separates the person from the behavior, the individual from the politics, and political expediency from council responsibility.
She's practically a socialist politically, yet an ardent fiscal conservative. She hates waste, to the point that it's sometimes a joke. And she can get ten bucks worth out of a dime.
Add to that, like Dean Tran, Annie DeMartino loves this country, and loves Fitchburg with all her heart.
Another one who came here from another country with nothing and capitalized on the opportunities awaiting someone with desire to work, learn and participate. Look up "work ethic" in the dictionary and you'll find pictures of Annie DeMartino and Dean Tran.
Annie knows the personalities, understands the procedure and the history of prior council actions. She's a walking encyclopedia of what's been tried or not, and why, and she understands the process. She's been a tough minority voice on the council, and if our anti-incumbent rampage removes her from the council we'll be throwing out a treasure.
She knows how to say no, and did so before the election season began, long before it was the politically expedient thing to do.
I disagree with her wholeheartedly on the dual tax rate, on delinquent tax collections, and on SO many issues. But I trust her to do battle not just on finances, but on what's right for the city and everyone who lives here.
I hope we see her back for one last term as the city passes the torch to the next generation.
Endorsement: Kevin Starr
Ward 4 has been underserved for many years. We've been a laughing stock for the past term. It's time we had proper representation. We need a city councillor with no ulterior motives, not looking for a stepping stone to the mayor's office or the insulation from enforcement boards that unofficially comes as a bennie with a council seat. Most of all, we need someone smart who cares.
Educated, bright, lifelong involvement in the community that is Fitchburg, capable and committed with no black marks. Plays well with others.
Let's get Kevin on the council, shall we. He will be a great team member.
Endorsement: David Clark
Honest, bright, thoughtful, follows through. He's a really good ward councillor and an effective member of the city council as a whole.
Endorsement: Tom Conry
He's a good man. Not quick, not slick. Tom is a plodder, a workhorse, and tough. We're going to need some of that honest toughness in the days to come. Honest, sincere, no backroom deals here. Let's sign him up for another two years.
Unfortunately, some of the backroom dealmakers are automatically being returned to the city council due to lack of opposition. Over the next two years, I encourage all of you in those wards to become involved and consider running. Lack of competition for council seats is never a good thing.
School Committee:
Endorsement: Sally Cragin
Bottom line, Sally gets it. She'll fight for restoration of lost programs and reallocation of resources within the bloated but improperly administered school budget. She understands that we lose kids to drugs, pregnancy, dropout by failing to educate the whole student. She's creative, resourceful, and thinker and a doer, and what I would give for her energy and drive.
Go, Sally. We'll be cheering from the peanut gallery.
Endorsement: Jim Reynolds
Tremendous analytical skills. Honest, not interested in the coffee klatch that school committee sometimes risks becoming. We'll get bang for our buck with Jim's continued presence on the school committee.
Some folks tie Reynolds to his mother (council candidate Rosemary Reynolds); personally, I see a stronger resemblance to his brilliant and straightforward dad the judge, but the bottom line is that Jim Reynolds is his own man. We need Jim's continued take no prisoners approach on the school committee.
That's it. There are some other nice folks running and I'm sure most/all of them care about the city and have some skills and abilities.
This is my take. Your comments are welcome.
Shalom
The mayor's race is almost a foregone conclusion, and although commenting (see below) we will not be endorsing a mayoral candidate. Likewise, we won't be picking candidates for all the open slots, due to either no opposition for some seats or no opinion.
That said, after watching, reading, listening, watching the FATV candidate spiels and much heartfelt rumination, here's where this Fitchburg resident stands.
Mayor: No endorsement.
Choices: Tom Donnelly
One of the generation of passive city councillors who got us into this mess. Thinks our Unitil problems are because we can't read our bills. Wants to lower our taxes by raising them the maximum 2.5% every year. He's been drinking the Fitchburg water too long.
Up side, he knows where the bodies are buried, and probably has a better understanding than his opponent of what's going to be uncovered. He's right about the city being headed for receivership.
I like Tom. I respect him. In another time when we could have afforded a congenial mayor to continue our prosperity and stability, I would probably have endorsed and voted for him, maybe even campaigned for him. This is a different time.
Lisa Wong
Has the education to get part of the picture. Idealistic, good work ethic, goal setter. Has the mindset of a CFO, not a COO or CEO, so it should be an interesting couple of years. We do need to set our financial house in order before we can move forward as a city.
Short on people skills, short on respect for lifelong residents including those who worked in her campaign. In throwing out the baby with the bathwater she's building her own clique of "insiders." Will the replacement clique really be any better than the "old boys" of the present/past?
Nobody's perfect. She's young and perhaps she will learn something about foundations, history, legacy and respect with maturity. She has no idea what she's truly going to be facing as mayor. Guaranteed, there will be tears. Will they be public or private ones?
In the end, who is our next mayor may not matter as much this term as in recent memory. Receivership takes away mayoral control and authority.
I don't need my elected representatives to walk in lockstep and to see everything my way. I do need them to abide by the open meeting law, make their own decisions from an informed conscience, and do their best honestly, without seeking politically or economic gain for themselves or their friends.
To that end, here goes.
Council races, in no particular order:
Endorsement: Dean Tran
Practical intelligence - common sense, education, experience, plus a lifelong history in the idiosyncracies of Fitchburg. Has a grasp on the entire demographic of the city, not stuck in the past, and not so "out there" in dreams for the future that the present gets ignored. Not afraid to take the unpopular (with fellow councillors) stand.
Dean's a keeper. He is a good man, an honest one, and a smart man who cares deeply about Fitchburg and about the freedoms and opportunities afforded in this country.
Dean and I have frequently disagreed on issues. Sometimes I have come around to his way of thinking, and sometimes I have continued to believe he was mistaken. But I always felt he listened, took into account what I had to say, and that he honestly has followed his informed conscience. As a voter, I could not possibly ask for more.
And I am proud to call him my friend.
I hope the voters recognize his tremendous qualities and re-elect him.
I hope one day to see Dean Tran elected mayor, if he chooses to run. I'll race to the front of the line to sign the papers.
Endorsement: Annie DeMartino
Surprisingly, this was the most difficult decision I had to make. Annie is my oldest friend in Massachusetts. We know one another's faults inside out, and one of my worst ones is that I'm tough on people I care about. I can be a bitter pill when I have my mind made up, and I learned much of that singlemindedness from Annie. Not sure she knows that.
Don't let the malapropisms fool you. I've known several brilliant people who are not masters of debate. My own father could neither read nor write until he learned along with his first child, and his vocabulary was somewhat limited, but he was a brilliant man. He helped me with my physics homework and he taught me how many acres of corn and hay you have to grow to feed the livestock through the winter. That kind of common sense and setting aside for economic dormancy is direly needed. Like my dad, Annie gets it.
This woman has some tremendous qualities and abilities - her ability to grasp and dissect deliberately complicated and obfuscated financial reports is phenomenal, and she has an uncanny ability to see the padding and shell game transfers that have gone on for years.
Her "no" votes have been discredited as being consistently anti-Mylott. In truth, she and Mylott are friendly. She separates the person from the behavior, the individual from the politics, and political expediency from council responsibility.
She's practically a socialist politically, yet an ardent fiscal conservative. She hates waste, to the point that it's sometimes a joke. And she can get ten bucks worth out of a dime.
Add to that, like Dean Tran, Annie DeMartino loves this country, and loves Fitchburg with all her heart.
Another one who came here from another country with nothing and capitalized on the opportunities awaiting someone with desire to work, learn and participate. Look up "work ethic" in the dictionary and you'll find pictures of Annie DeMartino and Dean Tran.
Annie knows the personalities, understands the procedure and the history of prior council actions. She's a walking encyclopedia of what's been tried or not, and why, and she understands the process. She's been a tough minority voice on the council, and if our anti-incumbent rampage removes her from the council we'll be throwing out a treasure.
She knows how to say no, and did so before the election season began, long before it was the politically expedient thing to do.
I disagree with her wholeheartedly on the dual tax rate, on delinquent tax collections, and on SO many issues. But I trust her to do battle not just on finances, but on what's right for the city and everyone who lives here.
I hope we see her back for one last term as the city passes the torch to the next generation.
Endorsement: Kevin Starr
Ward 4 has been underserved for many years. We've been a laughing stock for the past term. It's time we had proper representation. We need a city councillor with no ulterior motives, not looking for a stepping stone to the mayor's office or the insulation from enforcement boards that unofficially comes as a bennie with a council seat. Most of all, we need someone smart who cares.
Educated, bright, lifelong involvement in the community that is Fitchburg, capable and committed with no black marks. Plays well with others.
Let's get Kevin on the council, shall we. He will be a great team member.
Endorsement: David Clark
Honest, bright, thoughtful, follows through. He's a really good ward councillor and an effective member of the city council as a whole.
Endorsement: Tom Conry
He's a good man. Not quick, not slick. Tom is a plodder, a workhorse, and tough. We're going to need some of that honest toughness in the days to come. Honest, sincere, no backroom deals here. Let's sign him up for another two years.
Unfortunately, some of the backroom dealmakers are automatically being returned to the city council due to lack of opposition. Over the next two years, I encourage all of you in those wards to become involved and consider running. Lack of competition for council seats is never a good thing.
School Committee:
Endorsement: Sally Cragin
Bottom line, Sally gets it. She'll fight for restoration of lost programs and reallocation of resources within the bloated but improperly administered school budget. She understands that we lose kids to drugs, pregnancy, dropout by failing to educate the whole student. She's creative, resourceful, and thinker and a doer, and what I would give for her energy and drive.
Go, Sally. We'll be cheering from the peanut gallery.
Endorsement: Jim Reynolds
Tremendous analytical skills. Honest, not interested in the coffee klatch that school committee sometimes risks becoming. We'll get bang for our buck with Jim's continued presence on the school committee.
