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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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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.

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_______________________________________________________________________________________

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).

_______________________________________________________________________________________

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Dracut After Dark
Subject: Arbitrator: Dracut police violated articles in collective bargaining


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:22 04/13/09 Mon
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-13-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- A state arbitrator has ruled that police administrators violated several provisions of a collective bargaining agreement when they asked an officer to submit to a fitness-for-duty evaluation, part of which required drug testing, as well as several other violations.

Geraldine Casey, an arbitrator with the state's Division of Labor Relations in Boston, ordered Police Chief Kevin Richardson and Deputy Chief David Chartrand to "cease and desist" from their practice of requiring officers to state the nature of their illness when they call in sick, and in requiring Officer Wren Maddox in particular to provide them with a doctor's note when she calls in sick.

Casey also determined that Richardson and Chartrand violated four relevant articles of the union's collective bargaining agreement with the town.

Jerry Flynn, executive director of the New England Police Benevolent Association, called the ruling a "righteous decision by an independent arbitrator of the facts who clearly articulated what the members of the Dracut Police Department have had to endure."

Richardson said Casey's decision is "detrimental to management's ability to monitor employee's use of sick time."

"As a public entity, we have a duty to the taxpayers of our community to ensure that funds allocated to our department are being spent with the utmost oversight," Richardson said.

Maddox, a union official who has been a Dracut police officer since 2003, claimed that on Jan. 9, 10 and 11, 2008, she called in sick to work, citing "personal illness."

This set off a series of violations that included an order by the administration that she undergo a fitness-for-duty evaluation, functional capacity testing and drug testing. She was also ordered to provide the nature or symptoms of her illness when requesting a sick day in the future, and if she failed to do so, she would need a note indicating that she has been under a doctor's care and is cleared to return to work.

While Casey acknowledged that the administration relied on what it considered a long-standing practice, its actions were an inappropriate application of the contract language.

"Essentially, the employer used the drug testing and fitness for duty language in the agreement in a disciplinary manner," Casey wrote in her ruling. "(Chartrand's) order that Officer Maddox provide a doctor's note whenever she uses a sick day without stating the nature of her illness is an ongoing violation of the agreement and must be stopped."

However, Casey also ruled that the administration can ask for such documentation if an officer is out for four days or more or if there is a reasonable suspicion that sick time is being abused.

Chartrand said he is "obviously disappointed with the arbitrator's decision," and does not agree with her interpretation of the contract language. He also said the decision does not imply that management did anything wrong.
Replies:
Subject: Dracut Strippers Bare Bottom


Author:
Blade
[Edit]
Date Posted: 02:19 03/24/09 Tue
Deb's Lakeview Lounge now called Back to the Boathouse had midget strippers at their recent grand opening. Is this the new strip zone in Dracut?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sNbiXBb56w
Replies:
Subject: Moderator's race


Author:
the facts
[Edit]
Date Posted: 12:27 04/18/09 Sat
Shawn on DF writes:
"In the race for Moderator, the current Moderator Gary McCarthy gave a good 5 minute statement explaining the job and the roles that the moderator takes. He actually responded to a number of things his opponent proposed (without her being there to do so)."

"Jeanne Balkas could not attend, but sent in a statement."


Yes, I was unable to attend the debate (it was my Holy Thursday) but, I was allowed by the committee that presented Candidate's Night to send in a written statement about my candidacy. They are a very understanding and accommodating group of ladies that always provide the voters of Dracut with an insightful look into candidates seeking public office.

A friend taped Candidate's Night and I was able to review my worthy opponents statements.

It was mentioned that all a moderator does is run town meeting. This is not an entirely correct statement. It is the civic duty and responsibility of a moderator to provide the people with all the information needed to make fiscally sound decisions. Elected leaders are accountable to the public and we must have transparency in government.

That is why if elected, I will have a Moderator’s link on the Official Town of Dracut’s website with my contact number as well as my e-mail address. I will provide the public with important information and documents related to this office online. Town meetings should be educational as well as productive. When there are complex issues, we need to give voters all the information they need so they fully understand the issues, and can make fiscally sound decisions. I will also try to foster better communication between town departments prior to Town Meeting so that voters understand not only the articles and the motions, but why they are being placed before voters. While the moderator must abide by the town’s bylaws and Robert’s Rules of Order, he or she still has a fair amount of discretion regarding what motions are made and how the meeting is conducted.

Other duties of the Town Moderator include the appointment of the Finance Committee, The Committee on Rules (which oversees the business of Town Meeting and considers all proposed changes in it’s conduct), The Committee on Government Regulations (which reviews and reports on all warrant articles that would, if adopted, amend the Charter or affect the By-laws of the town), and the Permanent Building Committee (which is responsible for overseeing the construction or re-construction of all town buildings).

As always, I have done my homework and have found that other communities such as North Andover, have the Finance Committee prepare a report along with a simplified version of the warrant articles prior to Town Meeting. To save on expenses, I will provide this on the Town Moderator’s link on the Official Towns website, and on local cable, and if requested, a handout.

I hope this clears up any doubts or uncertainty about what my candidacy proposes.

Thank you,
Jeanne Balkas
Subject: Casting Director


Author:
Phil Spector
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:23 04/13/09 Mon
"DRACUT AFTER DARK - THE MOVIE"

The following parts have been filled, but more interviews and casting calls are coming soon. Feel free to add to the list of want-a-bee actors.

Starring:

"Kevin Beacon" as Chief Kevin Richardson

"The Grinch" as Deputy Dog Chartrand

"Roseanne Barr" as Officer Wren Maddox

"John Goodman" As Union Boss Flynn

"Captain Kangaroo" As Selectman Bob Cox

"Phil Donahue" As Town Manager Dennis Pendiak

"Mike McLaughlin" as Himself
Replies:
Subject: Selectman Deracco is hiding in Florida!


Author:
D.A.D. Reporter
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:01 04/13/09 Mon
Our editorial staff has been informed that Dracut Selectman DeRacco is hiding out in Florida so there is no thursday debate. Porky Pig Shaunassy and Warren are covering for Joey,thru W.C.A.P. nobody gets it and Lowell Colorado Sun. Stay tuned for other breaking news.
And Joey you can run but you can't hide!
Replies:
Subject: Yard Sale


Author:
Kathy
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:34 04/17/09 Fri
Having a Yard Sale at 25 Perron Lane in Dracut - located off of Parker Ave. on Saturday April 18th from 8:00-12:00. We have 2 bmx bikes, electric clothes dryer, electronic snap on Dart board, knick nacks, Albums, DVD,s board games and more.
Any questions feel free to shoot me an email...... See you at the Yard Sale!!!!!
Subject: We're having a Tea Party


Author:
Charlie
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:44 04/01/09 Wed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1byTDgu7iA


This isn't about Dems and Repubs, it isn't even entirely about taxes, although that's part of it. It's mostly about the worry that government is growing too big and too intrusive. If you're concerned about that too then look over this list and attend a tea party on April 15th, the big one will be in Boston, more local ones in Nashua and Haverhill. There may be one planned for Lowell, keep checking this list to see.
http://www.teapartyday.com/Locations.aspx/

Replies:
Subject: Two wheels or four, new law gives police ticket guidelines


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:19 04/15/09 Wed
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-15-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

A driver waits for a passing cyclist to cross Dutton Street near City Hall before exiting Haffner's Gas Station in Lowell yesterday. An amended state law, which goes into effect today, requires local police departments to be trained on bicycle law and dangerous behavior by bicyclists and motorists. Sun/ Tory Germann Police have been told not to pat-frisk suspects anymore, but they are expected to ticket wayward bicyclists and motorists opening car doors at the wrong time.

An amended state law, which goes into effect today, requires local police departments to be trained on bicycle law and dangerous behavior by bicyclists and motorists, including "dooring." The law does not include a timeline for training, and enforcement is not expected to be implemented until 2010 at the earliest.

But beginning today, motorists and their passengers can be ticketed and fined up to $100 for opening the door of a vehicle into the path of a bicyclist. Although drivers could be sued in civil court and charged in criminal court under certain circumstances before, they could not be ticketed or fined.

Under the new law, police departments across the state now have a uniform procedure for handing out tickets to bicyclists who are violating traffic laws. In the past, each city or town had to create its own procedure, and very few communities bothered.

"The most important thing this new legislation does is to clearly inform motorists how to safely interact with bicyclists on the roadway," said David Watson, executive director of the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, a Boston-based organization that worked closely with lawmakers to rewrite legislation that was initially enacted in 2006.

Watson said the new legislation, which was signed into law by Gov. Deval Patrick on Jan. 15, does not place an extra burden on police officers, who earlier this month had to deal with a state Supreme Judicial Court ruling that police could not pat-frisk suspects unless they had clear knowledge that the suspect was carrying a weapon or if they felt the suspect posed a clear threat to their safety.

"The police aren't being asked to do anything that they were not previously required to do in the course of their duties," Watson said. "We recognize that the police have many priorities and enforcement is certainly an appropriate use of their time and resources. It's not one or the other."

Bicyclists are required to follow the rules of the road with a few exceptions. For instance, bicyclists are still permitted to ride on the right of vehicles and to pass on the right when it is safe to do so. In addition, bicyclists are not required to signal a turn if it is clear that they need to keep both hands on the handlebars, such as when operating the brakes, shifting gears or making a turn.

"We don't have a huge bicycling problem in our town, but (the new legislation) gives us some power that we didn't have before," said Billerica Police Chief Daniel Rosa, adding that officers now have parameters with which they can cite violators.

The law is geared more toward big cities like Boston, where bicycle messengers are known to bend the rules in order to make a delivery on time. Lowell receives few complaints about bicycle infractions, according Lt. Timothy Crowley, commanding officer of the traffic division.

"I'd have to familiarize myself with the law, but there have always been traffic laws on the books that pertain to cars and bikes, as well," Crowley said, adding that from what he knows about the law, it will not have an immediate impact because officers need to be trained.

Watson said the enforcement aspect of the law is not expected to be implemented until 2010 at the earliest.

