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Dracut After Dark
The Best Issues & Information Forum in Dracut
Untitled Document

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.

Any comments which are deemed: vulgar, inappropriate, libelous, slanderous, or in bad taste WILL NOT be posted here. Changing the subject on an already established string is strictly prohibited. Postings which contain specific addresses to other Dracut Internet message boards will also be rejected. Another thing we don't allow here are posts containing specific names and/or street addresses of private citizens, i.e. neighbor disputes. Furthermore, those who guess at pseudonyms will have their postings rejected, as well.

Opinions expressed on Dracut After Dark solely reflect those of the participants, and are not necessarily shared by the management of this message board. Participants post and read messages here on their own Free Will thanks to the First Amendment. We merely discuss issues here – we DO NOT profess to initiate, or even resolve, anything on this message board. If this Internet forum is not to your liking, then please, by all means, feel free to do your websurfing elsewhere.

Google (or any other Internet search engine) keywords:

Dracut After Dark

Please click only those search engine entries specifically stating,

www.voy.com/54926/

___________________________________________________________________________________

LINKS: Please check out these fascinating and informative local websites, which come highly recommended by the management of this forum: Official Town of Dracut website; Dracut Pop Warner football & cheerleading; Sandi Martinez, State Senate candidate, 3rd Middlesex District; Presidential race polls; Jeff Beatty, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate; Warren Shaw.com (Deeb's view on Warren Shaw); Popular Dracut Restaurant Directory; Dracut School Department; Dracut Assessor Online; Property Deeds; Valley Patriot monthly newspaper; Obituaries; Ballot Initiative to Abolish Massachusetts State Income Tax; Dracut Weather Forecast; Citizens for Limited Taxation; Vote On Marriage.org; Tewksbury Issues; Dracut Street Map; Helpful Dracut websites; Official State Website; Official Federal Government Website; Public Bus Information; Storm-related Public Closings; Mass Backwards; Affordable Auto Insurance for All; Shawn's Dracut Blog; Howie Carr; Jay Severin; and Anonymous Proxy Server.

Some of my personal favorites sites include: Bible verse reference; Teen Challenge; Youth Storm (local Christian youth ministry); Battle Cry (national Christian teen ministry); Unclaimed Money/Property; Reverse telephone number & address lookup; Curt Schilling's baseball blog; Town Hall.com; Laura Ingraham; Stop Barack Hussein Obama; Deval Patrick Watch; New England Patriot's Fan Club; Boston Red Sox Fan Club; Boston Celtics News; Person Locator; Online World of Wrestling; D-Tension; Singer/D.J. Sharon DiFronzo; New England Stone Masonry; Whatever Happened To?; and Dead or Alive?.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

”There is nothing so powerful as truth and often nothing so strange.”

–Daniel Webster

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Public Service Announcement

NEW MILLENNIUM SEPERATED/DIVORCED SUPPORT GROUP: Meets every Sunday from 7-9 p.m., at St. Michael’s School, 15 Sixth Street, off Bridge Street (Route 38) in Lowell. New subject matter is addressed every meeting dealing with topics such as: anger, loneliness, surviving Divorce, lawyers, Judges and our Court system, Alimony, Child Support, Child Custody, Visitation Rights, asset/property entitlements, children, finances, forgiveness, acceptance, faith and prayer, moving on, and, planning for your new life. This is a non-profit support group. No fees are required. For further information, please either attend this Sunday’s meeting, or contact Carlos Kilberg @ 978-957-2063 (cck3353@MSN.com).


Dracut After Dark
Subject: The Valley Patriot Newspaper has new Dracut School contract


Author:
I.R.Valley Patriot
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:28 04/09/08 Wed
The free weekly newspaper for the Merrimack Valley know as the Valley Patriot has Mullin's new contract and it also campares it ti current Dracut School boss's old contract.
This weekly newspaper has "real"news not just smily stories. And it is free!!!!!!You can access this by googling vally patriot newspaper.
Replies:
Subject: Dougie Ouellette - Best Selectmen


Author:
Debate watcher
[Edit]
Date Posted: 15:33 04/19/08 Sat
Did Dougie Ouellette win everytime and never got interviewed on Dracut Access TV?
Watched and personally found it funny how the new guy got hit with that question first. I couldn't figure out what she was asking either. Nor my hubby, and 2 high school sons. Maybe she pronounced it wrong. Myabe other selectmen had heads up. Maybe the new guy should have been given a chance to answer after the current ones. Remember this they had their first time in and they weren't expierenced. Like a new job. You show up - you don't know anything 100%. You have an understand of it but don't know the answers until your feet are wet and your trained. It takes about 2-4 weeks and then you can be the best damned worker. TK will be great for the town if given that chance.
Replies:
Subject: Sheehan squeaks by Deeb for upset win on School Committee; the rest of the incumbents were reelected


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:21 05/05/08 Mon
The biggest surprise of this year's Town Election was Challenger Matthew Sheehan edging out incumbent D.J. Deeb by about 30 votes for the lone open seat on the School Committee.

In the four other contested races, the incumbents were reelected rather handily. It was a long night, so I'll just say more on this election as the information becomes available.
Replies:
Subject: Next Year


Author:
Fly on the wall
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:44 05/06/08 Tue
I heard that Teddy K was very enthusiastic with the people that voted for him. He made some mistakes and didnt go to the seniors. He should have attended police and fire union meeting. He definately hurt himself by using automated calling.I think he plans to run next year.I hope he does.He seems like a good man.Mistakes were made but mistakes can be corrected.
Replies:
Subject: Town of Chelmsford stops stipends and health insurance for elected officials


Author:
why aren't they doing this in Dracut???
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:13 04/09/08 Wed

Town of Chelmsford stops stipends for elected officials
By Rita Savard, rsavard@lowellsun.com


CHELMSFORD -- In a move to save the town money, selectmen halted health-insurance benefits for elected officials.

The board unanimously supported the decision Monday night, about six months after an appointed Stipend Committee recommended that the town suspend the perk.

Selectmen Chairman Philip Eliopoulos said members of the board, who are also eligible to receive the town's health insurance, were waiting to receive approval from the state Ethics Commission before voting. That approval came last week.

"Given the town's fiscal concerns, we have a very tight budget," Eliopoulos said. "We need to try and be cognizant of every dollar we spend."