Some folks tie Reynolds to his mother (council candidate Rosemary Reynolds); personally, I see a stronger resemblance to his brilliant and straightforward dad the judge, but the bottom line is that Jim Reynolds is his own man. We need Jim's continued take no prisoners approach on the school committee.
That's it. There are some other nice folks running and I'm sure most/all of them care about the city and have some skills and abilities.
This is my take. Your comments are welcome.
Shalom
Friday, October 12, 2007
Guest Article: Sally Cragin, School Committee Candidate
Following is a guest article by Sally Cragin, candidate for the Fitchburg School Committee, four year seat:
I started thinking about being a candidate some years ago, when issues arose over the museum Partnership School building's problems. As someone who grew up attending art classes at the Museum, and as current Media Director, I was on the periphery of MPS activities but was very aware of the hard work and dedication that Museum personnel brought to the project. It was saddening when the school -- a unique educational endeavor - shifted its relationship with our Museum. Last year, I had a chance to meet some kids who had continued with the new Fitchburg Arts Academy after having been students at MPS. And here's what struck me: They missed their old school. They didn't know anything about the levels of administration and bureaucracy that were the backdrop to MPS and the situation that emerged. All they knew is that their school was changing, and they weren't happy.
Here's another story that helped propel me to this decision. This past spring, I taught in the 21st Century Program at Reingold with Meg Smith. We had a shadow puppetry program inspired by our theater, "Button Box Shadow Theatre." The kids were great but I was surprised that some of the 1st to 4th graders were not as proficient in English as I'd expected or had behavioral issues that seemed more serious than developmental stages. But these kids were terrific and worked hard at their puppets. Still, it was hard not to notice that some kids were reading at grade-level or above, but many others were struggling.
So I began thinking about what I could do. I asked some teachers at Reingold what the most important task a member of the school committee could do, and was told: "Visit the schools. See what we deal with day to day."
Last April, when my friend Lisa Wong told me she was going to run for Mayor, my first thought was, "totally brilliant - how lucky for Fitchburg." As the weeks went by and I began to accompany her door-to-door campaigning, I started hearing stories from parents who were concerned about the fiscal crisis or were anxious about the school their child attended. Week after week, hearing these stories, and hearing Lisa talk about growing Fitchburg, and talk about the importance of setting goals, made me think, "I want to be at this table, asking questions, helping us find solutions."
I talked to members of the current school board and got a sense of the complexity and scale of being a school committee member. The budgets, the formulas, the number of schools, the size of the problems, the judgment needed - pretty amazing to think about. And exciting, and extremely interesting.
Even paradoxical. Here we are, $3 million dollars shy of level funding for this year - we have buildings that continue to deteriorate - and we have success stories every year, in every grade, and in every school. I am in the process of visiting all of Fitchburg's schools with Lisa and during the past six months as we have both gone door-to-door, the most persistent questions and concerns have to do with our schools.
I met parents who removed their child from the school in haste and parents who report their child is thriving. Some parents were anxious to sell their home and move elsewhere - that is a story I heard at least a few times a week. But one dad I met recently in Ward 3 said he was grateful to move here from Boston so that his son wouldn't be "in those dangerous schools."
There is every possible story unfolding here, and I wish I was meeting more parents whose children are in the schools learning English. Yesterday I talked to a mom who moved to Fitchburg from a smaller town and made this comparison between Fitchburg and her former town. "At parents night, if you didn't get there early, there wasn't a seat to be had. I was shocked to go to my first parents night here and find there were only four other parents."
What can we do? We can discuss the problem, find a solution, work towards that goal. I am a first-time candidate with a background in journalism so I am very comfortable asking questions, curious about alternate points of view and willing to reach out to others. All summer long I have been meeting retired teachers and administrators so I am filling in the picture of "how we got here." Decisions made today and tomorrow will affect the schools years down the road. Beloved, effective teachers and administrators who understood our students who were let go four years ago, two years ago and last summer may never return. But, as one principal noted, "when August comes, the flags go up and the school doors open."
I've also been passing out questionnaires to parents I'm meeting while campaigning, and I am gathering anecdotes and information about children's experiences in our schools. I love hearing about children succeeding, but I want to hear firsthand from students who don't have a textbook, whose class-size increased, and other matters. Last summer, the accepted wisdom was that with teacher attrition the average class-size would go up by two or three students. At South Street, were we visited this week, that was true. Of the second grade. The third and fourth grades had class-size increase by five to seven students.
Okay, I'm going to stop there. But let me hear from you. There's more about my candidacy at sallycragin.com and I'll be at stand-outs for Lisa Wong and Dean Tran in the coming weeks. Please get in touch if you're inspired - come to the debate on October 30 at Kent Hall, FSC at 6 p.m. And most importantly vote on November 6.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Information, Media, What's Fair to Fitchburg?
A few things....
First, Councillor At Large Dean Tran emailed a few folks last week about an incomplete / inaccurate item in the Sentinel and Enterprise concerning raising the property tax rate. As we understand it from Tran's email, and from reading the article on tax classification, the Sentinel printed that Tran proposed increasing the residential tax rate 22 cents. Naturally this didn't sit well even with Tran supporters, and this whopping inaccuracy during a council seat contest may have been enough to sway undecided voters away from Tran.
Benefit of the doubt to the Sentinel, call it unintentional, but all the same, pretty unfair, and yet another example of the Sentinel's continued one-sidedness in coverage of all things Fitchburg.
We deserve, and expect, better from the "Fitchburg Sentinel and Leominster Enterprise" implied in the merger of the two newspapers long ago. The loss of our own daily newspaper has arguably contributed as much to the decline in fortunes of Fitchburg as the loss of our hospital and General Electric. (We draw to mind the S&E's backing of the HealthAlliance merger in the 1990s and the mess that has created with the loss of Thoracic Surgery and medical specialties, an ER repeatedly on diversion, and an absolutely overwhelmed local healthcare system.)
The Sentinel printed a correction, but the correction was miniscule and buried, and much less likely to have been read by the folks who read and repeated the misinformation in the original article. Typical of newspapers, we might add. Once the feathers are thrown to the wind, they cannot be gathered and placed back into the bag.
Councillor Tran's earlier communication with us appears in the prior post, below.
Second, the special City Council meeting that followed the Finance Committee meeting last night (October 9th) wasn't televised by FATV. As this is a volunteer organization and it's hard to round up volunteers at the last minute, no fault lies with FATV here.
It is unfortunate, however, that this important meeting wasn't televised so that we could see and hear the unedited version of what actually occurred at the meeting. We're left with the bits and bytes that the newspapers choose to print.
Not everyone has the wherewithall to physically attend every council meeting, and we sorely miss the FATV coverage when it isn't available. You don't know what's true if you don't see it for yourself.
Thanks, by the way, to the community-minded volunteers who bring us coverage. Here's the chance for folks who are able to contact FATV and volunteer to learn to run cameras and audio. http://www.fatv.org
That's enough for now.
Any of the city councillors who care to comment and present their positions here are more than welcome to do so. Ground rules for commenting include registration and respectful behavior. There are other sites available for brawling.
Thanks to the good folks who endure the hassles of campaigning and make the sacrifice to serve once elected. We may not all agree all the time, but those who serve out of a genuine desire to contribute to the community have our heartfelt appreciation.
The rest, as they say, is commentary.
Shalom
First, Councillor At Large Dean Tran emailed a few folks last week about an incomplete / inaccurate item in the Sentinel and Enterprise concerning raising the property tax rate. As we understand it from Tran's email, and from reading the article on tax classification, the Sentinel printed that Tran proposed increasing the residential tax rate 22 cents. Naturally this didn't sit well even with Tran supporters, and this whopping inaccuracy during a council seat contest may have been enough to sway undecided voters away from Tran.
Benefit of the doubt to the Sentinel, call it unintentional, but all the same, pretty unfair, and yet another example of the Sentinel's continued one-sidedness in coverage of all things Fitchburg.
We deserve, and expect, better from the "Fitchburg Sentinel and Leominster Enterprise" implied in the merger of the two newspapers long ago. The loss of our own daily newspaper has arguably contributed as much to the decline in fortunes of Fitchburg as the loss of our hospital and General Electric. (We draw to mind the S&E's backing of the HealthAlliance merger in the 1990s and the mess that has created with the loss of Thoracic Surgery and medical specialties, an ER repeatedly on diversion, and an absolutely overwhelmed local healthcare system.)
The Sentinel printed a correction, but the correction was miniscule and buried, and much less likely to have been read by the folks who read and repeated the misinformation in the original article. Typical of newspapers, we might add. Once the feathers are thrown to the wind, they cannot be gathered and placed back into the bag.
Councillor Tran's earlier communication with us appears in the prior post, below.
Second, the special City Council meeting that followed the Finance Committee meeting last night (October 9th) wasn't televised by FATV. As this is a volunteer organization and it's hard to round up volunteers at the last minute, no fault lies with FATV here.
It is unfortunate, however, that this important meeting wasn't televised so that we could see and hear the unedited version of what actually occurred at the meeting. We're left with the bits and bytes that the newspapers choose to print.
Not everyone has the wherewithall to physically attend every council meeting, and we sorely miss the FATV coverage when it isn't available. You don't know what's true if you don't see it for yourself.
Thanks, by the way, to the community-minded volunteers who bring us coverage. Here's the chance for folks who are able to contact FATV and volunteer to learn to run cameras and audio. http://www.fatv.org
That's enough for now.
Any of the city councillors who care to comment and present their positions here are more than welcome to do so. Ground rules for commenting include registration and respectful behavior. There are other sites available for brawling.
Thanks to the good folks who endure the hassles of campaigning and make the sacrifice to serve once elected. We may not all agree all the time, but those who serve out of a genuine desire to contribute to the community have our heartfelt appreciation.
The rest, as they say, is commentary.
Shalom
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Updated: Email from Councillor at Large Dean Tran
Update October 8, 2007
We hear from Councillor Tran that he has spoken with the Sentinel editor and a clarification is promised for the Tuesday October 9, 2007 edition. In Councillor Tran's words regarding the item before the Council on October 9th:
"The bottom line is that if the council is going to vote to increase the tax rate by 22 cents (maintaining the current shift at 137), they should carefully look at an alternative where the city would help our businesses grow and attract new ones to the city. The city cannot continue to raise taxes without having anything to show for it. In other words, this is the status quo and we need to consider change."
We agree with Councillor Tran's thinking in this regard.
Shalom
Dear Friends and Supporters,
In this weekend's edition of the Sentinel and Enterprise, an article on tax classification, wrote that I would propose an increase of 22 cents on the residential tax rate. In addition, it failed to mention critical information and data necessary to inform the public. The following are facts:
1. I never state to the paper such a proposal.
2. Maintaining the current rate, the residential tax is expected to increase 20 cents per thousand.
The City Council will hold a tax classification meeting this Tuesday night. It is unfortunate that I will have to use some of my time to set the record straight.
A notice has been sent to the editor of the paper and I will no longer provide comments and opinions to the paper unless they are relevant to my work.
As the only city councilor to have petitioned and argued for a reduction in the tax levy, I am disappointed in such horrible jounalistic work.
Regards,
Dean
We hear from Councillor Tran that he has spoken with the Sentinel editor and a clarification is promised for the Tuesday October 9, 2007 edition. In Councillor Tran's words regarding the item before the Council on October 9th:
"The bottom line is that if the council is going to vote to increase the tax rate by 22 cents (maintaining the current shift at 137), they should carefully look at an alternative where the city would help our businesses grow and attract new ones to the city. The city cannot continue to raise taxes without having anything to show for it. In other words, this is the status quo and we need to consider change."
We agree with Councillor Tran's thinking in this regard.
Shalom
Dear Friends and Supporters,
In this weekend's edition of the Sentinel and Enterprise, an article on tax classification, wrote that I would propose an increase of 22 cents on the residential tax rate. In addition, it failed to mention critical information and data necessary to inform the public. The following are facts:
1. I never state to the paper such a proposal.
2. Maintaining the current rate, the residential tax is expected to increase 20 cents per thousand.
The City Council will hold a tax classification meeting this Tuesday night. It is unfortunate that I will have to use some of my time to set the record straight.
A notice has been sent to the editor of the paper and I will no longer provide comments and opinions to the paper unless they are relevant to my work.
As the only city councilor to have petitioned and argued for a reduction in the tax levy, I am disappointed in such horrible jounalistic work.
Regards,
Dean
Monday, October 1, 2007
It's Good....
.... to be in the midst of the home stretch of the mayoral campaign.
I was speaking with a friend tonight after the first Wong-Donnelly (or Donnelly-Wong) debate. My friend breathed a deep sigh and said how nice it is to see the two finalists debate one another, each with their individual perspectives and philosophies, but both so evidently in love with Fitchburg.
There really can't be a wrong choice for Fitchburg mayor between Tom and Lisa.
It's good to live in Fitchburg tonight.
Shalom
I was speaking with a friend tonight after the first Wong-Donnelly (or Donnelly-Wong) debate. My friend breathed a deep sigh and said how nice it is to see the two finalists debate one another, each with their individual perspectives and philosophies, but both so evidently in love with Fitchburg.
There really can't be a wrong choice for Fitchburg mayor between Tom and Lisa.
It's good to live in Fitchburg tonight.
Shalom
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Congratulations, Fitchburg!
There's very little to say tonight, except thank God for the good citizens of Fitchburg.
The sigh of relief has been heard across the city, and we have emerged from beneath a dark cloud of negativity and dirty tricks.
Congratulations to Lisa Wong, Tom Donnelly and Ron Dionne for positive campaigns (and a few laughs, eh Ron?) And congratulations to every citizen who made the effort to vote, as well as to the campaign workers and folks in the background who contributed in the election process.
Fitchburg has spoken. We are a cohesive community that cherishes our diversity. It isn't unrealistic to believe we will eventually be on the "Top 100 places to live in the U.S." list.
Stranger things have happened!
Celebrate, have a good rest, and then on to the sprint to the general election!
Good work, all. Thank you.
Shalom
The sigh of relief has been heard across the city, and we have emerged from beneath a dark cloud of negativity and dirty tricks.
Congratulations to Lisa Wong, Tom Donnelly and Ron Dionne for positive campaigns (and a few laughs, eh Ron?) And congratulations to every citizen who made the effort to vote, as well as to the campaign workers and folks in the background who contributed in the election process.
Fitchburg has spoken. We are a cohesive community that cherishes our diversity. It isn't unrealistic to believe we will eventually be on the "Top 100 places to live in the U.S." list.
Stranger things have happened!
Celebrate, have a good rest, and then on to the sprint to the general election!
Good work, all. Thank you.
Shalom
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Guest Article: Lisa Wong Candidate for Fitchburg Mayor
Kids are back in school, the soccer fields are busy again at Coolidge Park, summer hours are almost over at the library, cars are everywhere in the college neighborhood where I live, and the campaign season is heating up.
I took a walk by BF Brown, around the new Academy Pilot School and then walked down Highland Avenue at the "Rock the Block" event held at Fitchburg State College. It was great to see, listen and talk to the students that were spilling onto the streets. The school year seems to be off to a good start, but the hard work lies ahead in making sure students stay in school, and most importantly, succeed.
I am running for Mayor because this city needs a leader and a manager, someone who not only solves the problems of today, but sets a course for the city and works to overcome short and long term obstacles to achieving the city’s goals.
As an economic development professional who has led and managed agencies, including the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority, I want to focus on bringing resources that are much needed to Fitchburg. I also want to manage those funds properly so that we can run this city as effectively and efficiently as possible.
I have been working diligently to understand the challenges of educating our children in Fitchburg – the multi-faceted issues of academic achievement, teacher quality, and school funding. There are numerous publications, case studies, model programs and consultants of all shapes and sizes lining up to share their expertise on bussing, lunch food and the MCAS.
I’ve also been going door-to-door hearing personal stories about layoffs, school bullying, language barriers and lack of resources. An eighth grader at one of my standouts told me her wish was that there would be more textbooks, and my middle-school aged neighbor just stopped me earlier this week to buy chocolate as a fundraiser to raise money for new lockers.
I’ve talked with educators who show me receipts and equipment worth thousands of dollars that they have purchased themselves. I’ve gone to the schools and seen the unacceptable condition of the buildings.
The school system is in dire need of resources. Investing in our school- system makes good financial and economic sense. The city has consistently lost $2-3 million per year due to students choosing to attend schools outside of our public school system.
I do not want to spend time blaming or pointing fingers because we are all responsible for finding solutions. I have and will continue to talk with students in and out of the classroom, and help find answers for how to break down the barriers to learning.
Here are some of my goals:
• Ensuring free and universal access to pre-school
• Targeting additional resources from state and federal sources to help disadvantaged students compete
• Ensuring that the schools have enough resources to be effective in the classroom (i.e. textbooks, computers, development time)
• Improving the physical environment of schools to encourage greater learning
• Emphasizing math and science courses that focuses on success in future careers, not just standardized tests
• Encouraging greater parent and teacher participation in the administration and curriculum of each school
• Exploring magnet schools
• Fostering relationships with private partners and businesses to marry the school curriculum with career opportunities
• Creating a long-term goal of ensuring teachers’ salaries are competitive with neighboring towns to reduce attrition
• Partnering with neighborhood organizations to ensure they are creating positive programs during after-school hours for kids
• Expanding youth employment opportunities and apprenticeship programs by partnering with private business and applying for youth employment grants
• Assessing the use of public schools and facilities, and non-profit and neighborhood centers as "safe places" for youth, as well as ensuring adequate after school activities.
• Creating a youth advisory council to adequately address the needs and concerns of our youth, and keeping them involved in the process
I fully expect this list to grow as I talk to more people and find out about new issues, and as mayor, I look forward to crossing some of these off the list as we make progress together.
My door is open. So please call or email or stop me on the street to discuss your - opinions, ideas or concerns.
I can be reached at 978-345-8683 (office), 978-400-5932 (home), and Lisa@VoteLisaWong.com
I took a walk by BF Brown, around the new Academy Pilot School and then walked down Highland Avenue at the "Rock the Block" event held at Fitchburg State College. It was great to see, listen and talk to the students that were spilling onto the streets. The school year seems to be off to a good start, but the hard work lies ahead in making sure students stay in school, and most importantly, succeed.
I am running for Mayor because this city needs a leader and a manager, someone who not only solves the problems of today, but sets a course for the city and works to overcome short and long term obstacles to achieving the city’s goals.
As an economic development professional who has led and managed agencies, including the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority, I want to focus on bringing resources that are much needed to Fitchburg. I also want to manage those funds properly so that we can run this city as effectively and efficiently as possible.
I have been working diligently to understand the challenges of educating our children in Fitchburg – the multi-faceted issues of academic achievement, teacher quality, and school funding. There are numerous publications, case studies, model programs and consultants of all shapes and sizes lining up to share their expertise on bussing, lunch food and the MCAS.
I’ve also been going door-to-door hearing personal stories about layoffs, school bullying, language barriers and lack of resources. An eighth grader at one of my standouts told me her wish was that there would be more textbooks, and my middle-school aged neighbor just stopped me earlier this week to buy chocolate as a fundraiser to raise money for new lockers.
I’ve talked with educators who show me receipts and equipment worth thousands of dollars that they have purchased themselves. I’ve gone to the schools and seen the unacceptable condition of the buildings.
The school system is in dire need of resources. Investing in our school- system makes good financial and economic sense. The city has consistently lost $2-3 million per year due to students choosing to attend schools outside of our public school system.
I do not want to spend time blaming or pointing fingers because we are all responsible for finding solutions. I have and will continue to talk with students in and out of the classroom, and help find answers for how to break down the barriers to learning.
Here are some of my goals:
• Ensuring free and universal access to pre-school
• Targeting additional resources from state and federal sources to help disadvantaged students compete
• Ensuring that the schools have enough resources to be effective in the classroom (i.e. textbooks, computers, development time)
• Improving the physical environment of schools to encourage greater learning
• Emphasizing math and science courses that focuses on success in future careers, not just standardized tests
• Encouraging greater parent and teacher participation in the administration and curriculum of each school
• Exploring magnet schools
• Fostering relationships with private partners and businesses to marry the school curriculum with career opportunities
• Creating a long-term goal of ensuring teachers’ salaries are competitive with neighboring towns to reduce attrition
• Partnering with neighborhood organizations to ensure they are creating positive programs during after-school hours for kids
• Expanding youth employment opportunities and apprenticeship programs by partnering with private business and applying for youth employment grants
• Assessing the use of public schools and facilities, and non-profit and neighborhood centers as "safe places" for youth, as well as ensuring adequate after school activities.
• Creating a youth advisory council to adequately address the needs and concerns of our youth, and keeping them involved in the process
I fully expect this list to grow as I talk to more people and find out about new issues, and as mayor, I look forward to crossing some of these off the list as we make progress together.
My door is open. So please call or email or stop me on the street to discuss your - opinions, ideas or concerns.
I can be reached at 978-345-8683 (office), 978-400-5932 (home), and Lisa@VoteLisaWong.com
Friday, September 7, 2007
Missing Signs? Check with DPW
The city has and will enforce the policy on no political signs on public land. Any political signs found on public land shall be relocated to the DPW yard off Broad Street. Candidates can pick their signs up there.
Hope this ends the accusations that signs are being stolen by competitors!
Now back to the issues.....
Shalom
Hope this ends the accusations that signs are being stolen by competitors!
Now back to the issues.....
Shalom
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Guest Article: Shaun Cormier Candidate for Councilor At Large
With the summer coming to an end, that means two things will be happening, the leaves will be turning colors soon and political signs popping up on yards around the city. Although it is probably more pleasant to look at the leaves changing colors rather than political signs, when driving around the city. This election is turning into one of the most important ones in Fitchburg’s history. Fitchburg is in a precarious state right now, as citizens, we must choose our elected officials diligently. This is why it is essential that everyone who is registered to vote takes advantage of the opportunity, this election year.
Here is a little background information about me and what I would like to accomplish as a city councilor. I’m a lifelong resident of Fitchburg. Graduating from Fitchburg High School in 2002. I received a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from New England Institute of Technology in Warwick, RI. I currently work for Hasbro, Inc. as an Electronic Technician.
If elected, I would like to start an Energy Committee, which would look at the feasibility of using renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydro power, to help cut energy costs down in city buildings and also look into how older city buildings could be more energy efficient. Cutting energy costs within city buildings would help save money for Fitchburg, now and for the years to come. I believe we need to attract Fitchburg’s younger population, such as college students and recent graduates to the downtown area. The city must work with Fitchburg State College, one of our city’s great attractions, to find feasible ways of attracting the younger population to downtown/Main Street area. Attracting college students to the downtown area would bring more revenue to businesses along Main St. and the surrounding streets. In turn, this would most nearly attract other businesses to the downtown area.
If elected, I would want to focus on the communications between our city officials. I want to establish a better relationship between the city council and mayor, encouraging both parties to meet regularly to establish constant communication. Also meet regularly with department heads on updates of how their department is doing financially. We should also establish a relationship with the school committee. If city officials work together, we can work in a more proactive approach, rather than a reactive one.
I hope you will consider me for Councilor At-Large on November 6th. I look forward to helping this city get back on track. Please visit my website, www.shauncormier.com for further information.
Shaun Cormier
Candidate for Councilor At-Large
Here is a little background information about me and what I would like to accomplish as a city councilor. I’m a lifelong resident of Fitchburg. Graduating from Fitchburg High School in 2002. I received a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from New England Institute of Technology in Warwick, RI. I currently work for Hasbro, Inc. as an Electronic Technician.
If elected, I would like to start an Energy Committee, which would look at the feasibility of using renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydro power, to help cut energy costs down in city buildings and also look into how older city buildings could be more energy efficient. Cutting energy costs within city buildings would help save money for Fitchburg, now and for the years to come. I believe we need to attract Fitchburg’s younger population, such as college students and recent graduates to the downtown area. The city must work with Fitchburg State College, one of our city’s great attractions, to find feasible ways of attracting the younger population to downtown/Main Street area. Attracting college students to the downtown area would bring more revenue to businesses along Main St. and the surrounding streets. In turn, this would most nearly attract other businesses to the downtown area.
If elected, I would want to focus on the communications between our city officials. I want to establish a better relationship between the city council and mayor, encouraging both parties to meet regularly to establish constant communication. Also meet regularly with department heads on updates of how their department is doing financially. We should also establish a relationship with the school committee. If city officials work together, we can work in a more proactive approach, rather than a reactive one.
I hope you will consider me for Councilor At-Large on November 6th. I look forward to helping this city get back on track. Please visit my website, www.shauncormier.com for further information.
Shaun Cormier
Candidate for Councilor At-Large
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Guest Article: Ward 4 Council Candidate Kevin Starr
Many people have asked me why I would want to run for city council. The answer is simple. I love Fitchburg! I know it’s a corny answer, but it’s true. I will do everything in my power to see my young daughter grow up here feeling safe, yet enjoying her youth as much as I did!
To reach that point though, changes need to be made. The financial problems that now plague us need to be resolved before we can move on. As a member of the city council I would request that each city department head make public quarterly reports on the status of their respective departments. This would give the residents the opportunity to see how their tax dollars are being spent. Elected officials would be able to monitor how monies are spent and make changes so we don’t end up in late June facing more cuts to already short staffed departments.
As the voice of Ward 4, I promise to focus on the individual needs of each resident. Speeding, parking, crime, and the poor condition of streets are some issues that people are concerned with. I know what the people would expect of me. I promise to address each concern our citizens have quickly and effectively.
As a lifelong resident of Fitchburg, thirty-four years, I’ve seen many changes in our city. Some were great, but the focus lately has been on changes that have created a negative impact. As your Ward 4 councilor, I promise to focus on the good and bad issues with equal effort. I’m confident in my ability to work with the residents of Fitchburg, our new mayor, and fellow councilors to create an atmosphere in Fitchburg that everyone can be proud of. I want to be a part of that process!
I ask the people of Ward 4 to consider me as their next councilor.
To reach that point though, changes need to be made. The financial problems that now plague us need to be resolved before we can move on. As a member of the city council I would request that each city department head make public quarterly reports on the status of their respective departments. This would give the residents the opportunity to see how their tax dollars are being spent. Elected officials would be able to monitor how monies are spent and make changes so we don’t end up in late June facing more cuts to already short staffed departments.
As the voice of Ward 4, I promise to focus on the individual needs of each resident. Speeding, parking, crime, and the poor condition of streets are some issues that people are concerned with. I know what the people would expect of me. I promise to address each concern our citizens have quickly and effectively.
As a lifelong resident of Fitchburg, thirty-four years, I’ve seen many changes in our city. Some were great, but the focus lately has been on changes that have created a negative impact. As your Ward 4 councilor, I promise to focus on the good and bad issues with equal effort. I’m confident in my ability to work with the residents of Fitchburg, our new mayor, and fellow councilors to create an atmosphere in Fitchburg that everyone can be proud of. I want to be a part of that process!
I ask the people of Ward 4 to consider me as their next councilor.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Guest Article: Tom Donnelly Candidate for Mayor of Fitchburg
This is the first time I have written on a Blog, and this campaign has been a learning experience about the role of the internet in local politics.
I have enjoyed working with my campaign volunteers in developing our campaign web
site http://www.donnellyformayor.com/ and I have read with interest some of the local Blogs which have been discussing the mayoral election. There is no question that the internet will play a more important role in politics in the next few years.
As some of you already know my name is Tom Donnelly and I am running for Mayor.
I have been a resident of Fitchburg for forty five years, I know the people and I know the neighborhoods of Fitchburg. I care about the City of Fitchburg and its people, and I am concerned about the direction we are currently going in. We need new leadership and new direction, but we also need experience
I would like to tell you a little bit about my experience. I graduated from St. Bernard’s High School here in Fitchburg. I attended and graduated from Fitchburg State College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education.
My wife Joanne and I have raised our family here in Fitchburg and we, operate a successful business, Donnelly Property Management here. Over the years, I have been very active in our community volunteering at community events as well as volunteering in local little league, soccer and hockey youth programs.
I have been privileged to serve as a member of the Fitchburg City Council for eight years including two terms as Council President. I also previously served the city as a member of the zoning board of appeals, and the consumer advisory panel.
Fitchburg is a great city that I enjoy living in. I choose to campaign in a positive manner,
discussing the issues that Fitchburg faces, and focusing on the good things about Fitchburg. I have not and will not will use tactics of division and negativity.
There is not enough room in this article for a detailed outline of issues and my views on them so I encourage people to visit my web site http://www.donnellyformayor.com/ and view my issues page. We will be updating it on a regular basis.
Fitchburg needs new leadership. Fitchburg needs experience. I believe that my combined 45 years of living in Fitchburg, my 35 years of community and neighborhood service and my 25 years of business experience makes me the best candidate for Mayor.
Thank you
I have enjoyed working with my campaign volunteers in developing our campaign web
site http://www.donnellyformayor.com/ and I have read with interest some of the local Blogs which have been discussing the mayoral election. There is no question that the internet will play a more important role in politics in the next few years.
As some of you already know my name is Tom Donnelly and I am running for Mayor.
I have been a resident of Fitchburg for forty five years, I know the people and I know the neighborhoods of Fitchburg. I care about the City of Fitchburg and its people, and I am concerned about the direction we are currently going in. We need new leadership and new direction, but we also need experience
I would like to tell you a little bit about my experience. I graduated from St. Bernard’s High School here in Fitchburg. I attended and graduated from Fitchburg State College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education.
My wife Joanne and I have raised our family here in Fitchburg and we, operate a successful business, Donnelly Property Management here. Over the years, I have been very active in our community volunteering at community events as well as volunteering in local little league, soccer and hockey youth programs.
I have been privileged to serve as a member of the Fitchburg City Council for eight years including two terms as Council President. I also previously served the city as a member of the zoning board of appeals, and the consumer advisory panel.
Fitchburg is a great city that I enjoy living in. I choose to campaign in a positive manner,
discussing the issues that Fitchburg faces, and focusing on the good things about Fitchburg. I have not and will not will use tactics of division and negativity.
There is not enough room in this article for a detailed outline of issues and my views on them so I encourage people to visit my web site http://www.donnellyformayor.com/ and view my issues page. We will be updating it on a regular basis.
Fitchburg needs new leadership. Fitchburg needs experience. I believe that my combined 45 years of living in Fitchburg, my 35 years of community and neighborhood service and my 25 years of business experience makes me the best candidate for Mayor.
Thank you
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Positive Campaigning
We've held off on saying much (directly) about politics, as that's an issue where you just can't please everyone. We won't say much about what's going on lately, but we do want to comment on some of the positive stuff.
Whatever your opinion of the mayoral candidates individually or collectively, we want to congratulate both Donnelly and Wong on maintaining the high ground, sticking to the issues, and behaving like a lady and a gentleman. In our book, Dionne fits that category too. Nice, clean campaigns with clearly articulated platforms.
The city council race and school committee campaigns (anything else?) are likewise being conducted with class, even the contested races.
While negative, angry campaigns get a lot of press, we personally want to express our gratitude to all the individuals who have and are conducting themselves with dignity and decorum. We are overall a good group of people here in Fitchburg and we will remember at the polls those who treat our city and our fellow voters with respect.
Shalom
P.S. For the benefit of other Jews in Fitchburg, we'll be posting the High Holy Days schedule for Congregation Agudat Achim in Leominster. Thanks ever so much to Ray C of WEIM, Dave Svens of FATV, Jason Lefferts of The Fitchburg Pride and others for helping us get the announcements and schedule of services publicized. The Leominster Synagogue serves the Fitchburg Jewish community, and it therefore belongs here at Fitchburg Voice. We'll be posting the schedule this week.
Whatever your opinion of the mayoral candidates individually or collectively, we want to congratulate both Donnelly and Wong on maintaining the high ground, sticking to the issues, and behaving like a lady and a gentleman. In our book, Dionne fits that category too. Nice, clean campaigns with clearly articulated platforms.
The city council race and school committee campaigns (anything else?) are likewise being conducted with class, even the contested races.
While negative, angry campaigns get a lot of press, we personally want to express our gratitude to all the individuals who have and are conducting themselves with dignity and decorum. We are overall a good group of people here in Fitchburg and we will remember at the polls those who treat our city and our fellow voters with respect.
Shalom
P.S. For the benefit of other Jews in Fitchburg, we'll be posting the High Holy Days schedule for Congregation Agudat Achim in Leominster. Thanks ever so much to Ray C of WEIM, Dave Svens of FATV, Jason Lefferts of The Fitchburg Pride and others for helping us get the announcements and schedule of services publicized. The Leominster Synagogue serves the Fitchburg Jewish community, and it therefore belongs here at Fitchburg Voice. We'll be posting the schedule this week.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Our Fathers Table Co-Founder Speaks
Time passes. Years march on. The accolades and unrecognized good works of many become forgotten. Recently there has been controversy over the re-opening in a downtown church of Our Father's Table, a privately funded, nondenominational meals program that has served the needy of Fitchburg for approximately twenty-five years.
Because many people are not acquainted with the history and legacy of volunteer public service in Fitchburg sometimes they speak - privately, on blogs and to newspapers - without benefit of knowing the history and tradition of our unique, diverse city.
What many people do not remember, or some never knew, is that Mrs. Annie K. DeMartino was nationally recognized repeatedly twenty years ago for her work with the homeless and the needy. The late Peter Jennings, then ABC evening news anchor, ran a weekly segment entitled "Person of The Week" where each week one person in the U.S. was singled out for giving of him or herself. In 1987, Mrs. DeMartino was Mr. Jennings' ABC Person of the Week, singled out for her common-sense and compassionate approach to empowering homeless individuals, and to prevention of homelessness, a program which saved the Commonwealth of Massachusetts millions of dollars, became a national model of effective social services, and turned lives around. When Jennings' crew returned for a followup story, the broadcaster was so impressed by Mrs. DeMartino's progress in homelessness prevention and restoring dignity and hope to homeless individuals that she became the ONLY person EVER to have been Peter Jennings' ABC Person of the Week TWICE.
Much of Mrs. DeMartino's work has been done quietly, secretly, and without due credit. She has been eager to acknowledge and provide credit to those who have worked with her in her charitable endeavors, and she is truly an unsung hero.
It has been my great privilege to have called Annie DeMartino my friend for over thirty years. Before she was famous, before she received a hard-earned Masters Degree or even high school diploma, long before she was a city councillor, before she was a U.S. citizen, this woman with a huge heart, a ton of energy, and more common sense than the entire membership of the U.S. House and Senate combined was caring for the less fortunate. Some things never change, and some people remain the same. Mrs. Annie K. DeMartino is one of those special individuals.
On Monday, July 23, 2007, this writer sat with Annie K. DeMartino and asked her to make a statement about the Sentinel and Enterprise article of this morning, and the statements made by the Sentinel's interviewees regarding Our Father's Table.
These are Mrs. DeMartino's words.
"Our Fathers House was given for one dollar to Dolores Arnone, myself and another individual. Initially it was named 'The Last Resort.'
Fitchburg had over 56 people living in the street at the time. The majority were mental health background including a woman from a well to do family in Lunenburg with some mental health issues, a more gracious lady you will never meet.
We did not know about funding. We were totally ignorant of the state laws. But we had something in our hearts - to help people come in from the cold. It was totally volunteer. We would shower and feed the men ourselves, all volunteers, no staff.
Next thing we knew - from city hall the building inspector said the building is not safe. End of story. Our philosophy of helping people and dealing with the truly needy was out the door and a glimpse of professionalism came through.
The board was formed. That was the end of Dolores, me and the other friend.
Since then Our Father's House became a productive place for people to recover. Hundreds have done so. We just made the footprints in the sand for them.
Through that time Dolores worried about those who would not come there and she wanted them to have a warm meal. Hence Our Fathers Table.
Our Father's Table had two goals - no state or federal money would be used, and no one could tell us what to do. The fear of state and federal intervention as at Our Father's House was the issue to start Our Father's Table without any government input.
Dolores' nephew is still a part of Our Father's Table. He has committed his time over last 22 years to this establishment. It is run like a business with every license paid, every insurance paid and everything done with 100% professionalism.
The people who come to eat there have no idea of the work this woman started and now her successors continue.
In the beginning homelessness was the issue. The faces changed. Now they are mostly elderly, some handicapped, some families, very little homeless. People come seeking fellowship, companionship and spirtitual need fulfillment. They come to us with dignity and they leave us with dignity.
It has been an honor for the people who have worked at Our Father's Table to have served.
Delores Arnone has been honored for many works but the one thing she said after a ceremony where she was honored, was "are we still helping the hungry?" That was her mission, no questions asked. If you're hungry you come to the table. This is the legacy of a woman who was well-to-do, and who still felt that the need to help the less fortunate was very important.
I'm very concerned that they never mentioned the Valiton shelter in the Sentinel and Enterprise article. It does great work for people in transition of becoming sober. They are dealt with with dignity, kindness, a full meal and a warm bed.
They do not go to Our Father's Table. They eat at their own home.
The people from Our Father's House eat at their own home.
The people at the Battered Women's shelter eat at their own home.
Please respect and understand what you're saying, and do not talk unless you do understand what you're saying."
Thank you, Annie, for your service to all of us.
Shalom
Because many people are not acquainted with the history and legacy of volunteer public service in Fitchburg sometimes they speak - privately, on blogs and to newspapers - without benefit of knowing the history and tradition of our unique, diverse city.
What many people do not remember, or some never knew, is that Mrs. Annie K. DeMartino was nationally recognized repeatedly twenty years ago for her work with the homeless and the needy. The late Peter Jennings, then ABC evening news anchor, ran a weekly segment entitled "Person of The Week" where each week one person in the U.S. was singled out for giving of him or herself. In 1987, Mrs. DeMartino was Mr. Jennings' ABC Person of the Week, singled out for her common-sense and compassionate approach to empowering homeless individuals, and to prevention of homelessness, a program which saved the Commonwealth of Massachusetts millions of dollars, became a national model of effective social services, and turned lives around. When Jennings' crew returned for a followup story, the broadcaster was so impressed by Mrs. DeMartino's progress in homelessness prevention and restoring dignity and hope to homeless individuals that she became the ONLY person EVER to have been Peter Jennings' ABC Person of the Week TWICE.
Much of Mrs. DeMartino's work has been done quietly, secretly, and without due credit. She has been eager to acknowledge and provide credit to those who have worked with her in her charitable endeavors, and she is truly an unsung hero.
It has been my great privilege to have called Annie DeMartino my friend for over thirty years. Before she was famous, before she received a hard-earned Masters Degree or even high school diploma, long before she was a city councillor, before she was a U.S. citizen, this woman with a huge heart, a ton of energy, and more common sense than the entire membership of the U.S. House and Senate combined was caring for the less fortunate. Some things never change, and some people remain the same. Mrs. Annie K. DeMartino is one of those special individuals.
On Monday, July 23, 2007, this writer sat with Annie K. DeMartino and asked her to make a statement about the Sentinel and Enterprise article of this morning, and the statements made by the Sentinel's interviewees regarding Our Father's Table.
These are Mrs. DeMartino's words.
"Our Fathers House was given for one dollar to Dolores Arnone, myself and another individual. Initially it was named 'The Last Resort.'
Fitchburg had over 56 people living in the street at the time. The majority were mental health background including a woman from a well to do family in Lunenburg with some mental health issues, a more gracious lady you will never meet.
We did not know about funding. We were totally ignorant of the state laws. But we had something in our hearts - to help people come in from the cold. It was totally volunteer. We would shower and feed the men ourselves, all volunteers, no staff.
Next thing we knew - from city hall the building inspector said the building is not safe. End of story. Our philosophy of helping people and dealing with the truly needy was out the door and a glimpse of professionalism came through.
The board was formed. That was the end of Dolores, me and the other friend.
Since then Our Father's House became a productive place for people to recover. Hundreds have done so. We just made the footprints in the sand for them.
Through that time Dolores worried about those who would not come there and she wanted them to have a warm meal. Hence Our Fathers Table.
Our Father's Table had two goals - no state or federal money would be used, and no one could tell us what to do. The fear of state and federal intervention as at Our Father's House was the issue to start Our Father's Table without any government input.
Dolores' nephew is still a part of Our Father's Table. He has committed his time over last 22 years to this establishment. It is run like a business with every license paid, every insurance paid and everything done with 100% professionalism.
The people who come to eat there have no idea of the work this woman started and now her successors continue.
In the beginning homelessness was the issue. The faces changed. Now they are mostly elderly, some handicapped, some families, very little homeless. People come seeking fellowship, companionship and spirtitual need fulfillment. They come to us with dignity and they leave us with dignity.
It has been an honor for the people who have worked at Our Father's Table to have served.
Delores Arnone has been honored for many works but the one thing she said after a ceremony where she was honored, was "are we still helping the hungry?" That was her mission, no questions asked. If you're hungry you come to the table. This is the legacy of a woman who was well-to-do, and who still felt that the need to help the less fortunate was very important.
I'm very concerned that they never mentioned the Valiton shelter in the Sentinel and Enterprise article. It does great work for people in transition of becoming sober. They are dealt with with dignity, kindness, a full meal and a warm bed.
They do not go to Our Father's Table. They eat at their own home.
The people from Our Father's House eat at their own home.
The people at the Battered Women's shelter eat at their own home.
Please respect and understand what you're saying, and do not talk unless you do understand what you're saying."
Thank you, Annie, for your service to all of us.
Shalom
Thursday, July 12, 2007
A Tradition Of Caring For Our Own from 1872 City Charter
To those who are under the impression that the poor have recently appeared in the City of Fitchburg, there were no social service agencies to "attract indigents" when this beloved city was founded. One of the most important priorities of our founders was to care for the poor. From the City Charter of Fitchburg Massachusetts, 1872:
Sec. 18. Overseers of the poor.
The city council elected in December, in the year eighteen hundred and seventy-two, shall as soon after their organization as may be convenient, elect by joint ballot, in convention, three persons, to be overseers of the poor, one for three years, one for two years, and one for one year; and thereafter annually the city council shall, as soon after their organization as may be convenient, elect in the same manner one person who shall hold his office for the term of three years next ensuing, and until another shall be elected and qualified in his stead; but no more than one of the three members so to be elected shall be eligible from any one ward of said city.
The persons so elected shall, with the mayor and president of the common council, constitute the board of overseers of the poor. The mayor shall be ex officio chairman of the board.
Vacancies occurring in the board may be filled by joint ballot of the city council at any time; the member so elected to hold office only for the unexpired term of the member who has ceased to
hold office. The city council may at any time remove any elected member of the said board from office for cause. The compensation of the overseers of the poor shall be fixed by the concurrent vote of the city council.
As previously stated, Fitchburg has a tradition from the beginning of caring for her own. We are sure that that spirit of brotherly love will continue because it is in our collective DNA.
Shalom
Sec. 18. Overseers of the poor.
The city council elected in December, in the year eighteen hundred and seventy-two, shall as soon after their organization as may be convenient, elect by joint ballot, in convention, three persons, to be overseers of the poor, one for three years, one for two years, and one for one year; and thereafter annually the city council shall, as soon after their organization as may be convenient, elect in the same manner one person who shall hold his office for the term of three years next ensuing, and until another shall be elected and qualified in his stead; but no more than one of the three members so to be elected shall be eligible from any one ward of said city.
The persons so elected shall, with the mayor and president of the common council, constitute the board of overseers of the poor. The mayor shall be ex officio chairman of the board.
Vacancies occurring in the board may be filled by joint ballot of the city council at any time; the member so elected to hold office only for the unexpired term of the member who has ceased to
hold office. The city council may at any time remove any elected member of the said board from office for cause. The compensation of the overseers of the poor shall be fixed by the concurrent vote of the city council.
As previously stated, Fitchburg has a tradition from the beginning of caring for her own. We are sure that that spirit of brotherly love will continue because it is in our collective DNA.
Shalom
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
a word about Our Father's Table and the S&E article....
First, we are of the opinion that Ms. Alexandra Perloe is one of the finest reporters to appear at the Sentinel and Enterprise in recent memory. Her articles are well researched, balanced and very well written. I'm sure that fans of proper grammar, spelling and punctuation find few annoyances in Ms. Perloe's very readable writing style. Here's hoping Alexandra is with us for some time to come ... selfish I know, but good journalism and small towns are as rare a combination these days as folks like Ray C staying put in his hometown (for which we are exceedingly grateful.)
You've read the Sentinel article and the quotes therein. The thought has occurred that such statements are perhaps not unexpected of newcomers who have no foundation in the history of this city, and our tradition of helping our own. The contrast between Ms. Perloe's thoughtful, researched and insightful articles even though she is not a native Fitchburgite, and the thoughtless comments of others quoted in today's article says a lot.
I first came here in 1990 after living in other towns in the area for many years, and having been involved in the Fitchburg community for most of those years. Somehow it was just a fit. Perhaps my upbringing in a blue collar household in a University town ... who knows, but I've been in love with Fitchburg and her people - as a whole - for the past 34 years. I was around for the founding of Our Father's House, Our Father's Table, the Battered Women's Shelter, and numerous facilities and organizations. Anyone with any history in Fitchburg knows of the fine people (publicly known as well as anonymous) who have supported and contributed time, efforts, money, food, clothing, love and basic caring of one human for another to these organizations. I am not aware of busses or trains transporting the downtrodden of other communities to Fitchburg to lap up our limited resources. Rather, the fact that we have such facilities or services is because there has long been a need in Fitchburg, as in all cities, and because good people saw that need and stepped up to the plate.
Tonight I wonder how many of the folks who are served now or in the past by one or more of these organizations have themselves served others in the same or similar capacity in which they are occasionally served now. That's how a decent society works. We take care of those who cannot take care of themselves.
It is what separates us from the savages.
I do sincerely hope that more recent arrivals in our fair city eventually come to love and care for ALL her residents as much as the wonderful people who have given so much of themselves through these many years.
We want so much to welcome you and have you participate with us in all this city has to offer.
But please, denigrators, you really MUST cease fire, declare an armistice, and honor both those who serve AND those whom they serve.
Fitchburg has a long tradition as "NO PLACE FOR HATE."
Shalom
You've read the Sentinel article and the quotes therein. The thought has occurred that such statements are perhaps not unexpected of newcomers who have no foundation in the history of this city, and our tradition of helping our own. The contrast between Ms. Perloe's thoughtful, researched and insightful articles even though she is not a native Fitchburgite, and the thoughtless comments of others quoted in today's article says a lot.
I first came here in 1990 after living in other towns in the area for many years, and having been involved in the Fitchburg community for most of those years. Somehow it was just a fit. Perhaps my upbringing in a blue collar household in a University town ... who knows, but I've been in love with Fitchburg and her people - as a whole - for the past 34 years. I was around for the founding of Our Father's House, Our Father's Table, the Battered Women's Shelter, and numerous facilities and organizations. Anyone with any history in Fitchburg knows of the fine people (publicly known as well as anonymous) who have supported and contributed time, efforts, money, food, clothing, love and basic caring of one human for another to these organizations. I am not aware of busses or trains transporting the downtrodden of other communities to Fitchburg to lap up our limited resources. Rather, the fact that we have such facilities or services is because there has long been a need in Fitchburg, as in all cities, and because good people saw that need and stepped up to the plate.
Tonight I wonder how many of the folks who are served now or in the past by one or more of these organizations have themselves served others in the same or similar capacity in which they are occasionally served now. That's how a decent society works. We take care of those who cannot take care of themselves.
It is what separates us from the savages.
I do sincerely hope that more recent arrivals in our fair city eventually come to love and care for ALL her residents as much as the wonderful people who have given so much of themselves through these many years.
We want so much to welcome you and have you participate with us in all this city has to offer.
But please, denigrators, you really MUST cease fire, declare an armistice, and honor both those who serve AND those whom they serve.
Fitchburg has a long tradition as "NO PLACE FOR HATE."
Shalom
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Complaint to D.A.: Councilors Broke Open Meeting Law
The following complaint has been filed with the District Attorney of Worcester County, alleging Open Meeting Law Violations and Conspiracy by members of the Fitchburg City Council.
This is a condensed synopsis of the complaint, with names and addresses of the complainant and witnesses redacted. Once the District Attorney acknowledges and accepts receipt of the complaint, the District Attorney's office will send a copy to the city council, where it will become a matter of public record and identities will be disclosed.
Complaint of Open Meeting Law Violations and Conspiracy by City Council, Fitchburg, MA
I. Specific violations leading to an action taken in public meeting on June 26, 2007, as documented in this complaint.
II.Conspiracy to circumvent the Open Meeting Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through
a. scheduling unposted meetings as de facto subcommittees of the City Council designed with the purpose of conducting hearings in secret that are statutorily required to be held in public with due notification and opportunity for the public and interested parties to attend, hear and speak as well as to witness the process of deliberations and decision making;
b. a pattern of manufactured “chance” social gatherings (e.g., drinks at the Boulder Cafe and other bars after regular public meetings in which the citizens’ business is discussed, pre-planned “chance” weekend breakfast meetings of several councillors at local cafe-diners, where council business is discussed outside of open meeting);
c. “telephone chain” meetings in which the citizens’ business is discussed and concensus and decisions reached;
d. email meetings;
e. consecutive individual or small group meetings specifically designed to avoid a quorum (as discussed in the Commonwealth Open Meeting statutes) with other city officials or parties with matters before the council, resulting in de facto subcommittees of the council;
f. Other written or spoken correspondence outside of public meeting that is required to be conducted within public meeting;
g. Failure to keep minutes of said meetings and to provide said minutes to the City Clerk or make same available to the public;
III. Continued, persistent, ongoing, open and flagrant violations of the Open Meeting Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that have existed over a long period of time, specifically since January 1, 2006 upon the taking of office of the individual makeup of this particular City Council.
On June 26, 2007, in a duly posted city council special meeting, Councillor Jesus “Jay” Cruz made a motion “ to cut civilian dispatchers from $361,433 to zero” the motion was seconded. Mr. Gentile, the Teamsters representative for the civilian police dispatchers collective bargaining unit requested several times to be heard and was refused and then ejected from the meeting.
No public statements were permitted on the newly introduced petition.
The councilors who spoke during the discussion period indicated that they had already reached their decision prior to the public meeting and their statements were explaining WHY they had reached their decisions, rather than a discussion of the merits of the petition. Attendees and viewers were left in the dark as to what the actual specifics of Councillor Cruz’s petition were, as the information was never discussed nor copies made available within the scope of public meeting.
In a subsequent regular meeting of the City Council on July 5, 2007, which was videotaped by Fitchburg Access Television, certain of the councillors who spoke stated clearly that they had met with the police department bargaining unit representatives and/or members outside of public meeting, and that they had reached their decisions prior to the matter having been presented to the council on June 26, 2007, by motion of Councillor Jesus “Jay” Cruz.
Excerpts of the June 26, 2007, Committee of the Council As A Whole Special Meeting:
Mayor Mylott, “ I read in paper this morning ... realized this was coming before the committee. Councilor Cruz put forward information. I oppose vehemently...”
Councillor Kaddy, “... I have the unfortunate duty to tell you the chief called me today from his vacation and wanted me to say for him that he opposed us cutting dispatchers. Told him I would say that, did not discuss on the phone. Chief knows how I feel. ... We have to make this cut.” (Indicating he had already made a decision outside public meeting on a petition that was not presented to the council until the meeting.)
Councillor Cruz, “I have already given the council information ... this is about smart business and public safety ... I am not a legal expert ... I submit all the information I have in front of you.”
Councillor Conry, “... piggyback onto Kaddy's comments ... quote I received from chief ...he called me also and said ‘the union and the mayor are running the police dept I don't know if we need a police chief.’ I will be voting in favor of reducing these amounts to zero.” (Indicating he reached his decision prior to the public meeting.)
Councillor Tran, “... don't think issue of taking a risk ... not an easy decision... it comes down to due diligence. We have plenty of petitions that required very little common sense ... stay in committee for months through several discussions... this is big issue, talking about laying off work force of 10 people... hasty decision being pushed and dictated by budget ... I hear the reason about finance, business decision ... when I smell a bad decision I know it and this is one of them...”
Councillor Hay, “... there is another part that is an easy decision ... facts have changed ... look purely as financial situation and public safety situation this step is the best in those areas.”
Council President Joseph, “... question re rude outburst [speaking about the union representative’s attempt to address the council] ... city solicitor’s response [with the] opinion from labor council that should have been distributed, faxed on Friday [June 22, 2007] (before the item appeared on the agenda, and FOUR DAYS BEFORE THE PUBLIC MEETING)... response to cutting to zero ... either way there will be litigation ... whether laying off dispatchers or police officers ... in speaking to [city’s labor counsel, Attorney Greg Angelini] Angelini today he could not predict on one day's notice best guess as of outcome ... this will be decided in another forum.”
Vote: 10 - 1 Councillor Tran opposed.
Complainant goes on to state that he/she witnessed Councilor Jesus "Jay" Cruz drop off the packet of information to Councillor DeMartino the weekend before the meeting, and that their interaction was brief and cordial, and NO inappropriate activity was observed between Councillors Cruz and DeMartino.
Complainant states the he/she was informed by a city councillor that Councillor Hay was observed in a local cafe on the morning of June 25, 2007, meeting with representatives of the police department bargaining unit, and that said councillor felt the meeting was inappropriate, possibly illegal, and absented him/herself immediately from the cafe.
Complainant reports a conversation with another Councillor who was asked whether he/she had had any interaction PRIOR TO the June 26, 2007 public meeting with any city councilor, public official, members of either bargaining unit (police union or dispatchers union) or anyone else regarding the police dispatchers.
Answers:
“I received a packet, and never opened the packet because it was inappropriate outside of public meeting.”
“I was told about the dispatchers about 1 - 2 hours before the meeting.”
“Jody (Council President Jody Joseph) phoned me and said ‘this is what we’re going to do. One thing will be to lay off the dispatchers.’”
“Five minutes before the meeting when I found that the first item on the agenda was going to be the dispatchers, I pulled Jay [Councillor Cruz] aside and told him I had a bad feeling about this and that it needs more discussion. Jay said to me that we need the officers and that was the whole point in laying off the dispatchers.”
On July 5, 2007, the Fitchburg City Council held a scheduled regular meeting.
Absent were Council President Jody Joseph, Councillors At Large DeMartino, Cruz and Donnelly.
Fitchburg Chief of Police Edward Cronin spoke to the council members present about the unexpected and undeliberated action of June 26, 2007, in which the civilian police dispatchers were eliminated without consulting police department administration or providing an opportunity for the public or administration to be heard. Chief Cronin (who had been on vacation on June 26th but stated he had his computer and cell phone with him in North Carolina, said, “I was not contacted despite taking my cell phone and computer on vacation, until the deal had been done.” The Chief stated that he received a phone call from the mayor at 4:45 PM on Tuesday June 26th that this matter had (just) been placed on the council meeting agenda for that evening.
The council went on with other business until after the Chief had left the meeting, and then spoke about his presentation. Councillors expressed in public meeting, and before the television cameras and microphones that they had held their discussions outside of open meeting, to wit:
Council Vice-President Kaddy, “... I got a phone call from the Chief while he was on vacation ... asked if the council had spoken to management of the police department. I said I spoke to the union. I have more history with the police department than you people do and wouldn’t have voted differently.”
Ward 5 Councillor Stephan Hay, “ ... I understand the Chief’s concerns about the council’s actions but took them because ... obligation to ... look at (Councillor) Cruz’s proposal. MY FIRST PHONE CALL WAS TO UNION MEMBERS. I MET WITH THEM and asked questions... talked about Cruz’s proposal, gave him their side. If the Chief felt mistreated, that’s the corner office [understood meaning, the Mayor], that’s his boss. If he [the Mayor] waited until 4:45 that Tuesday to call him in North Carolina regarding PENDING ACTION THAT NIGHT that’s between the mayor and the chief.
Ward 4 Councillor Ted DeSalvatore, “ I’ve been to the the Chief last year at this time and was told my presence was bizarre, it was way out of place that a councillor would be asking him questions about the budget. I spoke the [police] union president and officers, some of them referred me back to the union president, some spoke freely. Would they be willing to be dispatchers. Got ‘yes’ when I got answers. I agreed with the information delivered to the council and will stand by it.”
Complainant requests District Attorney to accept complaint and investigate promptly, further asks the District Attorney to request court intervention as provided by statute to set aside illegal actions taken by the Fitchburg City council to require subject matters decided in secret to come before open meeting with an opportunity for the citizens to participate, be heard, and openly view and hear the deliberations and decisions.
-end of complaint synopsis-
The question of whether to continue to employ civilian police dispatchers is not the cause of the complaint. The violation of the Commonwealth's Open Meeting Law repeatedly by members of the Fitchburg City Council is egregious, an insult to the voters, taxpayers, and residents of Fitchburg. Laws exist for a reason - to provide social and civic order, as well as fair and equitable government to us all.
For too long, members of the Fitchburg City Council have evaded and eluded the Open Meeting Law by "impromptu" or "chance" meetings of just under a quorum at each meeting, but with rotating members. Emails and telephone chains have replaced formal public meetings as required by statute. Citizens are tired of attending or watching council meetings where it is perfectly clear that items on the agenda have been discussed, deliberated, and decisions reached before they are actually formally presented.
This is illegal. It is insulting. It must be stopped.
To the best of this writer's knowledge, there ARE individual councilors who take every precaution to avoid these meetings and discussions, and who have been hampered and blind-sighted at every turn during council meetings where the outcome is a foregone conclusion.
"Business as usual" in Fitchburg needs to become transparent, above board, constitutional, and above all LEGAL. Our streets will never become clean until we clean up City Hall.
Shalom
This is a condensed synopsis of the complaint, with names and addresses of the complainant and witnesses redacted. Once the District Attorney acknowledges and accepts receipt of the complaint, the District Attorney's office will send a copy to the city council, where it will become a matter of public record and identities will be disclosed.
Complaint of Open Meeting Law Violations and Conspiracy by City Council, Fitchburg, MA
I. Specific violations leading to an action taken in public meeting on June 26, 2007, as documented in this complaint.
II.Conspiracy to circumvent the Open Meeting Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through
a. scheduling unposted meetings as de facto subcommittees of the City Council designed with the purpose of conducting hearings in secret that are statutorily required to be held in public with due notification and opportunity for the public and interested parties to attend, hear and speak as well as to witness the process of deliberations and decision making;
b. a pattern of manufactured “chance” social gatherings (e.g., drinks at the Boulder Cafe and other bars after regular public meetings in which the citizens’ business is discussed, pre-planned “chance” weekend breakfast meetings of several councillors at local cafe-diners, where council business is discussed outside of open meeting);
c. “telephone chain” meetings in which the citizens’ business is discussed and concensus and decisions reached;
d. email meetings;
e. consecutive individual or small group meetings specifically designed to avoid a quorum (as discussed in the Commonwealth Open Meeting statutes) with other city officials or parties with matters before the council, resulting in de facto subcommittees of the council;
f. Other written or spoken correspondence outside of public meeting that is required to be conducted within public meeting;
g. Failure to keep minutes of said meetings and to provide said minutes to the City Clerk or make same available to the public;
III. Continued, persistent, ongoing, open and flagrant violations of the Open Meeting Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that have existed over a long period of time, specifically since January 1, 2006 upon the taking of office of the individual makeup of this particular City Council.
On June 26, 2007, in a duly posted city council special meeting, Councillor Jesus “Jay” Cruz made a motion “ to cut civilian dispatchers from $361,433 to zero” the motion was seconded. Mr. Gentile, the Teamsters representative for the civilian police dispatchers collective bargaining unit requested several times to be heard and was refused and then ejected from the meeting.
No public statements were permitted on the newly introduced petition.
The councilors who spoke during the discussion period indicated that they had already reached their decision prior to the public meeting and their statements were explaining WHY they had reached their decisions, rather than a discussion of the merits of the petition. Attendees and viewers were left in the dark as to what the actual specifics of Councillor Cruz’s petition were, as the information was never discussed nor copies made available within the scope of public meeting.
In a subsequent regular meeting of the City Council on July 5, 2007, which was videotaped by Fitchburg Access Television, certain of the councillors who spoke stated clearly that they had met with the police department bargaining unit representatives and/or members outside of public meeting, and that they had reached their decisions prior to the matter having been presented to the council on June 26, 2007, by motion of Councillor Jesus “Jay” Cruz.
Excerpts of the June 26, 2007, Committee of the Council As A Whole Special Meeting:
Mayor Mylott, “ I read in paper this morning ... realized this was coming before the committee. Councilor Cruz put forward information. I oppose vehemently...”
Councillor Kaddy, “... I have the unfortunate duty to tell you the chief called me today from his vacation and wanted me to say for him that he opposed us cutting dispatchers. Told him I would say that, did not discuss on the phone. Chief knows how I feel. ... We have to make this cut.” (Indicating he had already made a decision outside public meeting on a petition that was not presented to the council until the meeting.)
Councillor Cruz, “I have already given the council information ... this is about smart business and public safety ... I am not a legal expert ... I submit all the information I have in front of you.”
Councillor Conry, “... piggyback onto Kaddy's comments ... quote I received from chief ...he called me also and said ‘the union and the mayor are running the police dept I don't know if we need a police chief.’ I will be voting in favor of reducing these amounts to zero.” (Indicating he reached his decision prior to the public meeting.)
Councillor Tran, “... don't think issue of taking a risk ... not an easy decision... it comes down to due diligence. We have plenty of petitions that required very little common sense ... stay in committee for months through several discussions... this is big issue, talking about laying off work force of 10 people... hasty decision being pushed and dictated by budget ... I hear the reason about finance, business decision ... when I smell a bad decision I know it and this is one of them...”
Councillor Hay, “... there is another part that is an easy decision ... facts have changed ... look purely as financial situation and public safety situation this step is the best in those areas.”
Council President Joseph, “... question re rude outburst [speaking about the union representative’s attempt to address the council] ... city solicitor’s response [with the] opinion from labor council that should have been distributed, faxed on Friday [June 22, 2007] (before the item appeared on the agenda, and FOUR DAYS BEFORE THE PUBLIC MEETING)... response to cutting to zero ... either way there will be litigation ... whether laying off dispatchers or police officers ... in speaking to [city’s labor counsel, Attorney Greg Angelini] Angelini today he could not predict on one day's notice best guess as of outcome ... this will be decided in another forum.”
Vote: 10 - 1 Councillor Tran opposed.
Complainant goes on to state that he/she witnessed Councilor Jesus "Jay" Cruz drop off the packet of information to Councillor DeMartino the weekend before the meeting, and that their interaction was brief and cordial, and NO inappropriate activity was observed between Councillors Cruz and DeMartino.
Complainant states the he/she was informed by a city councillor that Councillor Hay was observed in a local cafe on the morning of June 25, 2007, meeting with representatives of the police department bargaining unit, and that said councillor felt the meeting was inappropriate, possibly illegal, and absented him/herself immediately from the cafe.
Complainant reports a conversation with another Councillor who was asked whether he/she had had any interaction PRIOR TO the June 26, 2007 public meeting with any city councilor, public official, members of either bargaining unit (police union or dispatchers union) or anyone else regarding the police dispatchers.
Answers:
“I received a packet, and never opened the packet because it was inappropriate outside of public meeting.”
“I was told about the dispatchers about 1 - 2 hours before the meeting.”
“Jody (Council President Jody Joseph) phoned me and said ‘this is what we’re going to do. One thing will be to lay off the dispatchers.’”
“Five minutes before the meeting when I found that the first item on the agenda was going to be the dispatchers, I pulled Jay [Councillor Cruz] aside and told him I had a bad feeling about this and that it needs more discussion. Jay said to me that we need the officers and that was the whole point in laying off the dispatchers.”
On July 5, 2007, the Fitchburg City Council held a scheduled regular meeting.
Absent were Council President Jody Joseph, Councillors At Large DeMartino, Cruz and Donnelly.
Fitchburg Chief of Police Edward Cronin spoke to the council members present about the unexpected and undeliberated action of June 26, 2007, in which the civilian police dispatchers were eliminated without consulting police department administration or providing an opportunity for the public or administration to be heard. Chief Cronin (who had been on vacation on June 26th but stated he had his computer and cell phone with him in North Carolina, said, “I was not contacted despite taking my cell phone and computer on vacation, until the deal had been done.” The Chief stated that he received a phone call from the mayor at 4:45 PM on Tuesday June 26th that this matter had (just) been placed on the council meeting agenda for that evening.
The council went on with other business until after the Chief had left the meeting, and then spoke about his presentation. Councillors expressed in public meeting, and before the television cameras and microphones that they had held their discussions outside of open meeting, to wit:
Council Vice-President Kaddy, “... I got a phone call from the Chief while he was on vacation ... asked if the council had spoken to management of the police department. I said I spoke to the union. I have more history with the police department than you people do and wouldn’t have voted differently.”
Ward 5 Councillor Stephan Hay, “ ... I understand the Chief’s concerns about the council’s actions but took them because ... obligation to ... look at (Councillor) Cruz’s proposal. MY FIRST PHONE CALL WAS TO UNION MEMBERS. I MET WITH THEM and asked questions... talked about Cruz’s proposal, gave him their side. If the Chief felt mistreated, that’s the corner office [understood meaning, the Mayor], that’s his boss. If he [the Mayor] waited until 4:45 that Tuesday to call him in North Carolina regarding PENDING ACTION THAT NIGHT that’s between the mayor and the chief.
Ward 4 Councillor Ted DeSalvatore, “ I’ve been to the the Chief last year at this time and was told my presence was bizarre, it was way out of place that a councillor would be asking him questions about the budget. I spoke the [police] union president and officers, some of them referred me back to the union president, some spoke freely. Would they be willing to be dispatchers. Got ‘yes’ when I got answers. I agreed with the information delivered to the council and will stand by it.”
Complainant requests District Attorney to accept complaint and investigate promptly, further asks the District Attorney to request court intervention as provided by statute to set aside illegal actions taken by the Fitchburg City council to require subject matters decided in secret to come before open meeting with an opportunity for the citizens to participate, be heard, and openly view and hear the deliberations and decisions.
-end of complaint synopsis-
The question of whether to continue to employ civilian police dispatchers is not the cause of the complaint. The violation of the Commonwealth's Open Meeting Law repeatedly by members of the Fitchburg City Council is egregious, an insult to the voters, taxpayers, and residents of Fitchburg. Laws exist for a reason - to provide social and civic order, as well as fair and equitable government to us all.
For too long, members of the Fitchburg City Council have evaded and eluded the Open Meeting Law by "impromptu" or "chance" meetings of just under a quorum at each meeting, but with rotating members. Emails and telephone chains have replaced formal public meetings as required by statute. Citizens are tired of attending or watching council meetings where it is perfectly clear that items on the agenda have been discussed, deliberated, and decisions reached before they are actually formally presented.
This is illegal. It is insulting. It must be stopped.
To the best of this writer's knowledge, there ARE individual councilors who take every precaution to avoid these meetings and discussions, and who have been hampered and blind-sighted at every turn during council meetings where the outcome is a foregone conclusion.
"Business as usual" in Fitchburg needs to become transparent, above board, constitutional, and above all LEGAL. Our streets will never become clean until we clean up City Hall.
Shalom
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