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Dracut After Dark
The Best Issues & Information Forum in Dracut

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Bon jour. Dracut After Dark is a moderated forum (a sounding board or bulletin board) which gives people the opportunity to express their views, ideas, questions, or concerns relative to Dracut Massachusetts and its surrounding area -- a local networking watchdog advocate or blog, if you will.

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Dracut After Dark
Subject: Exploiting school security cameras against Middies football coach sparks investigation


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:53 09/15/09 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 9-15-09)

School official said to be target of Dracut probe

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- School officials are investigating allegations that a Dracut High School vice principal tampered with security equipment at the school and sent a secretly recorded video to the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, claiming that it was from a parent concerned about the football coach holding practice in violation of MIAA rules.

MIAA spokesperson Paul Wetzel acknowledged that the organization received an anonymous letter and DVD from someone claiming Dracut's head football coach, Jeff Moore, was conducting out-of-season practices.

Wetzel said the material was forwarded to Dracut High Principal James Generoso. Wetzel would not disclose the video's content.

Several sources say officials believe the letter and DVD were sent to the MIAA by Dracut Vice Principal Hank Golec and not a parent of one of the students.

Reached by The Sun, Golec, who has spent 34 years in Dracut as a teacher, varsity baseball coach and administrator, declined comment, saying, "I'm sick over this."

According to a source, after reviewing the DVD, school officials, including Generoso and Athletic Director Tim Woods, determined that the video was taped on a school-owned camera.

"As soon as they saw the quality of the tape and the angle of the video, (Generoso and Woods) knew that it was coming from somebody at the school," one source said.

Generoso could not be reached for comment. Woods declined comment. Dracut Superintendent of Schools W. Spencer Mullin, whose father died last week, was unavailable for comment.

The Sun has learned that the video contains weightlifting and conditioning sessions that were held in July. Moore, who also declined comment, was present at the sessions, which were open to all students, not just the football team.

When officials tried to examine the equipment on which the video was believed to have been recorded, the machine was found to be inoperable.

"Somebody sabotaged it," another source said. "That's how it looks. It appears that the person responsible for sending (the DVD) to the MIAA got nervous and damaged the equipment."

School Committee Chairman Matthew Sheehan is calling for an investigation into the allegations.

"Obviously, this is very serious," Sheehan said. "I want (Mullin) to begin an investigation as soon as possible."

Several coaches, including Golec, were scheduled to receive special recognition for various accomplishments at last night's School Committee meeting. Sheehan postponed the presentation at the last minute after learning about the allegations.

Committee member Ron Mercier Jr. said more oversight of the security system is needed.

"Who has access to it?" Mercier said. "I know that there is a security clearance code that's needed to use it. Who has that code? I think these questions need to be answered before we start pointing the finger at people."

If the equipment was purposely damaged, it could rise to the criminal level, committee member Michael McNamara said.

"And if it involves a member of the School Department, then it would be a matter that needs to be discussed in executive session," McNamara said. "It's unfortunate that these kinds of allegations are even spoken of among professionals."

The surveillance equipment, which is said to have cost in the tens of thousands of dollars when it was purchased 10 years ago, is to be used for security purposes only.

Committee member Mike Miles said he would demand an investigation.

"If anyone is tampering with that equipment and is found to have damaged it, it puts the students at risk," said Miles, who, along with Moore, is a Lowell police officer. "That's pretty serious stuff, especially if it was for the purpose of trying to get somebody else in trouble. It's inappropriate behavior at best and it borders on criminal."

Committee member Bonnie Elie said she does not want "knee-jerk reactions" to the allegations that it came from an employee.

"We need to do this right," she said. "Slow and methodical. Every 'i' dotted and every 't' crossed. If it is determined that a member of the administration or another employee is responsible, I want the person punished to the full extent of the law. I don't want them to get off on a technicality."
Replies:
Subject: Illegal Gambling Machines


Author:
CindyS
[Edit]
Date Posted: 16:10 09/11/09 Fri
You see them at bars and clubs and they say for entertainment use only, but do poker machines pay out and do they fund organized crime?

Asking because I remember Fox 25 News doing an investigative report on illegal machines at a bar on Lakeview ave in Dracut, but never heard anything happening to the bar once they were caught paying out on video. Are these machines owned by mobsters as report suggests?

If not who owns the machines, the individual bar owners, organized crime or someone else?

What do you know?

http://www.myfoxboston.com/dpp/news/undercover/FOX_Undercover_Video_Poker_Machines_in_Bars_Clubs

Video Poker Machines in Bars, Clubs
Video poker machines in bars and private clubs all across Massachusetts seem harmless enough. They've become a lucrative illegal business, and in some cases, pouring thousands of dollars into the pockets of organized crime. FOX Undercover's Mike Beaudet exposes the underground industry.



Replies:
Subject: Dracut Firefighters


Author:
Reminiscing
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:51 09/18/09 Fri
Leo M. and the other "leadership" of the Dracut Firefighters local led this once fine group of respected men into a sea of ugle anti-chief and anti-management rhetoric for far too long. Since Leo's election to president of our "boys", the union has filed countless grievenances and lawsuits with one goal-to oust the sitting chief. It's sad because I happen to know that this seemingly united goal is not share by all, only a desperate few that must have been raised to hate. Let's hope that the membership has had enough, the town see's through these ugly plots, and elects some proper leadership to bring the union back where they belong!
Subject: Lussier puppets meet tonite (Wed, 9-16-09) for last ditch effort to "save" Louisburg Square


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:38 09/16/09 Wed
(published in, Lowell Sun, 9-16-09)

Last hope for Dracut project

Town officials meeting tonight

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Town officials will make one last-ditch effort tonight to salvage the controversial Louisburg Square project.

The special joint meeting, scheduled for 7 p.m. in Harmony Hall on Lakeview Avenue, comes a month after Dracut Housing Authority Commission Chairman Ken Martin formed a subcommittee consisting of two members from the Board of Selectmen, the Housing Authority and the Finance Committee to address concerns about the 38-unit building at 1476 Mammoth Road.

"A subcommittee is not the answer," said Selectman Joe DiRocco. "They haven't even had a meeting yet and when they do, every member of the subcommittee will have to bring it back to their respective boards and this could just go on and on. We'll just have this meeting and the various boards can just make their decisions. Do they want this or not?"

Louisburg Square was appraised at $2.4 million in 2005 when DiRocco and fellow Selectman Bob Cox approached owner Draco Homes (Gerry Lussier and Doug Dooley?) about buying the building using funds from the Community Preservation Act. Town Meeting appropriated $2.65 million to purchase the property in 2006. The plan called for the property to be turned over to the Housing Authority, which would pay $70,000 for the next 20 years. The DHA was awarded $2.9 million from the state Department of Housing and Community Development to pay for renovations to the building.

Martin has voiced concerns that the renovations will cost more than $2.9 million. The Finance Committee voted 4-0 on Monday to rescind the 2006 Town Meeting appropriation, in large part because CPA regulations prohibit spending more than the property's appraised value.

"(Selectmen) just want us to stamp our approval on it because we're getting $2.9 million from the DHCD," Martin said this week, adding that the grant money does not cover the cost of the repairs. "Any capital costs above the $2.9 million would have to be borne by the Housing Authority or by the town. Do you want to see your taxes go up?"
Replies:
Subject: Daigle further embarrasses Shawn Ashe, Brian Flaherty & Jeanne Balkas over Louisburg Square


Author:
Roger L. Daigle via Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 00:03 09/13/09 Sun
(DAWG NOTE: The following response is in reference to comments made about Louisburg Square, and that facility’s owner Gerry Lussier, on Shawn Ashe’s website earlier this past week. Roger L. Daigle is a co-host on, “Inside Dracut Politics”, which airs several times a week local access cable TV channel 8.)

Response to the new triad at WCAP:

I really had to laugh when I read “The owner no longer wants to be kept in the spotlight and dragged into the Town’s politics”. You newbees haven’t been around long enough to know this guy’s history!! When a deal is bad, it’s bad, no matter how much money is thrown in the loop, especially when its our tax dollars!!

If a building is appraised at $2.4 million, four years ago, in today’s economic situation, who won’t admit that this building is worth less today. That $2.7 (of the $2.9 ) million will have to be spent for necessary repairs (and probably more), which will exceed the selling price, who in their right mind can call it a good deal??? Yes, but for whom???

People have accused politicians with playing fancy free with the taxpayer dollars, but some of these same people are of the same genre, allowing themselves the privilege of claiming, “we’re right and you’re wrong” without putting the figures to paper and refusing to take “everything” into consideration in their dogmatic decision to follow the leaders!!!

Don’t lie to anyone, including yourself. What is essential is invisible to the eye and when people forget their history they are susceptible to being snookered by politicians, especially those who refuse to part with the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHY, WHERE and HOW information. The cost of these can be prohibitive as many taxpayer have found out, but too late.

If you don’t believe in open government, in everything, and be willing to stand up and demand it, then you deserve what you get!! Transparency is the mother of integrity!!

To Jeanne Balkas:

I don’t believe the Finance Committee’s recent action is to revoked the appropriation voted on at the June 5, 2006 Town Meeting but to rescind their (F.C.) approval, given at that time.

I commend their acknowledgment of the fact that their approval, like the rest of those in attendance, was based on what little information was given to them, and their having the courage to say so when all the facts were in.

What moneys were spent?? The appropriation was to buy the building!!! Incidentals, where Community Preservation Act funds were used, had to have come out of the 5 percent allowed by the CPA for operating expenses. No one has mentioned how much that was - I wonder why??
Replies:
Subject: Mullin expected to get a piss-poor evaluation cuz his communication skills really suck


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 18:16 09/13/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, The Column, 9-13-09)

Spencer Mullin

School Superintendent W. Spencer Mullin recently told the Dracut School Committee that one of his goals this year is to “enhance communication” with parents, via newsletters that will include such things as milk and lunch prices and bus schedules.

Committee members have complained, however, that Mullin is anything but communicative. They say he seldom returns phone calls, to committee members or parents.

“I’m getting tired of having to apologize for him to the parents,” said one member. “I hear it everywhere I go, baseball games, school functions. It’s embarrassing.”