Until now, health-insurance benefits were offered to all elected officials who received annual stipends. The amounts of stipends, and who receives them, has been regularly set by Town Meeting.

But following a lively debate over stipends on the floor of last year's Town Meeting, a committee appointed to look into the matter discovered that offering health insurance with stipends is optional.

Ultimately, the Board of Selectmen is the ruling authority over whether the town should offer health care as well.

Chelmsford was spending about $42,000 a year to fund insurance premiums for four elected officials -- Eliopoulos, Town Moderator Dennis McHugh, Board of Health member Earnest Wu and Constable William Spence.

Eliopoulos took himself off the town health-insurance plan in November, saying he understood the town was in trouble financially and could no longer afford it.

Selectmen said it was only fair that the other town officials continue to receive insurance benefits until the end of their elected terms.

Whether they continue to receive stipends, too, depends on how Town Meeting votes Monday, April 28. In addition to canceling health-insurance benefits, the Stipend Committee also recommended offering stipends to the Board of Selectmen and School Committee only.

Chelmsford spends about $10,400 a year paying stipends to elected officials: chairman of the Board of Selectmen, $2,000; selectmen, $1,500; members of the Board of Health, $600; town moderator, $300; members of the Cemetery Commission, $100; constable, $50.

"The town should provide some kind of an expense allowance for members of boards that do have out-of-pocket expenses," said Fran McDougal, a Town Meeting representative for Precinct 1.

"What we don't want is to provide insurance for those stipends. It becomes an escalating cost and should not be part of an elective office."

Constable Spence, who has received the benefit for about 40 years, said he will find an alternative when his term ends in 2010. Besides serving the town as constable, he works as a self-employed businessman.

"It's OK, everybody is cutting back because of the times," he said.

"It's something I never went asking for, it's just something the town told me I was eligible for so I took it."
Replies:
Subject: Coxy boys are @ Church today thanking god and this web site!


Author:
Judas Atty. George Milliaros & Co.
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:03 05/06/08 Tue
John Ziminie has proven beyond and doubte that he is the most likeable Dracut Selectman. For the second time he has topped the ticket. Besting Bobby/Johnny Cox both times!! Even thou Bobby had/has a fistful of money given to his brother by Lowell Councilor Alan Kazajian. This "exchange"of money is for Bobby's help in buying Alan's swamp land.
Even with behind the scenes help from Georger Maillaris and his wife Coxy beat out teddy k..

However to give teddy k most of the credit he "snatched defeat"from the jaws of victory to insure a win for
Coxy's gang. The whole state house delegation of Dracut and Lowell were called into service to beat Teddy's financial assault on the "dark side". John Cox was holding signs like a hired hand Collen and Waren "barn yard animal were promoting Coxy. And T.K.came within 600 votes of winning.

If Teddy has a chance to be succesful in the future he will have to show more self disipline and not "bad mouth"the most popular public servant in Dracut,John Ziminie. However a lot of credit for Coxy's win also has to be credited with the founder of this newsblog. His decision to publicily publish on this site Teddy's anger and rumor conversations of rectial disfunction sealed a come from behind win by "lov me brada"'s campaign.

This also makes it more diffucult for community reformers to continue the fight for honest good governmant.
Thou we will prevail we have been dealt a major set back!

Hay Murphy you blew it!!!!

However Teddy K 's hateful campaign against Johhny Z.,bite him in the bum bum!!!!!!!
Teddy if life experiences are events of our learning process I hope you learn from this. However this learning experience has cost you well over thirteen thousand dollars,a very expensive life lesson.

One thing you can be assured of is you are definatley a major player in Dracut politics/civics.

I wish you well my friend. "barn yard animal"had help with Murphy. These guys worked well together.
Replies:
Subject: Truisms #1 & #2


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:34 05/06/08 Tue
TRUISMS #1

BEAUTY PARLOR:
A place where women curl up and dye.

CANNIBAL:
Someone who is fed up with people.

CHICKENS:
The only animals you eat before they are born and after they are dead.

COMMITTEE:
A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.

DUST:
Mud with the juice squeezed out.

EGOTIST:
Someone who is usually me-deep in conversation.

GOSSIP:
Never tell a lie if the truth will do more damage.

KLEENEX:
Cold Storage.

INFLATION:
Cutting money in half without damaging the paper.


TRUISMS #2

MOSQUITO:
An insect that makes you like flies better.

RAISIN:
Grape with a sunburn.

SECRET:
Something you tell to one person at a time.

SKELETON:
A bunch of bones with the person scraped off.

TOOTHACHE:
The pain that drives you to extraction.

TOMORROW:
One of the greatest labor saving devices of today.

YAWN:
An honest opinion openly expressed.

WRINKLES:
Something other people have. You have character lines. Ha!
Subject: Our next likely elected pol to enroll on Town employees’ health insurance coverage – John Zimini


Author:
P.O.W. (Pal of Warren’s)
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:29 05/02/08 Fri
(photo posted on, picasaweb.google.com/John.Earle.Dyer.PIX )

JohnZimini

Separated at birth: Selectman John Zimini & legendary supporting actor Brian Dennehy*

* Dennehy has co-starred in such great film classics as: Tommy Boy, Cocoon, and, First Blood (a.k.a. Rambo: First Blood)
Replies:
Subject: ELECTION DAY


Author:
A Few Good Men
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:02 05/04/08 Sun
TOMMOR0W IS ELECTION DAY. I hope everyone votes TEDDY K ALL THE WAY on election DAY" He is a hard working man. He is honest and will bring a welcome fresh new face to Dracut. New blood is healthy. New ideas are great" Dont forget its TEDDY K ALL THE WAY ON ELECTION DAY" I personally know this man and have watched him with doing projects all around town for years. His work is pristine Its in his nature to give his best effort every time. He has wonderful family and is a proud father of three" He has been in Dracut since the mid sixties. I hope everyone takes a good look at what has to gain by electing TEDDY K ON ELECTION DAY"""""
Replies:
Subject: $64,000 Question: Exactly how BLEEPIN stupid is the Lowell Sun’s editorial board?


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 16:37 05/03/08 Sat
As the old cliche goes, it ain’t necessarily a crime to be ignorant, it’s just a crime to stay ignorant.

Last week the Lowell Sun did a profile feature on all three of the candidates running for Dracut selectmen this year. In incumbent John Zimini’s profile, the Lowell Sun listed his occupation as, “Investigator”, which is a job he worked for several years with the State’s Department of Industrial Accidents in Boston. Earlier this week, somebody posted here on Dracut After Dark and claimed Zimini lost his State job with that section.