"It's a good idea, though," said Crowley. "More and more people are going to start using their bikes to get to work and any time you can implement something to increase safety on the road, that's a benefit."

That sentiment is shared by Dracut Deputy Police Chief David Chartrand.

"It's good to educate and inform the public as to their responsibilities whether they are behind the wheel or on a bike," Chartrand said. "As far as time and resources, obviously we have to prioritize but as the enforcing agency we are obliged to enforce the laws when there are violations."

Rosa said the warm weather will also bring out more two-wheelers, which are no match for a motor vehicle. In a collision, "the bike will lose every time," he said.
Subject: popwarner shows disgrace


Author:
dracut parent
[Edit]
Date Posted: 15:01 02/12/09 Thu
After seeing pics from family night I was disgusted to see every parent holding an alcoholic beverage. Just remember parents your children will remember that night that was suppose to be about them not drinking. Ive seen many times at Nationals with these parents getting drunk all night and acting like they were still 21, guess what, your not, so grow up and be parents. After every comp. they would all get together and get drunk at the Sports Zone and celebrate their childs winnings. Why may I ask is alcohol always involved with this sport. Adults were also seen buying alcohol for some highschool girls that helped out with popwarner and their parents didnt even care.
Replies:
Subject: adult softball league


Author:
David Greenwood
[Edit]
Date Posted: 15:10 04/12/09 Sun
Does anybody know if there is a adult softball league around Dracut.
Replies:
Subject: The Holy Alphabet


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:17 04/08/09 Wed
"I AM too blessed to be stressed!"

The shortest distance between a problem and a solution

is the distance between your knees and the floor.

The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.

Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.


Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able
Hold on to what you know
Imagine life without His love
Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things
Love imparts to thee
Move out of "Camp Complaining"
No weapon that is known
On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone
Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship
To "thank" is a command
Until we see Him coming
Victorious in the sky
We'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Yes, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Zion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

Replies:
Subject: Local campaign activity heats up


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:10 04/13/09 Mon
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-13-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Campaign workers have hit the streets, staking out their territory at busy intersections on the first official weekend of the election season.

Ted Kosiavelon, who dropped out of the race for selectman last month, held a sign for selectman candidate Brian Bond, who is challenging two-term incumbent Joe DiRocco.

"I think it's time for a change," said Kosiavelon. "The days of being a selectman for nine or 12 years are gone."

Down the street, on another corner, DiRocco supporters sipped coffee and waved at passing cars.

"Joe is the real deal," said Tony Archinski, who lives in the town's Collinsville section. "Everyone who knows him, knows how genuine the guy is. He truly has the town's best interest at heart. He's doing this for all the right reasons."

Neither candidate has set out a clear plan to bring Town Hall, the Town Hall annex and the Sewer Department building into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, although both men say they will work toward a creative solution.

DiRocco and Bond disagree on the installation of lights at Veterans' Memorial Park. Bond, who has been active with youth sports in town, says lights are sorely needed in order for youth soccer and football teams to play on autumn nights. DiRocco said neighbors were promised that there would be no lights when plans for the park were approved more than 10 years ago.

Bond has been one of the driving forces behind the use of Community Preservation funds to purchase the Canney Farm on Lakeview Avenue for athletic and recreation fields. DiRocco led the charge to use Community Preservation funds for the purchase of Louisburg Square, a 38-unit building on Mammoth Road that will provide senior housing that will count toward the town's affordable housing stock.

As for School Committee, two-term incumbent Ron Mercier capitalized on the public outcry surrounding a lucrative six-year contract given to former Superintendent Elaine Espindle when he was first elected in 2003. Mercier cast key votes that some say forced Espindle's retirement last year and paved the way for new Superintendent W. Spencer Mullin, a native son.

Late last year, Mercier voted to give teachers an 8 percent raise over three years. He followed that by approving raises for school custodians and school administrators. The raises came during a sharp economic downturn that continues today. It also came as Town Manager Dennis Piendak called for a wage freeze for employees on the municipal side of government.

Former committee member Bonnie Elie was on the original selection committee that ushered Espindle into town in 1998. During her only term, Elie oversaw the construction and opening of the Lakeview Junior High School. Newcomer Paul Elmstrom feels that his background in construction will be an asset as the committee deals with the feasibility of building a new high school building. He also wants to be an advocate and a resource for those parents of children with special needs.

In addition to selectmen and the School Committee, there are also contested races for town moderator, Greater Lowell Technical High School Committee, Housing Authority Commission, and library trustee. A candidates' night is tentatively scheduled for Thursday.
Replies:
Subject: Sign holding on Easter Weekend??


Author:
Greek
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:46 04/11/09 Sat
What about Greek Ester weekend Joe? I would hope you wouldn't have signs out that weekend either.... We knew you are only for certain people! VOTE BOND!
Replies:
Subject: Cunha hopes to knock Audet's fat useless butt off Housing Authority board


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:51 04/12/09 Sun
(Published in, Lowell Sun, 4-12-09)

Cunha gives Audet fight for Dracut housing seat

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- Robert Audet has never faced a serious challenge for his seat on the Dracut Housing Authority Commission, but this year he has a formidable opponent in Kenneth Cunha.

When the DHA first began in 1970, Audet was appointed by Gov. Francis Sargent. He was reappointed several times until Michael Dukakis became governor.

"He found out that I was a Republican," said Audet, a pharmacist and owner of Pawtucket Pharmacy in Lowell. "After that, I had to run for office if I wanted to keep the seat."

Audet, 75, has watched the DHA grow from that first project on Phineas Street 39 years ago, to the 289 units that exist today. More recently, he has been a part of the purchase, sale and renovation of the three-story building at 1476 Mammoth Road, known as Louisberg Square. The three-way deal between the town, the Community Preservation Committee and the DHA will add 39 units to the DHA, whose role will be similar to that of a landlord.

"It's a beautiful building. You couldn't build something like that today to be used for senior citizens and veterans on fixed incomes," Audet said. "I want to be around for another (five-year) term at least. I want to see that project through to fruition. We're almost there."

The building, which is occupied, needs to be brought up to code to meet state Department of Housing and Community Development standards. But Cunha, who served on the Board of Selectmen for almost two full terms, maintains that Louisberg Square will do nothing to immediately increase the number of units under the auspices of the DHA. The current occupants will not be required to leave and units will become available when those tenants move out.

"One at a time," said Cunha, pointing out that the waiting list for housing numbers in the hundreds, with a turnover rate of about 5 percent a year. "That's why I'm running. There has been no appreciable increase in senior housing since the 1980s. Oh, there's been a unit here and a unit there, but nothing of any significance or impact."

Cunha, 62, has railed about a recent audit by the federal Housing and Urban Development department that found 40 violations at the Phineas Street complex. Among the items were 12 ground-fault interrupters that were not working.

"That's a potential fire hazard," he said, placing the blame with DHA Executive Director Mary Karabatsos. "There should be a safety checklist. You go through these buildings on a regular basis and make sure everything on the list is in good working order."

Audet defends Karabatsos and said the problem was corrected as soon as it was discovered.

"With any audit, they have to find something so they don't feel like they wasted their time. And they found something," he said. "As far as (Karabatsos) is concerned, I stand behind her 100 percent. We are very lucky to have her. She was the most qualified of all the candidates we interviewed."

Karabatsos was hired in 2007 amid a maelstrom of controversy. Audet was one of the three commissioners who supported her hiring even though she was not one of the finalists for the job. A year later, she received a contract that amounts to a raise of almost 14 percent over three years.

Audet said the increase was fair and comparable to housing directors around the state. Cunha said it was exorbitant.

Audet grew up in public housing on Adams Street in Lowell after the death of his father when Audet was 3 years old. He put himself through school at the Northeastern University College of Pharmacy in Boston. He married his high-school sweetheart, Jeannette, with whom he recently celebrated his 50th anniversary. The couple has two children and two grandchildren.

"You hear people say all the time, 'I want to give back,' " he said. "But that really is the desire of my heart. To give as much as I can to safe, clean and affordable housing for the seniors and the veterans. There's nothing more important than that. I've truly been blessed with what God has given me."

Cunha was born in Portugal and came to Lowell when he was 3 years old.

"We lived on Summer Street near the South Common before the Bishop Markham project was built," he said.

He married Sandi Mula 38 years ago and the couple raised three children. They have seven grandchildren. Cunha retired from the U.S. Post Office several years ago, having spent 25 years as a supervisor in Haverhill.

And like Audet, Cunha has a special place in his heart for senior citizens.

"My mother is 90 years old and she lives with us," he said. "I'm fortunate in that respect. I'm her full-time caregiver. She won't have to be on that housing waiting list."

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

Robert Audet

Age: 75

Family: Wife, two children, two grandchildren.

Education: Northeastern University College of Pharmacy.

Occupation: Pharmacist since 1956.

Political experience: Dracut Housing Authority commissioner since 1970.

Organizations: Board of directors of Visiting Nurses Association, American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, Catholic Charities.

Priorities: Safety and well-being of seniors; to see the 39-unit project at 1476 Mammoth Road to its fruition; continue to promote health and safety programs for seniors, and training and safety issues for employees.

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

Kenneth Cunha

Age: 62

Family: Wife, three children, seven grandchildren.

Education: Lowell High School class of 1964, U.S. Army Transportation School of Helicopter Repair.

Occupation: U.S. Post Office supervisor, retired.

Political experience: Selectman, five years, Finance Committee. Veteran's Memorial Park Committee, 15 years.

Organizations: Lions Club, 20 years, Old Home Day Committee, nine years.

Priorities: Maintain affordable housing for seniors; work with Department of Housing and Community Development to find ways to reduce the long waiting list for units; implement a proactive maintenance schedule for all facilities under DHA control.
Replies:
Subject: Warren insinuates that Deeb has a major problem with powerful women in politics


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:08 04/11/09 Sat
Listening to Warren Shaw's radio show just a few minutes ago, I couldn't help but catch his latest take on the recent Letter to the Editor in, The Valley Patriot by D.J. Deeb, ”Backroom Deal Bonnie is at it again”, which is posted in its entirety elsewhere on this message board.