Parents also have complained that Mullin rarely shows up for school-sponsored activities. This was especially true in June when he was a no-show at several moving-on ceremonies in the lower grade levels.

Lack of communication was an issue that the committee consistently hung around the neck of former Superintendent Elaine Espindle, but with the exception of Ron Mercier Jr., that was an entirely different committee. That committee was as much to blame for communication breakdown as Espindle.

Evaluation forms were handed out to committee members on Aug. 24 and are expected to be reviewed sometime this month. Committee Chairman Matthew Sheehan and member Mike Miles will draw a composite from all five evaluations to be presented at a future committee meeting.

“I’d be very surprised if (Mullin’s bad habit of not responding) doesn’t come up big in the overall evaluation,” Sheehan said. “It’s too bad because it really shouldn’t be this way.”
Replies:
Subject: Tea gives me a headache


Author:
TeaPee
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:30 09/11/09 Fri
Well they are, at it again;

1. Talking points that make no sense.

2. Wearing those LL Bean spandex waist shorts.

3. Racist overtones

4. MissSpelled "Werds" on their signs!

5. Drawing little "Hitler" mustashes on the face of
the President.

You know; MORONS![reference to "Blazing Saddles" here].

Anywho, here's a website dedicated to these poor slobs;

The TeaParty Chronicles
at;
http://3cpo.brinkster.net/t.htm
Subject: People be aware there is a thief around the Greenmont Ave. School.GPS have been stolen.


Author:
Warden
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:51 09/03/09 Thu
Replies:
Subject: Alden's Gone?????


Author:
Karen
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:12 08/28/09 Fri
Went by Aldens today. The windows were all covered up and there was a space for lease sign. What happened? Always thought they did well.
Replies:
Subject: Sleazy Warren obvious "recommended" Atty Nyman to: Kazanjian, Uong, & Faticanti


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:13 09/06/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, The Column, 9-6-09)

WORD IS that Kazanjian is represented by attorney Phil Nyman, a barrister who is no stranger to city officials in hot water. Nyman is also representing School Committee member Regina Faticanti, who is facing criminal charges for allegedly threatening Superintendent of Schools Chris Scott during a heated April telephone conversation.

In 2004, Nyman who defended then-City Councilor Rithy Uong, charged with breaking the state's conflict-of-interest laws by accepting a promotion from guidance councilor to the higher-paying job of housemaster at Lowell High while he was still a councilor.

Nyman also represented the city's former building commissioner, Joe Guthrie, who was relieved of his responsibilities by Lynch in 2006 after it was revealed that he did not hold the proper state certification to hold the job. Additionally, Nyman served as counsel for Kazanjian's brother, Michael, accused of trying to renew a lucrative snow-plowing contract with the city of Lowell using an altered certificate that showed he had workers-compensation insurance when he was not covered. Michael Kazanjian pleaded guilty to several charges and was fined $11,500.

Nyman has also been known to cross the river from time to time, having represented former Dracut Selectman Warren Shaw when he was named in a wrongful-termination lawsuit by former Dracut Building Inspector Ernest Gauthier. Gauthier sued the town, Shaw and Town Manager Dennis Piendak, claiming he was fired for refusing to issue permits to unsafe buildings. The case was settled before trial.
Replies:
Subject: Obama’s Communist & controversial “Green Czar” finally decides to call it quits


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:19 09/06/09 Sun
(posted on, FoxNews.com, 9-6-09)

Van Jones

Van Jones

Jones' Resignation Could Embolden Administration Critics

Now that White House green jobs adviser Van Jones has stepped down, Republicans are raising concerns about the administration's reliance on "czars."

The resignation of White House green jobs adviser Van Jones could ultimately embolden conservatives who are critical of the Obama administration for its reliance on "czars" -- the nickname for special advisers who do not need congressional approval.

Jones resigned late Saturday following mounting criticism over his past statements and associations. The tipping point came when it was discovered that he signed a petition in 2004 supporting the "9/11 truther" movement, which believes the Bush administration may have been complicit in the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

But even before his resignation, critics said the controversy surrounding Jones was indicative of the fundamental problem with the administration's reliance on such advisers.

Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind., the first lawmaker to call for Jones' resignation, said Friday that in light of the controversy Obama should suspend the appointment of additional "czars" until Congress has a chance to examine the background and responsibilities of such individuals, as well as determine the constitutionality of such appointments.

Now that Jones is out of the way, Republicans are turning their fire on czars in general.

Sen. Lamar Alexander, the third-ranking Republican in the Senate, called the czars "an affront to the Constitution" since they are not approved by Congress.

"I don't think (Jones is) the issue. I think the czars are the issue," Alexander, R-Tenn., said on "FOX News Sunday." "We have about two dozen so-called czars -- the pay czar, the car czar, all these czars in the White House."

Republican strategist Ed Rollins said the administration needs to focus on bringing people on board who are competent and not controversial.

"(Jones) got out of there, but the more fundamental thing is there are 31 czars in that White House," he said.

Democratic strategist Joe Trippi suggested this is only the beginning for administration critics.

"They're going to keep gunning. I mean, look, this administration has the potential to be FDR or Jimmy Carter, and I think the Republicans are going to do everything they can to make him Jimmy Carter, to create a failed presidency," he said.

White House aides suggested Sunday that the administration is operating under the assumption that Jones' resignation will put to rest an unhelpful controversy, at a time when the president needs as much support as he can muster to pass health care reform.

Adviser David Axelrod commended Jones for the decision to step down, saying he showed his "commitment" to his cause by removing himself "as an issue."

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Jones "understood that he was going to get in the way of the president and ultimately this country moving forward" on clean energy.

"What Van Jones decided was that the agenda of this president was bigger than any one individual," Gibbs said on ABC's "This Week."

But Jones did not go quietly. He issued a defiant statement announcing his departure, accusing critics of mounting a "vicious smear campaign" against him, even as the White House kept its commentary to a minimum.

"They are using lies and distortions to distract and divide," Jones said.

Trippi and Rollins spoke on CNN's "State of the Union." Axelrod spoke on NBC's "Meet the Press."
Subject: Will there a shake up in politics in 2010?


Author:
New person in town.
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:51 09/06/09 Sun
Subject: Police around Hannaford Friday Night


Author:
Wondering resident
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:28 08/29/09 Sat
Anyone know what was going on around Hannaford in Dracut Friday night? Police had both ends of the street blocked off right outside of Hannafords parking lot.
Replies:
Subject: Daigle responds to 3 little nitwits: Shawn Ashe, Brian Flaherty, & Jeanne Balkas


Author:
Roger L. Daigle via Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:52 09/02/09 Wed
(DAWG NOTE: This particular response is in reference to something that was recently mentioned about Daigle’s view of the proposed Louisburg Square on Shawn’s stupid website, and then on Brian’s pissant blog concerning how the recently departed Dracut reporter of the Lowell Sun referred to Housing Authority member George Nangle as, “George Daigle” throughout the entire article. It’s my understanding that Daigle sent copies of this response to both Shawn and Brian – it’ll be interesting to see if either one will publish this on their website.)

“Cooler Heads” - Whose??

Shawn said - “Nangle, but that’s better than the Sun’s Daigle” - and of course, Shawn would know!!??

Brian Flaherty said - “OOPs, my bad (??). I wasn’t entirely sure how to spell his name. I searched on line but the DHA doesn’t have a web site. I do have a Town Report but couldn’t find it" (try section three, third page!!). “Oh well, far better than Daigle though, you’re right” -- Would you like to elaborate on that or would you be lost on that also??!!

Jeanne - I can’t believe I have to repeat myself - "The DHA has done nothing in 20 years" -- If you’re trying to blame the current majority at the DHA for those 20 years, think again. Political sense and good old common sense, prevalent, in way to many of the former and way to few of the latter. Why, I wonder, hasn’t any of this blame fever been tossed at those who really control the real issue, the availability of the MONEY!!?? You can advocate all you want (and how would you really know, whether, over those 20 years, that none was ever done?).

Shawn - I suggest you watch your careless use of words, they might turn and bite you in the ass!! Your other word, Respect - what was once earned can be more easily lost!!

Have you ever given any thought to how and or why 40B was passed, or, why so little is being done to have it abolished???

Brian - Kevin Murphy is not a member of a law firm. Therefore you might want to call our Town Accountant to find out why his name doesn’t show in the vendor list in the Town Report. Good Luck!!

No matter your fragile words or thoughts, can either of you say that your only concerns are solely for the taxpayers and the citizens of Dracut, including that often used and abused, misinformed, elderly??

Live your life so that the preacher doesn’t have to lie at your funeral!!

The Lowell Sun’s Daigle
Subject: Meehan a Joke!! Can't control Booze Partys at Double Tree and wants to be Senator


Author:
Pissed off Parent (angry)
[Edit]
Date Posted: 01:08 09/02/09 Wed
The freshmen have just moved into the DoubleTree yesterday and the Booze party's have begun...2 floors were bathed in booze. Get this...If 5 students enter a room you have to keep the doors open...SOLUTION close all the hall front doors and open the adjoining room doors so that all rooms connect via inside and the partys go on...Im furious you pay to send your daughter to school and already they are not part of the crowd if they don't drink OH!!! and Meehan was granted a liquor license..(so that travelers have a place to drink)
Replies:
Subject: Trash is Back


Author:
NO SMOKING ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:03 08/12/09 Wed
Do the Dracut Pop Warner parents know that there is NO smoking allowed on school grounds? That means during school hours and after school hours as well. Please adhere to this Law. The lady had one foot in the snack shack at the High School football field and one foot out of the snack shack. Lady- the snack shack isn't owned by DPW. Please respect our buildings and the school grounds and puff somewhere else.
Replies:
Subject: Texas Hold'em Game


Author:
Info
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:51 09/02/09 Wed
A Texas hold'em game is being sponsered by Dracut Pop warner to be held Sept 18 at the American Legion post on Broadway Road. Tickets are $50, buy ins are allowed up to first half. Tickets are available at the High school snack shack from 6-8 pm. Tickets are limited to the first 100 people...
Subject: Aldens


Author:
Kathy
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:08 09/01/09 Tue
I have drove by Aldens Discount Store on Lakeview Ave a couple of times lately and they are closed. Does anyone know if the store is closed for good?
Subject: Help support Dracut Pop Warner


Author:
Ad book
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:42 08/28/09 Fri
Any Business or person wishing to place an Ad in the Dracut Pop Warner Annual ad book may do so by coming down to the High School Snack shack Mon thru Thursday from 6-8 pm. Thurs Sept 3 , is the last day to place an Ad.
Replies:
Subject: Local resident asks, Why is politics so unfair & complicated?