After several phone calls to that office, as well as a check on that Department’s website, it was publicly revealed by a former colleague of his that Zimini has been, “gone from that job now for at least a couple months.”

Meanwhile, the super-sleuth investigative reporters on the Lowell Sun are obviously keeping their ears to the wind, so to speak, to catch all the latest news on what’s going on in Dracut. You’d think that an item of this magnitude would at least prompt The Sun to initiate a retraction on Zimini’s occupation from the profile story of last week, right? I mean, do the words, “integrity” and “credibility” mean anything to a newspaper anymore? Well, let’s see what The Sun stated about Mr. Zimini when it endorsed his Selectmen’s candidacy in last night’s (Friday, May 2) paper:

“...John Zimini, also running for a second term on the Board of Selectmen, works as director of the state Department of Industrial Accidents. He hopes to further investigate a lease-to-own option for the Town Hall dilemma, continue his focus on finding additional commercial/industrial tax dollars to help alleviate the property-tax burden on homeowners, and work to streamline the town's permitting process...”

This past Friday marked the second time in two weeks that either Zimini lied to the Lowell Sun, The Sun lied to its readership, or both. For those of you who’d like to check out the validity on whether or not Mr. Zimini is still employed by the State’s Department of Industrial Accidents, please click on the State’s website – a link is available at the top of, Dracut After Dark – and check out this section for yourselves.

Is this the level of “integrity” and “credibility” that the Lowell Sun has stooped down to? Why should we believe anything that’s ever published in this newspaper, especially something as critical as a candidacy endorsement, ever again?

Thank God for the Internet.
Replies:
Subject: HONOR


Author:
GOOD AMERICAN
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:38 05/04/08 Sun
I read the about John Ziminni. Its been a rumor for a month or so but I cant believe that Lenny P. or Teddy K would write such a note of question. These two guys are just every day Joes. I truly hope Mr. Ziminni has not lost his job because if he did it would not look good even after the election is over. I would suggest anyone with a question about this to call the Industrial Board Accidents to see if John Ziminni is still working there. Maybe he is or maybe he is not? That would put this question to rest. That would be a simple solution dont you think?
Replies:
Subject: Has Shawn A. finally lost his mind over this year’s School Committee race?


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:42 05/02/08 Fri
Shawn, Shawn, Shawn, Shawn...

I honestly think you need to take a long vacation – get away from your buddy Warren for a couple weeks – so you can get your head together and start thinking straight again.

I’m, of course, referring to your Internet response to D.J. Deeb’s recent letter in the Lowell Sun which was a response to Matthew Sheehan’s letter that appeared two days earlier in The Sun.

Aren’t you mostly ticked off here, Shawn, over the creation of, WarrenShaw.com ?

First and foremost, Shawn, why didn’t you preface your posting to D.J. by telling all your “faithful” patrons the REAL reason you’re pissed off at Mr. Deeb – his creation of, WarrenShaw.com , just after last year’s Town Election to put you and your buddy, Mr. Shaw in proper perspective after you two guys were publicly screwing him on your Saturday radio show. Incidentally, Shawn, how was D.J. “cybersquatting” Warren Shaw’s Internet domain name any different than when you did the same thing with, Dracut After Dark’s domain name just a couple years earlier? Sounds a wee bit hypocritical to me, my friend.

But don’t you feel Shawn that D.J., via that website, publicly exposed you and Warren as the frauds and phonies you truly are? I think he did, and that’s why you’re now so adamant and passionate to try to elect this empty suit (or do I really mean, empty head?) in Matthew Sheehan to the School Committee on Monday. Truth be told, judging from your website in the past month or so, you seem a heck of a lot more passionate and zealous to have Sheehan win on Monday than he does himself. Amazing!

Shawn A’s whack against Yours Truly

“...Its easy to make unsubstantiated attacks without facts.. why don’t you go do it in the back chat, or on the other website where the message would fit in so well...”

Ouch! Don’t you know that comments like that hurt my feelings, Shawn?

If I said it once, I think I’ve said it about a zillion times, why don’t you copy and paste a site meter at either the top or bottom of your pissant little website so we can gauge, once and for all, who’s REALLY the ”other website” in Dracut. Incidentally, Shawn you can actually get a free site meter for your website at SiteMeter.com – that's where we got the one located at the bottom of, Dracut After Dark.

Since I believe Shawn A. is too much of a little wimp to actually take me up on this aforementioned challenge, why not log onto to, Google – which is the undisputed #1 Internet search engine in the world – type in the keyword, “Dracut”, and see for yourself which forum has a higher listing on Google’s rating system – Shawn’s forum or Dracut After Dark? Incidentally, Google gives a higher ranking on its keyword searches according to RELEVANCE – if you don’t believe me, heck, check it out for yourself.

To quote my good buddy, Shawn A., ”...Its easy to make unsubstantiated attacks without facts...”, heaven forbid, that I’m ever accused of something like that.

Shawn’s paranoid insinuation that key supporters are stacked against Sheehan

One of the more interesting assertions that Shawn A. made in his response to D.J., was that somehow, had Sheehan actually showed up to the Annual Candidate’s Debate last month, Deeb’s School Committee colleagues, Mary Gail Martin and Ron Mercier (who apparently were present at that debate) were going to stare down and try to intimidate Sheehan from making his presentation and answering his questions.

Truth be told that there were a lot more elected and appointed town officials sitting in the audience during that debate than just Mercier and Martin. In the debate itself, it was just going to be Deeb vs. Sheehan, man-to-man, face-to-face, one-on-one. But not showing up at public school events has sort of become Sheehan’s trademark throughout this election campaign.

Sheehan has also never attended a regular Dracut School Committee meeting, or even a public school workshop session. Here’s a guy who moved here from Lowell just a couple years ago, most Dracut residents really don’t know who he is or what his beliefs are, and he appears to be sheltering himself from the general public. Even if you dislike D.J. Deeb as a public official and/or a human being, logically, most Dracut voters would have to go with D.J. this Monday as being the “lesser of two evils”. Or, “you’re much better off going with the Devil you know, as opposed to the Devil you don’t.”