Warren started out by adamantly denying that he ever had any backroom dealings or even had contacted Dracut school officials for anything he tried to put into fruition. Mr. Shaw also denied that he’s pushing or backing Bonnie Elie in this year’s School Committee race.

Funny thing, Warren was sitting right next to Michael “Chapter 11" Maguire every Thursday night on their then-local access TV show, Weekly Round Table about seven years ago, and now Mr. Shaw is trying to patronize us by claiming he had no involvement with any backroom deals – even AFTER one Dracut school administrator called it a “pure fabrication” that Maguire was an applicant for the School Food Service Director’s position? To pour even more gas on the fire, just a month or two before his appointment, Maguire served as the Moderator for the School Committee debate at the PTO Candidate’s Night that year, and he, or anybody else, never disclosed this blatant conflict of interest. Soon afterwards, the eventual winner of the ‘02 School Committee race had their post-election celebration at Maguire’s barroom – surprise, surprise!

So no personal knowledge of any “backroom deals” in the Dracut School Department, Warren? I always did say that the best thing Warren Shaw has going for him is the fact that, Polygraph (lie detector) tests are inadmissible in Court. Otherwise, he’d really look stupid.

Then Warren referred to Deeb as “twisted” due to the fact that he purchased the Internet domain name for WarrenShaw.com . That’s pretty funny as well, since just a couple of years ago Mr. Shaw publicly complimented and praised his radio show cohort, Shawn “Pee Wee Herman” Ashe for purchasing the Internet domain name for, Dracut After Dark. I guess according to Warren, this practice is only considered “twisted” if it doesn’t fit Mr. Shaw’s political and personal agenda. Besides, when you’re talking about sick, demented, “twisted” individuals, I think Shawn Ashe sort of makes D.J. Deeb look like Mother Theresa.

Concluding his take on the Letter to the Editor, “Backroom Deal” Bonnie, Warren said that Deeb appeared to have a problem with powerful women in politics.

$64,000 Question: Warren, in your 24 years on the Dracut Board of Selectmen, exactly how many Females were appointed as department heads here in town? Along the same lines Warren, how many Blacks, Hispanics, or Asians were appointed as department heads during YOUR tenure as a Dracut Selectman?

I’m sure glad you established yourself as such a great role model, Warren, for all young, upcoming elected and appointed Dracut officials to follow – NOT.

Hey, just have yourselves a fantastic Happy Easter and even you too, Warren.
Replies:
Subject: Sue Tucker supports bill to enhance public bathroom privileges for transsexuals


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:27 04/11/09 Sat
(Published in, Lawrence Eagle-Tribune, 4-10-09)

Three Merrimack Valley lawmakers sponsoring so-called 'bathroom bill'

Proposal would give new protections to transgendered individuals

By Shawn Regan
sregan@eagletribune.com

Three Merrimack Valley lawmakers have signed proposed legislation that would allow transgendered individuals to use public bathrooms of their choice.

Supporters of the Act Relative to Gender Based Discrimination and Hate Crimes said its intent is to enhance civil rights for the transgendered in the state and provide tougher penalties for those who commit violence against them.

Critics worry it would put women and children in uncomfortable situations in public bathrooms and other places where sexes are typically separated.

The bill is expected to be considered this legislative session, but a hearing on it has not yet been scheduled, said state Rep. Linda Dean Campbell, D-Methuen.

Dean Campbell is one of more than 100 citizens and lawmakers to sign on to the bill, including state Rep. Barbara L'Italien, D-Andover, and Sen. Susan Tucker, D-Andover. Mike Costello, D-Newburyport, also is a sponsor.

A similar transgender-rights proposal was passed this week by the New Hampshire House of Representatives.

Dean Campbell said she believes it is important to provide transgender individuals with added protections from hate crimes. She said she once witnessed a gang of teenagers beat a transgendered person at a shopping mall in Virginia.

"It's so difficult what these young people are going through that we have to give them any help we can," she said. "This (bill) is about compassion."

Sen. Steven Baddour, D-Methuen, said he does not support the bill as written.

"It's common sense that we all want to protect all people from hate crimes," Baddour said. "But what I'm most concerned about is protecting children, and I have a lot of concerns about how this bill would affect children."

A major deficiency of the bill, as written, is that there is nothing in it that defines what transgendered means, Baddour said.

State Reps. Brian Dempsey, D-Haverhill, and William Lantigua, D-Lawrence, said they don't support the bill either.

"Quite frankly, I haven't read the bill yet," Dempsey said. "I'm more concerned with the economy and municipal aid legislation right now. But from what I've heard and read about it in the media, I have many concerns."

L'Italien and Tucker did not return messages left with their Statehouse aides Thursday. An aide to state Rep. Barry Finegold, D-Andover, said the representative was unavailable for comment due to Passover.

On Tuesday, thousands went to the Statehouse in support of the legislation, which would add "gender identity and expression" to the state's anti-discrimination laws.

The Massachusetts Family Institute is opposing the act, focusing on a provision in the 12-page law allowing any man who self-identifies as a woman to have access to women's restrooms, locker rooms, emergency shelters and fitness clubs. Women who identify as men would have the same rights in men's facilities.

The group argues the standard would be carried into public school bathrooms and locker rooms, and would "endanger the privacy and safety of women and children in public bathrooms" and similar public places.

The institute said sexual predators will take advantage of the law to "claim 'confusion' about their gender as a cover for their evil intentions. Since the law doesn't require a protected person to have a legitimate problem with gender confusion, there is no way to distinguish between those people that this bill is designed to help and those who will undoubtedly abuse its existence to fulfill any number of deviant desires."
Subject: Real estate transaction of the Rich & Infamous


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:50 04/11/09 Sat
65 Greenmont Avenue: Michael C. Blatus to Joshua M. and Kerri L. Hayes, $272,900
Subject: Happy Medium


Author:
Nigel Tufnel
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:29 04/08/09 Wed
I wish there was a happy medium, somewhere between the drivel and dregs that sometimes finds its way onto this message board and the two other lame message boards in town that also begin with the words, "Dracut." You have to wade through a proverbial cesspool to get any real information on this message board and you have to wait for a week or so for the other two boards to get updated, and even then, Brian just writes whatever Shaun said and vice-versa.
Nobody ever joins in the discussion over there and this message board is too crowded with morons and people who don't want to get serious.
I come from a town that had a really good message board. We often took the local newspaper to task and also the politicians, some of whom actually joined in the discussion.
(There are a lot of other things about that town that I didn't like, which is why my family left. But the message board wasn't one of them.)
Hey, here's an idea. Why don't those of us who want sensible dialogue and a real exchange of ideas, try to outdo the knuckle draggers and knuckle heads who want to dominate this site? Let's make this something we can enjoy.
Replies:
Subject: Jeanne Balkas for Dracut Town Moderator


Author:
campaign dossier
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:39 03/21/09 Sat
***Let my education and knowledge work for you***

Rivier College:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Masters Degree in Education/Administration

University of Massachusetts/Lowell:
Educational Administration/Principal Program


***A good leader must be a great servant***

Former Chairman, Dracut Charter Review Committee
Former Vice-Chairman, Dracut School Committee
Dracut Citizens Police Academy
Dracut Community Emergency Response Team
Volunteered/raised money for The Salvation Army
Volunteered/raised money for Dracut Skateboard Park
Collected money and food for Katrina flood victims in Father Morin’s parish in New Orleans
Boston Diocese Camp Counselor
Sunday School Teacher


***A new vision, a new direction, I promise results and offer change***

^I promise to make warrant articles more simple, understanding & reader friendly before Town Meeting.
^I promise to provide registered voters via a Handout, the Internet, or Cable television, a simple explanation of the operational and procedural process of Town Meeting so that citizens can be active participants.
^I promise to let citizens know the power they have in the management of their town, and will insure they have all the information they need to make fiscally sound decisions.
^I promise that when controversial issues are to be voted upon, there will be a private ballot.


I have purchased from the Massachusetts Moderators Association, an informational video entitled “Town Meeting and You”, which explains open town meeting. I have also reserved time with Dracut local cable access for this to be shown.

I’am focused on what really counts, the hard working taxpayers of Dracut. A vote for me is a vote for YOU
I WIN --- WE ALL WIN!

I respectfully ask for your vote on Monday--May 4,2009 Thank You!

***I will not accept the stipend I receive or the health insurance. Instead, the money will be evenly distributed to the Dracut Scholarship Foundation (In memory of Dennis McNamara), The Mike Miles Fund-Raiser for Memorial Fund, The Dracut Food Pantry, and The Dracut Senior Center.
Replies:
Subject: Dracut Candidate's Night - April 6, 2009. Watch Ch 10 Sun 4/12 at 1:00 p.m. & Tues 4/14 at 6:00 p.m.


Author:
Watch Contrast of Candidates in the GL-Tech Races
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:10 04/09/09 Thu
What a contrast in the Greater Lowell Tech School Committee Races!!!

Two Year Term: Victor A. Olson vs. Kieran F. Lennon

Three Year Term: Paul Morin vs. David Norkiewicz

Got to Watch this one again!Watch DATV Channel 10 on Sunday 4/12 at 1:00 p.m. & Tuesday 4/14 at 6:00 p.m.
Subject: W.C.A.P. should be fair and balanced on Dracut Politics


Author:
Marconie
[Edit]
Date Posted: 01:24 04/06/09 Mon
WCAP,keeps Waren on Saterday radio because he works for free. Their thought is, look his only reward is his ego,so whats not to like?! We get a few extra skeels,make a public statement that management is not involved etc.

This policy did not work for former owner and Dracut citizens will not allow new owners to sell Dracut citizens
for 30 pcs.of silver.

C.A.P. has a moral and legall obligation to be fair and balanced when someone they put in front of a mike is disrespecting our civic system here in Dracut.