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:31 08/22/09 Sat
(published in, Lowell Sun, Letter to the Editor, 8-22-09)

Retirement and health benefits should be equal

Let's not talk politics, but real life.

Let's put our politicians to the test. What type of retirement do they have? Their own. Not Social Security. What type of health care do they have or will have? Not the kind the American people will have. Why is Congress and the Senate buying multimillion- or multibillion-dollar airplanes for political use?

These are the questions that the average American will want answers to. I am also sure you can think of a few more.

It appears that what Congress and the Senate want to give the people is not much of anything, except additional taxation and cost.

Let's let the politicians use the same services as we will, and we will see real change. No more different retirement packages, no more multispending packages for their money providers at election time, no more separate health care. Are you not an American citizen and if so, why is it that you cannot have that same retirement, health care and careful spending that all Americans must have?

Biggest question here is: "Who is paying for all the retirement, health care and big ticketed cost improvements?" We are -- the American people.

So the answer to our problems, when it comes to cutting cost, may be just to look around the corner. Let us all have the same coverage from health to retirement and everything in between. Let us have bills written in English in 10 to 20 pages, getting to the point, instead of having thousands of pages with add-ins with loads of cost and over-runs.

Politics should be easy ... for the people, by the people.

MICHAEL BROWN
Dracut
Replies:
Subject: The word is out that TEDDY K will run for selectman in 2010 election.


Author:
Informer
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:30 08/30/09 Sun
Subject: Is Shaw for real?I think his views are twisted dont you?


Author:
Shaws Radio Show
[Edit]
Date Posted: 16:49 08/29/09 Sat
Subject: Joe Kenedy should take his uncle's seat.


Author:
Working man
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:37 08/27/09 Thu
Replies:
Subject: Rep Garry has one of the worst roll-call attendance records thus far in ‘09


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:43 08/25/09 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-24-09)

Beacon Hill roll call

THE HOUSE AND SENATE. There were no roll-call votes in the House or Senate during the week of Aug. 16-20. Beacon Hill Roll Call is reporting local representatives' roll-call attendance records for the 2009 session through Aug. 20.

The House has held 210 roll-call votes. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls for which each representative was present and voting and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll-call votes held. That percentage is the number commonly referred to as the roll-call attendance record.

Several quorum roll calls, used to gather a majority of members onto the House floor to conduct business, are also included in the 210 roll calls. On quorum roll calls, members simply vote "present" in order to indicate their presence in the chamber. When a representative does not indicate his or her presence on a quorum roll call, we count that as a roll-call absence just like any other roll-call absence.

Only 25 percent, or 40 of the 160 House members, have perfect 100 percent roll-call attendance records -- including 28 of the 144 Democrats and 12 of the 16 Republicans.

The five worst roll-call attendance records belong to Reps. David Flynn, D-Bridgewater, who missed 63 roll calls (70 percent attendance record); Harold Naughton, D-Clinton, who missed 48 roll calls (77.1 percent attendance record); Geraldine Creedon, D-Brockton, who missed 45 roll calls (78.5 percent attendance record); Vincent Pedone, D-Worcester, who missed 42 roll calls (80 percent attendance record); and Colleen Garry, D-Dracut, who missed 40 roll calls (80.9 percent attendance record).

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES' 2009 ROLL CALL ATTENDANCE RECORDS THROUGH AUG. 20

The percentage listed next to the representative's name is the percentage of roll-call votes for which the representative was present and voting. The number in parentheses represents the number of roll calls that the representative missed.

* Rep. James Arciero, 100 percent (0)

* Rep. Cory Atkins, 100 percent (0)

* Rep. Jennifer Benson, 100 percent (0)...

* Rep. Colleen Garry, 80.4 percent (41)...

* Rep. Thomas Golden, 99.5 percent (1)

* Rep. Kevin Murphy, 98.5 percent (3)

* Rep. David Nangle, 100 percent (0)

HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK'S SESSION? During the week of Aug. 17-21, the House met for a total of two hours and 14 minutes while the Senate met for a total of two hours and 24 minutes.

Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com
Replies:
Subject: Payback you ask ...


Author:
Tom Foolery
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:30 08/01/09 Sat
Project has rocky foundation
The Valley Dispatch
Posted: 07/31/2009 11:10:09 AM EDT


It's not political. That's what we hear from some members of the Dracut Housing Authority when their motives are questioned.

Hey, I'm sure it's not. But what the heck is it then?

Over the years, when elected officials have worked together, things that seem too big for a small town like Dracut have actually happened.

Community preservation, a new police station, a new library, Veterans Park -- although that project had its share of political backstabbing -- and the Lakeview Junior High School all happened because elected officials put aside their personal differences and worked together.

The junior high school was done at a time when many questioned the town's ability to carry new debt. But the debate was civil and productive and resulted in a project that got done without new taxes.

This 38-unit senior-housing project proposal on Mammoth Road is different, and it's become very personal.

Selectmen were angered when they found out through a story in The Sun that members of the Housing Authority were now questioning the viability of the project. After finding out through the manager that none of these questions was ever presented to town staff, accusations of political motivation were made.

What followed was ugly.

The Housing Authority meeting was opened with attacks on the Board of Selectmen by members Martin and Cunha, and before it was over, board member Tom Salem walked out the door in disgust.

Well, if you accept the definition that political is "social relations involving authority or power," this one is definitely political.

Buried in all of this political drama are two different issues.

The concerns over the finances of the project, which seem to have been answered by the project consultant, along with confusion over the draft lease is the first.

The discussion over the draft lease was all over the place.

After admitting that his board had sent the town a draft lease for the project, Chairman Martin warned the town and the consultant that his board really hadn't talked about it and had taken no vote on it.

Huh?

Seems to me a guy with 34 years in housing would understand that when you send someone a draft, it usually reflects your position.

Secondly, there is the appraisal value.

Cunha and Martin have appeared on a local cable show questioning the price and community preservation member Brian Bond called our radio show raising the same issue.

Bond was the self-described "driving force" behind the Canney Farm project that was questioned by Selectman Jim O'Loughlin. O'Loughlin questioned the project's value, leading to a renegotiation of the price.

Payback, you ask?

None of these folks is what you would call friends of O'Loughlin's, and since you asked, yes, he is up for re-election next year.

In fairness, the situations are similar. Canney Farm was overappraised, and another property was added to the deal to make it work.

The 1476 Mammoth Road property is owned by folks that really aren't what you'd call motivated sellers, and the town had to convince them to consider it.

They have let it be known that the agreed-upon price is as far as they would go, and the town has signed a purchase-and-sale agreement.

Don't look for this one to happen without further bloodshed.

Making an issue of the price is a high-risk gamble. If the seller pulls out, it could become, well, a political issue.

The bottom line is that if all of these folks want this to happen, it will, but not without what Town Manager Dennis Piendak called "cooperation and coordination."
Replies:
Subject: Zimini, who "Doesn't Play Well With Others", says, "fish rot from the head down"


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:22 08/16/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, The Column, 8-16-09)

PERHAPS DRACUT Selectman John Zimini should wear a shirt that reads, "Does Not Play Well With Others."

The two-term official has seemingly done everything he can to alienate himself from his four colleagues on the board. At a July 20 meeting of the Dracut Housing Authority Commission, Zimini suggested that Selectmen Bob Cox and Joe DiRocco were pushing for a senior housing project only to help line the pockets of the building's owner, Jerry Lussier.

"Who really is carrying the connected developer's bathwater and why?" Zimini said at the time.

The statement so infuriated Selectman Jim O'Loughlin that he made a motion at Tuesday night's selectmen's meeting to have Zimini interviewed by Middlesex County District Attorney Gerry Leone.

The motion passed on a 3-2 vote with Zimini and board Chairman George Malliaros voting against. It was a surprising decision on Malliaros' part, seeing that Zimini has been a thorn in the chairman's side for several months, constantly chiding him about the way meetings are conducted and going so far as to say that if there is a bad attitude among board members, it is because "the fish rots from the head down."

Nothing better demonstrated the divide between Zimini and his colleagues than the fact that none of the five separate motions Zimini put forth on Tuesday night managed to gain a second.

But the likelihood of Leone's office actually coming to Dracut to interview Zimini is slim, given some of the pressing life-and-death matters with which Leone has to contend. Zimini probably knows that, which may account for his bravado. After Tuesday's selectmen meeting, Zimini said he'd be more than willing to speak to Leone.

"I have nothing to hide," Zimini said. "I'll speak to anyone about anything."
Replies:
Subject: Erie Pa Cops need to learn the real rules


Author:
mr
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:22 08/21/09 Fri

Replies:
Subject: Some of the many problems with owning a robot that doubles as a lie detector


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:17 08/24/09 Mon
John was a salesman's delight when it came to any kind of unusual gimmicks.

His wife Marsha had long ago given up trying to get him to change. One day John came home with another one of his unusual purchases. It was a robot that John claimed was actually a lie detector.

It was about 6:30 that afternoon when Tommy, their 11-year-old son, returned home from school. Tommy was over two hours late. "Where have you been? Why are you over two hours late getting home?" asked John.

"Several of us went to the library to work on an extra credit project," said Tommy.

The robot walked around the table and slapped Tommy knocking him completely out of his chair.

"Son," said John, "this robot is a lie detector, now tell us where you really were after school."

"We went to Bobby's house and watched a movie." said Tommy. "What did you watch?" asked Marsha.

"The Ten Commandments." answered Tommy.

The robot went around to Tommy and once again slapped him, knocking him off his chair. With his lip quivering, Tommy got up, sat down and said, "I am sorry I lied. We really watched a tape called, Sex Queen."

"I am ashamed of you son," said John.

"When I was your age, I never lied to my parents. " The robot walked around to John and delivered a whack that nearly knocked him out of his chair.

Marsha doubled over in laughter, almost in tears and said, "Boy, did you ever ask for that one! You can't be too mad with Tommy. After all, he is YOUR son!"