Incidentally, Shawn, I noticed you usually make audio clips from your radio show available to listen to on your website. How come you never made Sheehan’s interview on your show from two months ago available for everybody to hear on your forum? Again, as with Sheehan not showing up for his debate against Deeb, I’m sure that was “pre-orchestrated” by yourself and all of his other handlers. Had people listened to that half hour or so radio segment, they probably would’ve thought that you, Warren, and Tom Burns were all running for Dracut School Committee, while Sheehan was just in the studio working as a producer or something like that.

Shawn’s extremely lame “conflict of interest” argument

Finally, without beating a dead horse here too much, Shawn A raised the point, which was raised about a month ago on his radio show, of Deeb being in a “conflict of interest” with serving on both the Dracut School Committee and Greater Lowell Technical (Voke) School Committee. I guess the town of Burlington recently voted to prevent any individual from serving on more than one elected board in that community. The town of Chelmsford did likewise a few years earlier.

Aside from the fact that D.J. Deeb is probably the ONLY viable and legitimate choice in this year’s Dracut School Committee race, if our town is even considering a bylaw of this nature, then I think it ought to include APPOINTED officials every bit as much as elected officials.

How can you honestly tell me that the appointed members on the Finance Committee, Capital Planning Committee, Building Committee, and Planning Board aren’t every bit as influential on the grand scheme of things as our elected officials?

Having said all that, why isn’t Shawn adamantly opposed to Gary McCarthy’s candidacy for Town Moderator and endorsing his opponent, Charlie Maraganis in that race? McCarthy’s the Superintendent of the Dracut Water Supply District and has been a lot longer than he’s been a Town Moderator. The DWSD may be a separate public entity, not under the Town of Dracut’s control – but neither is the Voke!

How the heck is D.J. Deeb in a “conflict of interest” for this election, while Gary McCarthy is supposedly “squeaky clean” – personally, I don’t see any difference between the two.

Anywho, I really didn’t want to make a big stink here or give Shawn, a.k.a. Pee Wee Herman, any more credibility than he actually deserves but I just wanted to put in my two cents and give the Dracut voters a little substance to digest before they make their final decision in a couple days.

See everybody, I hope, at the finish line on Monday.
Replies:
Subject: Concerned Resident


Author:
Lenny prop
[Edit]
Date Posted: 10:34 04/29/08 Tue
Is it true that John Zimmini lost his job with the state? How can expect him to run our town as a selectman if this is true?
Replies:
Subject: Hypocrite


Author:
Geraldo Rivera Show "
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:54 05/03/08 Sat
TEDDY K has been ahome Improvement contractor for over 30 years. Doesnt Warren Shaw remember when he sat on the board with Frank Gorman a developer? I thinnk Warren ought to keep to the issues of Dracut residents instead of being a hypocrite. Its obvious that he wants the boys in for his own best interest. New person in town but learning fast. Warren acting moore like Geraldo Rivera everyday. Wake up DRACUT STOP listening to the Warren Shaw show and clear your mind.
Subject: Ruin your friend


Author:
A Voter
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:38 05/03/08 Sat
Now that you have ruin your Campaign Manager reputation what is next THE TOWN... A no Vote for teddy K! I never trusted a half Greek. Voters beware
Replies:
Subject: Sun focuses in on "other" 3 election races: Moderator, Housing Authority, & Water Commish


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:10 05/03/08 Sat
(published in, Lowell Sun, 5-3-08)

Dracut voters have five races to settle

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- In addition to the races for selectmen and School Committee, voters going to the polls on Monday will also choose a town moderator, a housing commissioner and a commissioner to the Dracut Water Supply District.

Incumbent Gary McCarthy faces a challenge from Peacham Avenue resident Charles Maraganis. McCarthy, who was elected last year, says he has instituted innovative ideas that has strengthened attendance at Town Meeting and made it more user-friendly

The meetings, which normally take place in June and November, have to keep moving, he said, by strictly adhering to the five-minute rule for speakers. He has instituted a system whereby voters can speak from their seats using a hand-held wireless microphone. He would like to eliminate the voice-vote practice and perhaps convert to individual hand-held electronic devices.

Maraganis, a retired Dracut teacher who ran against McCarthy last year and lost, said he has a strong working knowledge of Robert's Rules of Order and would like the opportunity to serve the town in that capacity. Maraganis also said he would forgo the annual $500 stipend and donate it to the Dracut Food Pantry.

The race for Dracut Housing Commission pits 5-year incumbent Gerald Surprenant against challenger F. Russell Taylor Jr. Both men are retired police officers who joined the force in Dracut around the same time. Taylor worked in Dracut for 15 years before taking a job with the Lowell Police Department, where he served for 19 years. He worked closely with the Lowell Housing Authority and now Dracut Housing Executive Director Mary Karabatsos.

Surprenant says taking care of the elderly residents should be the commissioner's top priority. He says he has worked diligently during his first term to secure affordable housing for seniors and supported the measure to purchase Lewisburg Square, a 38-unit apartment building on Mammoth Road. He also commends the job that Karabatsos is doing since she took over the helm in October, 2007.

Taylor said oversight of the housing authority's $1.5 million budget is a top priority, as is creating more housing and cutting costs.

Voters in the Dracut Water Supply District get a separate ballot because the district is a separate entity from the town. Three-term incumbent William Morin is being challenged by Victor Olson and Gerard Hould.

Hould, who ran unsuccessfully for library trustee last year and for Greater Lowell Technical School Committee in 2006, said he hears from residents who are not happy with rate increases while watching employees driving around in expensive vehicles. He would work with other commissioners, he said, to look for ways to cut the budget. He would also explore the possibility of merging the district with Kenwood Water District.

Olson, a civil engineer who has extensive knowledge of water treatment and distribution, said the commission needs someone on the board who has a background in the field. Olson said he would make sure that the town's water supply never becomes vulnerable to contamination.

Morin came on the scene after the infamous water scandal of 1998. He has been credited by some with bringing accountability to the district. He also spearheaded the change that brought the annual district election and town meeting from February to May to coincide with the town election. His priorities include the continuation of system upgrades, replacing aging water mains and infrastructure in the district.
Subject: Carny Park!!!!!! Help meeeeee I'm melting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Author:
Wizard
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:32 04/21/08 Mon
Just like the wicked witch,who tried to steal Dorothy's red slippers,Carnery Park is stopped cold by questions of cancer causing toxic land. The rush last year by Dracut Selectman John Ziminie and Bobby "lov me brada"Cox,was almost rushed thru!! However Dracut Selectman O'Laughlin along with Dracut town activists have stalled and killed original proposal.