Hay new owners remeber W.C.A.P. why don't you fellows get it?
Replies:
Subject: Bond showed a lot of courage and stamina telling how Shaw is.Four years ago he went after John Zimni on something that nothing to do with John and last year he went after Teddy K saying in his opinion that he should not become a selectman because he pulls permits in town.This year he goes after Bond.Take a good look at Joe DiRocco he does not belong there.Do the town some good vote for change.Vote BRIAN BOND'


Author:
Fed up with SHAW
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:45 04/03/09 Fri
Replies:
Subject: Still waiting on refund for fall Dracut soccer uniform


Author:
very irritated parent
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:41 03/26/09 Thu
Just wondering if I am the only parent who is still waiting on a refund for the soccer uniforms that were ordered last Summer for the Fall season but never came in until the season was just about over. Dracut Soccer gave us the option of requesting a refund which I did back in late October. It is now just about the beginning of the Spring season and I still have not received my refund that was promised. Did anyone get their refund or does anyone have any idea what is going on with the refunds.
Replies:
Subject: Ms. Preneur Dracut Ma


Author:
Ms. Preneur
[Edit]
Date Posted: 13:02 04/04/09 Sat
I am very excited to launch my new website for local woman owned businesses.

Ms. Preneur Dracut Ma

Ms Preneur is a unique Shopping Boutique Website that was created to bring locally owned woman businesses and residents together to promote economic growth and improve the quality of life in our community.

For the Business Owner, Ms. Preneur provides an environment for you to get your business started by giving you a space to advertise your products or services without the high cost of print advertising (we do the advertising for you). This is a perfect way to showcase your products and/or services and to get the word out about your business. Even if you have never done this before but always wanted to give it a try....now is your chance.

Ms. Preneur is a great place to network with other women in town on everything from starting a business to marketing to how to do it all.

If you're ready to take your business to new heights or if you would like to give your business a positive presence in Dracut, in local advertising and on the Internet, don’t miss this exciting opportunity to join Ms. Preneur!


For Consumers, Ms. Preneur will be your one stop destination for local shops and services that you might not have known were available to you in our own community. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making Ms. Preneur a very convenient place to shop from the comfort of your home.

You'll find business women that genuinely care about offering you the finest products, services, and customer service in town and on the web. From work-at-home moms to seasoned business owners, we have something for everyone!

From small boutiques to gift shops, quilters to seamstress, home health aids to house cleaners, tutors and teachers, bakers and candle stick makers, spa services, masseuses, and holistic entrepreneurs, home designers and realtors, fitness instructors and food providers, and hopefully many more business to make life a little less hectic for the busy woman.

Book mark us and check us often, we will be adding new business shortly!

As an introductory offer, the first 10 women owned business to sign up from the message board will receive a 10% discount. Let me know you saw my ad here.

www.mspreneurdracut.com
cathy@mspreneur.com
Replies:
Subject: Warren has to GO!!! Vote DiRocco OUT!!!


Author:
Voter
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:58 04/03/09 Fri
Board hopeful's planned cable-TV spot a bone of contention
By Dennis Shaughnessey, dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com
Posted: 04/03/2009 06:37:49 AM EDT
DRACUT -- A candidate for selectman has accused a former selectman of meddling in the campaign by questioning his use of the town's cable-access television station.

Brian Bond, a candidate for selectman in the May 4 election, enlisted the help of photographer Lenny Proposki to operate the camera for a 15- to-30-minute spot highlighting his accomplishments and his reason for challenging incumbent Selectman Joe DiRocco.

But at the last minute, Proposki backed out. Bond said former Selectman Warren Shaw, who also hosts a talk show on WCAP radio, intimidated Proposki by telling him it's illegal to receive money for taping a show.

Bond and Proposki are members of Dracut Access Television. Membership, which cost $10 for individuals and $20 for a family, entitles the use of equipment in the studio or out in the field after a minimal amount of training.

It is against DATV bylaws to accept money for taping a show or for being part of the show, and Proposki joked that Bond was paying him $1.

Shaw went on the air Saturday morning and, without naming Bond, said he had learned that a candidate was paying for someone to film his spot on DATV.

"I got about 20 calls (from people) who heard Warren on the radio talking about it," Proposki said. "My wife was upset that I got myself involved in a campaign. This whole thing has been blown way out of proportion. I don't need the aggravation. I don't need the headaches. I tried to be a good guy, and it

backfired on me. It always does."
Shaw said he never used Bond's or Proposki's names on the air, but did warn anybody interested in doing a show that the exchange of money is prohibited. Shaw added that he wanted to make other candidates aware that they have the right to do a show.

He said Bond's concerns are amateurish.

"He should stop worrying about what I'm saying on the radio and start concentrating on his campaign," Shaw said.

Bond accused Shaw of trying to control the two-man selectman's race.

"Warren is used to having power and control, and he sees that slipping away because I'm my own man," Bond said. "I'm trying to run a clean campaign, but Warren is making a big thing out of this. Who am I running against? Joe DiRocco or Warren Shaw?"
Replies:
Subject: A vote for Selectman Joe DeRacco is a vote for Warren Shaw!!


Author:
Jack
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:45 04/02/09 Thu
Everyone in town knows Joey doesn't want all this lime light. He would rather be enjoying his retirment hunting and fishing. And every so often play hide the snake with the mis's. However Warren Shaw forced Joe to run the last two times.
The reason is Joey only votes on issues that will benefit Shaw and his cronies. Joey hasn't made a vote of his own! Our very own "barn yard animal" Shaw is the most dysfuntional,dishonest member ever to hold public office in Dracut.
Voting for DeRacco again will only reenforce this corrupt behaviour. Joey doesn't have a pair he use's Warrens.
So remember if you want WARREN SHAW running our board of Selectman than Joey is your man errrrrrrr is Warren *itch!!!
Replies:
Subject: Lowell Sun Back Talk


Author:
vote out Ron Mercier
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:57 03/26/09 Thu
GRADING QUERY: How can Mr. Mercier give School Superintendent Mullin an 'A' when he went into a budget meeting thinking he was $750,000 in the black and came out $750,000 in the hole? Now there are no substitutes being hired for paraprofessionals, which means state-mandated IEPs are going uncovered. He should lay off the 33 new people he hired and leave the paras to do their job.

Dracut
Replies:
Subject: AGREE


Author:
GREAT POST
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:56 04/04/09 Sat
Subject: Shaw should be fired for the way he conducts himself.He has his sneaky ways of going after people he does not want in Dracut politics.


Author:
Does Shaw have a agenda?
[ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]
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Date Posted: 21:02 04/01/09 Wed
In reply to: one of many listeners 's message, "Warrens hatred" on 23:54 03/28/09 Sat

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[ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]
Subject: response


Author:
mike miles
[Edit]
Date Posted: 19:17 04/03/09 Fri
Hey watchdog, your moronic assessment and opinion makes me realize why people like yourself hide behind a name and computer. Come to a school committee meeting (if you can find someone to drive you) and step up and be heard. I know it would be difficult for someone as intelligant as yourself to speak to the committee in person but try it that why you give credence to your opinion...A little knowledge is a dangerous thing in the hands of an idiot...
Replies:
Subject: Board hopeful's planned cable-TV spot a bone of contention


Author:
Voter
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:57 04/03/09 Fri
Subject: Parker Avenue School's PTO treasurer charged with embezzlement


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 21:25 04/02/09 Thu
(published in, Lowell Sun, 4-2-09)

DRACUT -- A PTO treasurer was arrested for embezzling almost $13,000 from fundraising profits to pay for mortgage and utility payments as well as a new roof on her house.

Police say that Donna Breton, 42, of 55 Harlem St., was treasurer of the Parker Avenue School PTO for at least three years. Breton admitted to police that she had converted PTO funds to cash and subsequently deposited the money into her personal bank account.

She was arrested on March 30 and charged with larceny by embezzlement over $250 and arraigned in Lowell District Court on March 31.
Replies:
Subject: Selectman Zimini orders full-fledged police investigation on “Midget-gate”


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 00:46 03/25/09 Wed


Brian Dennehy


In a rather shocking move at the end of last night’s regular board meeting, Selectman John Zimini publicly announced under the agenda item of “New Business” that someone had sent him an e-mail concerning something that was on “one of the web sites in town” regarding some questionable activities that took place at a local barroom, which is also available on the web site, You Tube.

Zimini further ordered Town Manager Dennis Piendak to have Police Chief Kevin Richardson conduct a full scale investigation into this controversial matter.

Out of process of elimination, I would assume Zimini was referring to the recent Grand Re-Opening of, Back to the Boathouse night club on the beautiful shores of Lake Mascuppic, near the Tyngsboro line. As for the controversy, Zimini probably wanted to have the “beefcake” male midget stripper, who was literally breaking all the lovely ladies’ hearts at the Boathouse that night fully investigated.

As a point of information, the “Adult Zone”, so Dracut could allow pornographic entertainment without infringing on anybody’s First Amendment rights is on Route 38, adjacent to the Pelham Quarry. That area’s also extremely close to “Chapter 11" Maguire’s barroom – funny how that worked out, eh? Ironically, I believe it was then-Selectman Warren Shaw who pushed to have Dracut’s “Adult Entertainment Zone” located in that particular vicinity. I’m sure when somebody sits down and writes the history book of Dracut, that little tidbit will probably go down as Warren Shaw’s greatest accomplishment on the Board of Selectmen.

Getting back to Zimini, that guy could probably pass as a twin clone to legendary supporting actor Brian Dennehy, who co-starred in such great flicks as: “Cocoon”, “Tommy Boy”, and my personal favorite, “Rambo – First Blood”. So this leads to the question if Selectman Zimini was really jealous of the “beefcake” male midget stripper who appeared to be having some good healthy fun with several very voluptuous, beautiful ladies at the Boathouse during that recent Grand Re-Opening event.

I’m sure Chief Richardson, Deputy Chief Dave Chartrand, as well as the rest of Dracut’s Finest will not rest until they get to the very bottom of this “Midget-gate” controversy.

It’s also unclear, at this point in time, on whether “Midget-gate” will serve as a major issue in this year’s Selectman’s race between challenger Brian Bond and incumbent Joe DiRocco.

More on this rather fascinating story as it unfolds.
Replies:
Subject: Daigle weighs-in to a few previous postings here on, Dracut After Dark


Author:
Roger L. Daigle via Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:18 04/02/09 Thu
(Roger L. Daigle is a co-host on the popular local access cable TV show, "Inside Dracut Politics", which airs several times a week on Channel 8.)

Response to posting of 3/18/09 regarding Nancy Gagnon:

I’m one of those “everyone else” that is sorry Nancy decided not to seek reelection, she being the only one who voted against the teacher contract. Of course Ron is a terrific guy, he voted for it. Nancy’s personal life if her own affair, not yours. She did the job, did you? Give her credit for having the guts to serve!!!


Response to posting of 3/20/09 regarding cost of the Canney Farm:

The Selectmen aren’t asleep,. They just rubber stamp anything Dracut’s Pied Piper puts in front of them. You ain’t seen anything yet!!! Think about it - first it was 17 then 16 then 15 acres; approval amount proved too high; then $1.3 million and add another parcel; then come to find out only approximately 7 acres is useable for its intended purpose.

One of them says CPA money is not Tax money. What can you expect with that kind of logic?? They’re not Bill O’Reilly, they’re not looking out for you or anyone else but special interest. But keep reelecting them - does that mean you’re looking out for them???

Anyone running for public office that spends 10 grand on his/her campaign is suspect, especially if he/she is running unopposed!!!


Response to posting dated 3/10/09- on “Vitriolic”:

If anyone won’t run because of what he/she might have to endure, doesn’t have any guts and, if so, shouldn’t run!!

If you can’t stand the heat get the hell out of the kitchen (Harry Truman)
Subject: Warrens hatred


Author:
one of many listeners
[Edit]
Date Posted: 23:54 03/28/09 Sat
Now I know I shouldn't say it but its so funny when you hear how Warrens hatred shows for someone that is smarter than he. Take anyone that runs for office and not on his " team of followers". They run a great campaign and Warren can't take it because he isn't one of the boys or girls he can push around. Warren you want the best for the town then get off your high horse and let people that want to serve the town of Dracut do it. Stop knocking them because they don't let you lead them by the nose. They have a mind of their own.
Replies:
Subject: paid but not working


Author:
concerned citizen
[Edit]
Date Posted: 10:31 03/22/09 Sun
Does no one care that the female fire fighter who claimed she was as good as any guy, has not worked in 2 years but is still getting paid?? ANYONE???
Replies:
Subject: Weird, but true, interesting facts


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:11 03/31/09 Tue
If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee. (Hardly seems worth it.)

If you farted consistently for 6 years and 9 months, enough gas is produced to create the energy of an atomic bomb. (Now that's more like it!)

The human heart creates enough pressure when it pumps out to the body to squirt blood 30 feet. (O.M.G.!)

A pig's orgasm lasts 30 minutes. (In my next life, I want to be a pig.)

A cockroach will live nine days without its head before it starves to death. (Creepy.) (I'm still not over the pig.)

Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories a hour (Don't try this at home, maybe at work)

The male praying mantis cannot copulate while its head is attached to its body. The female initiates sex by ripping the male's head off. (Honey, I'm home. What the...?!)

The flea can jump 350 times its body length. It's like a human jumping the length of a football field. (30 minutes..lucky pig! Can you imagine?)

The catfish has over 27,000 taste buds. (What could be so tasty on the bottom of a pond?)

Some lions mate over 50 times a day. (I still want to be a pig in my next life...quality over quantity)

Butterflies taste with their feet. (Something I always wanted to know.)

The strongest muscle in the body is the tongue. (Hmmmmmm......)

Right-handed people live, on average, nine years longer than left-handed people. (If you're ambidextrous, do you split the difference?)

Elephants are the only animals that cannot jump. (Okay, so that would be a good thing)

A cat's urine glows under a black light. (I wonder who was paid to figure that out?)

An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain. (I know some people like that.)

Starfish have no brains (I know some people like that too.)

Polar bears are left-handed. (If they switch, they'll live a lot longer)

Humans and dolphins are the only species that have sex for pleasure. (What about that pig??)
Subject: Brian Martin now being challenged by a guy who fears Dracut could have three votes on the Voke committee


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:39 03/29/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, The Column, 3-29-09)

TYNGSBORO RESIDENT Steve O'Neill decided to take out nomination papers for a seat on the Greater Lowell Technical High School (Voke) Committee just before the March 20 deadline.

"I had until 5 p.m. but Town Hall closed at noon," said O'Neill, a 1980 graduate of the school who was named a Distinguished Alumni in 2003.

A call was made to Secretary of State William Galvin's office and O'Neill was told he could pick up the papers at the Tyngsboro Police Station. He turned his papers in last Monday, a day before the deadline to return signed nomination papers.

O'Neill, a 22-year-member of the Lowell Police Department and the father of Tyngsboro Selectman Ashley O'Neill, is challenging former Dracut resident Brian Martin for the seat.

Martin, who served as Dracut's representative on the committee for seven years, took out nomination papers earlier this month, soon after moving to town and learning that Herb Desrosiers, Tyngsboro's representative on the committee for three years, was not seeking re-election, choosing rather to run for a seat on the Tyngsboro School Committee.

"I love the school and I believe it does a lot of good things for the students in all four communities and I believe my experience on the board is an asset to Tyngsboro," Martin said.

O'Neill said Martin's allegiance may still lie in Dracut. "I'm 100 percent Tyngsboro and I don't think Dracut should have three votes on that board," O'Neill said. "Here's a guy who's only lived in Tyngsboro for a few weeks. I couldn't let him run unopposed."

Said Martin: "I'll put my record up against Steve O'Neill any day of the week."
Replies:
Subject: is this a joke or what??? Bob Cox was the tie breaker because the chairman always votes last and Cox was still undecided as to how he would vote!


Author:
copied from DF
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:37 03/25/09 Wed
Joe stands up to store robber
By Shawn on Mar 25, 2009 in Featured, Local Businesses

Who is running this town?

I’ve been watching this situation for months now, and keep trying to figure it out.. is it the Board of Selectmen, or a robber in a bandana?

Merrimack Liquors has been operating for over two years along 110 with no problems caused by them. They run a clean, well-stocked store. All the workers are part of the family, so you see no problems with employee theft or clerks caught selling to minors.

Now, their lease is up and the current owner is not renewing. Perhaps the attached restaurant wants to expand. I don’t know. The owner of the liquor store decided to just move a quarter mile down the street to a property that was available, the old Dyson piano building.

The building is in sad shape, and a new business in that location would spruce up the whole area. There would be less problems with vandalism and such at the Dyson property, additional businesses tend to slow traffic down, and the town would not lose a business that has successfully come to town and been paying taxes for years now.

Now, understandably, one of the abutting neighbors doesn’t want “this type of business” moving into their neighborhood. “It brings crime”, “it brings traffic”, “it brings problems”. They spoke of “gunshots going over their heads” and “stores selling to minors.” Yet each time they acknowledged that this store was clean and well run.

They could, however, point to the fact that it had been robbed. Twice recently, believed to be by the same guy.

Now is that a good reason to shut down a business? Did Ms Choun, the owner of Merrimack Liquors, go out and hire someone to rob her? Is she responsible for what criminals do?

Already the store has added additional security cameras, lighting, door security.. and the same will be true of the new location.

Ah, but she was robbed. She would be bringing crime to our neighborhood.

Well, should Convenience Plus up on Broadway be closed down as well? The word in our neighborhood is that the same guy who robbed Merrimack also went up there and robbed them.

How about Brother’s Pizza in Tennis Plaza? Broadway Convenience? Shut em down.. they’ve been robbed. TD Banknorth has had multiple bank robberies, as had the old Massbank.. where was the concern for the neighbors when those incidents occurred?

There have been fights at the junior high, do we close that down too?

When the Dunkin Donuts was going in on Broadway a few years ago, we were told “the town needs new revenue.” “This is zoned for business, and this is a perfectly acceptable business for that zone,” and the neighbors.. who came out in large quantity.. were basically ignored. Fox Ave intersection was changed, but that was to benefit Dunkin Donuts.. not us. A sidewalk was put in from Dunkin Donuts to the Veteran’s Park.. again, to benefit DD, not the neighbors who live in the developments down the hill… let them walk in the street.

So we accepted this because it was for the good of the town. New businesses is good, it reduces the tax rate on the residents.

Now, the same situation has been happening on 110, with basically only one abutting family arguing against it.. and we see what looks like issue after issue is being dug up to try to stop the business from operating in the same neighborhood its been doing so for years.

I was glad to see last night that the issue was finally settled, with Selectman Jim O’Loughlin asking for a number of stipulations that the owner was already putting into effect, George Malliaros’ recommendation for a security consultant was a good idea, and Selectman Joe DiRocco’s recommendation to modify the parking to limit car headlights from disturbing the neighbors.

The board finally voted with O’Loughlin and Malliros voting to pass the motion.

Selectmen Bob Cox and John Zimini both voted against. Bob did not give an indication why. John seemed to be siding with the abutter that this business was some sort of a problem. Seems quite inconsistent when compared to his opinions during the Dunkin Donuts discussions a few years ago.

Ultimately, with the others voting 2 to 2 the vote came down to Joe DiRocco. It was a tough decision, but he finally fell on the side of the owner who has been following the rules and creating a new business in town, while acknowledging the concerns of the neighbor. He didn’t let the behaviors of one criminal stop the business of running our community.

I say the problem is that someone needs to get on the ball and catch the criminal. I know they’re working on it. I just don’t see why a small business, and our town government, should be held hostage to one bad guy.
Replies:
Subject: Former elected officials back on the ballot


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:20 03/29/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, 3-29-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- In addition to several incumbents and a handful of newcomers in the May 4 annual election, there is a group of former office holders and other candidates who know their way around a campaign fundraiser or a political sign.

Bonnie Elie is making a run for one of two seats on the School Committee, an office she held from 1999 to 2001 before stepping down to care for her late mother and grandmother.

"I've been in the trenches for 30 years as a PTO member and then a member of the committee. Now my grandchildren are in school and I have a vested interest again," said Elie, whose four children and seven grandchildren all live in Dracut. "The committee's focus has drifted in recent years and has become way too political, when it should be about the children. I'd work to restore that confidence."

The three-way race includes two-term incumbent Ron Mercier and first-time candidate Paul Elmstrom.

Former Selectman Kenneth Cunha, who served from 2002 to 2007, is challenging longtime incumbent Robert Audet for a five-year term on the Housing Authority Commission.

"As a selectman, I was the chairman of the affordable housing subcommittee," Cunha said. "I'd like to pick up where I left off and try to obtain more units for our seniors and alleviate the long waiting list."

But beyond that is Cunha's feeling that when current Housing Director Mary Karabatsos was hired in 2007, a fair and legitimate process was circumvented. Cunha said Audet should be held accountable for his decision to include Karabatsos as a finalist even though her name was not among the three finalists chosen by a 10-member selection committee.

"(Audet) says that the Housing Authority is no place for politics, but he made one of the biggest political decisions of his life when he chose to add her name to the list of finalists," Cunha charges. "It was one of the biggest political coups Dracut has ever seen and it's a little too late for him to say now that politics should be left out of it."

Challenging incumbent Town Moderator Gary McCarthy for the one-year term is Eugenia Balkas, who served one term on the School Committee from 1992 to 1995. In addition to several unsuccessful attempts to regain that seat, Balkas also ran unsuccessful campaigns for the Board of Selectmen in 2000 and the Greater Lowell Technical High School Committee in 2003. Balkas refused to speak to The Sun, saying only that she would "take my case to the people."

Victor Olson, a civil engineer who last month was appointed to the Greater Lowell Tech Committee to fill out the remainder of the year in place of former resident Brian Martin, is running for the remaining two years of that three-year term. He is vying for the post with retired corrections officer and first-time candidate Kieran Lennon.

Olson, 47, got his political feet wet last year when he ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the Dracut Water Supply District Commission. The school's mission statement, Olson says, matches his life's philosophy.

"Team building. Problem solving. Forming a consensus. It's been my experience that that is the best way to get goals accomplished," said Olson. "I've worked with tradesmen and environmentalists and public-work directors who were on different sides on an issue and in the end came away with workable solutions. I think I can bring that to a school that focuses on vocations and academics."

In the three-way race for two seats on the Board of Library Trustees, incumbents Mary Lee Matthews and John Dyer face a challenge from newcomer Cheryl Storm.

In other contested races, incumbent Selectman and former fire chief Joe DiRocco will try to fend off a challenge by Brian Bond, an appointed member to the Planning Board, the Community Preservation Committee and the Veterans' Park Concession Stand Committee. Two newcomers, David Norkiewicz and Paul Morin, are vying for the three-year seat on the Greater Lowell Tech School Committee left open by Dennis "D.J." Deeb's decision not to seek a fifth term.

Mary Gail Martin's resignation from the School Committee in January prompted the appointment of former Greenmont Elementary School Principal Michael McNamara to fill out the remainder of the year. McNamara is running without opposition for the one year left on Martin's term. Also running unopposed is Dracut Water Supply District Commissioner William Zielinski and district Moderator Donna Yackel.
Subject: I WONDER HOW FAIR WARREN SHAW WILL BE WHEN HE HAS BRIAN BOND ON HIS SATURDAY MORNING WCAP POLITICAL RADIO SHOW?


Author:
WATCH OUT FOR SHAW
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:36 03/27/09 Fri
Replies:
Subject: Is Spencer Mullin stupid enough to ignore the folks who pay his salary?


Author:
N.
[Edit]
Date Posted: 22:41 03/28/09 Sat
I couldn’t help but hear this morning on the radio two School Committee challengers, Ms. Elie and Mr. Elstrom, both complaining that they had tried contacting School Superintendent Spencer Mullin a number of times and never received a response from him. Mr. Elstrom added that his wife even tried contacting Mullin on another school-related issue and she too had also failed to get any response.

Could this be a couple of isolated cases? I seriously doubt it. If Mullin doesn’t give a BLEEP about people who could possibly become his future bosses, then why should he give a BLEEP about anybody else?

Say what you will about former School Superintendent Elaine Espindle, but personally, I’d rather have a professional individual who may occasionally be rude and arrogant to a taxpayer -- or even one of her subordinates -- running our School Department versus someone who just doesn’t bother to respond at all. As far as the excuse, “I’m too busy” goes, ever heard of, “delegating responsibility”?

This is no way to run a School Department, ladies and gentlemen. If Mullin simply blew off the Lowell Sun every time it requested an interview, nobody would really give a BLEEP, but when he pulls this same stunt with the people who actually pay his salary – it’s just a little bit too tough to swallow.

The really sad part is Mullin, unlike Espindle, is from our town. If anything, he should know better.
Subject: The tale of the inebriated school official who fled a hit-and-run accident


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 00:24 03/20/09 Fri
First and foremost, if you attempt to guess at who this school official might be, it ain’t gonna see the light of day here on Dracut After Dark unless I can view some substantiating evidence proving it to be true. I will say that I’m sort of leaning to this as being the truth since it was told to me by a very credible source of mine.

It’s my understanding that during a post-Super Bowl celebration, soon after the Dracut Middies became the Division 1A high school football champs this past December, a certain school official apparently had a wee bit too much to drink at a popular Lowell golf course. Failing to recruit the services of a designated driver, this school official irresponsibly decided to take his/her chances and start heading back home – only to experience a collision with a parked vehicle along the way.

Fortunately, there was nobody physically hurt in this accident, at least according to my source. Also, it was undetermined exactly how much damage was done to the parked vehicle, since the school official just simply drove off without leaving any notification on the windshield and/or contacting the police.

Unfortunately, according to this same source, the inebriated public official was driving a Dracut School Department vehicle, which did indeed receive a considerable amount of costly body damage from this accident.

Why was this incident kept so “hush-hush” by the School Department? You might say this particular school official is considered extremely popular amongst many of the political circles here in town so it might be best to simply sweep something like this under the proverbial rug for all parties concerned.

I can assure you, however, that I don’t plan to rest until I get to the bottom of this rather disturbing situation. As soon as I can obtain the substantiating evidence, that’s when I’ll proceed to blow the lid of this sucker.

Meanwhile, since Ron Mercier is the only incumbent School Committee member running for reelection this year who actually served on that board from last December, you might want to pose the question to him asking if he knows anything about this incident.
Replies:
Subject: Dracut Pop Warner Registration


Author:
Resident
[Edit]
Date Posted: 07:47 03/03/09 Tue
Boys & Girls Ages 7 to 15 (as of 08/01/09)

Dracut Pop Warner will be holding sign ups for the 2009 season for both Football & Cheerleading at the Englesby Café on the following dates:

Returning Players & Cheerleaders
March 10th & 12th from 6:30 PM till 8:30 PM

New Players & Cheerleaders
March 24th & 26th from 6:30 PM till 8:30 PM
Replies:
Subject: SHOULD THE PUBLIC EXPECT A LIVE ONE ON ONE DEBATE BETWEEN JOE DIROCCO AND CHALLENGER BRIAN BOND?I THINK IT IS THE BEST WAY FOR ALL THE PEOPLE SO THAT THEY CAN CHOOSE THE BEST ONE.


Author:
QUESTION?
[Edit]
Date Posted: 14:25 03/24/09 Tue
Replies:
Subject: Joe side steps all of the questions on the live blog


Author:
Voter
[Edit]
Date Posted: 19:58 03/22/09 Sun
Hi.
Welcome the Live Blog Discussion, sponsored by the Dracut Forum and Dracut">http://dracutpolitics.blogspot.com>Dracut Politics blogs.
My name is Shawn Ashe, and co-hosting with me is Brian Flaherty.
Our goal in hosting these discussions is to inform (and sometimes entertain) the online community on all subjects Dracut.
We don't know everything.. far from it.
You'll find this show simulcast on both blogs, and available for replay after its complete. Its our hope to question, discuss, share and learn with you, the readers.
Join in the discussion if you wish, or just listen in.. its all up to you.
6:00 The smoking lightis lit, the drink of the night is Coors Lite at my house

6:00 Welcome everyone
6:01 We're waiting a few moments to see if Joe connects with us
6:01 Brian is away this week on a family event
6:02 [Comment From Joe DiRocco]
Hello Shawn
6:02 Shawn: and Joe is with us
6:02 Shawn: Did you catch that telethon?
6:02 Joe DiRocco: Yes just another great Dracut event
6:03 Shawn: I can never seem to accept how much this town supports its own
6:03 Joe DiRocco: Dracut always leads the way when it comes to helping out our neighbors and our children
6:04 Shawn:
Not only in charity, but also in public service..Joe, there's nothing making you do it, you could be out fishing.. why are you running again?


6:06

6:07 Shawn: am I losing you there?
6:07 Joe DiRocco: There are a number of very important reasons. First I need to see Louisburg Square through. That was my high priority when I first ran and it is important to our seniors that we get it done. Secondly we have a town hall problem that, although I was successful in getting us a two year extension, we still have to build a town hall during my next term. I think it is also important that the board have some strong fiscal experience and my years as fire chief has taught me the value of conservative management
6:08 Shawn: Good reasoning.. all sound very directed towards service to the town
6:08 Shawn: Can you summarize some of your community involvement over the years before you were a selectman, I've seen you involved in every charity event and town function I can remember?

6:08 Shawn: Short paragraphs go quicker Joe
6:09 Joe DiRocco: To begin with I served 21 years as a rank in file firefighter before becoming chief. That experience enabled me to work with our union and selectmen to bring about a complete change in the department, including two new fire stations.
6:10 Shawn: I remember that.. all those meetings presenting those new plans to the people
6:12 Joe DiRocco: I also became involved in Dracut Rotary and we were able to fundraise for "a lightwriter" for a handicapped child who could not speak. We also raised money for the memorial monument in the rear of the high school for deceased children. I was involved in the food drive for Hurricane Katrina victims, and involved in private fundraising for the skateboard park
6:12

6:13 Shawn: I remember that lightwriter issue, was a great one..
6:13 Joe DiRocco: I was very proud to be involved in it
6:13 Shawn: I forgot about the memorial monument
6:13

6:13 Shawn: But I also remember the Katrina thing..
6:13 Shawn: I belive the Bishop just got a promotion?
6:13 Shawn: so to speak?
6:14 Joe DiRocco: Promoted to third Bishop, I believe ?
6:14 Shawn: my mistake.. thought he went to cardinal..
6:14 Shawn: I have a question from Mr O'Connell from Pop Warner..
6:14 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
Joe, I am the new President of Dracut Pop Warner. As President I am asking if you support lights at Veterans field.
6:15 Joe DiRocco: As with all community issues, it involves with working with the neighborhood so that it is not a win or lose situation for anyone
6:16 Shawn: True
6:16 Shawn: The situation seems to have been resolved with the school field
6:16 Shawn: ?
6:17 Joe DiRocco: I have heard no further complaints since we have been able to use the school practice field
6:17 Shawn: Back to your priorities, Louisburg was a big priority when you came on.. affordable housing, what state is that project in?

6:18 Joe DiRocco: We will be taking title to it within the next two months. State funding is already in place
6:18 Shawn: So that remains a joint project with Dracut Housing.. does CPA stay involved once its purchased and operational?
6:19 Joe DiRocco: No. CPA funds were used to acquire the property and fulfill the Towns commitment to affordable housing
6:19 Shawn: In terms of the CPA..
I wanted to know, do you think we should ask Town Meeting to direct a specific percentage to Rec?
but shouldnt the town meeting take a role in setting those spending priorities?
6:20 Joe DiRocco: Currently, the towns policy is for 80% open space some of which can be recreation open space. So, yes, the town meeting should have control over the money
6:21 Shawn:
I have a fear of this becoming a "slush" fund for other town projects beyond its original intent.. what are your feelings on that/


6:22 Joe DiRocco: When the town residents were asked to support this tax, they were promised an open space program. We should honor our promise to the voters and not change it without their approval.
6:23 Shawn: Dan from PW had lost his connection.. but returns to continue his discussion about Veteran's Park..
6:23 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
Joe. I really didn't get an answer there. I am concerned about the kids safety. Lights are essential for the safety of the kids in my program.
6:24 Joe DiRocco: Dan, when the voters were asked to fund Veterans Park, the neighborhood was brought into the process. Do you want me to turn my back on them? It is important that whatever decisions are made include the neighborhood
6:25 Shawn: From Brian last week: Conventional wisdom is that things are going pretty well in Dracut. Some would ask why we should make a change in town leadership - what would you tell them?
6:25 Shawn:
rewritten, what would you say to those who just want change?


6:26 Joe DiRocco: I think it is important that the town have change from time to time, but its also important that it be changed for the better. I believe that the experience that I have acquired over the years along with my budget background makes me a better candidate
6:27 Shawn: Well, then lets talk finance. Why is it that Dracut seems to be ahead of the game compared to all the towns around us?
6:28 Joe DiRocco: Dracut has had its share of rough times, but we learn from it. We have a town manager and a board of selectmen that understand the limits of what the town can afford and we act accordingly
6:28 Shawn: We all see tought times ahead over the next few years.. if we are headed towards layoffs or cutbacks.. how do you set priorities?
6:30 Joe DiRocco: First, we have not overspent as other communities have. So it is not likely that we will be looking to make layoffs. I dont think we should ever go into a budgetary process thinking layoffs because our services are limited already
6:30 Shawn: The town manager does do a great job for Dracut, but we have to admit will not be with us forever.
6:30 Shawn: What process do you think we should use to replace him up on his retirement?
6:31 Joe DiRocco: I agree, we have been fortunate to have the services of a great town manager.
6:32 Joe DiRocco: But, we know that the time will come when we will have to look for a replacement. When that time comes, we should have a nationwide search for the best candidate available. Most importantly, I will never vote to put a politician in that office
6:32 Shawn: So you prefer the "professional" town manager position?
6:33 Joe DiRocco: Absolutely !! To look back at a time when political forces tried to take control over that office. I am sure the town would not be where it is today had we capitulated to their agenda
6:33 Shawn: [Private Message to voter] give me one if youve got one (Reply Privately)

6:35 Shawn: Sorry.. hung up there

6:35 Joe DiRocco: Im not offended
6:35 Shawn: Time to go back to rec for a second, Dan is frustrated with your answers on lighting

6:35 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
Where do you stand on lighting at the Canney project? For or against?
6:36 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
Joe you still didn't answer my question. Myself and the 300 families that participate in Pop Warner need to know how you will vote if this comes up again.
6:36 Joe DiRocco: We have a committee that will make recommendations on the build-out of that field. It would make no sense for me to respond until I listen to what they have to say
6:37 Shawn: Joe, you had a big part in building the Skate park, what is your position on the state of recreation in town?

6:38 Joe DiRocco: Dan, I have never believed that town government should respond to the threats of the political pressure. It is important that we do everything we can to provide pop warner with a safe place to play. Its also important to include the neighborhood in the process
6:40 Joe DiRocco: I have always been in favor of recreational opportunities for our youth. I supported veterans park consession stand. I also supported Canney Field after doing what I could to purchase the property at a lesser price. That kind of thinking provides money for future recreation opportunities through CPA
6:41 Shawn: After Louisburg, you listed the Town Hall as a key priority, a Dracut listener refers to this in this question... (and snuck in a second as well)

6:41 [Comment From voter]
Joe you have been on the board for 6 years why hasn’t the town hall issue been resolved and why didn't you step up and be the Chair this year
6:43 Joe DiRocco: Many area communities got themselves in trouble making hasty decisions. After the town turned down the debt exemption for town hall, we have taken a conservative approach. As mentioned before, I took it upon myself to reach out to Mr. Frotton who initiated the suit against the town. That bought us more time. Will not support any future over-rides to solve the problem.
6:43 Shawn: (side note to all the readers send in notes.. I'm listening and trying to fit them into the flow.. keep em coming)

6:44 Shawn: Lets jump over to this question

6:44 [Comment From Dracut person]
Joe, how do you view the slelectman's role in relation to the town manager
6:45 Joe DiRocco: The board is similar to a corporate board of directors. We set policy and expect him to execute policy. We also expect him to keep the ship of government on a forward course
6:45 Shawn: How do you measure his success? rate him?

6:47 Joe DiRocco: The board has a process that it uses to evaluate him. Budgets, personnel, overall management skills. I gave him a B+
6:47 Shawn: Once more on CPA, then schools..

6:47 [Comment From resident]
when the CPA matching funds dwindle, how will you set the priorities to fund projects?
6:48 Joe DiRocco: The priorities have been set by town meeting and the voters. They want an open space program and that can include recreation land acquisition. But project by project, the decisions are made by the CPA
6:49 Shawn: What do you think is the state of the school facilities in town, and what role does the town talke in looking at upgrading or replacing them?

6:49 Joe DiRocco: We currently have a feasability study which I supported in funding of. That will tell us what we need to do in terms of Dracut High
6:50 Shawn: and any of the other older shcools?

6:51 Joe DiRocco: We have had no requests for action on the other schools. But, it is important to say that the town does not have a money tree and we have to take these things one at a time
6:51 Shawn: There has been some big changes in the school committees..
Some of your board-mates took a significant stand with regard to others who did not support making the appointments for the recently vacated school positions. Do you have an opinion on whether we should have filled them?


6:52 Joe DiRocco: The state law requires that in the case of a vacancy on the school committee, that they must notify the board of selectmen and the two must meet to fill the vacancy until the next election. We complied with the law
6:53 Shawn: We'll come back to a town issue, and then return to the rec/lighing issue. there is sitll a lot of interest there

6:53 Shawn: How do you think Dracut does in comparison to the towns around us with regard to minors and alcohol?

6:55 Joe DiRocco: The board has taken a tough stand on establishments serving minors. If it weren't for medling on the part of the ABCC the board would take much stronger actions
6:55 Shawn: I remember you personally were very angry at the time when stores were caught selling to minors..

6:56 Joe DiRocco: What angered me the most was in one case the owner, himself, had done the serving
6:56 Shawn: I remember that.. time is running .. I'm jumping back to schools for a quick one..

6:56 [Comment From another voter]
what about the raises given to the teachers considering these financilaay challenging times....your thoughts
6:57 Joe DiRocco: We are asking all town employees to take a freeze in the next fiscal period.
6:57 Shawn: And Dan from PW returns with a couple.. im bunding them up for you to have a final response to him..
6:57 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
Lighting was always on the conceptual plan for Canney, and the neighbors were at the same meeting I was at. Can you provide me minutes of the meeting regarding the issue that there can being no lighting at the back field of Veterans.
6:57 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
For the safety of the kids in our program we need that back field lit. Are you in favor?
6:57 [Comment From Dan OConnell]
As a supporter of the concession stand I would think that you would be in favor of 300 families frequenting that stand 4 to 5 times weekly from August to November.
6:59 Joe DiRocco: We are really talking about two different fields. In the case of Canney field, that decision has not been made. In the case of Veterans park an alternative site was provided for the kids of pop warner
6:59 Shawn: One final question regarding the Police Department..

7:00 [Comment From Voter]
I'm interested in Joe's concerns about public safety in the community, and more specifically about the obvious divisions in the Police Department. Since the much-talked about "report" is not a public document, what conversations are the Board of Selectman and the Public Safety Subcommittee having about the concerns expressed in the police department survey/report?
7:01 Joe DiRocco: We have met with the chief and the town manager for his explanation. We have come up with some suggestions as to how to improve communications
7:02 Shawn: Well, time is run out.. Thanks for coming on this week Joe, this has been a great event.. we've covered just about every topic, and had lots of input from the community.
I encourage anyone with thier own questions to call Joe directly.. he's very open to input from the townsfolk

7:02 Joe DiRocco: Thanks for the opportunity Shawn.
7:02 Shawn: I'll see you again soon, and hopefully we'll be live again with another candidate for town election.

7:02 Shawn: Thanks everyone.. good night and good luck

7:02 Joe DiRocco: Good night
Replies:
Subject: Boston Globe Article - Dracut's Unsolved Mystery


Author:
copycat's asleep
[Edit]
Date Posted: 15:18 02/19/09 Thu

http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2009/02/19/drug_theft_at_police_station_still_unsolved/
Replies:
Subject: I hpoe DiRocco and Bond are allowed to ask each other questions.If so Bond will stun DiRocco first round"


Author:
Resident
[Edit]
Date Posted: 20:23 03/22/09 Sun
Replies:
Subject: The Absolute Epitome of Stupidity – Live Blog Discussions


Author:
Nostradamus
[Edit]
Date Posted: 10:09 03/18/09 Wed
Is it just me, ladies and gentlemen, or is there something really bizarre about this whole concept of, Live Blog Discussions? The reason I bring this up is because of the recent posting here on, Dracut After Dark, of the copied and pasted transcript of the Live Blog Discussion my arch rival, Shawn Ashe did with Selectman challenger Brian Bond earlier this week.

Call me jealous, if you will, but even if I had the know-how of doing something like this for Dracut After Dark, I just don’t see the logic and rationale of conducting a Live Blog Discussion with someone who’s still physically located in Dracut. If he/she happened to be in another part of the country or the world and there was an issue of dire importance, I might consider doing something like that. Doing this on a weekly basis, however, with individuals who are still in town just seems retarded to me.

When you ask someone a multiple question, for example, they’d legitimately need – assuming they can type at least 40 words per minute – about 7-8 minutes to physically type out their answer. Consider also when you’re “chatting” with someone on an AOL or Internet “chat” room, you usually have tons of spelling and grammatical mistakes because it’s sort of important to be quick with your responses. If you’re a would-be voter reading one of these Live Blog Discussions, and you saw a candidate responding with a ton of spelling and grammatical errors in their comments, wouldn’t you view them as rather stupid and opt not to vote for them come Election Day? So if it were me in a Live Blog Discussion, I would definitely take a minute or two to go over all my spelling and grammatical mistakes.

Also, how do we know for sure that the subject of the Live Blog Discussion is actually participating and responding to these questions himself/herself? How do we know if it’s not actually a campaign manager participating on behalf of their candidate?

This Sunday, for example, Shawn plans to have incumbent Selectman Joe DiRocco on his Live Blog Discussion. Granted, DiRocco was probably one of the best Dracut Firefighters “back in the day” but, in all sincerity, the guy has the IQ of a rock.

Do you honestly believe DiRocco will be sitting at a computer monitor and participating himself in this upcoming Blog Discussion? I seriously doubt it. But how the heck can we possibly prove if it’s actually Joe DiRocco or not in the Live Blog Discussion?

I guess if DiRocco keeps responding within 15 seconds to every question and sounds like William F. Buckley, then it’s probably a safe bet that “Narcissus” probably recruited a politically savvy individual to participate in his place.

Also, since it’s no major secret that DiRocco is being backed in this election by Shawn’s good buddy, Warren Shaw, how do we know for sure if DiRocco wasn’t already given all his questions, “up front” – long before this Blog Discussion ever started? Furthermore, is it fairly safe to assume that Shawn will purposely leave out some “controversial” questions surrounding DiRocco over the past three years:

* Dracut Skateboard Park

* Appointment of drug dealer Mark Shaw to the Agricultural Committee last November

* Spending about $10K in his reelection bid three years ago when he was running unopposed

Somehow I don’t think these three issues will see the light of day on Shawn’s Live Blog interview with Selectman DiRocco. Although I thought Shawn’s local access TV show also sucked, I think that would be a much better, not to mention legitimate, venue to air these type of candidate interviews than via the Internet.

I don’t know, that’s just my humble opinion. I definitely could be wrong.
Replies:
Subject: Gagnon, Teddy K., choose not to run in ‘09 Town Election


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 09:41 03/17/09 Tue
Two term School Committee member Nancy Gagnon, and home improvement contractor Teddy K., both opted to not turn in their candidacy nomination papers yesterday to run in this year’s Town Election this May. Respective candidates could still choose not to have their name on this year’s Ballot by notifying the Town Clerk by April 1. In all probability, this year’s Ballot will be as follows:

Town Moderator:
Gary McCarthy (incumbent)
Jeanne Balkas

Selectman:
Joe DiRocco (incumbent)
Brian Bond

School Committee: 3 yr term (two seats open)
Ron Mercier (incumbent)
Paul Elmstrom
Bonnie Elie

School Committee: Remainder of term
Mike McNamara (incumbent, appointed)

Trustee of the Public Library: (2 seats open)
John Dyer (incumbent)
Mary Lee Matthews (incumbent)
Cheryl Storm

Housing Authority:
Robert Audet (incumbent)
Ken Cunha

Regional Technical High School (Voke): 1 seat, 3 yr term
David Norkiewicz
Paul Morin

Regional Technical High School (Voke): Remainder of term
Victor Olsen (incumbent, appointed)
Kiernan Lennon

Dracut Water Supply District:

Commissioner:
Bill Zielinski (incumbent)

Moderator:
Donna Yackel (incumbent)

Replies:
Subject: Several incumbents facing challengers on May 4 ballot


Author:
Kopy Kitten
[Edit]
Date Posted: 08:00 03/22/09 Sun
(published in, Lowell Sun, 3-22-09)

By Dennis Shaughnessey
dshaughnessey@lowellsun.com

DRACUT -- For Joe DiRocco, the hardest part about being a selectman is campaigning.

The lifelong Dracut resident and former fire chief is uncomfortable with self-promotion.

"That's just not me," said DiRocco, one of eight incumbents on the May 4 ballot. "But you have to do it if you want to be in a position where you can do some good for the residents in town."

DiRocco, 63, is running for his second complete term. He was elected in 2004 to fill the seat vacated by Dennis Williams, and won re-election in 2006.

"When I ran, it was on a promise that I would try to find housing for the senior citizens, and I think we've been able to do a lot," he said, noting that he led the charge for the purchase of Lewisberg Square, a 38-unit apartment building on Mammoth Road.

It was DiRocco who sought and won a two-year extension from the court to bring town buildings into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act after the town was hit with a lawsuit by Donnahue Road resident Scott Frotton in 2003.

"I sat down with Mr. Frotton and we worked out a reasonable solution," DiRocco said. "I think he just needed to hear it from somebody, that we weren't taking his concerns lightly."

It is residents' concerns that drive DiRocco.

"That's my only motive. I'm a townie. I love this town," he said. "I get phone calls from the residents. I listen to their concerns and I see if I can help."

DiRocco faces a challenge from Brian Bond, vice chairman of the Planning Board, Community Preservation Committee and Veterans' Park Concession Stand Committee.

Ron Mercier was a 22-year-old neophyte when he ran for a seat on the School Committee in 2003. He railed against what he thought was an exorbitant superintendent's contract and garnered the support of the town's young people to win election. Six years later, he is the only remaining member of that committee.

"I care a lot about the school system and I wanted to get involved," said Mercier, an employee at the Lowell Water Department. "I enjoy my role and I feel good that the Dracut school system has had a lot of accomplishments. I like to think I played a part in that."

Mercier has been a part of collective-bargaining negotiations with the department's unions, including the teachers' union, which recently received an 8 percent raise over the next three years.

"It's important to keep good teachers in town. Otherwise we lose them," he said.

He was instrumental in the hiring of Superintendent of Schools W. Spencer Mullin a year ago, and made sure the contract was reasonable.

"I'd give him a 'A', " said Mercier, the grandson of Lowell City Councilor and former Mayor Armand Mercier. "He's only been here a year and he's already proven himself. It can only get better."

Mercier faces a challenge from former committee member Bonnie Elie and newcomer Paul Elmstrom for one of two seats on the committee.

Except for a two-year hiatus, Robert Audet has been a Dracut Housing Authority commissioner since first being appointed by Gov. Francis Sargent in the early 1970s.

"I'm a product of public housing," said the 75-year-old Audet, who is facing a challenge from former Selectman Kenneth Cunha for the five-year seat. "My father passed away when I was 3 and I grew up on Adams Street in Lowell. I have a commitment to pay back all the good fortune I've been blessed with."

Audet, a pharmacist who owns the Pawtucket Pharmacy in Lowell, believes that providing safe housing, especially for the elderly, is serious business.

"It should rise above politics," he said. "Unfortunately, that's not always the case. I know there's still some bitterness on the commission (regarding the controversial hiring of Housing Authority Executive Director Mary Karabatsos in 2007), but there's no place for that. That's not what we're there for."

Town Moderator Gary McCarthy is comfortable behind a podium. The former town clerk and current superintendent of the Dracut Water Supply District is seeking his third one-year term as moderator. He faces a challenge from former School Committee member Eugenia Balkas.

McCarthy has implemented changes that he hopes will streamline the Town Meeting process and get more people involved. He has instituted a five-minute rule for speakers and enlists the help of volunteers who carry a wireless microphone to those in the audience wishing to speak.

"Everyone says it, but Town Meeting is the purest form of government," McCarthy said. "I think Town Meeting has improved greatly in the last two years because of some of the procedures that have been put in place."

The three-way race for the Board of Library Trustees pits incumbents Mary Lee Matthews and John Dyer against challenger Cheryl Storm for two open seats. Town Meeting voted in 2006 to expand the board from three to five members.

Dracut Water Supply District Commissioner William Zielinski and district Moderator Donna Yackel are running unopposed for their three-year seats.
Subject: It looks like DiRocco has pulled a play out of Warrens dirty play book . He will not be around for the Candidates Night.. Thats to bad I think that would have been his strong point


Author:
Bob
[Edit]
Date Posted: 11:30 03/21/09 Sat
Subject: the town appropriated $1,420,000 for canney farm


Author:
taxpayer
[Edit]
Date Posted: 17:43 03/20/09 Fri
so now the town is currently putting together a preliminary design consisting of the minimum field usage that can go on the property.

the town is also working with an architect on this. at the selectmen's meeting (March 10th) this design was submitted to the selectmen. the selectmen approved the design.

now the plan is to have the engineer prepare actual construction plans and ask for construction funding at the upcoming June town meeting.

why is this canney farm project costing us more and more money? what the hell did we pay $1.420 million for?

are the selectmen asleep or what!!! whose watching out for us????

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