The robot then walked around to Marsha and immediately knocked her ass out of the chair.
Subject: Miss Universe 2009 Results Predictions


Author:
25baga
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:46 08/23/09 Sun
1. Australia, Rachael Finch
2. USA, Kristen Dalton
3. Dominican Republic, Ada de la Cruz
4. Mexico, Karla Carrillo
5. Puerto Rico, Mayra Matos
6. South Africa, Tatum Keshwar
7. Venezuela, Stefanía Fernández
8. Czech Republic, Iveta Lutovská
9. Russia, Sofia Rudieva
10. France, Chloé Mortaud


http://mykiru.blogspot.com/2009/08/miss-universe-2009-final-list-of.html
Subject: Lighting Solution at Veterans Park


Author:
Keeping it real
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:20 08/21/09 Fri
Being that the Sun sets around 9PM in the high summer weeks. Why would we not allowing lighting that shuts down at 9PM each night? Kids and townspeople get to use the field and neighbors have no lighting issues after 9PM. Seems to me that would be best for all. Just saying NO NO NO someone promised etc.. seems to be childish and a bad way to approach this problem.
Subject: Dracut Sewer Dept.


Author:
Concerned Resident (Confused)
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:23 08/18/09 Tue
I just received the sewer bill. Noticed that the price went up by $100.00. Also notice that I paid $180.00/six in April. Now it's quarterly at $115.00 and it started 3 months after I paid my bi-annually bill? Have our representatives forgot we in a recession here? Who's pension are we paying for now?
Replies:
Subject: Two More of Dracut's Finest


Author:
Bill Parcells
[Edit]
Date Posted: 00:20 08/09/09 Sun
Hampton Police Log
August 07, 2009 6:00 AM

Monday, July 20
3:13 p.m. — Patrick Brustas, 19, of Dracut, Mass., and Gregory Wasylak, 18, of Dracut, Mass, were both charged with an open container violation.
Replies:
Subject: Daigle questions fiscal rationale & logic of purchasing Louisburg Square


Author:
Roger L. Daigle via Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:54 08/08/09 Sat
(DAWG NOTE: Roger L. Daigle is a co-host on the very popular local access cable TV show, “Inside Dracut Politics”, which can be viewed several times a week on Channel 8.)

It has always been a problem with me to read that only certain parties are playing games; playing politics; lies and innuendoes, when the real problem is the total lack of information, skewed information or downright false information.!!??

First lets start at the beginning -- The Town Charter states the Board of Selectmen is the policy making board - the Town Manager follows those policies but is directed as the one who runs the Town.

Second - considering this, why then without authority from the Charter, or even the other three selectmen, at an authorized posted meeting, two selectmen entered into private negotiations with an owner; the same applies to the two Dracut Housing Authority (DHA) members who did the same, supposedly as a sub-committee??????? Come on!! this total lack of attention to protocol troubles me, as it should you!!

These negotiations started, they say, in 2004. The general public wasn’t made aware of it till one read an article by our former Dracut reporter in an article published in the Sun on 4/25/06. A “standard” appraisal , they say, showed the building real value at $2,400,000. When I attempted to obtain a copy, I was told it couldn’t be released since the negotiations were still ongoing...

Then at the 6/5/06 Annual Town Meeting, Article 20 was presented. It requested $2,680,000 -- purpose was to acquire 38 units, for elderly housing.

Shortly thereafter, it was then that the two minority members of the DHA were apprised of this project - 2004 to 2006??? They questioned whether the other three had even walked through this building, and their answer was “no”!! I wonder when the other members of the board of selectmen were told??? They did agree to hire a “Consultant” to report back to them as to the condition of the building and the cost of bringing it up to snuff. His came in at $1.1 million, but he did state that he hadn’t been able to cover all units.

Another Consultant was hired with condition that the entire building be taken into consideration. His came in at $2.4 million. The third, an employee of the State’s Housing Authority came in at $2,772,000. However the big concern now is that the DHA, if they enter in this deal within the next 20 years, at anytime, find themselves in need of Capital Outlay moneys for unforeseen problems, were told it wouldn’t be available.

Too many people think like, if it’s a private sector deal a problems arise, raise the rent!! Not under Housing Authority rules and regulations. You can only charge 30 percent of an elderly tenant’s income, for their rent. Housing Authorities are a non profit organizations.

The present, private owner, has owned this building since l993 and from the deed, paid $960.000. The building is comprised of 24 studio apts,. which rent for $650 per month, and 14 one-bedroom units that rent for $750. The DHA for comparable units get $301 for studio apartments, and $353 for 1-bedroom units.

The annual cost for maintenance - wages; upkeep; sewerage; electricity; heat; water etc.; is estimated, from practical experience, at $171,000 per year. Add to that, their commitment to the Town of $70,000 per year, put the pencil to paper and considering there is no room for error, I can understand the DHA majority’s concerns, on a cushion for any possible need for Capital outlays. The current owner is not under any of those constraints.

The Town wants to bond, $2.7 million when the amount approved is $2,680,000??.. Our town treasurer was questioned as to what the current rate was and she said 4 percent. I phoned Palmer Dodge (I believe the largest bonding company in Boston) just a few days ago, was referred to Southwest Company. They after I told them the Town’s bond rating (obtained from Mr. Piendek) was A plus, I was told the current rate for a 20-year bond issue was between 4.5 – 5 percent.

Go to the Town’s Annual Report for ’08, you’ll find the Town has accumulated the sum of $659,000 in the CPA Fund for housing. Averaging approximately $65,000 a year from the housing’s 10 percent share of the CPA fund, collected from the 2 percent surcharge on our Real Estate tax, we, the Town, having joined in the CPA, in ’01, also receive an annual disbursement (not a reimbursement) from the DOR (Department of Revenue) each September.

The CPA was enacted into law December of 2000. The Town joined in Feb. of ’01. The DOR gets its money from an additional fee of $10 on all recorded documents at the Registrar Of Deeds offices. The first disbursement to the cities and towns in the program was made Sept. of ’02. At the beginning, where only a few towns and cities had opted to join, the disbursement averaged near 90 percent plus. However, since 2001, many more cities and towns have joined and with the current recession, fewer documents are being recorded, the DOR has told me the 2010 disbursement will be closer to 30 percent. If you know how bond repayments are figured, put it to paper. Add it all up, as I did, and you’ll come up with a shortfall of over $600,000. that the taxpayer will have to pick up over the next 20 years!!!

One must also consider the fact that if a good deal were to present itself in the next 20 years, the town couldn’t take advantage of it. Another thing, under private ownership we’re collecting near $18,000. In Real Estate taxes that we’ll lose if the Town takes that building over.

But, for me, the real kicker, is that no one has dared to mention is that this property is already elderly housing!!!! It’s true. The former owner, since this building was originally built for office spaces, went to the Planning Board for a “Special Permit” to convert these office spaces to residential units, and stating the converted residential units would be for the elderly only (over 60). After several hearings with the Planning and Board of Appeals, the Special Permit was granted and a Covenant was filed at the Registrar Of Deeds making it elderly housing for the next 50 years (31 more years). I have approximately 150 pages detailing this scenario, if anyone is interested.

Now with all of the above, why are two selectmen pushing this acquisition “for the elderly” when it’s already elderly housing???? Are you going to tell me that some members of the administration didn’t already know of this Covenant???

When someone in attendance at the DHA meeting mentioned, what about the Covenant, or words to that effect, the town counsel was heard telling Piendek, “Oh, Oh they found it???!!!”

The facts being known this is not a viable project for neither the DHA and the taxpayers of Dracut, and probably a worst project for the elderly. They deserve a lot better. Will the parties involved have the intestinal fortitude to drop this and work together on something that the whole Town will be proud of, not just a few???
Replies:
Subject: DHA Commissioners: No more $$$ for Louisburg Square plan until simple questions are answered


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:21 08/18/09 Tue
(Published in, Lowell Sun, 8-18-09. DAWG NOTE: I believe this Lowell Sun reporter had a problem with referring to DHA commissioner George Nangle as, "George Daigle".)

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- While an affordable senior-housing project has been hotly debated, there continues to be lingering questions about the project's appraisal, retaining wall and other issues.

At last night's meeting, Housing Authority members voted 3-1 to not put more money into the project until their questions are answered.

"I don't want to spend another dime on this project until the answers are here," said Housing Authority member Ken Cunha, who made the initial motion to stop paying any fees associated with the project, including architect fees.

In the same motion, the board also voted to form a subcommittee to work with selectmen and other town boards, and to pay only the board's consultant, Marc Slotnick, if he obtains information to answer their questions.

Housing Authority member Thomas Salem was absent from the meeting, while member George Daigle (Nangle?) voted against the motion.

Both Daigle (Nangle?) and Cunha volunteered to be on the subcommittee to promote cooperation and communication between town boards.

"We're all going to work together as a community to get (the senior housing project) done," Daigle (Nangle?) said.

In recent weeks, the project has prompted contentious debate between selectmen and Housing Authority members.

Last night's meeting was calmer than the Housing Authority's previous meeting July 20. Selectman John Zimini was the only selectman present last night.

The town plans to buy an existing senior apartment building at 1476 Mammoth Road, while the Housing Authority will eventually buy the building from the town.

In 2005, the building was appraised at $2.4 million, and in 2006 the town agreed to buy the building for $2.65 million.

The project's appraisal continues to be an issue, while Cunha is questioning why the town would plan a new appraisal to include repairs the town is paying for.

"I am highly against a new appraisal with $3 million worth of improvements," Cunha said.

The state Department of Housing and Community Development previously awarded $2.9 million to the Housing Authority to pay for renovations.

Other issues include a retaining wall outside the property that could cost $100,000 if it needs to be replaced, said Housing Authority Chairman Ken Martin.

Both Martin and Cunha are concerned about money for capital-maintenance costs for the building, and if the town will help pay those costs if there isn't any money available.

While the Housing Authority will pay the town $70,000 for 20 years to eventually buy the building, Cunha wants to know if there is any flexibility in the lease, should the Housing Authority need money to pay for capital maintenance.