However with over a million dollars of Dracut taxpayers money about to go into the pocket of Lowell city counsilor and slum land owner Kasijain,Dracut poltical hacks have fought on!!!!! First Dracut Selectman John Ziminie met privately with no recording or public announcement with slum land owner and "worked out" a deal. The slum lord gave the town a house abutting original deal for passage. Now we find out the house has lead paint which is toxic if air born and asbestos a highly cancouras material banned in the United States!! In addition other toxic materials are in the ground.

However the chairperson of a Dracut open land committee is not going to sign P.S. until this isssue of enivormental concerns are answered. Who is going to pay for the "toxic"clean up???? What is the cost of this "toxic" clean up. Once again the asst.Town Manager wanted this P.S. signed that night!!!!! WHY? It seems Jimmy Hall our town attorney and close friend of Alan kazajian is going to "out of town" for a couple of weeks.
Why doesn't the Dracut Town manager just speak to hall's replacement. Or is Attorny Hall the "ONLY"on to give a legal opion on behalf of the town of Dracut????

It seems Dracut town attorney never mentioned or did a search of this property back lasy fall. he NEVER gave any legal advice at all!!!! And again when we need a legal ruling he is not around!!!!!!!!!

This project dear voters is over a million dollars and the hacks in town have already printed the check!!!!!! Dracut Selectmen John Ziminie and coxy should be proud!!
Replies:
Subject: Russ Taylor DHA


Author:
DracutPolticsGuy
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:24 04/27/08 Sun
Look what I found on Russ Taylor, the former cop running for DHA www.russtaylor2008.com. I have to say I am actually really impressed by this guys qualifications.


EXPERIENCE

2007-Present New England Police Benevolent Association

Organizing Director


2003-2007 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Special Federal Officer (SFO)
FBI Special Federal Officer with Top Secret Clearance
Assigned to a Joint Task Force of the FBI & LPD within the city of Lowell


2003–2007 Northeast Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC)

Commanding Officer of Regional Motorcycle Unit
Responsible for the overall operations of the Motorcycle Unit, which consists of police officers from 30 cities and towns in Northeast Massachusetts. Supervision includes establishing policies and procedures of the motorcycle unit and outlining the duties and responsibilities associated with those officers assigned to this unit.


1987–2007 Lowell Police Department Lowell, MA

Officer-In-Charge of Special Operations
Responsible for all activities involving Motorcycle Unit, K-9 Unit, Marine Patrol Unit, Mounted Patrol Unit, Mobile Command Post Unit and Dignitary Protection.
Acting Lieutenant, West Sector Executive Officer/Shift Commander
Responsible for the police operations of the Western Sector of the City of Lowell including criminal investigations, community policing initiatives, interfacing with various community leaders and performance reviews, disciplinary actions, employee counseling, training and scheduling, forecasting crime trends, allocating resources, preparing monthly reports and appearance before the court regarding testimony.
Sergeant, Officer-In-Charge – Lowell Housing Authority
Responsible for the police operations of the Lowell Housing Authority, which comprised of 1500 apartment units throughout the City of Lowell. Supervision of seven (7) police officers on two (2) separate shifts with a concentration on high visibility and increased police presence within a community policing setting. Created a Tenant Council for information and education on police related matters and the implementation of a zero tolerance drug policy for repeat offenders living in LHA.
Sergeant, Patrol Supervisor / Highlands Precinct OIC
Responsible for the police operations of the initial Community Policing Unit in the Lower Highlands section of the City of Lowell, which comprised of an ethically diverse community of both Southeast Asian and Hispanic immigrants.
Narcotics Detective / Police Officer
Assigned to combat the increasing drug problems in the City of Lowell, which included street level enforcement and high level surveillance of organized crime members who were involved in the illegal sale and distribution of narcotics.
1972–1987 Dracut Police Department Dracut, MA

Sargeant, Tbird Shift Commanding Office (OIC)
Responsible for all patrol functions and activities associated with patrol supervision within the Town of Dracut, MA.
Inspector, Criminal Bureau
Responsible for the investigative follow-up and duties associated with assorted crimes and criminal activity, including robbery, homicide, burglary, assaults and rape.
Police Officer, Town of Dracut, MA
Responsible for patrol functions, traffic control, accident investigation, crime prevention and testifying before the court on matters pertaining to above.

EDUCATION


1998 Western New England College Springfield, MA

Master of Science Degree, Criminal Justice Administration

1997 Western New England College Springfield, MA

Bachelor of Science Degree, Law Enforcement

1972 Northern Essex Community College Haverhill, MA

Associates in Science, Business Administration
Replies:
Subject: Will Sheehan hold himself “Accountable” for not submitting his REQUIRED campaign finance report in on time?


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 06:41 05/01/08 Thu
The campaign finance reports for eight days before the Town Election were all due at the Town Clerk’s office this past Monday, April 28, and guess who’s the ONLY candidate – as of close of business yesterday, Wednesday, April 30 -- that has still NOT turned in his campaign finance report yet? Why that would be none other than School Committee challenger Matthew Sheehan, of course.

Sheehan, among other things, claims that if he’s elected on Monday, promises that he’ll hold himself, as well as his fellow School Committee members, “accountable for their actions.” Well, how the heck do the Dracut voters expect a would-be inexperienced School Committee member to hold himself, as well as his colleagues, “accountable for their actions” when this guy can’t even submit his own REQUIRED campaign finance report into the Town Clerk’s office in a timely manner?

Personally, I don’t see this happening any time soon for Mr. Sheehan. Perhaps this “Iron Chef” from Lenzi’s Restaurant ought to consider just packing up his knives for now, and then giving the Dracut School Committee another election campaign run in a few years after he matures a little bit.
Replies:
Subject: Variance Law


Author:
Sick Of The Mess
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:08 04/29/08 Tue
A new neighbor moved in. There was never a variace for a shed less than 1 foot from my fence. Now there is so much junk piled so high it's eye pollution. I heard there is suppose to be at least 10 feet. I have lived in this house for 20 years. Do I have to look at that?
What should I do. Talking will do no good. They have eyes, they know it's a mess. It's out of their sight so they could care less.
Replies:
Subject: Dueling letters in The Sun – Perhaps the closest we’ll ever come to an actual Sheehan-Deeb debate


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:20 04/30/08 Wed
(Both published in, Lowell Sun, Letters to the Editor. Matthew Sheehan’s letter was published on 4-28-08, and D.J. Deeb’s letter was published on 4-30-08. Incidentally, in case you were unaware, both Sheehan and Deeb are running against each other for the lone School Committee seat in this year’s Town Election.)

Sheehan wants to focus on Dracut's school issues

I thought I would write in response to your article from last week regarding my not being able to make the candidates' forum in Dracut.

I apologize to those who planned the event, but the fact is that my family will always come first and I hoped that would be understood.

Instead of continuing to talk about this, why can't we discuss the issues?

How about the school administration, as well as my opponent continuing to push for an $80 million high school that we cannot afford instead of discussing what's going on inside that school? Parent after parent tells me tales of issues with special education and uncontrolled behavior of some students.

What has the School Committee done about this? Not enough.

Now we hear that the outgoing superintendent will be getting nearly $95,000 on her way out. The committee had years to try to renegotiate this. Why didn't they?

For years, we've watched the current School Committee work against the administration, rather than with it.

The politics need to end. Our schools have helped the parents of Dracut produce some great kids who have gone on to have incredible careers.

Let's focus on the kids, and find a way to work together to make it happen.

MATT SHEEHAN
Candidate for Dracut School Committee

# # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # #

Experience counts on Dracut School Committee

This letter is in response to my opponent's letter published April 28. My opponent criticized The Sun for pointing out that he ducked the open Dracut candidate forum/debate April 17. The fact is there has been no plausible reason offered by him for missing this public debate.

He asks, "Why can't we discuss the issues?" Well, if he was so concerned about Dracut Public Schools why has he never attended a School Committee meeting or open public forum to offer his opinion and ideas or to ask questions?

My opponent is being backed by the same politicians who implemented a contract with the superintendent in 2002, which included a buyout provision of up to $95,000, which I opposed and the current School Committee opposed. Not one member of the current School Committee was on the board when this outrageous contract was approved.

Last summer, the Dracut School Committee began its search for a new superintendent and the process of applying for (and obtaining) state funding for a feasibility study to examine the options of renovating Dracut High School. Several public forums were held to solicit ideas and input from the community. My opponent never showed up to any of these.

My opponent further maintains that I am pushing "for an $80 million high school that we cannot afford." Nothing could be further from the truth! If my opponent had bothered to attend any of our School Committee meetings or reviewed the minutes of those meetings (posted online) he would have known that members of the School Committee, including myself, are only supporting a feasibility study, to explore all of the options available for renovating or expanding Dracut High School. The options will likely include renovations and repairs as well, which may be funded up to 70 percent by the state. If my opponent bothered to walk through Dracut High School, he would have noticed the severe overcrowding (10 modular classroom units) as well as the structural problems with the catwalk, canopy outside the main entrance and the poor condition of the windows.

What ultimately happens regarding a renovation and/or expansion will ultimately be determined by the citizens of Dracut, not the Dracut School Committee. It is also important to remember that property values in a community are largely determined by the condition of the high school. In the meantime, with re-accreditation for Dracut High School scheduled for 2011, we owe it to the town of Dracut to explore and present all of the options available.

Experience is vital with a new superintendent coming in. My opponent is taking advice from politicians who want to continue to infiltrate the Dracut Public Schools with patronage versus professional staff.

I want to continue to use my experience and background as a career educator to make a positive difference for Dracut Schools.

D.J. DEEB
Dracut School Committee
Replies:
Subject: Dropkick’s Picks: Morin, Surprenant, Maraganis, Deeb, Kosiavelon & (write-in) Daigle


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:58 04/28/08 Mon
(N-note: First and foremost, whether or not you agree with my choices for next Monday’s Town Election, I would exhort each and everyone reading this posting to please take a few minutes out of your busy schedules to cast your votes on your favorite candidates. Secondly, this is NOT a prediction on my part to who I think will win this year – although I’d love to see them all succeed. Some of my choices are favorites. Some are underdogs. But they’re all MY choices on whom I’ll be endorsing in this one. This posting will probably be removed off this forum just before the vote is counted on Monday. Please don’t attempt to post messages AFTER the election is over and done with to take me to task because I may have endorsed an unsuccessful candidate. Everybody appears to be a real “political genius” after the fact but not too many people want to weigh-in on their thoughts BEFORE the election takes place – ain’t it amazing how that happens. Besides that, taking cheap shots on political candidates AFTER the election is done is just “bashing”, which is not allowed on this forum. Feel free to weigh in with your opinions here a couple days before the blessed event and I think we’ll have a lot of fun. Happy DADing, everybody.)

Dracut Water Supply District (DWSD) Commissioner --

I happened to catch all three of these candidates in a debate last Saturday on Warren’s radio show. Both challengers in this race, Victor Olson and Gerald Hould appear to be pretty sharp cookies, but neither could really distinguish themselves in philosophy from Incumbent Bill Morin. Besides that, Hould is now running for his third different elected seat in a three-year span, and Morin wound up taking leading challenger Olson to task in Saturday’s debate for NOT showing up to last year’s Annual Water District Meeting. Ouch!

People who have followed my annual Dropkick’s Picks column, know that I usually go with the Challengers in these types of races, but in this particular case you need to ask yourself the question: If it ain’t broke, why fix it?

Dropkick’s Pick: Bill Morin


Housing Authority Commissioner --

Question: When was the last time you had a “contested” race for an elected seat on the Dracut Housing Authority? Heck, when Housing Commissioner Bob Audet was up for reelection four years ago, both he and Town Clerk Kathy Graham completely forgot he was up for reelection and needed to make a special provision on the ballot the following year so that Audet could run for the remaining four years of his term. That’s how much interest the Dracut Housing Authority usually generates at election time.

This time around, the Dracut Housing Authority has a very incompetent and unqualified Executive Director in Mary Karabatsos. She was whining and bitching for a nice, long-term contract when she was first hired last fall, but Board of Commissioners chairman Ken Martin wisely pointed out that would've been a bad idea and would probably be rejected at the State level due to Karabatsos’ lack of experience as a Housing Director.

Realistically, Karabatsos will probably wind up with a long term contract since the majority of the Board of Commissioners, with Tom Salem, Audet, and Governor’s appointee George Nangle will most likely go along and push to sign Karabatsos to a long term deal. The question remains if it’ll go through with a 3-2 or a 4-1 vote.