In other business, the Housing Authority voted unanimously to adopt a new bed-bug policy requiring public housing to be exterminated before new tenants move in, and every new tenant must also have their belongings exterminated before they can move in.

In July, a senior-housing complex became infested with bed bugs, and all residents had to have their apartments exterminated.
Subject: Please Wake Up, America – Before it’s too late


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:53 07/28/09 Tue
Barack Obama

AS I PASS THIS ON TO MANY IN MY ADDRESS BOOK I AM AWARE OF THE FACT THAT SOME DAY I MAY NOT HAVE THE FREEDOM TO DO SO. VERY SCARY THOUGHT. And if you are watching what is going on all around you, then you know what I mean. If this email doesn't make any sense to you, then you are in deep trouble. This would mean you are not aware of what is going on all around you!

I have noted that many elected officials, both Democrats and Republicans, called upon America to unite behind Obama.

Well, I want to make it clear to all who will listen that I AM NOT uniting behind Obama! I didn't unite behind Obama! I will respect the Office which he holds, and I will acknowledge his abilities as an orator and word smith and pray for him, BUT that is it.

I have begun today to see what I can do to make sure that He is a one-term President!

Why am I doing this??

It is because I do not share Obama's vision or Value system for America.

I do not share his Abortion beliefs.

I do not share his radical Marxist's concept of re-distributing wealth.

I do not share his stated views on raising taxes on those who make $150,000+ (the ceiling has been changed three times since August).

I do not share his view that America is Arrogant.

I do not share his view that America is not a Christian Nation (THIS JUST SHOWS HE CERTAINLY ISN'T UP ON HIS AMERICAN HISTORY!).

I do not share his view that the military should be reduced by 25%.

I do not share his view of amnesty and giving more to illegals than American Citizens who need help (NO WAY, HOSEA!).

I do not share his views on homosexuality and his definition of marriage.

I do not share his views that Radical Islam is our friend and Israel is our enemy who should give up any land (GIMME A BREAK!).

I do not share his spiritual beliefs (at least the ones he has made public).

I do not share his beliefs on how to re-work the health care system in America.

I do not share his Strategic views of the Middle East, and certainly do not share his plan to sit down with terrorist regimes such as Iran.

Bottom line, my America is vastly different from Obama's, and I have a higher obligation to my Country and my God to do what is Right!

For eight (8) years, the Liberals in our Society, led by numerous entertainers who would have no platform and no real credibility but for their celebrity status, have attacked President Bush, his family, and his spiritual beliefs!

They have not moved toward the center in their beliefs and their philosophies, and they never came together nor compromised their personal beliefs for the betterment of our Country. They have portrayed my America as a land where everything is tolerated except being intolerant!

They have been a vocal and irreverent minority for years; they have mocked and attacked the very core values so important to the founding and growth of our Country!

They have made every effort to remove the name of God or Jesus Christ from our Society!

They have challenged capital punishment, the right to bear firearms, and the most basic principles of our criminal code; they have attacked one of the most fundamental of all Freedoms, the right of free speech! And they forgot what this country was built on .... Christian principles!They fail to realize when they took "God out of everything" this country went on a downhill spiral fast and still is!

Unite behind Obama. Never!

I refuse to retreat one more inch in favor of those whom I believe are the embodiment of Evil!

PRESIDENT BUSH

Made mistakes during his Presidency, (EVERY PRESIDENT DOES) however; I believe that he weighed his decisions in light of the long established Judeo-Christian principles of our Founding Fathers!!!

Majority rules in America , and I will honor the concept; however, I will fight with all of my power to be a voice in opposition to Obama and "his goals for America ". Because I am going to be a thorn in the side of those who, if left unchecked, will destroy our Country!! Any more compromise is more defeat!

I pray that now that Obama is President and has shown his true colors, everyone concerned will wake up the many who have sat on the sidelines and allowed the Socialist-Marxist anti-God crowd to slowly change so much of what has been good in America!

"Error of Opinion may be tolerated where Reason is left free to combat it."

-Thomas Jefferson

"If we ever forget that we're one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."

-Ronald Reagan

GOD BLESS AMERICA, AND AMERICA, BLESS GOD!

Pass this on if you agree. Thanks!

Now the ball is in your court.

If you agree with this I strongly suggest you pass this on. If we wait and let everyone else do it, this message may end here and we will fall prey to the inevitable which is very close. We are about to loose the freedom we have cherished for so long unless YOU AND I .... WAKE UP NOW!

Are you hearing what I am saying?? WAKE UP!
Replies:
Subject: Tomorrow's (M., 8-17-09) Housing Authority meeting promises to be a real "slobberknocker"


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 18:09 08/16/09 Sun
If you'd like to watch a nice fireworks display in August, be sure to attend tomorrow's (Monday, 8-17-09) monthly Housing Authority meeting at 7 p.m., at its 65 Phineas Street meeting room.

Among other things, the fate of Louisburg Square on Mammoth Road will probably be decided at this public hearing. Don't complain if you, at least, don't go down there and put in your two cents.
Subject: Dear Independent Investigator


Author:
The Moderator
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:16 08/15/09 Sat
You might want to scroll down this site a little bit to see if what you're about to post is already on here -- especially something from last month.

http://www.voy.com/54926/21551.html

Happy DADing, everybody!
Replies:
Subject: next level


Author:
staff (m)
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:04 07/24/09 Fri
Matt Thomas Harvard, Brian Fredrick Hofstra, Jeff Parlee Air Force, Shane OD St As, Bob Russo Curry, Jon LLewellyn Curry, John McSwiggn Williams, Andy Graham Colby, Anthony Catennacci Assumption, Tim Dillon Middlebury,

Moore placed-Rivera Becker, Diffenbacher Becker, Murphy Bridgeton Prep, Grimard UND, Lussier Endicott, Reardon NMMI Prep, Wiggins Umass, Meehan UNH, Andy Sutherland Merrimack, Chris Bent St As, Midgely Anna Maria, Jeff Richard UMAss Lowell--13 kids playn college ball--nice!!
Replies:
Subject: DA investigation request approved over comment made on Lussier's political relationship(s)


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:41 08/12/09 Wed
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-12-09)

Board sacks light request

No night action at Veterans Park for Dracut Pop Warner

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Despite the pleas of Dracut Pop Warner officials, selectmen voted 4-1 to ban lighting at the rear athletic field at Veterans Park, claiming they were keeping a promise made to neighbors.

"Pop Warner is an important group, but if we give our word to the residents we should keep our word," said Selectman Joe DiRocco, who made the motion to limit lighting to two baseball fields only.

The issue dates back 15 years, when plans to build the park were passed at Town Meeting by a two-thirds majority vote.

Former Selectman Warren Shaw wrote a letter to the board, stating that he specifically promised neighbors there would be no lights near abutting homes, to win the neighborhood's support for the park.

At a public hearing during last month's selectmen meeting, neighbors also said they were told there would be no lighting near their homes, while some residents claimed there was never a promise made.

However, some Pop Warner officials and parents said they didn't understand why there couldn't be a compromise with neighbors.

"They (selectmen) made an agreement 15 years ago," said Pop Warner parent Julie Cook. "We're asking for a compromise to benefit the kids in all sports."

Selectman John Zimini voted against the decision to ban lighting, and made a motion to create a committee of neighbors and Pop Warner representatives to try to work out a compromise, but that motion was not seconded.

In other business, the board voted 3-2 that Zimini be interviewed by District Attorney Gerard Leone, while Selectmen Chairman George Malliaros and Zimini voted against an interview.

Selectman Jim O'Loughlin made the motion to have Leone interview Zimini about a statement he made at the Dracut Housing Authority meeting on July 20, suggesting that some selectmen were pushing for a senior housing project only to help the building's owner, Jerry Lussier.

At the July 20 meeting, Zimini said, "Who really is carrying the connected developer's bath water and why?"

Selectman Bob Cox, who worked with DiRocco to negotiate the housing deal with Lussier, said he was never involved in an unethical situation.

"If I'm carrying the water for anyone, it's the elderly," Cox said at last night's meeting.

After the meeting, Zimini said he would be more than willing to speak to Leone.

"I have nothing to hide," Zimini said. "I'll speak to anyone about anything."

The town is slated to buy an existing senior housing building from Lussier for $2.65 million using funds from Dracut's Community Preservation account. The state Department of Housing and Community Development previously awarded $2.9 million to the Housing Authority to pay for renovations to the building.

Zimini made a motion to have the building undergo another appraisal, but the motion was not seconded.

Zimini wanted an appraisal to assess the property's current market value, not including future repairs the town will make, and consider the current deed restriction, mandating that the building provide senior housing for the next 30 years.
Replies:
Subject: Paul Lefebvre, 48, gets nailed for trying to pick up a hooker


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:11 08/14/09 Fri
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-14-09)

Prostitution sweep nets at least nine arrests in Lowell

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

LOWELL -- Responding to concerns expressed this week by the City Council, police last night put a crimp in the prostitution that occurs in the vicinity of Jackson, Appleton and Middlesex streets.

Police arrested at least eight men and one woman during a sweep of that area of the city that lasted more than five hours. Using a female decoy, police stayed close by and waited for unsuspecting customers, or "johns," to approach her and offer her money for sex. In each case, police arrived on the scene moments after the alleged john made the offer.

"We do prostitution enforcement actions across the city at various locations from time to time, when we get information from the neighborhood that prostitution is a concern, just like any other illegal activity, whether it's speeding or drugs or robbery," said Superintendent Kenneth Lavallee, who was in the area for several hours as police conducted the operation.

"Our goal is to send a message, loud and clear, that this isn't the place to be conducting that kind of activity," he added.

Arrested and charged with solicitation for prostitution were: David Whelan, 56, 407 Forest Hill St., Dunstable; Paul Lefebvre, 48, 400 Jones Ave., Dracut; Aenoi Khamphilavanh, 29, 313 Old Westford Road, Chelmsford; Fedner Claude, 20, 95 Pinehurst Ave., Billerica; Edward Toscano, 41, 317 Boston Road, Billerica; Derek Santos, 28, 50 Ginsburg Drive, Tewksbury; Andrew Holloway, 50, 152 Appleton St., Lowell; Evandro Santos, 42, 29 Boynton St., Lowell.

Arrested and charged with sexual conduct for money was Sharon Brennan, 47, no permanent address, Lowell.
Replies:
Subject: This Wednesday (8-12-09) may be last chance to publicly voice concerns on Walgreens


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:19 08/08/09 Sat
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-8-09)

Walgreen's hearing on Dracut agenda

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- While neighbors continue to put "Stop Walgreens" signs on their lawns, Wednesday may be their last opportunity to speak publicly about the project.

The Planning Board will hold another public hearing about the proposed Walgreens project at 7 p.m. at Harmony Hall. Chairman Phil Thibault said the board could potentially close the public hearing, but he does not expect a vote then.

Representatives from Walgreens will present the results of a traffic study and real-estate appraisals of surrounding homes.

The drugstore is slated to be built at the corner of Lakeview Avenue and Mammoth Road. Although the area has been zoned commercial for at least the past couple of decades, the area is highly residential, and the store will abut homes.

Traffic has been a major concern among residents, while the corner of Lakeview Avenue and Mammoth Road is notorious for being a difficult intersection.

"Traffic's going to be there (at the intersection) anyway, but Walgreens will add to the congestion," said resident Heather Pintal.

At the last Planning Board meeting on July 8, Pintal's husband, Eric, presented the board with a 26-page petition with 140 signatures of people who oppose the project.

Pintal said they're continuing to gather signatures to present to the board.

Walgreens has promised to install a state-of-the-art traffic light at the intersection and plans to widen the road, at a cost of $600,000, should it win approval.

Thibault said the board continues to analyze information, and expects to make a final decision about the project in September.

"The board wants to gather all the information we can from all the sources we can to make an informed decision," Thibault said. "All the information is important."
Replies:
Subject: VH1 Charm School views calling someone "retarded" as acceptable lady-like behavior


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:24 07/15/09 Wed
VH1 Ashley
Ashley

VH1 Bubbles
Bubbles

Yeah I know what you’re probably thinking: Michael Jackson, Jon and Kate Gosselin, Pet Memorials published in the Lowell Sun, a few assorted jokes, and now Charm School – what the heck does any of this have to do with Dracut?

Please understand that summer is really a slow time of the year as far as hot news items go, therefore we tend to throw out other items of interest every now and again to keep this message board afloat.

My rant today concerns a certain situation that transpired a couple weeks ago on a VH1 reality show called, "Charm School with Ricki Lake" (a.k.a., Charm School 3). As the title suggests, it’s a show that transforms wild party girls into supposedly gracious, elegant ladies. I think they may have gotten the idea for this show from the old Three Stooges skit which a couple of college professors made a wager that social behavior is based on environment versus heredity.

Out of the 17 or so "divas" they initially start off with, only one graduates at the end and wins the $100K top prize. Exactly how much of "a gracious, elegant lady" that this show produces is questionable at best. The winner of the first season of Charm School reportedly spent several months in prison very recently for stealing money from her uncle, while last year’s Charm School winner ran out and bought herself some silicon breast implants as soon as she received her $100K.

Neither one sound like virtuous women to me.

And I realize too that ratings have to play a more important role on a show like Charm School than the actual integrity of conforming wild party girls into virtuous elegant ladies. Although VH1 usually repeats its shows frequently throughout the week, the new one airs on Monday at 9 p.m., opposite among other things, Jon and Kate Plus 8, and WWE Raw. So, perhaps, a little sleaze as well as “shock and awe” are good to attract more people to watch VH1’s "Charm School".

Ashley refers to Bubbles as a “retarded child” TWICE

One of the more popular contestants, Ashley, (who looks like one of these women trying to resemble a Barbie doll via plastic surgery and silicon enhancing, and is a real-life Las Vegas stripper when she’s not doing reality shows) called another Charm School contestant, Bubbles (a free-spirited, happy-go-lucky waitress and college student from New York) a “retarded child” for the second time recently on this program within several weeks. On both occasions, Bubbles was disturbed and literally in tears over this comment.

After the first incident, Ashley gave Bubbles a "Bart Simpson-type" apology by saying something to the effect:

“I’m sorry, Bubbles, that’ll never ever happen again.”

And, as with Bart Simpson, Ashley would screw over Bubbles with this same ignorant comment the first chance she got. After the second time she did it, Ashley told the Head Mistress of the show, (has-been talk show host and Jerry Springer wannabe) Ricki Lake, that Bubbles had been “pushing her buttons” and just wouldn’t shut up while the whole group of contestants were enjoying a late-night snack at a local bar. Yet, none of the other three girls in the bunch were affected the same way Ashley was to blurt out an ignorant slur like “retarded child” at Bubbles.

So when it came time to eliminate a contestant for that particular show, who do you suppose Ricki Lake sent home packing? Why Bubbles, of course.

Ricki Lake said Bubbles was “good” and “all set” and that Ashley “really needed to be in Charm School to progress and improve”. So next Monday, Ashley will be one of three "Charm School" finalists eligible to win the $100K top prize, while FORMER CONTESTANT Bubbles was humiliated twice being called a “retarded child” by this silicon-implanted boobed Barbie doll.

What message do you suppose VH1 is sending to its audience over this ignorance? Or, if Ashley should somehow win this "Charm School" contest?

If you dislike someone, just call them “retarded” and have a good laugh over it.

What if this ignorant slur was directed at either Blacks, Jews, or gays???

Just out of curiosity, what if Ashley had directed her ignorance towards Jews or gays? How about if she had used the “N” word against one of the Black contestants on this Charm School? Personally, if that had been the case, Ricki Lake probably would’ve sent Ashley off that show in a New York minute – long before their usual end-of-the-show expulsion ceremonies. That would be construed as, "being different".

But since VH1 is ONLY offending mentally-challenged people here, and an ignorant skank like Ashley is great for TV ratings, Charm School just views this incident as “no big deal” and just laughs the whole thing off. I mean, who’s out in the public eye actually defending the rights of mentally-challenged people? Sarah Palin?

With the emergence of “reality shows” since the beginning of this decade, TV has gotten a lot worse in quality and integrity than ever before. Say what you will about, Dracut After Dark, but we’ve still got a very long way to go before we start muddling in this type of a moral and tasteless cesspool.
Subject: Lussier allegedly threatens to negate Louisburg Square deal if not made by 2010


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:43 08/02/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-2-09)

Sale price at issue in Dracut senior-housing plan

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- After a contentious debate between selectmen and Dracut Housing Authority members, there continue to be critical issues surrounding an affordable senior housing project.

While the town signed a purchase-and-sale agreement to buy an existing senior apartment building at 1476 Mammoth Road, residents and one selectman question why the selling price is more than the building's initial appraisal.

In 2005, the building was appraised at $2.4 million. The town agreed to buy the building for $2.65 million the next year.

Selectmen Bob Cox and Joe DiRocco, who helped negotiate with owner Gerry Lussier, said Lussier never wanted to sell the building in the first place, and initially wanted $3 million.

"Draco Homes (Lussier's business) was not looking to sell this piece of property," DiRocco said.

Lussier could not be reached for comment on Thursday afternoon, while both DiRocco and Cox said they heard that Lussier is threatening to walk away from the deal if it isn't completed by Dec. 31.

"It's a frustrating position to be in," Cox said. "We're just trying to help the seniors and take a step forward in adding units."

The existing building has 38 senior apartment units. While the rents are currently below market-rate, the new project would create public housing, allowing seniors to pay 30 percent of their income as rent.

The building also has a deed restriction to ensure the building will provide senior housing for 30 years.

However, Housing Authority member Ken Cunha said a deed restriction should have lowered the selling price, and is concerned that he and other board members weren't made aware of the restriction until their meeting on July 20.

The town will use money from the Community Preservation Act to help pay for the project.

However, at the time the deal was negotiated, DiRocco, Cox, and Town Manager Dennis Piendak weren't aware that the CPA law prohibits using CPA money to purchase a project for more than its appraised value.

But before the town signed the purchase-and-sale agreement, Town Counsel Jim Hall advised Piendak to seek an opinion of value about the property's worth by a real-estate agent who specialized in apartment buildings.

Hall said the agent priced the building's value at at least $2.65 million.

The state's Department of Revenue oversees the uses of CPA money. Asked if the project's initial deal is valid, using a purchase price that costs more than the initial appraisal, DOR said it's up to local leaders to move forward with the agreed price.

"This is a matter for local officials to question, review, and ultimately approve or reject," wrote Robert Bliss, DOR spokesman, in an e-mail.

Hall has advised the town to seek a new appraisal.

But if a new appraisal reflected a lower value, the selling price isn't going to change, Piendak said.

Selectman John Zimini has questioned why the town would continue to pay $2.65 million, in a weakened economy with lower housing prices.

"It's four years later and the economy has sunk and we're still paying $2.65 million," Zimini said. "To me, that just isn't fair to the taxpayer."

The project will cost $3.6 million, which includes the selling price of $2.65 million, and a bond payment of about $1 million. Town Treasurer Ann Vandal based the bond payment on a 4 percent rate.

For revenue, the town will use approximately $2.3 million from CPA, not including any state contributions which have recently matched CPA funds by 60 percent. The Housing Authority will pay the town $1.4 million to eventually purchase the building from the town, payments of $70,000 for 20 years.

The state Department of Housing and Community Development had awarded the Housing Authority $2.9 million to pay for renovations. The town will lose that money if it does not build the project, according to DHCD.

Other issues on the table include capital maintenance costs.

Housing Authority Chairman Ken Martin, who also serves as Methuen's Housing Authority director, said he's been concerned with capital costs since the beginning, and said replacing the building's kitchens and bathrooms will bump up repairs to more than $3 million. That does not include fixing the property's retaining wall, which could cost about $100,000, Martin said.

"As a housing administrator, I know capital funds are hard to come by, so this has to be done right," Martin said. "I'm not going to be pressured to make a decision for something that's not workable."
Replies:
Subject: Dracut has until 2011 to make its Town Hall handicap accessible


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:46 08/11/09 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-11-09)

Shape of local town halls bad, getting worse

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

Faced with faulty electrical systems, inefficient boilers and accessibility problems, some Greater Lowell town halls are in desperate need of renovations.

In Dracut, the town has until 2011 to resolve accessibility issues at Town Hall, the Town Hall annex and the Sewer Department building.

The upgrades were ordered in 2004 by a federal judge to ensure that all three buildings are accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

However, Dracut like many other communities, is struggling to come up with money to pay for major capital expenses.

"It's very difficult to support current operating budgets for police, fire and schools, never mind a capital expense of (a new) building, renovating or leasing a building for municipal services," Assistant Town Manager Glen Edwards said.

In 2006, residents voted against a $9 million debt exclusion that would have raised property taxes to pay for the construction of a new facility.

Edwards said the town will have to take another look at renovating the existing building or leasing another space...
Replies:
Subject: Accident on Mammouth Rd around 5:15


Author:
Former Dracut Resident
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:32 08/11/09 Tue
Does anyone know the poor girls who got hit by the car on Mammoth Rd near Skyline Drive?

I saw this accident and saw how far the poor girl flew through the air after being hit. I thought she was dead.

I just wanted to know if anyone knew her and could update me on her condition. The good sign was she was conscious and alert as she was being loaded into the ambulance.

Any word would be greatly appreciated.
Subject: Exactly how close is Obama turning America into a Communist country?


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 18:37 08/05/09 Wed
(N-Note: I caught this report on Jay Severin’s radio show this afternoon and I think he made a great point: Why is President Obama’s administration now in the business of soliciting rumors off the Internet regarding his latest health insurance plan? More importantly what does Obama, along with his political cronies, plan to do with these “rumor-mongers” (or should I say, anyone who disagrees with his health care proposal) once somebody “outs” them to that White House e-mail address? Regardless of how you may feel about Obama’s health care proposal, shouldn’t we, as American citizens, have a right to complain or criticize this thing on an Internet message board as we see fit? Apparently, the hacks running the Obama administration don’t think so. They seem so desperate to pass this health care plan through Congress, that they’d actually solicit American citizens to spy on their own neighbors – how pathetic! Can you say, “Joe the Plummer”? The more and more I see of Barack Obama, the more and more I liked George W. Bush.)

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/Facts-Are-Stubborn-Things/
Facts Are Stubborn Things

Posted by Macon Phillips

Opponents of health insurance reform may find the truth a little inconvenient, but as our second president famously said, "facts are stubborn things."

Scary chain emails and videos are starting to percolate on the internet, breathlessly claiming, for example, to "uncover" the truth about the President’s health insurance reform positions...

...For the record, the President has consistently said that if you like your insurance plan, your doctor, or both, you will be able to keep them. He has even proposed eight consumer protections relating specifically to the health insurance industry.

There is a lot of disinformation about health insurance reform out there, spanning from control of personal finances to end of life care. These rumors often travel just below the surface via chain emails or through casual conversation. Since we can’t keep track of all of them here at the White House, we’re asking for your help. If you get an email or see something on the web about health insurance reform that seems fishy, send it to flag@whitehouse.gov ...
Replies:
Subject: NH cars dumping trash here in Dracut


Author:
King joseph
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:13 08/06/09 Thu
How about the NH cars driving into Dracut and dumping their trash in town dumpsters??
It really irritates me, they don't pay for trash removal in NH, so they drive down to Dracut and dump their trash in dumpsters!
We pay for the dumpster fees, they don't, let them "Live Free and Die" and pay their NH fees!
I have been watching this guy for months now/he pulls into the Hovey Field Parking Lot, dumps out his trash and goes back to NH.
This has been going on for months now, I wonder if I should contact Dracut Baseball and let them know. They must be paying the dumpster fee.
Replies:
Subject: Middies Super Bowl QB withdraws acceptance to attend St. Anselm’s


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 10:09 08/05/09 Wed
Matt Grimard2

(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-5-09)

Grimard won't attend Saint Anselm

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Former Dracut High football star Matthew Grimard will not be attending Saint Anselm College.

Grimard withdrew his acceptance to the school for this fall, and did not make any plans to defer his admission, according to Barbara LeBlanc, director of news and information for Saint Anselm.

Grimard, 18, pleaded innocent to one count of domestic assault and battery in May, after allegedly punching his girlfriend in the jaw.

At Saint Anselm, Grimard was supposed to play football for Pat Murphy, a former Dracut High football coach who is now head coach at the Manchester, N.H., school.

Murphy declined comment and said he was not allowed to speak publicly on anyone who isn't a member of the team.

Grimard was the Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year last year, and was one of only 50 players in the United States named a National Old Spice Red Zone Player of the Year.

Last fall, Grimard, a 6-foot-5, 235-pound athlete, had one of the greatest seasons an area high school football player has enjoyed.

He led Dracut High to a Super Bowl 1A victory after sparking the Middies to the Merrimack Valley Conference championship.

As a junior, he caught the eye of area fans when he tossed 12 touchdown passes and ran for another eight scores. But Grimard took off, turning heads throughout Eastern Mass., during a memorable senior season.

At the conclusion of Dracut's Super Bowl victory over Marshfield, these were Grimard's eye-popping numbers: 21 TD passes, 2,480 yards passing, 34 total touchdowns, 206 total points, and 1,385 yards rushing.

Notre Dame sent a recruiter to see Grimard play on Thanksgiving Day and there were rumors he would accept a Division 1 scholarship or enroll at a prep school for one season.

Instead, he surprised many by announcing he would play for Division 2 St. Anselm and Murphy, his former coach.

Grimard could not be reached for comment by phone yesterday, and a woman answering the door at his home declined to speak with a reporter.

He's due back in Lowell District Court on Sept. 2.
Replies:
Subject: U.S. House Speaker Pelosi urges more illegal immigrants to register to vote


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:42 08/01/09 Sat
1) 40% of all workers in L. A. County (L. A. County has 10.2 million people) are working for cash and not paying taxes. This is because they are predominantly illegal immigrants working without a green card.

2) 95% of warrants for murder in Los Angeles are for illegal aliens.

3) 75% of people on the most wanted list in Los Angeles are illegal aliens.

4) Over 2/3 of all births in Los Angeles County are to illegal alien Mexicans on Medi-Cal, whose births were paid for by taxpayers.

5) Nearly 35% of all inmates in California detention centers are Mexican nationals here illegally.

6) Over 300,000 illegal aliens in Los Angeles County are living in garages.

7) The FBI reports half of all gang members in Los Angeles are most likely illegal aliens from south of the border.

8) Nearly 60% of all occupants of HUD properties are illegal.

9) 21 radio stations in L. A. are Spanish speaking.

10) In L. A. County 5.1 million people speak English, 3.9 million speak Spanish. (There are 10.2 million people in L. A. County)

(All 10 of the aforementioned items are from the Los Angeles Times)
Less than 2% of illegal aliens are picking our crops, but 29% are on welfare. Over 70% of the United States' annual population growth (and over 90% of California, Florida, and New York) results from immigration. 29% of inmates in federal prisons are illegal aliens...

We are a bunch of fools for letting this continue.

This is only one State...............

And you wonder why Nancy Pelosi wants them to become voters!
Replies:
Subject: Captain Kangaroo: "Recession serves up tax trouble for more Greater Lowell restaurants"


Author:
Duplicate Dog
[Edit]
Date Posted: 00:47 06/21/09 Sun
Selectman Cox

(published in, Lowell Sun, 6-19-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

The economic downturn has left some local restaurants struggling to pay state meal taxes.

And the bills are piling up.

According to Robert Bliss, a spokesman for the Department of Revenue, the state is owed $91.5 million in meal taxes -- now 5 percent of every customer's bill.

The list of meal-tax delinquents, compiled weekly by the business newspaper Banker & Tradesman, has held steady since Jan. 1.

Dracut Selectman Robert “Captain Kangaroo” Cox, who owns Coyle's Roadhouse Tavern on Broadway Road, admits his business has suffered dramatically over the past year, causing him to fall behind in meals-tax payments to the state. At one point, he owed $57,225 in meal-tax payments, including interest and penalties.

Cox said he has worked out a payment plan with the DOR and Coyle's was recently taken off the DOR list, indicating that his debt has been paid off. But business remains difficult.

Cox, who bought the tavern with his wife, Leslie, seven years ago, said things began looking bad about a year ago. Business slowed during the summer, the recession hit, and road construction rerouted traffic away from Coyle's.

"It was like a snowball going down a hill," said Cox.

Other local restaurants and related businesses that owe meals taxes include:

* Europa Cafe, Lowell, $40,647.

* Gem Restaurant Group, Dracut, $10,556.

* Smithwick's, Lowell, $350,000.

* Lowell Donut Co., Tyngsboro, $47,832.

A message was left at Cafe Europa, but was not returned.

Owners of Gem, who operate Good Olde Yum Yum in Dracut, could not be reached for comment.

Smithwick's, formerly located on Middle Street in Lowell and owned by CTC Properties, closed more than five years ago.

There is no listing for CTC Properties.

Neither is there a listing for Lowell Donut Co. of Tyngsboro.

"As far as historic information on sales-tax receivables, we have not tracked it in the past," Bliss said, adding that the tax-delinquent list is updated weekly and is available at the DOR Web site.

At the height of their financial problems, the DOR placed a levy on Coyle's operational account and took all the restaurant's credit-card receipts.

"That was about half of what we made," said Cox. "We've been struggling to get by on half our gross receipts. It's nearly impossible."

Cox sought the assistance of tax attorneys and soon began seeing light at the end of the tunnel.

But business is not getting any better. On a good day, particularly on the weekend, Coyle's could pull in $4,000.

"I can't remember the last time I saw $4,000," Cox said.

Leslie works almost full time in the kitchen or waiting tables just to keep payroll costs down. The couple has not taken a steady paycheck since October.

"That's what you do," Leslie says. "You work hard. You just keep going. We've always kept our prices low so it's affordable to everybody."

Cox said that as a selectman, it's easy to feel embarrassed about owing so much money to the state.

"It eats away at you," he said. "I wish it was different, but it isn't. We've paid almost all of it back and we plan to stay out of debt. We have no option. We'll kick and claw to stay out of the hole. Everything we have is tied up here. ... We never hid from it."

Of the 37 Greater Lowell businesses on the Department of Revenue's list of tax delinquents, 10 are eateries that are behind on paying their meal taxes.

The 10 businesses listed owe more than $25,000:

* Ciros of Maynard, Littleton, $506,787 (woman who answered the phone said it was the wrong number).

* CTC Prop. Smithwicks, Lowell, $348,152 (phone no longer in service).

* Millbrook Farm, Concord, $79,276 (phone no longer in service).

* Chef's Table, Wilmington, $70,548 (person who answered the phone said Chef's Table no longer exists).

* Northmeadow, Tewksbury, $54,579 (phone no longer in service).

* Lowell Donut, Tyngsboro, $47,832 (no listing for this company).

* Europa Cafe, Lowell, $40,647 (no answer).

* Ma's Kitchen, Pa's Parlor, Tyngsboro, $33,577 (no longer in business).

* Pang Voeuth, Lowell, $32,526 (phone no longer in service).

* Gem Restaurant Group, Dracut, $10,556 (left message, no return phone call).
Replies:
Subject: If your house gets robbed, its your own fault!


Author:
Intelligent Resident
[Edit]
Date Posted: 16:38 07/28/09 Tue
So according to the coke snorting x Lt. if you leave your door unlocked and get ripped off at night its your fault. Only an idiot would fall for Snowman's smoking mirrors. Panas,Mcniff retired. Chaput who was in charge of detectives is only one still there that was in charge, and with new station I hope they secure evidence better. I think Snowman ageed to that in his last news blog. Just stay retired you loser.
Replies:
Subject: "Tear it up" now takes on a more positive meaning @ Dracut Skateboard Park


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:25 08/03/09 Mon
(published in, Lowell Sun, 8-3-09)

Things are ramping up at skate park

By Bridget Scrimenti
bscrimenti@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- It's a place where kids can come to "tear it up," said Patrick Leavitt, a monitor at the Dracut Skateboard Park.

Leavitt, an avid skateboarder, helps ensure safety at the park by checking IDs and making sure kids wear helmets.

In the past two years, the park has stayed on track as a fun, safe place for kids to play after being shut down in October 2007 due to vandalism, disorderly behavior, and drug and alcohol use.

When the park reopened in May 2008, kids were required to register with the town's Recreation Department.

"It was a great gift to the town, and things are going very well over there," said Lori Cahill, director of the Recreation Department, of the park.

Registration requirements have curbed vandalism and bad behavior, said Police Chief Kevin Richardson. So far, there haven't been any incidents this year.

While the Recreation Department initially imposed a $75 fee, admission to the park is now free and open to the public, as long as kids register.

Park monitors like Leavitt, 17, are typically older teens hired by the Recreation Department to enforce park rules and ensure that the park is being used appropriately.

The skateboard ramps cater to different levels of expertise. Skateboarders often videotape each other and post their videos on YouTube, Leavitt said.

The park first opened in August 2006, thanks to the hard work of Ronnie Breault, a Dracut businessman who recently died, businessman Leo “Lucky” Vezina, Selectmen George Malliaros and Joe DiRocco, Town Manager Dennis Piendak, Highway Supervisor Mike Buxton and Cahill.

"There's a certain kid that skateboards who might not play traditional sports like baseball, basketball, soccer and lacrosse," Malliaros said. "We wanted to provide a safe place for these kids to play."
Subject: Andover builders in PANIC MODE!! Lusser & Dooley


Author:
Mrs.Townie
[Edit]
Date Posted: 15:57 07/27/09 Mon
My husband has informed me that Andover builders,Mr.Dooley and his partner Jerry Lusser are searching for additional buyers for their elderly housing building on Mamouth Rd. No is interested because of the 2.3 million dollar code/safety violations plus their over priced offer.In combination were talking about 5+ million!!

My hubby went to Middlesex Registry of deeds and saw all the property owned by Draco builders and Lusser,ALL have financial leins against their property!!!!

This Dracut elderly property has to be rented to elderly!!! All Dracut residents and public officials know this,Dracut Town Attorney Jimmy Hall has NEVER made this fact know to Dracut Housing Authory's chair person Ken Martin! Neither has Dracut Authory Director Mary Karabatous.

Again this document states that NO ONE but elderly Dracut citizens can occupy this building no matter who they sell to.

Andover builders have no other potential buyers and are about to be under court order to bring this property up to code.Their are stronger housing laws pretaining to elderly/hadicappe Mass.citizens. as we speak

Town Manager and Dracut town Attorney Jimmy Hall are in violation of Fed./State law,knowing these violations exist!!!!Further information coming.
Replies:
Subject: Archinski pushes for independent investigation on "missing drugs" incident


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:01 07/28/09 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, Letter to the Editor, 7-28-09)

Dracut police 'missing drugs' case requires independent investigator

In April 2003, an incident occurred at the Dracut Police Department that set a downward spiral in motion. The incident would divide management from the rank and file and drive a deep wedge between good men and women, friends and families. The case of missing drugs will be recorded as the longest and most ill-focused investigation in the history of the department.

From the onset, former Police Chief Louis Panas, under the guise of requiring secrecy in a criminal investigation, issued a direct order to all officers in the department that prohibited comment and required that all inquiries be handled by management. This order is still in effect today.

Few questions have been answered. In fact, if you were to ask a selectman today some very basic questions such as: What exactly was stolen? Who put the evidence in the backyard? How much has this investigation cost the taxpayers thus far? You would be hard pressed to get an answer. For the better part of the last decade, selectmen have been kept in the dark and have received the same answer time and time again from the management of the department; "This is an ongoing criminal investigation that restricts our commentary."

The minuscule amount of information coming from headquarters indicates that an inordinate amount of investigatory resources has been spent on examining officer involvement in this crime, and absolutely no time or resources have been spent on determining exactly what management's role was in this fiasco.

Many officers in the department have lost confidence in this administration's ability to investigate this matter.

Recently, Dracut selectmen were told by the police administration that they would be apprised of the status of the investigation every 30 days, from now on. If this investigation were reported on every 30 days since the beginning, we'd be on our 75th month of "no comment" and no answers.

The Dracut selectmen have done an admirable job of showcasing the good things that our police officers are doing in the community while this 600-pound gorilla lingers over them, but they have been lulled to sleep in the missing drug case. Their desire to "not want to interfere" in the investigation has turned into one great big snore. They need to wake up. They need to start asking the difficult questions.

In April 2003, on the day after the disappearance of the drugs, I asked for an independent investigation into this matter by someone who was not connected to either the administration or the rank and file. The cops should not be investigating the cops! I was admonished to be quiet and told to let the investigation take its course.

It is time for an independent investigator to be commissioned at any cost to close this gaping wound that has destroyed morale in the Dracut Police Department.

There are many retired lawyers, private investigators or arbitrators who could act as "fact finders" in this case. We need to move on from who done it, to why did it happen?

Selectmen need to put the management of the police department under the same microscope that the good men and women of the department have so quietly and professionally endured for so long. The police department's management shouldn't be immune from a legitimate inquiry from an independent study.

TONY ARCHINSKI
Former police lieutenant
Dracut
Replies:
Subject: Mason the Police Dog dies of presumed coronary problems


Author:
Duplicate Dawg
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:02 07/14/09 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 7-14-09)

Partner laments the loss of Mason, Dracut's police dog

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Officer William Bailey knew Saturday night that something was wrong with his partner.

"He was lethargic," Bailey said. "He was trying to play with the kids, but he wasn't himself."

On Sunday morning, Mason, a 4-year-old scent-discriminating German shepherd that joined the Dracut police force in 2006, was having trouble breathing and walking. Bailey called Wignall Animal Hospital in Dracut and reached an attendant just after 8 a.m., an hour before the hospital opened.

Kate Thomas, one of the veterinarians, got in touch with Bailey, saying she was on her way to the hospital and instructed Bailey to meet her there.

But Mason died en route.

Initial indications point to a coronary problem. Bailey said nobody is sure what caused his partner's death.

"It's devastating," Bailey said yesterday. "It just hurts so much. You just couldn't find a more loyal partner. The one thing they always say about K-9 partners is that they won't lie to you and they won't lie about you."

Mason, who was rescued from Hurricane Katrina as a puppy, came to Dracut as part of an $8,000 grant from the Mason Foundation, which paid for the dog and all of his food. Wignall Animal Hospital provided free health care for the dog.

Controversy surrounded Mason's arrival, though, as selectmen were split on whether the dog would take an officer away from Dracut if the dog was needed in another community.

As a member of the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, Mason was often called upon to provide mutual aid to neighboring communities.

When a 9-year-old girl was missing in Lowell's Centralville section last summer, Mason tracked her down.

In February 2008, moments after a bank was robbed on Bridge Street in Lowell, Mason tracked a suspect through a neighborhood and pointed out the exact spot where the suspect got into a car and fled. Witnesses were able to identify the vehicle, and the robber was caught.

Mason's first case came just four days after he arrived in Dracut. An 82-year-old female Alzheimer's patient had wandered away from her home on Primrose Hill Road. Mason was able to track her path after picking up her scent from a pillow.

"He's had some huge successes," Bailey said. "He's assisted in homicide investigations. He found 44 bags of marijuana. He's found cocaine. He's been great. Just loved to work."

In fact, the dog would get excited whenever he saw Bailey getting into his uniform.

"I would be putting my boots on, and Mason would start getting revved up," Bailey recalled. "It was like, if you said 'work,' he heard 'play.'"

"He was one of us," Deputy Police Chief David Chartrand said. "He was an extremely valuable resource. He was a great asset and a great dog. It's very sad that he will no longer be with us."

Mason is the third local police dog to die in the past year. On July 12, 2008, exactly one year before Mason died, Andy, a 4-year-old German shepherd with the Chelmsford Police Department, died of in intestinal-tract infection believed to have been contracted while tracking a suspect through a swamp. And on Jan. 21, Billerica's police dog, Annabelle, a 4-year-old bloodhound, was euthanized after suffering from an undetermined gastrointestinal illness.

Chartrand said it is too soon to say if Mason will be replaced. Bailey said he does not think he could be another dog's partner.

"This is just so hard, and I don't think I'd want to do it again," he said. "You get so attached. It's going to be so different not being with him all the time."
Replies:
Subject: Dracut High Football


Author:
Duck
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:19 07/26/09 Sun
Heard that Dracut High football is changing there uniform colors to black with blue lettering not going over to well with the locals, why change colors blue and white have been the school color forever.
Replies:

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