Martin and Incumbent Commissioner Gerry Surprenant both voted against appointing Karabatsos as a Housing Director last summer. Challenger Russ Taylor is expected to jump in bed with Karabatsos, if elected on Monday. If unsuccessful, I seriously doubt Taylor will challenge Audet next year or Salem in 2010 for the same office.

This is another race I need to stick with the Incumbent.

For further reading on the housing commissioner's campaign:

Two former Dracut cops square-off in Housing Authority Commish race

Dropkick’s Pick: Gerry Surprenant


Town Moderator--

In addition to some of the stuff mentioned from previous postings which I’ll include in this message, I have some serious concerns as to how Incumbent Gary McCarthy could bring up the fact that he had a serious operation scheduled on the same day as the June Town Meeting last year and didn’t know about this till the day AFTER he was elected as Town Moderator. Why couldn’t McCarthy have just told the truth and publicly announced that operation date BEFORE he was elected?

Also, Warren had an interesting point on pushing for a Town Ordinance to prevent one individual from holding two or more elected offices at once. After looking at Mr. McCarthy, should they ever implement that legislation in Dracut we can only hope and pray it includes APPOINTED positions as well as elected seats.

$64,000 Question: Why aren't Warren Shaw & Pee Wee Herman whacking Gary McCarthy over HIS double-dipping conflict of interest?

Moderator challenger Maraganis takes incumbent McCarthy to task over not showing up for June Town Meeting YET pocketing $550 annual stipend (forum string includes a response statement by Gary McCarthy)

Dropkick’s Pick: Charlie Maraganis


School Committee --

This race is so lopsided, it’s not even funny. Challenger Matt Sheehan failed to show up to the Annual Candidates’ Debate several weeks ago – for whatever reason – and he might as well have given incumbent D.J. Deeb his automatic reelection to the School Committee for three more years. When Sheehan has made points in the media, they’ve been mostly in the form of stupid political cliches, which I can only assume is a vain attempt on Sheehan’s part to pander to the gullible and naive voters of Dracut.

School Bd. challenger Matt Sheehan did absolutely crappy during recent radio interview

Was Sheehan's debate NO SHOW an orchestrated "bag job" set up by his supporters?

Dropkick’s Pick: D.J. Deeb


Selectmen –

In this particular race, I have a lot of trouble trying to figure out why a supposedly successful businessman like Bob Cox finds the need to pork the Dracut taxpayers approximately $20,000 per year for his health insurance coverage? On a much smaller scale, I also have a problem with John Zimini screwing the Town for his life insurance needs. Zimini is a State bureaucrat pocketing about $80,000 annually and then owns and operates a Tewksbury restaurant as well.

So this begs the question – why can’t Cox and Zimini pay for their own personal insurance needs rather than exploiting us hard-working Dracut taxpayers as their proverbial “sugar daddies” in this particular situation?

Perhaps it’s high time we give both Cox and Zimini a nice “wake up call” this coming Monday. Granted, at least one of these two incumbents is going to be reelected this year, but hopefully, not both of them.

I realize that challenger Ted Kosiavelon might hop on the Town’s health/life insurance bandwagon if elected to office on Monday, but if he does, he’ll come off as perhaps the biggest hypocrite in Dracut politics since he was the one who called Cox out and then took him to task in the candidate’s debate.

As for the second available Dracut selectmen’s seat in this year’s race, why not give a “write-in” vote to the individual most responsible for exposing and “shining the light” on all of our elected cock roaches taking advantage of the town's various insurance coverages. I believe the procedure for making a “write-in” vote count in any given Dracut election, the voter must legibly write or print the individual’s full name and street address on the ballot near the appropriate elected office. What better way to send a nice message to all our corrupt town officials who love to reward their elected “buddies” via giving them and their families FREE health and life insurance coverages.

Sun feels Kosiavelon may have hurt Cox over exploiting Town's health insurance coverage

Dropkick’s Picks: Ted Kosiavelon, and, (write-in) Roger L. Daigle, 86 Harold Ave.
Replies:
Subject: Please reelect Bob Cox on Monday – he deserves to stay on the Town’s health insurance


Author:
P.O.W. (Pal of Warren’s)
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:52 04/29/08 Tue
(photo posted on – picasaweb.google.com/John.Earle.Dyer.PIX )

Photobucket


Separated at Birth: Selectman Bob Cox & Captain Kangaroo
Replies:
Subject: Up Close & Personal: Meet the two guys running for School Committee


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:15 04/29/08 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-29-08)

Due to the rather lengthy nature of these articles, we'll run them immediately following this posting. Please don't forget to vote this Monday, May 5th.
Replies:
Subject: School Committee seeks attorney's opinion on Espindle's sick-time buyback


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:08 04/29/08 Tue
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-29-08)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- School Committee member Dennis "D.J" Deeb last night asked attorney Ed Morris to delve into Superintendent of Schools Elaine Espindle's contract, which runs out on June 30, to see how much the town is obligated to pay for unused sick and vacation time.

The contract, which was signed in 2002, includes a buyback provision for unused sick and vacation time that could reach up to $95,000, although Espindle said the amount will never get that high.

Espindle said the provision was actually bargained in 1998, when she signed her first contract. The buyback provision was capped in 2002.

"That was the only change that occurred," she said, adding that as a member of the finance subcommittee, Deeb knew that the provision existed and that the $95,000 was included in the current budget as a placeholder.

"This was not done in secret," Espindle said. "You shouldn't be surprised by this, Mr. Deeb."

Deeb said he has not seen anything in writing in terms of how many sick or vacation days were used.

"I just want to know what we are obligated to pay," he said. "We are not changing the contract, but we have a responsibility to look at the language and the provision of the contract, and make sure we're not paying out any more that we have to and, hopefully, a lot less."

Committee member Nancy Gagnon said she also has concerns about the provision and the number of days accrued.

"I've been told that the contract is pretty much written with an iron pen, but I'd like to check," Gagnon said. "How can we determine if the personnel records are accurate? I am aware that the superintendent keeps her own records, and that's a concern for me."

Espindle said her records, as well as all the employees of the Dracut School Department, are maintained by the district's payroll clerk.

Committee member Mike Miles was the lone dissenter, voting against the motion to have Morris examine the contract.

"After 10 years of service and many, many accomplishments, I would suggest that the contract stay the way it is," Miles said. "By dredging it all up, it brings aspersions on all of us. The media loves to jump on this. It's easy to second-guess and Monday-morning quarterback. I say a contract is a contract. Leave it alone."

Committee member Mary Gail Martin said she knew of the buyback provision but, "I didn't think it would be as much as it is."

"The sick time accrued seems excessive, and it would be irresponsible if we didn't look at it before we pay out a sum of money like this," Martin added.

Chairman Ron Mercier said he called for the contract to be renegotiated when he was first elected to the board in 2003.

"I campaigned on that, and it was one of first things I did when I was elected," he said. "Unfortunately, my motion was defeated at the time."

Reached after the meeting, Matthew Sheehan, who is running against Deeb in the May 5 election, said, "This action should prove to every taxpayer in Dracut that it is time for a change on the School Committee. This is a committee that did nothing about the contract until they were pressured by me. They were in such a hurry to push this superintendent out the door that they were willing to saddle the taxpayers with this outrageous deal until I made it an issue."

Reached by phone, Deeb said last night's meeting was the first scheduled meeting since the buyback issue hit the headlines.

"I made it a point from day one to bring it up," Deeb said, noting that Sheehan did not attend last night's meeting.
Replies:
Subject: Hey Roger Daigle


Author:
Who are you talking about that lives on Andover St in Dracut?
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:48 04/20/08 Sun
Replies:
Subject: Windmills are Great


Author:
Save Energy
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:11 04/26/08 Sat
What do you mean came on strong wasn't one of there answers windmills. Dracut's in the bleepin merimack valley you no how expensive it would be to put windmills in dracut, besides who wants a bleepin wind farm in there neighborhood. I don't. Maybe we can get Coxy or Zimini to volunteer there back yards for a wind farm.
----
To the above post from further down...I love the idea of windmills. How much waste we do with our energy in ruining the earth. What ever happened to close lines? The usage of dryers is a waste of energy. Sure use them in the winter but when spring and summer is here think closelines! Again even with those no one wants to make their yard "ugly"
Sometimes 2 heads work better together. Therefore I think John would be the best canidate for his know how and I think Ted would be the best canidate for his know how. Together these 2 can build a better Dracut!

The usage of Windmills is excellent.
Replies:
Subject: COX POPPING UP EVERYWHERE IN DRACUT


Author:
Mr. Boombastic.
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:42 04/09/08 Wed
WOW! Do you see all the COX popping up all over Dracut. I mean COX signs for the election.

Just imagine the street corners when all the COX supporters start showing up.
Replies:
Subject: Guarding the compost heap


Author:
Mulch Patrol
[Edit]
Date Posted: 10:14 04/20/08 Sun
Why do we need 2 squad cars, plus the police dog guarding the compost heap on Saterday afternoon. Affraid someone is going to steal some leaves? When was the last time they actually solved a crime?
Replies:
Subject: State considers forcing employees to provide workers mandatory amount of time for illness


Author:
State Rep. Colleen Garry votes AGAINST the working poor, so lets vote HER OUT!!!
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:14 04/25/08 Fri

By Matt Murphy, mmurphy@lowellsun.com
Article Last Updated: 04/25/2008 11:31:31 AM EDT


BOSTON -- When you're sick, you're sick.

But too often for Massachusetts workers on limited incomes, an unexpected illness is not excuse enough to stay home, according to some lawmakers.

That could all change under a new law being pushed on Beacon Hill that would require all employers in the state to grant their employees at least seven paid sick days a year that can be used for themselves, or care of a child, spouse, parent or parent of a spouse.

Proponents say the bill, which received a favorable recommendation this week from the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, would level the playing field and reduce competition for employee benefits among businesses.

Some business groups, however, are opposing the mandate because they say it would be too expensive, particularly for small-business owners at a time when the economy is shaky.

"We don't think the Legislature should be mandating what types of benefits employers should be providing to their employees," said Richard Lord, president of Associated Industries of Massachusetts. "That decision is best left to the employer and what they can afford and what they need to attract workers."

The measure now heads to the Senate for a vote.

State Rep. Colleen Garry, a Dracut Democrat and member of the labor and workforce committee, agrees with those businesses. She voted against recommending the bill.

"While we'd love to give everyone that kind of sick time, I think it's asking businesses to do a lot when times are tough, and keeping jobs is the most important thing," Garry said.

A summary of the bill, filed by Sens. Patricia Jehlen, D-Somerville, and Steven Tolman, D-Brighton, claims that about 41 percent of workers in Massachusetts -- 1.3 million -- do not earn a single paid sick day per year, and little more than 20 percent can use sick days to care for children or elderly family members.

Furthermore, the state's poorest families are impacted the most, with 76 percent of low-income families lacking any regular, paid sick time.

The legislative findings suggest that providing employees with regular time off to attend to their health will prevent sick workers from showing up to the office where they could spread illness and will lead to more satisfied and productive employees in the long run.

Lord did not contest the hidden benefits of productivity and the overall health of workers, but disagreed with the idea that somehow the new law would benefit employers by leveling the playing field for businesses competing for workers.

"It depends on the business," he said. "The trend with many employers these days is to even move away from sick days, personal days, vacation days and just give people earned time off. We just think employers do what they can afford to do and need to do, and it's a decision best left to the employer."

The bill is also being opposed by the National Federation of Independent Business as well as the Massachusetts Restaurant Association.

They claim the proposed law, which would take effect 90 days after it is signed by the governor, comes at a time when the economy is slumping and any new costs for businesses, particularly small, owner-operated businesses, would be a detriment to job growth.
Replies:
Subject: Moderator challenger Maraganis takes incumbent McCarthy to task over not showing up for June Town Meeting YET pocketing $550 annual stipend


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:10 04/20/08 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, The Column, 4-20-08. Nicknames inserted for added emphasis.)

CANDIDATES FOR Dracut town moderator did not debate but were each given five minutes to make their case. Charles "Mara" Maraganis, who is challenging incumbent moderator Gary "The Queen" McCarthy, should have been given a referee's warning for hitting below the belt.

Maraganis said that if elected, he would make it to both the spring and fall town meetings. That was an obvious swipe at McCarthy, who missed the June Town Meeting after being diagnosed with colon cancer the previous month.

Maraganis, a cancer survivor himself, boasted that he has never missed town meeting, even when he was battling his own illness. And if he couldn't be there, he said, he would at least watch it on television.
Replies: