Back To Main Site: click here
Like what you see?? Advertise and Your Friends Will See YOUR company! Only $250 a month!
Call 781-341-8332
SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS (click here)
ALL CONTENTS ON THIS SITE (c) 2009 by PMPNetwork, Inc.
LOSE WEIGHT AND KEEP IT OFF!
Have You Tried Out the Stiar Old Colony YMCA ? --- Mention this ad and get a day pass for free at the STRIAR OLD COLONY YMCA - Enjoy the private indoor walking track, the clean, crystal clear olympic-sized indoor pool, the massive basketball courts, the state-of-the-art cardio and weight training area, group fitness classes, dance classes, educational opportunities, and a real community center! MORE THAN A GYM!
SnydersStoughton.com Success:
OVER 12 MILLION HITS
in the past year alone!!
(Details)
All Contents (c) 2009 by PMPNetwork/Snyder's Stoughton
AN OPEN FORUM FOR THE STOUGHTON COMMUNITY.
We publish ALL signed letters, unedited. Snyder's Stoughton and PMPNetwork, Inc. do not necessarily agree with anything written.
"Mark, what is going on with the Fincom wanting to take over the functions of the Town Manager and the Board of Selectmen.?? I just watched the rerun of the 7/15/10 Fincom meeting it seems that Holly Boykin wants to run the town."-- Leo E. Mellyn
"Mr Snyder. Can you print this open letter to Stoughton High principal Brett Dickens? I have signed below, but for the sake of my child, please withhold my name: "While I am aware (much to my dismay) that your entire guidance staff has taken the summer off, I, as well as many other high school parents of upset frustrated SHS students, find it unconscienable that nothing has been done to address the full schedule mess that virtually every student in your school is facing! Almost every student has an incorrect schedule for this coming year! Entire core classes are missing. Electives that weren't requested were assigned. Per instructions of the hapless secretary, forms were filled out weeks ago requesting that blatant errors be corrected. When do you plan to address this problem that we were told occurred because the schedules were 'hurried'? How can we have any confidence that there will be enough staff and time to properly address this serious situation, if you allow it to fester throughout the summer? I predict chaos! (I urge other parents to call the high school, call the superintendent of schools, and DEMAND that action be taken NOW)." (Name Confirmed and Withheld Upon Request)
"Hi Mark, Just wanted to give congratulations to all who had anything to do with this year's events at the Fireworks. It was spectacular this year. The 35 minutes of fireworks were the best ever. Also, a big thank you to Ikea for their part."--Marie Jardin
"Mark: july 4th,my son and i went to pages as we do 3 or 4 times a week. my son purchased a lb. of "fresh scallops" for us.back home,i got to them with just two left.ate i quickly,then realized something was not right.smelled the last one,and said oh oh bad.and were they.both of us all night,sick as dogs.next day,still sick,called asked to speak to someone in charge.the guy who answered said he was. told him what happened and said he should check any they had left.he says ok and hangs up. i called right back and said at least you could have offered my sons money back.he said we would have to talk to the owner the next day.well for ten bucks they can stick it.they just lost a customer of over twenty yrs. wanted to let you know about it thank you"-- rick bulman
"Mark: I hate to promote the hatefest known as The Local News, but I had to write. On this week's show, Jack Dembrowsky referred to the Veteran's Agent as a "carpetbagger", and others referred to the Memorial Square Committee as a bunch of "fools" and "buzzards." They were upset because the Memorial Square Committee had rejected the application of their friend, Dr. Golden, for a memorial square, based on the policy in place. The selectmen chose at their meeting not to override the committee's decision. A few years ago, the Board of Selectmen approved a list of qualifications for memorial squares, to eliminate 'who you know' type of selection for the honor. The Selectmen have the power to override the Memorial Square Committee's decisions. Mr. Pazyra is the hardest working veteran's agent I've seen, in my many decades in this town. And, the Memorial Square Committee members are the farthest thing from "fools." The Committee consists of: Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh, a lifelong resident who has missed one selectmen's meeting in 34 years; Mike Beaudette, a two-time AMVETS Commander and Veterans Graves Officer; Charlie Large, a WW II Veteran, survivor of Kamikaze attacks on the U.S.S. Ticonderoga, and someone involved in town veteran issues over 50 years; Ed Carroll, a Vietnam Veteran and former Stoughton Fire Chief; Paul Flynn, a Vietnam Veteran awarded a Purple Heart and former Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Stoughton; Jim Kelly, retired Sgt. Major of the Army, who served under General Petraeus training the Sgt. Major of the Iraqi Army; and Michael Pazyra, current Veteran Services Officer, and a former member of the 8th & I Marine Corps Ceremonial Platoon. Who are the fools?"--(Identity Confirmed and Name Withheld Upon Request)
"Mark Snyder: Hello my name is kristin, my Dad Jim Schilling works at Ahavath Torah Temple. Thank you for helping us out. There will be a Brockton Rox game on Friday, June 18th vs the Worcester Tornadoes at 7:05 pm. The tickets will be $10 each and half of the profits of the tickets I sell go towards my expenses, which is $2,000 in order to participate in the JettRide. Elizabeth and I will be throwing out the first pitch of the game. There will also be items raffled off that evening.I will be biking along side my bestfriend Elizabeth Chauppetta who's 14 year old twin brothers Troy and Andrew suffer from Duchenne MD, we've decided to embark on this grueling journey leaving from California on June 24th and arriving in New Jersey on August 28th, approximately 3,700 miles. We will ride with several other 13-20 year old who all have a connection to this debilitating disease, spreading the word throughout the country. Tickets can be purchased by reaching me, Kristin Schilling at 781-424-0850 or xoschilling14@aim.com Elizabeth and I thank you so much for all of your effort and help. Sincerely, Kristin"--Kristin Schilling
"Hello Mark
"Loved your “My dog was an outlaw” column and I still love “I fought the law and the law won,” though you don’t hear it much even on the Oldies stations.
"Good Morning: I had a meeting with the FEMA Community Relations Specialist on Friday June 4, 2010 and as they near the 60th day, and Stoughton is well into recovery. Community Relations'efforts focused on homeowners, renters,businesses and non-profit agencies affected by the severe storms & flooding (March 12 to April 26, 2010) resulting in a Presidential declaration, DR 1895-MA on March 29, 2010. FEMA totals of assistance to Stoughton Residents - 485 registrations Totaling $ 809,170.00 distibuted as of May 28, 2010 . Individuals with questions or issues concerning their FEMA application should be directed to the FEMA Hotline: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Thank You."--David M. Jardin, Fire Chief/EMD
"Dear Mark: Kudos to the Conservation Day at Bird Street conservation area! So many people put so much thought and energy into a wonderful event. There were displays on Stoughton history, recycling, wildlife, natural history; jewelry for sale, free lunch, and many great activities from walks through the land to wildlife demonstrations and finally, a fascinating demonstration of how the Stoughton Police use their canine unit. It was a wonderful day that our town should be proud of!"--Deborah Sovinee
"Mark: Now that you got me exploded on national scene (yuck!), I would like to alert your readers to two upcoming and important School Committee events: 1) On May 25, 2010 at 7:15 PM, the School Committee will hold a public hearing on the FY11 School Budget. This is a retake of the original hearing held on April 27, 2010 as it was not properly posted. I was disappointed only two citizens appeared for the original hearing. Now that we have a second chance, I urge all interested parties to come to the hearing and be heard (or forever hold their peace). 2) On May 26, 2010, Stoughton School Committee will be honored to hear Mr. Glen Koocher (Executive Director of Massachusetts Association of School Committees) talk about "New Member Orientation" starting at 6:15 p.m., and "School Committee Updates" starting at 7:00 p.m. Glen is an excellent insightful speaker and also is a 12 year veteran of the Cambridge School Committee."--Dr. Erdem Ural, Member, Stoughton School Committee
"Mark: Brass War Plaque-We of Stoughton honor our war dead on Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and Independance Day. Why doesn't anyone clean up the Stoughton Town Hall 6' square brass war plaque honoring the Stoughton war dead from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, W W I, and W W II? This plaque is in deplorable condition. There must be someone out there who can figure out how to clean this up! How about the town's chemistry or physics class? How about someone getting on the internet? In the year 2010 there must be some way to clean off this once beatiful plaque honoring Stoughton's war dead from these four wars. Thank you."--Barry R. Stewart
"Mr. Snyder: I am so sick of people blaming the Town Manager, School Committee, Selectmen and Finance Committee for their decisions. It was the Town Meeting Members who voted to raise my taxes and for the Human Resource Director and if anyone they should be replaced. Just because the tax passed - I didn't see anyone forcing Town Meeting Members to approve the Human Resource Director - the choice was the Town Meeting Members and they blew it. Then the tax issue - where the heck was the hard questions for the School Committee or the Selectman - they just chose to be silent hoping that someone else would take the lead so they could stand up later on and say " I didn't support the tax" but as soon as it became available they spent it quick. To Town Meeting Members, take the blame because it is your own fault - you have a choice - no one is forcing you to vote for or against an issue or spend my hard earned cash. If you feel pressure then speak up or quit but stop blaming other people for your actions." Kevin Richard, Stoughton Taxpayer
"Hi Mark- There seems to be some confusion with the salary and article for the HR position since both the $80k and $85k figures were batted around. The salary discussed is a maximum of $80,000 per year and the $66,700 approved for Article 24 is for the 10 month period starting September 1, 2010. The $80,000 is comparable to other towns - for example, Canton's HR Manager is paid $75,000 per year."-- Holly Boykin, Chair, Finance Committee
"Hello, Mark: Thank you for Snyder's Stoughton! I may not agree with you on everything but do appreciate your keeping us informed and thinking about our town. It looks like you took some flak for printing the salaries and it looks like that dissuaded you from continuing along those lines which is too bad. As you said, it is supposed to be public knowledge and I applaud you for making it so. Take care."-- Steve Wilkinson
"Dear Mark, I just read your column and I wanted to take a minute to say THANKS for listening. I know your intentions were nothing but honorable and I continue to be a big fan. Keep up the good work."--Phil McEnany
|
"Hi Mark,
Totally agree with your take on the Town/DPW notification delay...totally unacceptable. Also, I was told the town does not have Reverse911. The schools have a similar system that the Town can use but it only reaches households with school children. I checked with family and friends without school aged children and none of them received the call. Could you check on this? This is also totally unacceptable if true. The town needs a way to reach all households. In fact, there was just a news piece recently that the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office has a Reverse 911 that towns can use if they don't have there own. It seemed in many towns the Police took the lead role. I am disappointed in the new Police Chief, the new Town Manager, and the DPW."--
Chris Lynch
(Chris, I was equally disappointed in the lack of media notification, but I can guarantee one thing---the police wouldn't have been involved in the press conference, if there was one, for this situation.---Mark)
"Hi Mark,
"Mark, there is a small group in the town that likes to knock our town employees, To them I would say, thank you to what ever town employee that set up our MRA connection with a shut off, we are the only town in the MRA that does not need to boil our water. The town of Canton also has wells but they need to boil water, to who ever you are thank you for the shut off valve. To Town Mgr. Crimmins, good is great. We have the best town in the Commonwealth."-- Leo E. Mellyn
(Leo, I don't think anyone is criticizing the DPW workers. Taxpayers have a LEGITIMATE complaint about the lack of communication, which caused residents to panic buy water, when they didn't need to do it. THAT is the only problem. We were fortunate that DPW's MWRA shutoff was well-timed!---Mark)
"Mark, If you are going report a "story" and cloak yourself in the "Freedom of Information Act" I think you at least have a responsibility to the residents of Stoughton to be accurate with the information you report. I am referring to the article you recently wrote about the "salaries" some of our town employees earned in 2009. The figures you quoted were grossly inaccurate and reflected income EARNED by working overtime, and for Police Officers, working private outside details. These details make up a substantial part of their gross income and are not paid by the town, they are paid directly by the companies hiring the officers. The Town of Stoughton, by law, charges these companies an additional 10% administrative charge. In recent years, the Police Department has generated more than $50,000.00 dollars per year that was turned into the general fund and used to improve our community. By the way, even with the 10% administrative fee, the billable rate for these Police Officers is still about $10 per hour less than the billable rate for flagmen, but that doesn't sell newspapers does it?
With respect to our Police Officers, why don't you write about the reasons why they have been without a contract for almost three years and haven't received so much as a cost of living increase? Better yet, why don't you educate the residents of Stoughton as to how the members of the Stoughton Police Department have worked tirelessly, and often selflessly, to help keep our town safe. The only accurate part of that article was that you correctly used the word EARNED when reporting their annual income. These Police Officers are constantly called upon, and sometimes forced into work, to ensure the safety of our residents and the general public.The Town of Stoughton, as well as the Stoughton Police Department, have recently undergone many possitive changes. The hiring of Francis Crimmins as Town Manager and Paul Shastany, our new Chief of Police, are two additions that residents of Stoughton can be excited about.
I have to be honest with you Mark, I am very disappointed in your attempt to inflame your readers with inaccurate information and what I call "sensational journalisim". It's high time the people of this town start working together for a better community and stop using the media to "stir the pot". Personally, I think your column would be a great place to start. So instead of writing your big "epsose' " on the Power Couples of Stoughton", try turning your attention toward any of the many possitive incidents our town employees are responsible for every day."-- Phil McEnany,
Stoughton resident for 20+ years
|
"Dear Mark: I wanted to comment on the recent election turnout. First and foremost, if we continue with the current system we should be making significant change to WHEN we vote. For example, ALL April elections should be moved to the November election calendar. Why? First, it will be during a regular state election time period- Governor's race, Presidential race, Congressional race, you name it, bring out higher numbers because of the interest in other elections. Second, it will save the town thousands of dollars ($10,000 or so) by not having the 2nd election, whereby only 16% vote and on average less than 30% for the past 20+ years with few exceptions, if any. The Town of Stoughton is a great place to live and a great place to raise children. However, we have undergone some very difficult times over the course of the last few years regardless of the side people have been on. Voter apathy is not new to Stoughton but the difficult political landscape of Stoughton is keeping people from running. I don't care that 16% of the voters control the Town as one previous writer stated. Maybe someday an election will not be considered an election unless at least 50% of registered voters vote- that will get people's attention. I'm not sure I agree that this should be the way but thinking differently about things is what is needed...ask the Tea Party (although I don't agree with them, they have become a political movement based on what they believe is missing from elected officials and they are acting on it- discourse will get better because of it.) So, in the end I think that the taxpayers should ask for two things to improve participation: Change the town election to the general election in November (imagine 60% of Stoughtonians voting for Selectmen in November during the Governor's race); a simple change in the Town Charter. 2. Change Town Meeting into a competitive race by having only 11 seats per precinct (instead of 21) and requiring members to go after votes instead of the popularity contest it is now. Other ideas- add more precinct voting areas to allow for people to get to a voting area easier; make the election a 2 day process; look for a weekend (other towns do this although I take issue with an election on the sabbath- either Saturday or Sunday); eliminate primaries all together especially since less of 20% come out; etc. I love Stoughton, but recently I haven't been excited about most not all candidates for office although I greatly admire their desire to run. I think you should have a show on how to move us forward when it comes to elections...a local university or college must have someone with experience in this type of thing as well as the local Democratic and Republican Town Committee leaders. All politics is local and local politics is what is most important. Keep up the great work!"--Joseph F. Baeta
"Mark, I was wondering if you knew what is going on with the Cedar Hill Golf course and the running of the club house this season. I'm hearing rumors that the club house will not be serving food & beverages this coming season due to a contract issue. Any Truth to that?As a Stoughton resident for 27 years and being involved in running a Tuesday golf league for the past 10 years at Cedar, having a Club house to come back, sharing some good conversation , food and a couple of drinks makes the day complete.Having "NO" club house could put a damper on the league. Any insight that you may have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks"--Rich Morganelli
(Rich, I haven't a clue. But someone out there reading this may know."--Mark)
"Mark, I’m shocked by the reported 16% turnout to vote yesterday! It’s outrageous that so many people can live in our community and not give a damn to cast a ballot. How can we be so apathetic, uninvolved and unaware of our own local government and the process of representation? How can we regard the most basic right as an American citizen as a nuisance or conflict with daily activities? Stoughton has taken its share of lumps recently, but shouldn’t this be more of a reason to get out and change things? John Stagnone and Jerry Capazzoli love this community and took the hard road of campaigning to serve this town FOR FREE. They gave up months of their daily lives for our vote, by standing out in the rain and cold holding signs. Going to events meeting people and discussing how to improve Stoughton. Working on plans they would present to turn things around and make us a strong community not just fiscally, but morally with ideas to strengthen our schools, care for our elderly and protect our natural resources. With all this, we couldn’t muster more than 16% of registered voters? I’m ashamed. I’m angry. I’m utterly speechless to try and explain why we don’t do the easy part to go out and make our voices heard. I’m excited about the recent changes in Stoughton, from our newly hired Town Manager and Police Chief, to the dedication I witness from our town employees in every department. I just wish this dedication can be rewarded equally by going to the polls and showing support for the 16% of us who care about Stoughton and its future. If people are not as excited about the changes as I am, or are unhappy with the direction of Stoughton, come out and vote next time. Get involved, stay informed and be a part of your town. The future of Stoughton for all of us depends on it."--Robert Germain
"Mark, you were right, the voter turnout was disgraceful, we have young men and women dieing in foreign lands so that people can have the right to freely vote. It is a shame, but one thing we can count on is that the non-voters will be the most vocal complainers. What does it take to get people out of this apathy."--Leo E. Mellyn
"Mark -
I grew up in Stoughton and graduated SHS in 1978. We have over 20 Facebook friends in common (including my sister, Amy Griffing). I will be bicycling across the country (almost 4,000 miles in 50 days) this summer for the American Lung Association. It would be great if you could help cover/publicize my ride and encourage other area residents/businesses to join this great cause. I enjoy your web sites and think it would be a great way to spread the message. Coverage in your Chronicle column, TV show, and/or radio show would be a big bonus. You can learn more about my ride and follow my progress at http://www.markstrek.com.
I also have a FB group - Mark's Trek Across America (http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=304207338101). I would really appreciate it if you could join the group and then invite your friends to do the same.
I will be in Stoughton on May 1st for another American Lung Association ride I am doing in New Hampshire on the 2nd. Perhaps, we could get together while I am in town to talk about my ride. Let me know if you are available. I think my ride would be a great local story for you and look forward to meeting you. Thank you for your help. Please contact me with any questions via FB or mkoltz@comcast.net. I also sent this message to your Facebook account/email address."--
Mark Koltz
"To the residents As a member of the planning board and candidate for selectman I would like to correct Mr. Capozzoli’s comments about the proposed zoning changes for North Stoughton. It is true that I have spent over the years many hours writing, reviewing and speaking for changes to our zoning by-laws, that is what active board members do. The process used by the planning board was to DRAFT recommendations for changes to the current zoning in North Stoughton to correct a zoning violation approved by the Zoning Board, of which Mr. Capozzoli was a member of. The Planning Board advertised in the Stoughton PennySaver, Snydersstoughton.com and mailed to each town meeting representative as well as abutters an invitation to attend an informal forum to talk about the proposed zoning articles. Then the board followed the legal requirements for advertising the public hearing process. The zoning articles in question have NOT been voted on by the planning board, so I am not sure how my opponent could say that the articles have the board’s endorsement or mine for that matter.This is just another example of Mr. Capozzoli not understanding the facts.Should anyone have a question about the process, or the articles, they can call the town planner 341-1300 x201 or myself (341-0153)."--John J. Stagnone; Planning Board member and candidate for Selectman.
"I would like to notify all town residents and especially, the North Stoughton residents in Precinct 1, of upcoming re-zoning articles that will be presented before Town Meeting, beginning Monday, May 3, 2010. Being presented are Articles 70 thru Article 74 (5 articles) known as the Highway Access Business District, which is currently zoned as neighborhood business. See attached file with maps and articles. I am opposed to this re-zoning as this re-zoning not only impacts North Stoughton but also the entire town’s egress to Route 24. It will turn the residential neighborhoods into another Technology Drive. I have received numerous phone calls regarding the re-zoning of North Stoughton from precinct 1 residents who will be directly impacted. Many residents are upset about the fact that they were not notified of the re-zoning. When hearing about this they were told only the immediate abutters were notified. If they had been notified then their concerns regarding infrastructure and public safety in a densely populated area would have been considered. The maps show the area of re-zoning, which includes parcels of land on both sides of Page Street (One area includes Page Street up to Cabot Place) down both sides of Route 139, Turnpike Street towards the Armory. Please see copies of the maps for specific areas to be re-zoned. This re-zoning will affect the local roads in these neighborhoods that can barely handle the traffic flow in its’ current state. The town needs a permanent fix to the sinking of a portion of Route 139 before the town can even consider articles that would increase traffic flow in this area. As a member of the planning board, you have heard my opponent speak of the hundreds of hours he has spent drafting articles for town meeting that would better the future of our town. Now that the news has hit the streets and the residents are upset that they were never notified, my opponent wants to withdraw these articles, but it’s too late. Where was the transparency here? Isn’t this the same process he was so much against when hiring a town manager? No matter what precinct you are from in this town, please contact your town meeting representatives and ask that they vote against these articles. For more information regarding the specifics of lot, building sizes, including 40B construction in these articles, contact the town hall and request a copy of these articles or contact your town meeting representative for a copy. A copy of these articles is attached for your convenience.If any resident has any questions, please feel free to call me at 781-344-7067. Please vote on Tuesday, April 6. Thank you."-- Jerry Capozzoli, Selectman Candidate
"Hi Mark, I wanted follow up on a question for Mr. Capazzoli that he raised in a recent open letter on you site. Mr. Capazzoli was inquiring about the broadcasting of Finance Committee meetings. The first Finance Committee meeting that was broadcast ended up not being useable because the dais in the Great Hall has only five microphones and there are seventeen Finance Committee members. As a result, a majority of the audio for the broadcast was un-intelligible. The Finance committee Chair, Holly Boykin did make a request to have all the Finance Committee public hearings broadcasted. SMAC followed up in an email on the committee’s request, to let us know that a 30 day notice is needed for broadcast requests. This is understandable given the logistics required to coordinate programming, scheduling and the staffing resources needed especially when considering a request for a series of meetings as in the case of the Finance Committee. Mr. Capazzoli makes a valid point regarding the need for our residents to be kept informed of the committee’s work which is why all Finance Committee meetings are open to the public and are posted in accordance with Open Meeting rules. I was glad that I happened across Mr. Capazzoli's question while reading letters on your site Mark and would happy to follow up with any additional information or questions for Mr. Capazzoli. Regards."--Rick Hill, Vice Chairman, Stoughton Committee on Finance and Taxation
"Dear Mark, I am sending you this bit of history that I'd like to share with you and the Journal readers.
I am surprised that the Stoughton Journal did not carry the obituary
of David S. Cutler which appeared in The Enterprise/Community Newspaper.
David Cutler died on February 28. In September 2006, when I wrote the History of the local newspapers
in Stoughton for the final issue of the Stoughton Chronicle and
News-Sentinel when it was absorbed by the Stoughton Journal, I gave
credit to David S. Cutler for fulfilling the late General (Rev.) David
Mahn's ambition to "launch" a Stoughton Journal with the Canton Journal.
From 1979 until 1986 David Cutler was printing the Canton Journal for
Davd Mahn at the Duxbury Clipper, Mariner Newspapers. In 1984 or '85
David Mahn had been negotiating with Walter Reeves of the Sharon
Advocate to bring the Advocate back to the Canton Publishing Co after
about 100 years. He'd ask me to do some research into the newspapers in
Stoughton. I found that some of the first issues of the Stoughton Sentinel
when Lemuel Standish took over the weekly paper in 1882 were printed by
the Canton Journal. In 1926, coinciding with the town's 200th
Anniversary, the Canton Journal published the Stoughton Examiner, and
the name was legally property of the Canton Publishing Company, so I
suggested to Dave Mahn to use the Examiner name if he were to publish a
Stoughton paper. He preferred to promote the association with the
Canton Journal's heritage. At the end of 1986, when certain Federal Tax breaks were coming to a
close, David Mahn accepted the offer from David Cutler to add the Canton
Journal to the Mariner newspapers. For about a year the Canton Journal
continued to have its editorial offices at 484 Washington St. before
moving to 12 Revere Street. For awhile the Stoughton Journal concept was
put on hold. There were two other young law students from Stoughton who,
separately, in the mid-1980's were discontented with the existing
Stoughton newspaper and entertained the idea of publishing a new
Stoughton weekly paper. One of those law students did stain his fingers.
The new Stoughton Sentinel ran for seven weeks in 1987 with Dr. Thomas
A. Recupero as publisher and his son Thomas J. "T. J." doing the
edtorial work. While the Sentinel did not have the capital and staff to endure,
David Cutler had the resources to bring Stoughton a real, local
newspaper. In the fall of 1989, the Stoughton Journal made its debut.
The story of David Cutler which is in that obituary should be
recorded on the pages of the Stoughton Journal."-
Howard Hansen,
Stoughton Historian
(Letter to Residents of Stoughton, to Snyder's Stoughton)) "On March 9th, the residents of Stoughton decided the final two candidates for Selectman. Thank you for voting me one of them. I have been a resident of this town for 68 years and for 50 years I have worked to make this a better town for all to live in. As a selectman, I want to let the residents know that I will be an unbiased voter on the board. I will work diligently to make sure the Board of Selectmen conducts its business with transparency in and out of the Great Hall, with full discussion of the issues. I will allow the public the opportunity to speak on every single agenda item. I will listen to each resident that comes before the board; I will then discuss the issue with the other board members and then and only then, render a decision that is in the best interest of Stoughton. I did not solicit any endorsement from any preliminary selectman candidates, as I do not wish to be beholden or indebted to any individual or special interest group. I will only serve the residents of Stoughton. Now that the new Town Manager, whom I supported, has been appointed, I will continue to support him in his endeavors to move our town forward. The Town Manager has aggressively stepped up into his position and immediately began meeting personnel, identifying the issues and began to resolve some of the town’s major outstanding issues such as the work on Route 139-- all this in only a months time! That process outweighs any other. Just like the new Town Manager, I supported the decision of hiring the new police chief. This shows that the town is moving forward and I intend to be supportive in his decisions to bring his department forward. Since the beginning of my campaign, I have made my opinion known that the Armory in North Stoughton was not the logical answer for the home of the Stoughton Media Access Corporation (SMAC). Now that crucial time has lapsed, I understand that SMAC has just recently decided that the Armory is no longer feasible for a cable studio. Although they have signed a temporary agreement with the Town of Easton, as it stands, there is still no permanent location for the cable studio to produce our local shows. The question is: why wasn’t there a plan for an alternate location? As a selectman, I will work with the SMAC Board of Directors and it’s Executive Director to help locate suitable alternatives in the hope of finding a permanent home for our cable studio. As are most residents of this town, I am against the South Coast Rail Project. Currently, the plan calls for two tracks to pass right through the middle of Stoughton, causing many safety concerns at our many grade crossings throughout the town. This project will split the town in half making it difficult for our public safety departments to cover the entire community. Although the plan currently states that this is to expand commuter rail services, most have already come to the conclusion that this will also be a freight rail. If and when this project is approved by the federal and state government agencies, this town will need a strong mitigating plan to be put into action in order to minimize the huge impact this project will have on our community. There are many communities out there that this project will affect, but for right now, we have to be concerned with Stoughton! I, along with many town residents,am at a loss trying to comprehend why only one Finance Committee meeting was televised, which conveniently was about the Town Managers budget and not any of the subsequent town budget meetings. In my opinion, all Finance Committee meetings should be televised, especially when approving the annual budget. The Finance Committee is a necessary and vital component of the town’s budgetary process. The town’s residents not only have the right to know, but also deserve to be informed of the ongoing matters of the Finance Committee. All residents should be able to view and be informed of the budgetary process and see how it may affect them. In reading recent submissions from past and present candidates, it amazes me on how people only see things through their own eyes. I have been quoted as saying that I will cut taxes! I never once stated this. What I have said was that I would be opposed to yearly increases and 2 ½ % overrides. This is certainly not a promise to cut taxes but a promise to make sure we are not wasting the town’s money on frivolous set backs and political agendas. It’s been stated that I only want to represent a portion of the town voters. Just like my opponent, I have been reaching out to all the residents of this town. Is he going to knock on the doors of 27,000 residents in search of their support? Well neither can I, because that’s unrealistic! But I will promise the residents my campaign will reach them one way or another. Just because we have not crossed paths during this ground campaign doesn’t mean we are not working hard at it. Maybe he is not doing what he keeps telling people he’s doing? In this campaign, I have been telling the residents that I would like to work with my fellow board members when elected. But if I only mentioned one thing that I would work on, that would still be one more than my opponent has stated. He states that he will work for this town, but he hasn’t said on what and whether or not he will work collaboratively with the rest of the board. Does that mean he will only work with certain members? If this is the case, I think it is he who is only representing a portion of the town! I have said it throughout my campaign; Stoughton is my home and it always will be. That is why with your help, I will promise you that my actions as a selectman will be in the best interest of the residents, being one myself! I ask for your Vote on Tuesday, April 6, 2010."--Jerry Capozzoli
"I DO NOT KNOW IF YOU EVER DID AN INTERVIEW WITH PARIS KAMPANELAS AND HER STARLINERS FROM THE PARIS CABARET/STARLINE ROOM DINNER THEATRE ON MONK STREET, STOUGHTON, MA - I HAD THE PLEASURE OF GOING THERE YESTERDAY AFTERNOON TO SEE JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT – WHAT A SHOW!!! THERE WERE, I BELIEVE, 12 YOUNG PEOPLE FROM THE STARLINE ACADEMY PERFORMING WHO WERE FANTASTIC A WELL AS THE STARLINERS WHO ALWAYS GIVE YOU AN ENGERGIZING SHOW - THIS SURE BEATS GOING INTO BOSTON WHEN WE HAVE TALENT RIGHT IN OUR OWN BACK YARD - ALSO THEY HAVE A VARIED DINNER MENU WHICH IS EXCELLENT PLEASE GIVE THIS YOUR CONSIDERATION."-- DIANNE RADVILAS
"Mark: On April 1, 2010 Comcast will no longer be responsible for broadcasting of local programming on channel 9. As part of this transition from Comcast, Stoughton Media Access Corporation (SMAC) is running a pilot test this weekend, starting at noon on Friday. Both Comcast and Verizon customers will be able view all the same programs, shown the same time of day. We are working on building our programming schedule to include more shows. In addition to the regularly scheduled programs, residents will be able to watch a video submitted by a resident as well as titles Catch and Release, and Culinary Journey. Residents and organizations that have announcements that they would have sent to Comcast should now be sent to Stoughton Media Access Corporation's executive director Stephen Innis. They can submit announcement by e-mail to sinnis@stoughtontv.com or they can mail them to Stoughton Media Access Corporation, 10 Pearl Street, Stoughton MA 02072. - John J. Stagnone President"-- Thank you, John (Stagnone)
:To Jeff Benson:
If you go to Town Hall they have a marvelous thing called an Absentee Ballot, wonder of wonders. If you wanted to vote you could have, don't complain be cause you didn't."--
Leo E. Mellyn
"Mark, I saw your note in the Journal for a new teenager taking papers out for town meeting rep which is wonderful and just wanted to make you aware that there may be more folks who have stepped up to get involved. I am not a teenager but I am a new candidate for town meeting rep in Precinct 2. I am a member of the Stoughton Youth Commission and committee member of Troop 516 Boy Scouts. I believe in getting involved."--David Walsh
(Jeff--Thanks for the passionate response. I am well aware of your musical talent, as I promoted your summer concert at the Gazebo on my website, and in the paper. My article this week was aimed at those who do nothing for this town. As for the voting issue, I hope you will stop at the Town Clerk's office and pick up an absentee ballot for April 6, so that you can vote even if you are unable to show up at the polls.---Mark)
"To the residents - Thank you for putting your faith in me, by voting for me March 9th. I have been working hard over the past 8 years to make Stoughton a better place to live and do business. I will put the interest of the town first – always have, and always will. I will need your support again on Tuesday April 6th. Thank you."--John J. Stagnone, Candidate for Selectman
"Hi Mark- I would appreciate your posting this on your website and having it read aloud on your next TV show. During your interview with the new Town Manager Frank Crimmins, it was stated that the Finance Committee transferred $23,000 from our Reserve line to cover the vacation pay for former Town Manager Mark Stankiewicz. That information is 100% false. The vacation pay was paid for out of the FY'10 Town Manager's budget approved by Town Meeting Members in May 2009. A transfer request was never sent by the Board of Selectmen to cover the vacation pay and therefore the Finance Committee did not act on the request. Also, the Finance Committee was not notified of the $23,000 payout until March 2010 when the Board of Selectmen sent us the transfer request to pay for the new TM salary thru mid-June 2010. Thank you."-- Holly Boykin, Chairperson, Finance Committee
"Mark, I just read Part 1 of the article written by Maria Papadopoulos for the Enterprise, and cannot believe that the newspaper editor or the reporter believed this is what is the most important news to report for our Stoughton. The format of the page even spells out statistics, then everything terrible that has happened for the last 5 years. It is with baited breath that I read tomorrow what is good about Stoughton in her Part 2. I emailed Ms. Papadopoulos but do not anticipate a response. Why even bother with Part 1, why not just do Part 2 ? This type of reporting is what perpetuates the negative image of our town for no purpose. A gentleman that came to my breakfast this morning stated it best: "What people will remember about Deval Patrick is the Cadilac and the curtins." Time to make a move toward the positive, and what's great about this Town and how we can make it improve. Even our young people realize this with the Youth Commission initiating a Pride of Stoughton Day on April 17th. Get with it, Enterprise."--Dori Frankel - Proud to be a resident of Stoughton
"Mark: Stoughton Media Access Corporation (S.M.A.C.) under the Access Corporation Agreement, S.M.A.C. is responsible for providing live coverage of all regularly scheduled Board of Selectmen, School Committee, and Town Meeting for the Municipality, to the fullest extent practicable and possible. S.M.A.C. is also required to provide live coverage of one additional public meeting per quarter, if requested by the Municipality, upon thirty (30) days written notice, to the fullest extent practicable and possible. S.M.A.C. received a request to cover the Finance Committee meeting. This request was forwarded on to our executive director to see if coverage could be provided, he was able to schedule a camera person for the meeting. At the time the finance committee went to take a break, the camera operator did not hear the chair say they were taking a short break and thought the meeting was over, so he stopped the live coverage of the meeting. Once he realized the meeting was not over, he resumed the coverage. At the same time he also stopped recording of the meeting, so when the tape was reviewed, it showed no interruption in coverage. While we regret that this had happened, it was an honest mistake. S.M.A.C. is looking into steps that will prevent this from happening again. We also provided a letter to the town manager asking him to notify all the town departments, boards and committees on how to request meeting coverage. S.M.A.C. has exceeded its minimum requirement of covering one additional public meeting as set out in the Access Corporation Agreement, by providing additional coverage of all meetings to date. S.M.A.C. has also covered several Selectmen meetings that were not part of their regular schedule, without receiving any request from the Municipality to do so. S.M.A.C. is glad that we have been able to provide all this additional coverage for the residents, since we took over this responsibility in December 2009. Our goal is to provide the residents with more coverage of its town government, when possible, as well as expand programming, reducing the number bulletin boards. Should any resident have any questions about coverage, want an event covered or have a tape that they want to share with the community they can contact Stephen Innis, sinnis@stoughtontv.com or they can contact me at 341-0153 or jstagnone@stoughtontv.com . Thank you."---John J. Stagnone, President
"
Hi Mark- As discussed, here is a copy of my communication to Fin Com regarding the televised broadcast of our most recent mtg. The televising of the Fin Com mtg last week: It has been brought to my attention that members of the Stoughton Community are concerned that the Fin Com usurped our authority and stepped over the political lines by televising last week’s mtg and that 1-3 minutes of our mtg was not aired.
"Dear Mark: Finally, the Town of Stoughton has gotten its act together! The naming of Judge Crimmins as Town Manager is not only a turning point for Stoughton it's the beginning of a new direction. One Stoughton for ALL. That is what Stoughton has in its new Town Manager- a leader for the people of this great Town. Keep up the great work."--Joseph Baeta
"Mark: A few weeks ago I attended the Southeastern Massachusetts Library System legislative breakfast along with a few of the trustees, the library director, the young adult librarian and several library patrons. The program includes short presentations by library patrons on why their local library is important to them. This year Stoughton had two groups of representatives speak, Gary Gekow and Steven Bothelo, spoke about the series of employment seminars given by Mr. Gekow at the Stoughton Public Library, and about Mr. Bothelo's experience in using these seminars to help him find a job after nine months of unemployment. Mr. Gekow has gone on to give his seminars at several libraries in southeastern Mass after starting his program here in Stoughton. The other group that spoke was teenagers who are all part of the Teen Advisory Board (TAB) at the library and the Monday Night Homework Center. Chinonye Okeke, Ariel Eloi, and Mason Boyle told wonderful stories of their experiences with the library, with TAB and with the Homework Center. All three were well spoken, articulate and great ambassadors for their schools and town. I’ve attended several of these breakfasts over the past few years and I am always impressed with the stories told by the patrons. I am also impressed with the level of support that this community gives to its library and to the other human service departments in town. While other libraries are facing decertification, large cutbacks in hours, and in some case library closures, Stoughton has been able to maintain many of its core services. It takes a lot of creativity, countless grant applications, and thinking outside the box to come up with programs and funding in this tough economic climate. On Friday, February 26 at 7:30, Channel 5’s Chronicle will air a story called “What’s the Word?” Chronicle was in Stoughton just over a week ago to tape at the library and they spent time with the teens that spoke at the breakfast and with Sheila Osborne who runs the Homework Center, they interviewed Mr. Bothelo, and they interviewed library director, Pat Basler. The focus of the story will be the Cushing Academy, a private high school where they have eliminates all books in their library, and also the Cambridge Public Library System. After hearing of the patron stories at the legislative breakfast they decided to come to Stoughton to tape additional footage. We don’t know how much, if any of the footage will make it to the final story."--Joyce Husseini, Library Trustee
"Hi Mark, Do you remember how exciting the Winter Classic was at Fenway? Do you remember how the hair on the back of your neck stood up when Al Michaels asked about your belief in miracles back in 1980? Do you remember the epic battle that took place last year at the Canton Sports Plex between the Stoughton Police and Stoughton Fire Department? I don't know which of the three I would choose, but of the three, the only one you have a chance to re-live is the Guns N' Hoses annual benefit game for the Friends of Stoughton Hockey. This year the FD will be without one of their top players as Jack Macomber is selflessly serving in Iraq. We all wish him a safe return. In the spirit of the Winter Olympics this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxmT9OLPCQQ will show people what excitement lies ahead. We hope to see you there on Saturday February 27, 2010. And as always, GO PD!"--
"Hi Mark, I heard from Rep. Kafka’s office regarding the bill Al Lipkind wanted passed. As you know well, Al was a great guy who did so much for Stoughton. I’m not really qualified to provide any type of written testimony to support this bill as my initial inquiry was only to see Al’s wishes carried out. Can you post something on this hearing and help inform readers that they can contact Kafka’s office to either testify or provide written support for Al’s wishes? Thanks for your help."---Rob Germain
"Mark, I am opposed to any transfer for the proposed funding on the finance committee agenda. I allege that the 3 selectmen that signed the contract with Mr. Crimmins violated the MGL Chapter 44: Section 31.They knowingly violated the salary limit for the position of town manager that was appropriated by the ATM. I allege that they illegally entered into a contract with Mr. Crimmins and put the town at risk for litigation. Also, it appears that the Mr. Crimmins does not meet the criteria specified in the Town Charter. Chapter 44: Section 31 is entitled "Liabilities in excess of appropriation forbidden; exceptions" The exceptions noted are flood, drought, fire, hurricane, earthquake, storm, etc. i.e. major disaster. Chapter 44 :Section 31B was repealed. Any legal opinion given by the town counsel to support this transfer is just that: an opinion. This opinion may lead to litigation and cost the town thousands of dollars to defend. It most likely cannot be defended. To supplement a salary line item by a transfer from the reserve fund is not an extraordinary or unforeseen need. This transfer request does not appear to meet the legal definition of extraordinary. The 3 selectmen purposefully and with full knowledge offered and signed a contract that exceed the line item appropriation for the position of Town Manager. To attempt to make the Finance Committee accomplices in their alleged wrongdoing is shameful.It is my expectation that the Finance Committee will do the right thing and let the selectmen negotiate another contract and, if so inclined, request more funding for salary items at the ATM.Please note that the TM salary is out of line with like communities. The additional benefits add several thousands of $ to the signed contract. The true price is probably closer to $180,000! This is extraordinary in these times when probably 60% of Stoughton taxpayers received no increase in salaries, no increase in social security, or lost their jobs.The 3 selectmen who signed this contract should be sent a message. I think they should all resign from office. How do their actions support their oath of office?"--David Camacho
"Mark, I have to respond Joseph F. Baeta's e-mail to you. Apparently, anyone interested in open, honest, and transparent town government is a "no brain-er", but what would I know - I'm just a tax paying resident who is kept in the dark about the process of selecting our Town Manager. I don't know Mr. Crimmins personally, but I happen to believe that no one can walk on water. I keep asking myself, what was the urgency of not taking the extra time to a transparent and open process, if for no other reason than to help unify the town. Surely, a candidate as strong as he's made out to be, would easily be able to stand up to the scrutiny. The Enterprise Editorial entitled "Behind Stoughton's Closed Doors" really says it all. I also keep asking how answering questions publicly can possibly be unethical. Finance committee members are going to meet this Thursday night in the Great Hall and I hope, vote NOT to appropriate money that the town doesn't have. This is just my opinion, but I think we need to pack that finance committee meeting, to support members who will act from a position of fiduciary responsibility, and not political lobbying."--Rick Lynch
"Mark, Please pass on to your readers that the Habitat for Humanity-Stoughton Local Partnership Committee will be hosting a battle of the bands on May 7, 2010 at the Stoughton High School Auditorium. "Stoughton Rocks for Habitat for Humanity" is open to middle school and high school students from any school. A panel of judges will screen demo CD's submitted by the bands that enter and choose five bands to play live on May 7, 2010. Applications will be posted at Stoughton High School and surrounding schools. "24 South" , a band with strong Stoughton ties, will act as our house band and will be playing in between competing bands. Stoughton's own Solstice Studios (owned by Ed Basile) has donated the Grand Prize of 4-hours of recording time. Rich Spillberg, SHS Class of 1984 and formerly of WARGASM, has donated his expertise and will produce and engineer one song for the winning band at Solstice Studios. This should be a great night of music for a great cause. If anyone has any questions, or to request an application, they can reach me at shawncroke@hotmail.com or 781-341-0818."--Shawn Croke
"I just finished reading all the information this week in the Stoughton Journal regarding the hiring of Judge Crimmins and I am appalled at the way the town is reacting to what could be the best possible answer to the town's fiscal and legal and future concerns. Judge Crimmins is worth every penny of the 158,000.00 negotiated for the position. He is available, competent and brings more to the table with his experience and education than any search committee or unknown applicant who may come forward. Our other Officials i.e. Police Chief , Fire Chief have already been compensated over the years in the same ball park with well compensated Assistants and Deputies. Our Town Manager only has Reggie who continues to be invaluable to oversee the ENTIRE TOWN and ALL Departments and Agencies. I felt the analogy of the new salary for Mark at 142,000 ( no benefits included ) and then saying Judge Crimmin's salary is above average based on a study that should include benefits was misleading. When I then read that $$$$ should be made available for fourth of July Parade as an expense but NOT go forward with Judge Crimmins because of $$$$$$$$$$ I had to write."--Arlene Newman
"Dear Mr. Snyder: I am a new Stoughton resident and watched in disbelief tonight's Board of Selectmen mtg. Until recently, I worked for the City of Boston, where I was a union steward and moved up through the ranks over 30 years. I have been following closely but quietly the chaos in town unfold. I don't know any of the players but do know this - the Mayor of Boston's salary is $170k per year and he has a lot more employees and a much larger budget than Stoughton. As a matter of fact, last year Mayor Menino took a 3% cut to show his solidarity with Boston employees who were being asked to make concessions during tight fiscal times. Even the Mayor of Brockton, next to us has a salary of $131k. If this was happening in Boston, the Unions would have been banging the drum for recalls and shouting off the rooftops to local news and tv outlets but in Stoughton they all remained quiet. That Chairman should be ashamed of himself for making a professional appoinment into one of the most blatantly prejudicial I have ever withnessed. I can see the next Headline - STOUGHTON SELECTS TM AT $158K - $12K LESS THAN THE MAYOR OF BOSTON AND $27K MORE THAN THE MAYOR OF BROCKTON!"-- Richard Thomas, New Resident and Former Union Steward in Boston
"Phil, thank you for your kind comments about my letter. The report I mentioned was based on data for the entire state and almost ¾ did not have an Asst. Town Manager. About 5 months ago, Billerica hired a Town Manager at $130k and they have a population of 40,000 and a budget of $122 million. I wish that objective data would support the proposed salary of $155-$160k but it does not. I want Judge Crimmins to succeed - that way the Finance Committee volunteers will not have to develop the entire budget with limited input from the BOS which has been the case over the past couple of years. It is never “fun or enjoyable” to be the person who says we cannot afford that or ask the “hard’ questions but that is the role that I am in and I want to honor the people who have given me that responsibility. At Town Meeting, I am often running around in the back of the room trying to identify strategies to save the Town money and fund staff positions. I know people see me because one time I made the mistake of being a little too loud and several heads turned and gave me the same look my Mom does when she is not thrilled with my actions."-- Holly Boykin, Chairperson, Finance Committee
"To the Residents: Recently I commented on what I felt was a lack of a process by the Board of Selectmen for filling the Town Manager’s position. I was very concerned that by not having adopted any process (such as a job description and application deadline), all of the progress that the Selectmen have made in the past 2 years in moving our town forward could be lost and this would overshadow any candidate coming into the position of Town Manager. As events have unfolded, my position on this process represents the views of the vast majority of townspeople who made them known at the Selectmen’s meeting on Tuesday and elsewhere. Raising my concerns may not have been very popular with some, but it is my position and it reflects what I would have done if I were your Selectman. We know from recent history in town that past practices that were less than “open and transparent” led to costly and embarrassing mistakes. Should I be elected as your Selectman, you know how I would have proceeded on this important issue. No other candidate for selectman publicly weighed in either way on this discussion. The decision about who will be the next Town Manager has been made. As a town, we must not let our disagreements keep us from working together. If Judge Crimmins accepts the offer to be our next Town Manager, I am sure we will be able to work together and continue to move Stoughton forward."--John J. Stagnone, Candidate for Selectman
"Dear Stoughton Residents and Business Owners: At a recent Department Head meeting, I was asked by someone why the Finance Committee does not simply go along with the Board of Selectmen budget as presented to us. My reply, was that the Town Charter required the Finance Committee to be a separate entity and to provide a method to ensure that there were checks and balance in developing the budget and Town priorities. I also replied on a more informal note, it is also the place where Department Heads can come and give us information that for some reason was not provided to the Board of Selectmen. So why should I speak up about the Town Manager position , it is because I owe it to every taxpayer and resident in the community that we get the best bang for the buck , that we act fairly and impartially in terms of process and salary compensation is fair and reasonable. More importantly, that the decision does not create a precedent whereby future decisions and salaries are set at a level that we simply cannot afford. As a former mentor once told me, what makes hiring in the public sector different than hiring in the private sector besides lower salaries is that we are using other people’s money to pay for that position. Therefore, you must follow an objective criteria in the hiring of that person and ensure that certain steps are followed because it is those standards that will either standup in public scrutiny or create public discontent. Always remember, that whatever decision you come to as a public official should be able to stand up to the “it if looks likes a duck, smells like a duck and quacks like a duck it is a duck” if not then it should not be used in hiring someone especially if it sets a poor precedent.
In January, 2009, the Town of Watertown performed a study reviewing the salary structure and benefit package for Town Managers. They found out the average salary and benefit package for a Town Manager was $151,681. This translates into an average salary of $120,000 and a benefits package of S30,000. Both the salary and benefit package offered to the new Town Manager is higher and therefore will lead to a poor precedent and have a rippling effect when hiring other people and in contract negotiations. Also, just 2 months ago our own Town Manager left us for a new position in Plymouth, one of the largest towns in Massachusetts, where his base salary is $142,000.. In the near future, we are going to be hiring a number of Department Heads and we owe it to the community to make sure that we can simply state the logic behind the decision and to ensure that it was a fair process. Otherwise, we could hire a local CPA to become the next Town Treasurer and pay them the going marker rate or even worse someone whose only experience was Chair of the Finance Committee. I have also learned a lot in this process, most importantly that we need to have a simple process to identify what are the Town’s priorities, to develop salary schedules based on comparable data and most importantly to emphasize to my Finance Committee members that our decisions must pass the test mentioned above. There also needs to be better communication between all of the leadership branches of town, Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, School Committee and Town Meeting Members so we can move the town forward and unified when not only the Town has a surplus but more importantly when we are facing deficits. I have had the honor of working with very committed volunteers and residents through extremely difficult fiscal times. My role has always been to keep us moving forward and to make sure whatever decision we made could be clearly explained and that there was an objective criteria used to develop it. It doesn’t mean that we always agreed but at least I could explain it to you in a method that you could understand.
When Judge Crimmins transfers into his new role as Town Manager, he will have to face a daunting task, to move us forward while managing a deficit of at least $2million as of today and without getting lost in the Town’s politics. I am starting to learn and accept to say “It is what it is”. I am hoping that despite our disagreements, we can unite together to weather the fiscal storm that the Town is facing. Otherwise, it will cost the town not only financially but more importantly further divide the community. Good luck Judge Crimmins, the Finance Committee looks forward to working with you on the budget for FY’11 and for years to come."--Holly Boykin, Chairperson, Finance Committee
"Dear Residents:
All of our Board of Selectmen(BOS) meetings are open to the public
and broadcast on the local access cable channel. The BOS discussed
finding a replacement for Mark S at our November 12th meeting and
subsequent meetings. The only thing we agreed to do was put an ad in
the Beacon ( a publication for municipalities) which we later learned
( at our meeting on December 15th) did not occur. No agreement was
reached on hiring a search firm, forming a search committee or
defining any formal process. All Selectmen are free to make motions,
propose solutions or discuss whatever they choose. No motions were
ever brought forth defining a hiring process for the next Town
Manager. With no formal agreement on how to proceed, I offered to
seek out and contact potential candidates( to assess their interest)
including town managers within the region. All members of the BOS
were free to do the same. Over the course of two months I spoke with dozens of potential candidates. On January 19th at a regularly
scheduled meeting of the BOS I revealed the name of my preferred
candidate, Judge Crimmins and after much discussion and deliberation,
I asked the if the members for permission to proceed with
negotiations. All members were allowed to express their views and the
members voted unanimously (5-0) to proceed. In the final analysis the
BOS fulfilled their responsibilities under the Town Charter and
complied with all open meeting laws. Five members together charted this course of action and no one acted alone. Perhaps we would have
taken a different path had the ad been placed in the Beacon and
perhaps we would have received many resumes but we'll never know. I can tell you that I spoke with many town managers, town
administrators, lawyers, consultants and other elected officials
during the recruitment, there wasn't as much interest as I had hoped
for and in my opinion Judge Crimmins was the best candidate I met
with. I have thought a lot about what happened the last ten weeks. I
think the BOS should have been more attentive to this matter, perhaps
more diligent. We all share responsibility for our collective
decisions, we share the credit equally and we share the blame equally
as well. I suspect we have all learned something from this adventure,
I know I have. In the final analysis though, we have recruited a very capable leader in Judge Crimmins, someone that we all can believe in.
The BOS are five volunteers trying to do their very best for this
town. I admire and respect the work that each one does and I am proud
to serve with all of them. The BOS may not have provided you with a
unanimous vote on our new Town Manager but I know the character of
this board. We will come together and rally unanimously around our
new Chief Executive. The time for second guessing is over, it is time to build a better future for Stoughton." Steve Anastos, Chairman,
Stoughton Board of Selectmen
"We voted these people in office, let them do their job. One writer is "disguested" with what went on at the meeting, (One misspelled word and I just can't read any further, my eyes keep going back to the misspelled word). I always thought that the town manager was an appointed position by the highest executive authority of the town (Selectmen). Why would the Board waste our time looking for, what Mr. O'Regan referred to as "attracting and hiring the most qualified person for the job"? Does he expect a line of Harvard graduates and Judges to apply? Mr. Stagnone gave a link to your readers because he was doing research on the process for recruiting a town manager, WHY? Again, I say it, let the selectmen do their job. I agree with Mr. Mokrisky's comments on Judge Crimmins. I will quote him- "Fran Crimmins exceeds those requirements. He has been a Selectmen, served as Town Moderator not to mention his college education. Fran is a person who knows Stoughton. He knows the people, the issues and the problems that occurred in the past". If these people really believe that there will be a better candidate than Francis Crimmins and prefer the Town of Stoughton to spend thousands of dollars on the "process" searching for one, then they will be in for a surprise. The best candidate is already in front of them. On the hundreds of meetings I have watched or attended, I always cringed when the town manager would say to the Selectmen... I will have to check with Town Council and get back to you...Cha Ching! Let the selectmen make the decisions that we elected them to make."-- Phil Yaitanes
"Mark, I am shocked that a few people are questioning an appointment that the selectmen are deciding on for town manager. The candidate is one of the most highly respected residents in the town and surely will beat out any competition for the position. The main point that I feel should be made that these people that are against this appointment because of the high salary offer. I feel that they fail to see the big picture here. They should look at what the town has paid in legal costs in the past. This salary increase is "peanuts" compared to what the town will be saving in legal costs from town council having a man with this level of legal experience as town manager. I am for the appointment without the added expense and the process of searching for a better candidate."-- Phil Yaitanes
"Please come out tonight at 6:30 p.m. (1/26/10) to Town Hall and let your Selectmen know that you do not approve of the process (there is none) to appoint a new town manager. A special, short-notice Selectmen's meeting was posted on Friday for this meeting on Tuesday. It is the minimum time allowed under the Open Meeting Law. Why the rush?
As residents, voters and taxpayers, we have not been told what has been done to define the search criteria to fill this position, how the search would be conducted, or whether and what backgrounds any applicants presented. Whether or not you know any of the Selectmen, call them and e-mail them to let them know you would like them to stop and create a real hiring process. We have seen and are paying the price for short cuts taken before, and in saying this I do not mean to suggest whoever made the decisions wanted to hurt the town at all any more than I think those involved now want to do so.
The qualifications and hiring criteria have never been announced.
The position has not been advertised or posted.
For too long, we have not let town officials know when we disagree with decisions or how they are made We have let the mistakes happen that have cost us dearly. The way the votes appear, the town manager could be appointed by the vote of only 1 person (2 -2 tie, chairman votes to hire) and without any public process or interview.
This should NOT be allowed to happen. Out of deference to his successor, Mr. Mokrisky should take himself out of making the decision. A reasonably-timed search process would allow the search to be completed for interviews and vote immediately after the election.
We have not been told any reason why we should compensate this candidate with an unprecedented package worth $200,000 +/- or exactly what that will produce for Stoughton. So, we can expect the contract will actually cost us much more than that -- it's how things happen. By comparison, the Mayor of Gloucester (pop. 28,000) is full time with similar duties as our town manager. Salary: $95,000. Neighboring towns pay in the range of $130,000 for professional town managers. We have not been told any reason why we should pay this candidate $200,000 +/- or exactly what that will produce for Stoughton. No one questions the personal character, education, love for the town, and gifted personality.
What we have not seen are skills and talents connected to the job of managing a municipal government that has the challenges we face: negotiating contracts with 7 unions by Town Meeting; budget deficits; health insurance costs that are running away; pressure from the state with railroad expansion and 40B projects; and more. As residents, voters and taxpayers, we have been provided no information or analysis about the benefit to the town in proceeding this way. Instead, to question the process and ask for information produces a response directed at the personality of the candidate and not the public and business decision of this hiring process.
This coming year Stoughton faces a $3.8 million budget deficit. We owe $600,000 in unfunded payments related to last year's payroll. Insurance and step increases place us further behind the ball. This large payroll increase will boost our required contribution to the Norfolk County Retirement System.
This will upset the salary scale throughout Town Hall.
Please show your support for good government in Stoughton. Come to this Selectmen's meeting. Protest any action on the town manager appointment until a competent job search is done. This could be completed within a few weeks. This candidate's name could stay in the mix. We can't know who the best person is for the job if we do not let anyone apply for it!
WE NEED TO BE THERE.
Thank you."-- Bob O'Regan
"Dear Mark: The following is a sentence from the December 31, 2009 Massachusetts SJC decision."It is essential to a democratic form of government that the public have broad access to the decisions made by its elected officials and to the way in which the decisions are reached" (emphasis added). Foudy v. Amherst-Pelham Regional Sch. Comm., 402 Mass. 179, 184 (1988). In a decision announced this morning, the state Supreme Judicial Court admonished the Wayland School Committee for discussing the “professional competence” of its schools superintendent in an executive session under the Open Meeting Law (G.L. c. 39, 23B), where the law explicitly requires such discussions to be help in an open session. See, DISTRICT ATTORNEY FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT vs. SCHOOL COMMITTEE OF WAYLAND (SJC No. 10406). More significantly, however, the Court ruled that emails between individual school committee members preceding the executive session violated the OML. The emails were kicked off by the committee’s chairman, and constituted an online discussion of the superintendent’s job performance. The Court ruled that even emails exchanges that were not between a quorum of members still violated the OML where the evidence showed that the committee engaged in the email exchanges purposely to circumvent the OML. This is the first appellate-level decision applying the OML to email communications, but is more important for the principle that even communications between a non-quorum of board members, whether electronically or face-to-face, can still violate the OML if the intent is to circumvent the statute.The question is, with whom did Mr. Anastos discuss the Town Manager recruitment proposal? Am I to believe that he never mentioned this to another BOS member before the meeting?"--David Camacho
"Hi Mark, After reading Mr. Lippitts email I wanted to say something. The reason that Scott Brown won the election is that the voter's of this state are fed up with not being listened to. The government is being run by a democrat majority and are passing things that a lot of the people in this country don't want. They are spending money like crazy and increasing our debt. The stimulous package isn't helping unemployment. We are still in an economic mess, yet they want to throw more money into this health care plan, which in turn is going to lead to higher taxes, and there is NO way around it, no matter what the politicians are saying. You can't spend money the way they are without raising taxes to pay for it. People have been speaking up across the country and calling their senators and congressmen and women, yet they are still doing what they want and not listening to us. With Scott Brown's victory on Tuesday they are being forced to listen to us, which is what we are paying them to do."--Heather McGinley
|
"Mr. Snyder: This letter is in response to your opinion piece on the Senate election. You shouldn’t be surprised by the so-called name calling you endured on your Facebook page (you poor thing) because, from your explanation of the “perfect storm” that led to Scott Brown’s win, it is clear that you buy into some of the half-truths and downright lies propagated by those that want the current administration in Washington to fail. The proposed health care bills (have you actually read them?) that you claim the Democrats were trying to “shove down our throats” were heavily favored in every public poll. That changed only when a torrent of misinformation and lies was unleashed on the airwaves.
In these public declarations by Republican backers (including Mr. Brown’s own campaign ads), the bills were called a “government takeover of health care” and also claimed that, if passed, you wouldn’t be able to choose your doctor and, laughibly, that illegal aliens would be provided with coverage. All these things are patently false, and if you had read even the bills’ summaries you, and everyone else, would know that. Fear is a powerful thing, and if a candidate can scare people sufficiently he or she can coast to victory. So what if that fear is based on half-truths? Anything to win an election and impede Obama’s agenda, right?
A perfect example of this is Mr. Brown’s contention that when Ms. Coakley said, “We have to get taxes up there,” she meant that she favored raising tax rates. In reality, that quote was taken from an exchange where Ms. Coakley was talking about attracting more businesses to the Commonwealth in order to increase the Massachusetts tax base. Mr. Brown knew Ms. Coakley was not a call for raisng our taxes, yet he spread this lie in his ads and when speaking in public. When a lie is spoken out loud often enough, people start to think it is the truth. THAT is a big reason that Mr. Brown won the election. Shame on you for condoning that practice."--Andrew Lippitt, Stoughton
" Mark: In doing research on the process for recruiting a town manager, I found this link to the MMMA's recruitment handbook. This handbook has a lot of good guidance on how to proceed with recruiting a town manager. This ties into my position on how I think we should have gone about filling the town manager's position and may be of interest to your readers."--John Stagnone
"Mark –Some information posted on your site was called to my attention, so I would appreciate the chance to spell out my concerns with the town manager selection process. Dropping a 'bombshell', as you put it, with the name of an individual, regardless of how well respected he is, has prematurely placed this person into a public discussion before the Selectman have told the residents or any other interested applicants what qualifications they have set to fill the position and how they will go about doing it. It leaves us to ask whether they have set any qualifications or have a strategy to fill the position. Townspeople should not have to ask this question. A well designed, focused search process should not take too long. It is worth the effort.
Despite your quip that these concerns may be “textbook” government, in fact they go to the heart of why many residents of the town are so disappointed with – if not disgusted by – town government. Many of us remain hopeful that our new Board of Selectmen will work to correct this, and since 2007 we have elected “reform” candidates. Shortcuts that could seem reasonable in other places or at other times are unsuitable here and now. They suggest the same old way of doing business. It is a mistake to trivialize the importance of good process to good decisions and public confidence in them.
"Dear Stoughton Board of Selectmen:
"Mark,
"Mark: Through the 80’s and 90’s and the early 2000 years, Stoughton H.S. baseball was one of the most successful and respected programs in the state. The program achieved two state titles, five league championships, and sixteen MIAA tournament appearances including seven out of eight seasons from 1996 through 2003. These years also produced a Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame coach with 400 wins. More significantly though, a plethora off grateful and respectful players who knew how to play the game and who attributed their success, both on and off the field, to being involved in Stoughton High’s baseball program were produced. However, times have changed. From 2004 until the present, Stoughton H.S. baseball has fallen on hard times. The program has had six straight losing seasons, some with only one or two wins. It has become a barely competitive program with a gross lack of interest. Are the problems poor coaching? Is it a lack of talent? Is it possibly an attitudinal change by today’s student – athlete? I believe that these are all contributing factors but only to an extent. In my opinion, I think the problem exists more so because of the egotistical, selfish and disruptive endeavors of two power hungry 'townies' that, hence forth, will be referred to as 'the Curmudgeon' and 'the PuppyDog'. For ANYTHING to be a success all of the parts have to work together; all of the participants have to be on the same page. In every town or city across the country, the residents want to see the high school baseball team (or all the teams, for that matter) be as successful as possible. Not in Stoughton! The above mentioned twosome has done more to undermine the efforts of the high school coaches than can be imagined. They have created a virtual war between the high school, the American Legion program, and the Senior Babe Ruth program. The infuriating part of all this is that the Curmudgeon and the PuppyDog unconscionably, use the players as pawns. They tell the players that the current coach isn’t knowledgeable enough; that he doesn’t know how to do this or how to do that; that they will be the coaches next year because they are smarter. The Curmudgeon has gone so far as to tell the players, as he puts it, “the School Committee is in my back pocket”. I have learned that the PuppyDog has now started a petition to have the H.S. coach removed and is making frequent visits to Stoughton H.S. to promote himself to the new Athletic Director. This is intolerable. In the summer, they discourage the better players from playing American Legion baseball so they can put together a championship caliber team that competes in an inferior league, a league with teams made up of high school Varsity hopefuls, players not capable of making a schools Varsity, or players just looking to have fun without the commitment. Most of the states American Legion teams are made up of schools better players and those who fit into the coaches’ next seasons plan. Most are coached by the high school coach. In fact, some states have the high school coach also coach American Legion as a job requirement for continuity. The Curmudgeon, who ironically received an award from the MBCA a few years ago for service to youth baseball in Stoughton, also undermined the schools Fall baseball program by introducing a second team so “ more kids can participate” when actually, he wanted to coach a member of his family as well as lay the groundwork for what’s happening now. This divided the players instead of bringing them together and created awkward and difficult situations for the H.S. coaches. The current Stoughton H.S. baseball coach has a difficult task ahead of him. He tries hard and knows he has a lot to learn but with the Curmudgeon and the PuppyDog working behind the scenes and undermining everything he does, it might be an impossible task. The PuppyDog volunteered to coach the returning Varsity players in the aforementioned Senior Babe Ruth summer league and would run the H.S. system, play the returning players to the Varsity as well as those expected to move up. He then proceeded to do exactly as he and the Curmudgeon pleased and began their campaign to create doubt and lack of confidence in the H.S. coach. Their self promotion plan began in earnest. They couldn’t “man up” and face the coach and tell him how they felt and what they wanted to do. This is a technique used by the Curmudgeon many times. A good example is when he went behind the scenes to have the town government approve naming the Varsity baseball field at Stoughton after one of his cronies who had never even stepped on the field. This infuriated the players, parents, teachers and even some town officials as they were waiting for the coach who had been responsible for the previous era’s success to retire so they could approach the town administrators about naming the field after him. This injustice affected the Curmudgeon very little as it just solidified his blustering and power hungry way. Baseball is a very hard game to play. It is the ultimate skill game requiring strength, speed, agility and tremendous hand – eye coordination. Regardless, just about every parent who lived thinks they know all about baseball. Why? When their children are able to go outside and have acquired a little bit of coordination, the first thing they do is play catch. THAT is the beginning of baseball. Also, being the national pastime and every fathers dream, all the children play Little League and Babe Ruth, get their required three innings of play and get to listen to the parents tell them they were great, they are a lot better than so – and – so and the coach doesn’t know what he’s doing. As a result, we have the Curmudgeon and the PuppyDog. The Curmudgeon talks a good game, especially behind the coaches back, yet asks questions and makes remarks that make me wonder if he knows whether the ball is pumped or stuffed. The PuppyDog, as far as I know, never even played baseball. Yet these two carry on and on about what they know, what they can do, how much they’ve won and on and on until nausea sets in. I for one, who has been on more diamonds than these two have seen in stores, predict that if they were allowed to coach the Stoughton H.S. team, they would be so outclassed and outcoached in the ever tough Hockomock League, that they wouldn’t win a game. The moral of this story: If you want to help, help. If you think you can do a better job, apply if and when the job opens up. Be upfront not a behind the scenes coward; don’t use the players to undermine the coach under the guise of wanting to see them improve. Get on the same page, skills and techniques wise, from Little League all the way through high school for continuity and success. Support each other. After all, everything should be done with the players in mind, not ones self. Forget YOUR League Championships and MY winning percentage All of the baseball programs previous success was, without a doubt, the result of the players working hard every day, buying into the coaches philosophy and methods and the TOTAL support of all those involved from the “outside”. The former coach will readily admit that he didn’t throw a pitch or swing a bat or score a run to contribute to the success. It was all about the players. Stoughton H.S. was on the baseball map for twenty six years. To see those days return, those involved who really care should dedicate themselves to providing all the support they can. This has to be done without the likes of the Curmudgeon and the PuppyDog, of course." Bob Ashley ( Stoughton H.S. baseball coach 1980 – 1990; 1994 – 2007)
"Hello Mr. Snyder. I'm contacting you this evening because we're still fighting the developer on Pondview. This Thursday there's a meeting at the town hall, and we're concerned that the outcome of the meeting may affect Stoughton Schools. As you may know, Pondview was created as a Local Initiative Project, or LIP. This designation is supposed to give more control to the town, because it is a partnership between the town and the developer. This project was approved for residents Over 55, with the understanding that such a designation would discourage families with children and would encourage retirement-like living. It has 79 detached homes, but there is no individual ownership, instead it's an association. The developer is still asking to remove the Over 55 restriction. I believe that this will encourage families with children to buy these houses, and I am VERY concerned about the effect that this will have on the schools. The schools already have money problems. Fees for school buses. Fees for Marching Band. Fees for athletics. Classes being cut because of teachers being cut. Now I read in the paper that the schools will have to cut more, and still this developer wants to change the rules to which he agreed and encourage kids in a development that was never intended for them. Can you offer any guidance about how we can try to get people to attend the meeting? This is likely the end of the public comment on this issue. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday night at 7:30 PM at the town hall. It is the Zoning Board of Appeals. Please let me know if you have any suggestions that you can offer."--Vik Solem
My cousin Sebastian whom went home to Haiti on college break from Salem State wrote on his facebook today, 'many of my friends and family are dead'. Yesterday he wrote, 'I am alive right now but I am not sure how long I will be safe'. Like thousands of Haitian's my cousin and his mother whom are both American Citizens are sleeping outside at night due to fears that their home will continue to crumble. Unfortunately, the internet message from my cousin has been the only communication we have been able to receive like thousands of others in the US and abroad whom are worried about their loved ones. My husband's Aunt and uncle who owned a successful catering company in Haiti and whom were able to stay in their home shortly after the earthquake, had to flee their home yesterday when it began to crumble. Due to the lack of electricity in Haiti they are unable to provide meals for themselves and or their countrymen, 'unable to provide food, something they have done on daily basis for decades before the earthquake'. Today, I also received word that a cousin and her daughter may have died. Like so many, my husband and I are still missing many members of our family fear the worse. The most devastating part of this is that the earthquake hit the area of Haiti where many diplomats, physicians, teachers, and professionals live, so it is presumed that not only did Haiti lose their physical structure but also the many essential individuals needed to provide help and maintain financial, health, and educational stability. Banks, gas stations, electricity, super markets have been destroyed. Please, since much of the infrastructure has been destroyed the best means for help is via financially through credible and reputable sources. HOW TO HELP . In addition if you are a nurse or physician, American Airlines, will fly you for free to assist directly with the severe medical needs that many in Haiti desperately need. 212-697-9767. I sincerely appreciate any help that you are able to provide. Please forward to others who may be able to assist."--
Gabrielle P Abelard PMHCNS,BC, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, Abelard Psychotherapy & Associates, Stoughton
While waiting in the 1 ½ hour line to pay our respects, we observed Stoughton High’s hockey team along with their coach, Dan Mark, exit from the Dockray Thomas Funeral home in Canton. It was a touching moment to see the rivalry left on the playing field and to see Stoughton’s young men show a force of compassion for a family suffering from such a devastating loss. In light of the constant negative news concerning our town we would like to let others know how proud we felt at that moment to say we are from Stoughton and of our young men who were expressing concern for the grieving family of a hockey rival, yet comrade. We also would like to note our appreciation and respect for Dan Mark and other dedicated teachers and coaches of the Stoughton schools who help to instill in our children the morals and values we know our town maintains."--Debbie & Bob Barry
"Hi Mark:
On behalf of the Board of Selectmen, I wanted to send along our thanks to all the
folks who helped make the Selectmen Holiday Party for Volunteers a
success. Thanks to Mike Sammarco (the best chicken and meatballs) and
his gang Dennis Gada, Alan Venterosa, Lisa Leif, Nancy and Chris
Patterson. Thanks to Avon Food Company for donating the food, to
Nelson Rodrigues and Home Remodeling for donating the beverages and
to Carlos Arruda and Dunkin Donuts for donating the coffee. Thanks to
Denise Brahm-Lochiatto for her assistance and to our lovely, smiling
bartenders Jessie Pozner, Krissy Berteletti and Christina Anastos.
Thanks to the financial contributors (who asked to remain anonymous)
and to all that brought items for the Stoughton food pantries. A very
special thanks goes to John and Val Russell from the Russell
Insurance Agency for generously catering the entire affair. Lastly,
we want to thank you Mark, for providing a medium that allows us to
highlight the good deeds and the good people of Stoughton.
Happy New Year, lets make it a good one!!"-- Steve Anastos
"Mark: Last night the BOS within their consent agenda was the approval of Stoughton's Affordable Housing Plan to be forwarded onto DHCD for their
approval. Stoughton is one of a handful of cities and town's in the State to have an
approved Housing Plan. As Chairman of the Housing Policy Committee I would
like to recognize and thank, Robert O'Regan, Dan Pessia from the Zoning
Board, Arthur Slate and Peter Buckley from the Housing Authority, Joseph
Scardino, chairman of the Planning Board, Deborah Sovinee from the
Redevelopment Authority, John Anzivino Board of Selectman and Joseph Laydon
our Town Planner. Thank you."--John Stagnone
"Hi Mark, It is wonderful that the YMCA is helping out the community but how sad that the funds were not there to keep it a Jewish Community Center. Strange that people are coming forward now to expand but nothing just to keep it as is. Still miss the center."--Beth Rawl
"Hi Mark,
Please let Mrs. McAuley know that I share her high opinion of our
Veteran's Agent Mike Pazyra and the work he does on behalf of
Veterans. I also appreciate and support the brave men and women who
serve or have served our country including many members of my own
family. The members of the Board of Selectmen are volunteers and
sometimes our work schedules get in the way of our volunteerism.
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the parade because my company
worked on Veteran's Day. My absence does not diminish my deep respect
for Veterans and Mike Pazyra was quite gracious and forgiving when I
informed him that I would not be able to attend this year's parade. While our country and community deals with the worst financial crisis
is a generation (and services and positions are cut) the Veteran's
budget was fully funded for fiscal 2010 and I will fully support
Mike's funding request (on behalf of our Veterans) for fiscal 2011."--
Steve Anastos (Stoughton Selectman and proud and grateful American.)
"Dear Mark: I would like to take this opportunity to inform you of the events we are planning in conjunction with the Annual Children’s
"Mark,
I want to thank you again for helping me raise money to save my dog's life. He is like a new dog! Your an angel! Have a wonderful holiday and be safe!"--Rockman Family
"Someone was missing from the picture of everyone taking credit for finally opening Bay Road. That would be ex-selectman Scott Carrerra who came up with the exact same solution the week after the road washed out at a televised Selectmens meeting.How long ago was that now??? I know the town is starving for good news (most of us are still in mourning over Cheng Du) but painting this as a success is a little far fetched."---Tim Tullis
"My name is Shaul Kushinsky. Currently I am a Life Scout working on my
Eagle Scout Leadership Project. It involves building guitar carts and
shelves for a closet in the Stoughton High School Band Room. To secure
the funds for the materials I am holding a bottle and can drive (those
with a return deposit). It will be hosted at Ahavath Torah Congregation, 1179 Central St, Stoughton MA, on Sunday November 22 from 1:00-4:00 in the
afternoon. Please call me at 781-341-1435 with any questions or to
arrange another drop off time. I would appreciate any donations.
Thank you."--
Shaul Kushinsky,
Life Scout,
Troop 54
"I would like thank Mike Pazyra and whoever helped him put together the Veteran’s Day Parade yesterday. Mike has done so much for the veterans in this town and deserves more recognition than he gets. I hope next year the size of the parade suits the occasion more! It was a bit small, but heartfelt nonetheless. I am a bit bothered by one thing. Veterans Day is November 11th every year, it’s not like the date changes – but I really was disappointed to see that only two of the five selectman were able to show up and march. It should be on all their calendar’s every year, no excuses. Ms. Walsh and Mr. Anderson braved the cold and Mr. Anderson’s speech was excellent. I hope that we see them all next year! It’s really the least we can do for those who serve.
(Editor's Note: John Anzivino & Joe Mokrisky joined Walsh and Anderson at the Veteran's Square Dedications.)
"HI Mark- As always, I appreciate you writing about the great causes in town and the plug in your column but wanted to let you know that I am a latecomer to the party. The Gridiron Club has been planning this event under the leadership of Debbie MacNamara and Coach Burke. It might have been better to put Debbie's phone number and contact info in your column but hopefully the volunteers who have worked very hard for far longer than me will not get upset by my contact info being used. I also know that Julie Linehan, Rose Eckler, Coach Burke's wife, Joe Pascarelli, Frank Jardin and a whole lot of other people deserve their name in praise more than I do. As always, Mike Sammarco will do an amazing feast for those attending."--Holly Boykin
"Mark, the Mass Bay Commuter Rail will be working on School Street between Canton and Cushing this Saturday 11/14 to repair the railroad crossing. You may wish to inform your viewers so they can plan accordingly."--Jonathan Beder,| Asst. Superintendent, Stoughton Public Works Department
"Hi Mark: The Black Knight Gridiron Club is holding it's 1st annual Fall Classic on Saturday, November 21, 2009. The day begins with a flag football game played under the lights at Stoughton High's Anthony Sarno field at 4:00 p.m. Any former SHS football players who wish to play can sign up and/or get information at www.stoughtonboosters.org. The cost to play is $100.00. Each player is given five tickets to the event to sell at $20.00 a piece (covers admission to game and dinner) thereby negating their own cost. Following the game is a dinner/auction to be held at 7:30 pm at the Stoughton VFW on Washington Street. All monies raised will go toward establishing a scholarship fund for graduating seniors and to also aid the current program. I appreciate your help in getting the word out about this great event. Thank you."-- Debbie McNamara
"Mark,
Here's an idea to throw at you. Temporarily change the full time Animal Control Officer position to part time, thereby saving money on pay and benefits. Now take that freed up money to fund a much needed study into the Police Department. Once complete, the position could be returned to full time status and the impact on Town services would be minimum if even noticed. I know the A.C.O. position is important but the study is far more important and needed badly (I know-I work there)."--(Name Withheld Upon Request)
"Mark, Stoughton veteran agent Mike Pazyra noticed that I had a combat service connected problem and sent me to the Brockton Veteran Center and V.A. I am so grateful for all he has done. He is a caring person that does a great job. I am now getting the help I needed. Mike works hard for the vets!"--James Sebastiano Noe, U.S. Army Retired, 3rd Infantry Division, Korea.
"Hi Mark. We just wanted to thank you for help in making Brads Playground even more fun for the children in our community. With over 400 walkers, it was a huge success. Our family is always overwhelmed with the generosity of the people in this great town. Thank you for helping us honor our sweet boy through the smiles and laughter of the children that will enjoy his playground for years to come."-- Ken and Lisa Lessa
"Take a ride over to the infamous Bay Rd. culvert - the Stoughton DPW
started work yesterday morning -
I caught some visual movement when headed up Bay Rd and started to turn on
Castle Drive - stopped and went down to the barrier -
Backhoe busy digging up the roadway.
Subsequently returned to my trip over the speed-bump heaven on Castle -
Word has it Sharon spent over $20K to put in these new speed bumps to
control (meaning Pi$$-Off) the outside world. Hope the Sharon PD collected
enough fines for "rolling stop signs" on Castle, Bishop and Chessman to pay f
or the stupid bumps.
Thx for your ongoing interests in this section of Stoughton."--
Dick Etling
"Dear Mark: As you know, Chapter 40B is not the answer to providing affordable housing in Stoughton. Chapter 40B creates more problems than it solves because it forces high density projects on us without allowing the community to have a say in its construction. Chapter 40B projects in Stoughton include Woodbridge Crossing, Quail Run, Page Place, The Villages at Ames Pond, Stage Coach Village, The Villas at MetroSouth, West Stoughton Village, North Stoughton Village, Pond View Village, Goddard HIghlands and The Villages at Stonegate. These projects represent 1267 units approved under Chapter 40B. The Coalition to Repeal 40B is pleased to announce that it has filed a citizen initiative petition for the repeal of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40B, Sections 20-23 with the Office of the Attorney General. Across the Commonwealth, tens of thousands of residents have voiced concern over this ineffective, often-abused law that the state claims is used to create affordable housing. Now is the time to place this issue on the ballot for the fall of 2010. Now is the time to let the people of Massachusetts put a stop to unbridled, forced development.There will be people collecting signatures over the next few weeks starting this Saturday outside of the Stoughton Post office and next week outside of Town Meeting. It is time to stop the abuse. Thank you."-- Barbara Anzivino
"Mark,
In August of 2006 we built and dedicated The Bradley M Lessa Memorial Playground on West Street in memory of our son. We are proud to say that Brad's playground has been a resounding success with the families in our community. It is heartwarming to see the children and their parents and grandparents share in what has truly become our labor of love.
In an ongoing effort to enhance the playground we have received permission to add 4 new pieces of playground equipment. However, we need to raise the funds to purchase this new equipment.
We thought a fitting way to help raise these funds would be to have a "walk" which would include the very families that have been enjoying the playground.
A fee of $15.00 per person includes lunch and a contribution towards the new equipment.
The walk for Bradley M Lessa Playground
Columbus Day, Mon. Oct. 12th. Walk begins at 10:30 A.M.
Start at Gibbons School, Morton Street,
Walk 1.8 miles to Bradleys Playground.
Finish with a bbq Lunch.
We would apppreciate your help in spreading the word. We think it will be a fun family day!
Much Thanks,"--- Lisa and Ken Lessa
"Hello Mark, I am a faithful reader of your column. My husband and I have been going to the meetings at Town Hall when the Woodbridge Complex subject was supposedmto be discussed.. Do you know when the next meeting will take place ? I did not place a date on my calender if it was announced. Thank you."-- E. Block
"Mark, It occurred to me that you might be interested in hosting a radio discussion about how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. Guests could include environmentalists like me, and developers like Brickstone who are proposing projects that would add to the problem of climate change, while refusing to submit to LEED certification.Sharon has already approved a new mall that will produce 9,520 tons of CO2 every year. Now we are contemplating Brickstone's 624-unit high-rise apartment complex and 150-bed nursing home, apparently with no consideration of the impact on climate change that threatens the grandchildren we profess to care about. Perhaps developers should be required to offer rebates to induce people to purchase Priuses instead of gas-guzzlers to offset the greenhouse gases they will generate. A Prius generates about 3.7 tons of CO2 per year. A Honda Accord generates 7.6 tons. So the Prius saves 3.6 tons per year compared to the Accord. By that math, the mall developer should provide enough rebates to cause 2,644 people to switch from Accords to Priuses to make up for the 9,520 tons of CO2 the mall will belch annually. Of course, that doesn't account for all the CO2 produced in manufacturing and shipping all the products that would have to be sold at the mall to keep it in business, but it would be better than nothing. lease give me a call if you're interested!"-- Paul Lauenstein, Sharon
"I couldn't agree more with Dan Roos on his observations of Stoughton Center traffic light changes. I live in Stoughton Center and getting through from north to south is a major pain these days but...wait...these changes were made before school started. Can you imagine what the traffic on Pearl Street and Porter will be like at school dismissal time with the new lights? and just to let the readers know, if you are heading North on 138, take a right on Walnut and then a left on Park...the 27 north traffic light is much faster with minimal wait."--Phil Yaitanes
"While I'll applaud any attempt to correct the town center traffic issues since the not so recent re-design... I do not understand why the SOUTHBOUND right hand lane thru the center has become the lane for cars going on 27 South? Why can't the left lane serve BOTH 139 & 27? The dedicated left turn only lane (basically the length of the traffic island w/ room for 1-2 cars) for 139 is great, and the minor widening of the road to allow cars to pass and continue onto 27 is GREAT... however, cars are now (correctly or not) avoiding the left lane for 27 thru the center and keeping right as if the 139 left turn only lane ran all the way back to Porter??? 27 South traffic is blocking 138 South and Wyman while they wait for green onto 27!!! 139 S has a light for pedestrian traffic only (when the cross button is pressed) but since the addition of the 139 left turn only area, traffic on 138 is stopped every time the 27 light is red... the recent change has only made things worse!!!!"-- Dan Roos
"I never indicated in my previous e-mails that there was a 'glitch' with the Bay Road culvert project. I said that I could not guarantee that the late September schedule could be met. Like all construction projects, problems with weather or other factors can impact the construction schedule. Since the project is being performed by the Town of Stoughton, in Stoughton, I recommend that you contact the Town of Stoughton's Town Engineer, Ben Feehan, at (781) 232-9263 for more details."--Peter O'Cain, Town of Sharon, Town Engineer
"Hi Mark,
I just wanted to let everybody know that our region's Congressional Rep, Stephen Lynch is holding a town hall on the Govt Health Care Reform on August 27th from 6-8pm at the Alumni Rec Center at Curry College. Thank You" ---Heather McGinley
"Dear Mark: We would like to thank you for your tremendous support. With your help, we were able to have successful fundraisers to raise funds for our trip to Honduras. It was an amazing experience and we thank you for helping to make it possible. Included is a picture of Anna Fegan, Katie Greene and I with some kids from the school we worked in La Cruz, Honduras. Thanks again for all of your support."--Julie Leaver
"Hi, Mark! I've been hearing about the Fox 25 Zip Trip coming to Stoughton and I can't believe that there hasn't been more publicity about it around town except what you've written about it! What a great event for our town! I think it will be an opportunity for people all over their viewing area to see that Stoughton is really a great town, filled with interesting people, fabulous restaurants and a rich history! I am assuming that you will be one of the featured guests, along with some of the other people in town who are so much at the heart of the "everyday" Stoughton. I hope it will not become a politicized event, with elected officials and town employees representing the town. I hope to see David Lambert, some of the local merchants whose businesses have become destinations (Town Spa, Nocera's, Ikea to name a few), you (newspaper column, tv show, website that we all visit daily), and some other people around town who give Stoughton its flavor and vitality! I for one plan on taking a walk over there on Friday morning to get a glimpse of the Fox 25 News Team and enjoy the positive vibe that this event will bring to our little town! "---(Name withheld upon request)
(Dear Name Withheld, Thanks for writing. I am not scheduled to be a guest. The only one that I know who IS scheduled, is Joe Mokrisky, from the Board of Selectmen. But, I will certainly be there, as I am a big fan of the Fox 25 morning show.---MARK)
"Mr. Snyder, I am writing to you in regards to your article about SFC Jared Monti dated 29 JUL 09 on wickedlocal.com. I only wish you had addressed SFC Monti as a Sergeant First Class (SFC) from the beginning of the article. Sergeant First Class is his correct rank, he was promoted posthumously although his rank is SFC so when referring to him it should be used. I mean no disrespect towards you or your column, I just feel that he should have been referred to by his correct rank in the article."---
"Mark, On your website you say that SFC Monti "Won" the medal of honor. This is not a medal that one "wins" it is earned with great sacrifice. I think the correct wording for this comment would be "SFC Jared Monti is awarded The Congressional Medal Of Honor" I am currently serving in Iraq with the MA National guard and I thank you for keeping me up to date with home town politics and news while I am so far away thank you again. "-- Robert Kuhn
|
"Mar: I just want to rant about my excise tax bill. I paid it in full in January. I bought a new car in March.I finally got a new excise tax bill. I paid it to the tune of $375 and went on vacation.I come back from vacation and get all my mail. In the mail is my returned check for 375 and a letter saying well, there is more due for not paying on time, less than 10 dollars or something like that.Two days later, which is today, I receive a warrant demand, Give me a flippin break, they SEND back 375? Is the town that fiscally fit that they either want it all or nothing??????? Instead of sending a note that hey you owe 10 more? In these financial times, I think that the town needs to revisit this policy.If Heather? can find time to send me a letter with the check back, she certainly can send me a notice for the 10 bucks and followed by a warrant thing in TWO DAYS??????????Give me strength. I think its all a ploy to get more and more money from the taxpayers. Now the warrant is another 22 bucks. RIDICULOUS!!Thank goodness I didn't pay it yesterday, I was waiting to do my bills today (saturday). Otherwise I would have gotten the check back YET again????? They all need a dope slap. I cant imagine poor senior citizens trying to pay their bills and only have half and want to send that and can't. Just trying to pay what I owe and get a kick in the teeth. Not that the extra 30 bucks is going to break me, its more the principle of the thing. I'm sure I'm not the only one that this has happened to.SENDING BACK MY CHECK? IM STILL SHAKING MY HEAD.If I had the time, I wish I could go there and give them the Now 410 totally in stinking pennies! Thanks for letting me get it off my chest!"---Debra E Miller
"Hi Mark: On June 23, Stoughton and Sharon Selectmen met to discuss the failure of the 2 by 2 foot culvert on Bay Road at Walter's Way. I was there that evening, as I know you were. Snydersstoughton readers, who were watching at home, may like to see the Sharon version of the meeting, on www.sharontv.com. Under 'Meeting Replays' click on July 14 Board of Selectmen, then fast forward to 01.09.30 until 01.11.38. (The previous hour was all about the Brickstone/Sharon Hills development and you can read their documents regarding the second amendment to the Agreement on www.townofsharon.net <http://www.townofsharon.net> ). Also on www.townofsharon.net <http://www.townofsharon.net> under 'Castle Drive July 9 update' there is the statement "pending litigation seeking Court directive to immediately compel the Town of Stoughton repair Bay Road to provide for normal traffic functioning.." Perhaps if the Town of Sharon used their $100,000 to fix the source first, it would make better sense. School buses from Stoughton, Sharon, and Southeastern Regional travel over that exact spot twice every day. When we gamble with a pre-November fix, which Sharon wants, the lives of those students are the stakes. Inconvenience for Sharon residents surely comes second to the safety of our/their children? Bay Road will be fixed, but it should only happen when the residents of Stoughton can afford to do it properly. We should not be forced into reinstating Bay in time for Sharon's November Town Meeting vote on the Brickstone/Sharon Hills development!"-- Mary Walsh
"Dear Mark: I, along with my 16 Republican colleagues in the House and 27 Democrats, recently rejected a reckless budget, as it was light on reform and heavy on taxes. The Budget also harms local cities and towns, as well as public safety. Disappointing 110 Democrats and the Governor approved it. The misguided solution to the fiscal crisis was to increase taxes on sales, meals, telecommunications, alcohol, satellite television, hotel stays, nursing home residents and fees at the Registry. We also break the promise of lottery revenue being dedicated to education and consume another $199 million from the state’s stabilization account. The budget also borrows from the 2011 Federal Stimulus funds to put it into balance. This is very disappointing and sets up another structural budget problem for next year."---State Rep. Jeff Perry (R-Sandwich)
"Hi Mark,
Didn't see you in attendance so I thought I would update you on Sharon
Hills:
At a meeting last night (Tues 14th, July)at the Sharon Library conducted
by the Sharon Selectman, and attended by several planning board members
and approximately 50 - 70 concerned residents, the Sharon Hills
development group disclosed their preferred traffic route for the
proposed upcoming constuction off Mountain Street. The development group
also disclosed having just increased their pre-construction contribution
to the Town to a total of approximately $ 700,000.
The developers went on to suggest that the main trucking to the site
will come via Neponset Street through Canton and then to Cobbs Corner,
then to Wilshire, Deerfield, and on to Hampton to Mountain Street. They
also suggested that the construction will represent an increase in
traffic of about 200 large trucks per week equating to a 3-5% increase
on Mountain Street (???). I don't undertand those calculations. (I was
not able to verify what they said by their plan but this is what I
remember.) Along with various vegetation cutting, time-delayed
deliveries, and radio contact to keep larger trucks off of Mountain at
the same time, the development group is calling this plan their 'traffic
mitigation plan'. (I can only imagine what some people are going to call
it.) By all accounts, Selectman, Sharon Hills Brickstone Management, and
of course the residents who were in attendance admit that this new plan
runs contrary to the developer's original promise upon which the
original proposed permit is predicated, namely that the developer would
NOT use Mountain Street for construction access. It is truly curious
that they are proposing this.
The Selectman asked that the power point presentation given by the
developer last night be sent to them so that it could be uploaded onto
Sharon's website. The developer proposed 3 full-time officers to route
traffic during the first 18 months of construction. This should be
interesting!
I do not understand the project's path. How does one propose changes of
this magnitude without it appearing to be bait and switch to virtually
anyone who sees it? Contrary to the adage "It is what it is" this
proposal "is what it isn't"!"---
cheers,
Steve k
"Dear Mr. Snyder, You write so many events that happen in the town,
but I did not see anything in the Journal about Christine Quinn's
last day at the COA, or that she had done such a fine job while there.
We had a wonderful party for her at Nocera's in their back room. Many
of her supporters were there. Karen Hall, the new director, was also
there. We had a great time. Chrstine received a gift, a beautiful
bouquet of flowers, and a presentation by Carolyn Borst. We will miss
Christine and are grateful for all that she had to go through at the
hands of all who did not support her. However, we welcome Karen Hall
and will certainly support her as she takes on the difficult task of
directing the Youth Commission and the Council on aging."-- Marie Jardin
(Dear Marie: I am many things, but psychic is not one. If I had been informed of the Nocera's event, I'd have posted it, and probably gone. I wish Christine Quinn nothing but the best for her future.--MARK)
"Mark -
I am a 30 year resident of Sharon who has been in the forefront of
the fight to preserve Rattlesnake Hill since old man Striar was alive
(I've lost count of the number of years). I fought to preserve the
land through his original small nursing home idea, his children's
idea of a golf club community, a golf club alone, a 40B, a CSD, a
standard subdivision and finally through the sale to Brickstone.
Your heart is in the right place, Mark, but your tone and words
suggest black and white thinking about SHARON which alienates many
Sharonites who share your views. Please remember that the Selectmen
are neither the town nor the townspeople and that about half the
residents in Sharon (by my guess) would like to kill the present
project. Please be aware of this and respectful of the many residents
who have put years, dollars and mental and emotional energy into
preserving Rattelsnake Hill from any development when you write your
articles.
You need us and we need you. Working together and communicating, not
trashing us, would be a better strategy.
Rumor has it that Brickstone has a new plan for routing construction
traffic for their project. They plan to present it at Selectmen's
meeting next Tuesday, July 14 at 8:15 PM at the Sharon High School
Library. In spite of past promises to post such plans on the town
website in advance of meetings at which they will be discussed, the
Selectmen's office says that they have not been able to get the plans
from Brickstone yet. I think they may be proposing a route down Bay
Road from Cobb Corner to Deerfield or Wilshire, across Hampton to
Mountain St.
Pressure from residents to post the plan has not yielded results. I
was wondering if you had heard or could find out anything further
about this new plan and could post it on your website. If so, let me
know and I will spread the word to interested Sharonites.
Thank you."--
Leslie Koval
"Hi Mark,
I am a regular reader of your column. You do a great job of covering the local issues with a generally fair and balanced view. Kudos to you.
I must say, however, that I was a little troubled by your characterization of the residents of Sharon in your article in the June 26 Stoughton Journal. I think it was offensive and unnecessary. Maybe you can reconsider your characterization.
Your friend,"---
Ken S.
(Hey Ken, I have many friends in Sharon. The article was aimed at the politicians in your town, and the residents who think of Stoughton as nothing but a shortcut to work, and have disrespected us at numerous public meetings. They know who they are. The same ones who support the mammoth Brickstone project, which will not enhance Sharon, but will definitely hurt the people of Stoughton, by crowding our streets, and potentially polluting our wells.---MARK)
"Mark, I agree on all counts, you are absolutely dead-on correct, when you stated in The Stoughton Journal, June 26, 2009:
"What's with all the talk of construction, and "this construction season?" Could it be so that Brickstone can get off the ground, and the construction vehicles can clog Stoughton's streets, and leave the lovely 'hoods' in Sharon pristine?"
Sharon certainly is not doing anything out of the kindness of their hearts for Stoughton.
Enjoy your column, keep it up.
Long time Bay Rd. resident,"--
P. Reid
"Right on Mark, if Sharon is so concerned about Bay Road , let them hire contractor and repair it, if our town meeting doesn't want to fund it. Just because some people in Sharon want to have public streets made private and the stupid Sharon attemps to block public streets with their road work. Fix the thing right the first time. I was surprised by the vote to make the selectman's meetings on the 1st & 2nd, that's what the Charter calls for. I was also surprised by Miss Walsh's comment that the meetings were too long, she know the length of the meeting before she ran for election . The Town Managers Report is a joke, it almost a report of what we read in the penny Saver."-- Leo E Mellyn , Prec. 6
(this letter was also sent to a number of elected officials:) "I’m writing to support Senator Brian Joyce in his bid to present legislation creating sensible testing for Massachusetts drivers over the age of 85. The tragic death of a four year old girl in Stoughton over the weekend could have been avoided if such legislation was already in place. Though details are not yet known in this particular case, it is being stated that another driver had stopped to let the family cross, while the older driver kept going, seemingly unaware of the circumstances happening outside of their vehicle. This is unacceptable, and has caused the death of an innocent young child.
"Mark: I would like to clarify some misinformation, not malicious by any means. Yesterday, June 7, my daughter took my grandson to a birthday party of one of his classmates. At this party my daughter was talking to another mother who asked her if she were the daughter of the prior Physical Education teacher at the Gibbons School. My daughter told her, that, yes she was my daughter. This mother told her that she had heard that I retired because I could not get along with the principal, Dr. Tanner. This information is far from correct and not true. My retirement had been in the planning stage since 2001. Both my wife and I agreed upon 2006 as the proper time that I should retire. In 2003 we purchased 11 acres in Morrisville, VT and in July 2005 (before Dr. Tanner was Principal) we broke ground on our retirement home. We moved in two weeks after I retired, and, I can't believe that almost 3 years have passed already. My 35 years at the Gibbons School was perhaps the most enjoyable time of my life. I looked forward to each day. I truly felt that I was fortunate enough to have a job that I enjoyed going to. The students were a joy to be around and I felt helped keep me young at heart. Unfortunately, 35 years does take it toll on a person. At the end of my career, after a day at school, I was coming home tired and I felt that it was the right time for new, young blood to come in. Even though I truly enjoyed what I was doing, it was time for children to experience new ideas, methods and a younger person to revitalize the program. I also wanted to experience what it would be like to control my life instead of someone else doing so. Both my parents passed away in their early 40's and never got to experience retirement. I wanted to make sure that I was going to be able to do so. I was fortunate enough to be on the committee that chose my replacement. I feel that we chose the right person in Ryan Donohue to take over the program. His youth and energy towards the program is at the level I was at back in 1971 when I started. His approach to the task at hand is totally opposite the way I taught and I'm glad that the students are getting a more modern approach to the subject matter. I was old school, he's new school. At the time I retired, I had a good working relationship with the staff and administration. I did keep my school life and personal life separate, thats the way I wanted it. I just wanted to set straight any false information, rumors or anything else that may be going around town regarding why I retired. Bottom line, I retired because I felt it was the right time. There was never any animosity towards anyone. I still enjoyed what I was doing. I wish everyone well at the school. Thanks for letting me share this."-- Peter Everett, Morrisville, VT
"Hi All:
At June 9th’s Selectmen’s meeting there is going to be an OPEN hearing for residents to voice concern over Brickstone starting at 7:30 p.m. This meeting will also have signups for interested parties who want to participate in the Brickstone Advisory Committee.
Your assistance would be GREATLY appreciated if you could all do what you do best…rouse the troops to attend this meeting and voice opposition to this development encroaching on our roads, water supply and way of life. I regret that I will be traveling on business that evening, but as you know, I have said my piece already and intend on giving my full support to the selected Advisory Committee members.
Now is the time for people who wanted to be heard by our elected officials! Please tell everyone you know to attend this meeting. Thanks!"-- Robert Germain
"Dear Mr. Snyder:
The last town meeting was a fiasco as was the first regarding the COA
budget. The moderator said that if there was new information that he
would consider opening up the COA budget. One of the town reps shouted
that there was new information, however the moderator chose not to act
on it and went on to discuss a fire engine. No one was permitted to
speak even though a town rep had given his time to a few seniors. The moderator had the names. Each time that the budget came up it was
quickly changed to something else. The action was unethical, backed
with collusion, deception and scheming. This was not a new plan to get
rid of the COA director, but there was no just cause to fire her. How
convenient that we now have a budget crises. What a perfect excuse. I
can't believe that the selectmen let the moderator get away with this
without saying a word. Mr. Anderson just sat there. Where is his
allegiance to the COA? Wasn't he the chairman of the board of the
COA. Didn't we support him when he was chairman and during his
campaign? The only one who had the courage to speak up was Mr. Levine.
Good for you Mr. Levine. We are most grateful. Too bad that you are
not on the board now. Get with it Mr. Snyder, write the truth. This
was a set up from the beginning. The Town Manager,selectmen, and
moderator were pawns of a dissident,vengeful group. They and the
elected officials have destroyed a person who was placed on this earth
to do good. I hope that they can live with it! What a witch hunt!"--
Marie Jardin
"Hi Mark,
Well written and said Dick. Thank you so much for representing the people of Stoughton and not the political agendas."--Diane Tynan
"Mark, Stoughton Town Meeting ended last night after six full evenings of presentations, debates and votes. The Budget was balanced, many articles were dismissed, a few were passed, and the 168 elected town meeting representatives cast their vote in the best interest of the town…that is, unless you’re a senior citizen. Last Wednesday, almost 50 senior citizens of Stoughton came out and sat in the High School Auditorium waiting to be heard. They followed directions and gave their names to the Moderator to be called on. Yet they could not speak. On Tuesday night, they came out again and finally, at 11:00 p.m. a town meeting representative requested the body reconsider the previous vote, which approved consolidation of the Council on Aging and the Youth Commission. The COA Director would be laid off, and the Youth Commission Director will run both operations out of 2 locations and develop a plan with both Advisory Boards to complete the physical merger by the end of December. Town Meeting members were told this would save money. The vote to reconsider this decision was raised to allow the senior citizens who use their Senior Center to have a voice in the decision. They were not given the opportunity. The 'new information' that the meeting never heard was that both Directors were asked if they could live within their reduced budgets this year without layoffs, and they both said yes. Somehow this information was never shared on the night of the vote to consolidate. The cost of impact bargaining with the unions for at least 2 employees was not discussed. The cost of renovations to the building to accommodate private counseling sessions for troubled youth and their families was not revealed. The past Chairman of the COA, now a newly elected selectman, did not speak up for seniors. Town meeting representatives who serve on the COA board were painfully silent. I have been involved in many town meetings, and always felt that in the end, the TM Representatives usually get to the truth. Democracy at it’s finest! This year they failed. We all failed. A serious decision that will impact seniors in this town for years to come was made without their input. This was disrespectful. We did not give them the courtesy of a few minutes of our time. We did not hear their opinion because they were not allowed to speak. Shame on us!!"--Dick Levine, Town Meeting Representative, Precinct 6
"Please take that photo of the senior citizen with the disco hairy chest off the site....There are younger people who enjoy your column. How vain.. if you have a wife she must be embarrassed. I do like your site very much... just not the greasy guy in the Walmart shades and swim trunks.....Oy Vay children might see it!"--bmw1@rock.com
(Dear Whoever You Are: It's an AD. Thanks for noticing it!---MARK)
"Hi Mark: Sorry it took me so long to get it to you, but here is a *.pdf file of the request to the Selectmen to direct preparation of a master plan in time for the 2010 ATM. I have also included a printout as of today that shows the Commonwealth Capital Scores across the state. Stoughton shows as 0 score for FY09 and FY08, with a declining trend from 67 in FY05 to 53 in FY06/07. One big reasons for the 0 score is that Stoughton did not apply in the past 2 fiscal years. This is not a good thing. I understand the Town Planner is already working up an application for FY10, so we can see some improvement just by having a person whose job responsibities include paying attention to these details. But, as described in the letter, we can and should do much more. Thanks again."---Bob O'Regan
"Hi Mark, I just heard that many families got an phone call from the O'Donnell Middle School stating there is a confirmed case of the swine flu. The message stated that the school will remain open. Have you heard anything regarding this?"--- Concerned Parents
(Dear Concerned Parent: Of course The O'Donnell Middle School will remain open. It's a mild case and is no more dangerous than any other flus that have been going around all year. Would you suggest they close the school and have kids come back in summer or weekends?I think that Dr. Marguerite Rizzi die the right thing, contacting all parents, explaining the situation, and telling parents the best way to deal with the situation. Now, kids, wash your hands, and parents (if your child is sick) keep them home! End of problem!---MARK)
"Mark:
Obviously, Town Meeting Representatives are a little lost when it tabulates the cost savings for removing positions from the budget. Lets take an example of the Building Department Secretary. 1. How do th TMR's think this office will function when there is only one town official in the office and he is out on the road 40% of the day? 2. The person cut from the budget does not disappear. She merely chooses to replace another person in another department at their rate of pay. Perhaps a difference of $9K a year. Big savings! That person then bumps someone else, etc. etc. and the bumps go on.
3. There is no attrition in this equation.
4. Why would TMR's think that one person running the Youth Commission and the COA can do as good a job for both agencies as two full time persons did before? And, at the same rate of pay?
And yet TMR's still vote to pay a moderator who then can collect health insurance when no other elected town employee gets the same benefit. I have stood up for years at Town Meeting and requested equal treatment for all elected officials, and have been shot down repeatedly. Sentiment should not come into play at Town Meeting.
I smell some grievances coming from union employees which will only increase the costs of decreasing these and other positions in town hall."-- Dori Frankel,
Precinct 5
(Sent to Town Manager, Selectmen, and Snyder's Stoughton): "Ladies and Gentleman, I would like to appear at the early part of the Next Selectman's meeting on June 9, 2009. This is to discuss the issue of increasing the cost of health coverage to town retired teachers from town payment of 90% to 75%. As the Town Manager stated at the last Town Meeting this could save the town of Stoughton $2, million dollars. Ladies and gentleman, we need this issue resolved as soon as possible and we need to get the ball rolling NOW! I don't have a lot of time with energy to discuss this matter due to some medical issues that will be done to me in the next 3 weeks. Please allow me to come before you to discuss this. Yes I am asking it to come to 75% Town cost, not 50% as the retired town employees pay. The reason I am not asking for 50% shows my consideration of the retired teachers and that GCA has set that as there price. Please call me and allow me to speak, I have talked to the school committee on this issue to but only now realized that the Selectman hold the strings and need to ACT NOW."-- Al Lipkind
"Mark, you missed the whole point, this has nothing to do about budgets, the idea was to get rid of the Director-Council on Aging. If the main idea was to save money, then we would have kept the Dir. of the C/A at $68,217.00 and let the Dir. of the Y/C go at $81,760.00 a savings of $13,543.00. This was not about money, it was about personalities, I'm surprised that you didn't pick up on this. They could have been consolidated and still save money, this really wasn't about the money."-- Leo E. Mellyn
"Mark: The Kathleen M. Bedrosian Scholarship Tournament was once again a resounding success this past Friday night. Over $1400.00 was raised for the scholarship fund for Stoughton High School students! Teams from all the elementary schools, middle school, high school, police department and fire department competed. The O'Donnell Middle School Alumni team defeated the Fire Department for the championship in a thrilling match. I would like to thank Papa John's for providing the pizzas at a discounted rate. I would also like to thank the following volunteers for making the tournament possible for the 13th consecutive year: Ken Gay, John Gunning, Hollie Blaustein, AnnMarie Leonard and Julie Linehan. I would also like to thank Chad Kelley for his assistance setting up the high school gymnasium."---David Guglia, Assistant Principal, O'Donnell Middle School.
"Dear Mr. Maillet:
Mealpay is a service offered by the Stoughton Schools to families for the purpose of keeping their child's lunch account current, by avoiding sending cash to the school. If you choose to send cash with your child, the fee is not a factor. As you know, all credit card transactions have fees assessed to them. In fact, everything you purchase each day has the credit card fee built into the price.
The statement below was part of the letter from Mealpay all of us who use the service received. As you can see, the fee structure has nothing to do with the school department.
The fee associated with MealpayPlus does not go back to the district. MealpayPlus uses the amount to pay for credit card processing costs, development and support costs as well as hosting the website. It also covers all expenses in regard to security of the website.
I understand your frustration and I shared my dissatisfaction with MealPay when I was informed of the increase.
As a parent, you have the right to use this service or not.
The foodservice department constantly strives to improve the services we off to the parents and students of Stoughton."--
Regards,
Edward Gilbert,
Director of Food Services,
Stoughton Public Schools
"I'm mad and I am not going to take it anymore. Why should we have to pay an increase to mealpay for Stoughton school lunch, I bet there is a law that says that Federally subsides lunch can not have a fee attached to it and an increase to 4.5% is an outrage."---Allen P. Maillet
"Mark, I was at the ZBA meeting tonight on Woodbridge Crossing. The letter from WC was read with their change in 2 and 1 bedroom units. A motion was made to postpone the hearing until June 25, to give the developer more time to present his new proposal. I asked several times to be recognized, which I was not, so I spoke anyway. I told the ZBA that they were responsible to the taxpayers of the town, not the developer, at no avail, I was told I was out of order, I said they were out of order. I think we need a new ZBA, some of them have been on to long. This should have been denied and make the developer refile for a new case. How did you like the last sentence in the 2nd paragraph "the demand for 2-bedroom units as residents seek more economical living arrangements by splitting housing costs." I can't believe they wrote that, more than one family in an apartment. The longer this is drawn out the fewer and fewer citizens will be at the meetings. I think we will be visting family in Maine on June 25, other people will be on vacation. I'm beginning to think this a complete bag job. 156 two bedroom apartments mean at least 100 children for the school system as well as more cars."---Leo R. Mellyn
"Dear Parents and guardians: Please be advised that the Stoughton Schools Food Service Department will stop accepting credit card payments through the Mealpay Plus system this Friday, May 8, 2009 at midnight. All prepay payments to a student meal account must be paid with cash or a bank check (made payable to Stoughton School Lunch Program.) Personal checks are no accepted. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. The reason for turning off the service is to avoid a 4.75% fee all Mealpay Plus users would be charged, because the district is going to start accepting bus fees. The reason for the % fee instead of the flat fee is; Bus fees and meal fees are processed differently through MealPay. All payments made to a child's meal account before Friday evening will carry the standard $2.00 flat transaction fee. The payment system will be back to normal in the fall. if anything is different, we will be sure to post information on our district website and each of the schools websites. Thank you for a wonderful year."--Edward Gilbert, Director of Food Services, Stoughton Public Schools (781-297-1051 ext. 1)
"Hi Mark, I am just responding to the letter written by the Town Meeting Representative. He/She stated the letter was signed by a COA Board member so why are they saying that 'if Chris wanted to save her job she should use her own resources'? It was not her who sent out the literature or am I missing something here. Do departments send out information or prepare information when they have an article coming up at Town Meeting? Could this really be illegal? I ask because I really do not know."-- Diane Tynan
"Dear Mark: I am a Town Meeting Representative. Today I received an envelope containing three items: a letter from Sharon Farrell, the acting Chariman of the Council on Aging Board of Directors, a letter from Andrea L. Miller, a probation officer of the Norfolk County Probation Department, and a page of testimonials on the Council on Aging from various people who utilize the Senior Center.
The letter from Ms. Farrell was printed on official town stationery. It was basically listing various services that the Council on Aging provides and various numbers of residents serviced. It also contained information on events sponsored by the Council during the year. The envelope was an official envelope from the Town of Stoughton Council on Aging. The envelope had a stamp; it was not run through a postage meter.
It seems to me that it is inappropriate, if not downright illegal, for a town department to send this sort of mailing out. It is clearly intended to sway Town Meeting members' sympathies in favor of the Director, whose position is in jeapordy of being eliminated. It is not a coincidence that this letter arrived in the mail today, two days prior to the start of the annual Town Meeting.
Can you please look into this? I can't believe that town resources (stationery, printing costs, and even time devoted to it) were used for this! It seems to me that if Ms. Quinn wants to appeal to the residents of Stoughton to save her job, she should use her own resources and do it on her own time!"---Name Withheld Upon Request
"Mark,
It would be interesting to know how many of the Friends for Seniors, actually live in Stoughton. Marie Jardin is correct, this all goes back to the Bingo. An other local TV host has kept it going, he and his cohorts have been calling for Chris Quinns removal for years. They originally were after both Chris and Pat Bassler at the library. Looks like they finally found an allie."--- L. E. MELLYN
"Dear Mr. Snyder:
Thank you for the nice words that you wrote in your column about the
Council on Aging. I would also like to see the end to the division of
the aged in Stoughton. However, you indicated that the friends for
the elderly were excluded from the COA. That is incorrect. I was on
the COA board for six years, and we never excluded anyone. We welcome
every senior citizen in the town of Stoughton. As you know, it all
started because the bingo group wanted to take over all the rooms.
They would stand in back of those who were at the congregate meals
because they wanted the chairs, and they wanted the doors that divide
the two rooms to be opened. Chris Quinn had a vision of how those
rooms would be used for programs that would be healthy for the
seniors. She wrote up some rules which the bingo group could not
accept, and they left the Senior Center with a great deal of
hostility. That vengeance has last for seven years! The group has
verbally stated to many that they would not step their foot in the COA
until Chris Quinn was out. They have ruined her reputation, spreading
gossip and maligning her in the coffee shops in the town. In addition,
they are calling Selectmen constantly for every little reason,and
thank God ,we have a few new ones on the board. The friends for the
elderly do not do anything for the COA. It is most distressing that
they are under the auspices of the church. We are supposed to love
all our brethren. We now have a wonderful group at the COA Bingo.
They are polite and respect one another. "---Marie T. Jardin
"Hi Mark, I read the letter from Dorit K Fland and feel compelled to respond. First & foremost – YES! THERE IS A JEWISH NURSERY SCHOOL on Ethyl Way in Stoughton and it had been in business since the 70’s. Shaloh House Preschool is and has always been an amazing school for children ages 15 months through Kindergarten. If your readers are looking for a warm, nurturing, developmentally appropriate, safe and happy place for their young children – send them my way. For registration info for the Preschool, Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten or Summer programming call 781-344-6334 or email ShalohHouse@gmail.com. Additionally, it is true that the JCC had a place in town before the building they now lease to the YMCA, however; a building and an organization DOES NOT and should not define the Jewish Community of Stoughton and/or the local neighboring towns. There are two synagogues in Stoughton, Ahavath Torah and Shaloh House; we have two kosher restaurants on Washington Street and we certainly don’t require a building to define who we are as Jews and who we are as active and involved members of the community. The Striar JCC and JCC’s of Greater Boston did what they did and we are not going to turn back the hands of time, we can however; look at today and look toward the future to plan what we can do as a community to continue to thrive and grow as we have been doing since the beginning of time! The south shore is a great place to live and raise families with or without a JCC!"--- B'Shalom, Marilyn Rabinovitz, Director Shaloh House Preschool & Kindergarten
Dear Mark: I wanted to let you know that as of yesterday we are now at half of the cost of the surgery. Last week the vet agreed to do the surgery if we could atleast put half down. Ozzie is going in this afternoon and everyone is very excited and happy that he is going to get to live the long life he deserves to live. I want to thank you gentlemen for your support. Mark you really helped me get the word out and believe me it did. The Norfolk County Humane Society is going to help me with the rest of the balance that will remain after the surgery. We have been so busy moving but we are now finally settled in. I have also been doing volunteer work for the Norfolk County Humane Society of Canton and that has been keeping my days full. I am hoping to find full time employment soon. My unemployment is about to run out. Its very tough finding a job the way things are. When Ozzie is fully recovered from the surgery I would like to let everyone know. If its ok with you Mark, mabye Ozzie and I can make another appearance on your show to let everyone know. As being a part of the NCHS I will be fostering a dog from time to time. Let me know your thoughts on televising dogs available for adoption. Again, 1000 thank you's and I hope to hear from you soon. Take care."--Kari Rockman
"Mark, I would like to congratulate the Stoughton Middle School Hockey Team for defeating North Attleboro and Clinching the Grey Division Championship. The team plays in the Foxboro Sports Center Middle School Hockey League. The Team is: Jack Kane, Chris Gill, Nick Bruttanitti, Patrick Kane, Justin Phillips, Bret Lima, Kyle Connaughton, Kenny Carter, Cody Buckman, Drew Destefano, Jacob Rohrer, Zack Swartz, Johnny Catrone PJ Sheehan, Mitchell Wingert, Kyle Feist, Ryan McSweeney and Danny Goldberg."--Thank You, Buddy O'Neil
"Mark, With Precinct 8 being usually the lowest number of residents running for town meeting it makes me wonder if we should/could change the precincts to a total of 7. If I remember correctly, there are 21 seats per precinct, 7 seats up for election each year. So, we could keep Town Mtg the same size by increasing the total town meeting rep's per precinct by 3 each. I think that would help fill more of those seats that, currently in Precinct 8, don't even have enough people running."-- Bob Barbell
"Senator Brian A. Joyce (D-Milton) would like to alert his constituents of energy assistance still available through the Energy Bucks campaign until April 30, 2009.
"Dear Mark: Are you one of the lucky ones who received the very expensive, fancy and professionally created mailing from the JCC? They labelled the new Sharon nursery school the Stoughton/Sharon site; how insulting is that after they abandoned our community. Years ago the JCC was located on Central Street in the little brick building that is now office condo's. It is behind Walgreens though back in the day it was simply across the street from NHD. A simple brick building served the community well. How much money do you think they got for the sale of the building AND ALL THAT LAND when they sold it to the YMCA? do you think they got enough to buy a small brick building in town to continue to service the needs of our local community? Now they have the chutzpa to call the new Sharon Nursery school their Stoughton/Sharon site. We had a Jewish nursery school in town, now we have none. We had a Jewish Community center, now it is gone. We had a Jewish Day school, that left too. What do we get in return; a fable that they left because they didn't have the money to keep it open yet they seem to have a lot of funding to promote their new locations."-- Dorit K Fland
(Dorit--I DID get that mailer. And the "JCC without walls" is reflective of a " JCC of Greater Boston without Morals." But, the JCC building on Central Street was NOT sold to the Old Colony YMCA. It was leased with an option to buy.---MARK)
"Dear Mr. Snyder: I am hoping you can help me spread my story about my young German Shephard that I am trying to save. I have attached a flyer in this email that I have been posting all around Stoughton for the past few days. My 6 Year old German Shephard is very sick and needs life saving heart surgery. Other than the fluid in his heart that has to be removed, he is a very healthy dog. I have a flyer posted in the Stoughton Post Office, Beantown Deli, Mobile Gas, Sal & Katies, Cheng-Du, etc. Is there any possibility of you speaking to the public about my Ozzie to help us seek donations? I am currently seeking as many donations as possible and have opened a PO Box at the Post Office. I am hoping to get our story out there to encourage people to make small donations or even give advice as to how I can seek financial assitance with this. Again, I attached the Flyer we made up and if you could just take a minute to read it and look at our dogs picture, I would be most greatful. His name is Ozzie and he was born in Stoughton on October 13, 2003. The gentleman that gave Ozzie to me rescued Ozzies mom while she was pregnant with him from a very neglectful neighbor. Ozzie is literally a life long resident in the town of Stoughton and is loved by many. Please respond at your earliest onvenience with your thoughts on this. Thank you for any help you may be able to give. Happy Easter/Passover!"--Kari Rockman, P.O. Box 621, Stoughton, MA 02072
(Anyone who would like to help out Kari and Ozzie can send contributions directly to her.---MARK)
"Hi Mark: The Sharon Board of Selectmen has announced a Selectmen’s meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on April 14. Brickstone representatives are presenting an update on the project. The meeting is open to all 'interested parties' and surrounding towns. Their meetings usually take place at the Selectmen’s office at Town Hall but because of high interest, it may be moved to the High School Library or the community center. Stay tuned. Please get the word out, Best regards."-- Norm MacInnis
"The trash at Quail Run is a perfect example why we do not need another 40B development in our town. W e do not need any more people from Brockton or Boston that do not care about the town of Stoughton. I hope the ZBA will finally disapprove this. It is not the job of the Town of Stoughton to help the developer make a buck. It is the job of the ZBA to protect the town of stoughton. We do not need Woodbridge Crossing"-- Leo E Mellyn
"I need talk to you about the trash problem where I live at Quail Run. Do a drive threw. The compactor gets backed up and then the trash goes down the stairs and then it goes onto the ground and sometimes its goes a couple of feet long, all because someone does not throw it down the shoot! This happens at least 4 times if not more per month and they do nothing about it. Maintenance will come on Mondays (because this usually happpens on the weekends) and cleans it up. Thats it! Mark, I called Board oh Health and they said that they need pictures. I do not have a camera. We are going to get rats especially in the summer. We already have friggin seagulls! I have said stuff to the property manager and she does nothing. I would love for you to look into this. The neighbors are not going to do anything. Sometimes its the little kids that throw the trash down the shoot, but the are too short to see. The parents around here don't care but I do, its my view! Please Mr.Mark help, I am reaching out to you! Thank you. Right now its starting to go down the stairs. When you drive in, straight till you need to bare right and its on the left by maintenance office."--Name Withheld Upon Request.
"Mark has much as I regret I must ask that you do not publish my name. The treatment that Chris Quinn has received is proof of the retaliation that exists in the Town Hall. The town manager does not need a contract. The town gets no benefit at all. Phil Farrington served many years without a contract. Scott is right the TM is better now with the 4 to fire rule. John Carrol has been TM of Norwood over twenty years without a contract. The contract only benefits the TM, not the Town."-- Name Withheld Upon Request
"Hi Mark: I wish to take exception to the remarks made by Diane Tynan. There were several members of the Council on Aging Board of Directors present at the Finance Committee including the Chairman of the Board of Directors. Members present were COA Board Vice Chairman Sharon Farrell, Gyneth McGarvey, Warren West, David Nankin, Chairman John Anderson, former Vice Chair Marie Jardin, and myself. We have met with the Fin Com subcommittee and the full Committee several times over the last few years when the Fin Com felt it important to makes cuts to the Council on Aging budget. They know who we are and they knew we were present that evening. We felt that it was more important for the Fin Com to hear from the senior population concerning the severe budget cuts being made to the Council. Christine Quinn and the Stoughton seniors have always had the full support of the Council on Aging Board of Directors. The proposed budget cuts will have a devastating affect on the services to our seniors and frail elders who deserve the best services we can provide. – Jeanne M. Fleming, Council On Aging Board of Directors
"Good Morning, It was nice to finally meet you at the Finance Committee meeting. I have been thinking a lot about that meeting since it took place. I think it is outrageous that Christine Quinn was left to defend her position on her own. Where were her board members specifically her Chairman to speak for her and the efforts of the Council on Aging as a whole. I realize that there are some in town that do not like Christine. However, I do not think personalities should come into play when we are discussing such an important population within the Town. I personally would not want to work for a town that treats their employees with such little respect as has been demonstrated with the COA Director and Outreach Worker. Take Care."-- Diane Tynan
"Dear Mark: When we had the recall of the 2 Selectman over the police problem, it was in the paper, etc. until you were sick of it. Now, when someone runs for selectman who was recalled from the School Committee, no mention is made of this fact. John Anderson was recalled from the School Committee because he and the rest of the members that were recalled had a plan to mandate that students walk between the West and the Middle Schools when we went through that whole Junior High to Middle School name and philosophy change. That change was not well thought out, resulted in lowered test scores, and a great expense to the town. Do you think that as a selectman, Mr. Anderson will miraculously achieve some common sense? Leopards do not change their spots. He talks a good game, but his past performance is a predictor of his future performance."-- David Camacho, Former Member Stoughton School Committee, Stoughton Committee on Finance and Taxation
"Hi Mark -
If you do not mind - I wanted to clarify a few things in your article and please feel free to cut and paste this email.
1). I appreciate the comment that you thought the audience was rude to the Chair on a couple of occasions. However, I don't think they were rude but impassioned which leads sometimes to a few outbursts. I did not take it personally and completely understood that it was pent up frustration because we were the first group that they had an opportunity to give comment to on the recommendation. A better process would have allowed the opportunity for them to speak to the Board of Selectmen prior to the Finance Committee.
2). Your linkage of the Veteran's Budget and it's relationship to Council of Aging Budget was not necessarily what I meant when talking about the Veteran's Budget. First and foremost not all Veteran's are elderly and so there is not direct link. However, my point is that as the Finance Committee ,we need to think globally about the impact of State and Federal Mandates on our budget especially in tough economic times.
3). The Council of Aging offers a tremendous amount of high-quality services! However, when I received letters of support from various Council of Aging groups across the State, I felt that I needed to gather some background information on various programs so if we did make adjustments to the budget that it was based on economic factors and on data from comparable Council of Aging groups throughout the State rather than political pressure. I was actually very surprised by the facts that came out of my phone calls and internet research.
4). Although, I did not make a comment last night about the alternative budget presented by Ms. Quinn, the Finance Committee will be unable to act on it. Due to contract provisions, the Finance Committee cannot recommend reducing union positions in half without allowing the opportunity for the Union and the Town to open up bargaining. Furthermore, if allowed to be half-time, that position will be allotted full Town benefits. It was also a bit perplexing to see that the position being cut was the dispatcher when probably the most utilized service of the Council of Aging is the transportation program.
5). Ms. Quinn mentioned that there are more than 5,000 seniors in Stoughton and on an average day about 100 seniors utilize the Council of Aging's Programs and Services. Therefore, on an average day the Council of Aging is reaching less than 5% of Stoughton Seniors. How are the other 95% of Seniors obtaining their support services on a daily basis? Therefore, an ethical question comes to play for me - in my role as Finance Committee Chair should I think about what is best for all of the Seniors in Stoughton or only the 5% who attend the Senior Center on an average day.
6). For your information there are also another 2 Departments in Town which as submitted by the Board of Selectmen would require their merger, Building and Engineering, if funding is not restored for an administrative position. The worst thing that the Finance Committee could do is not take an objective role in the budget process. We must recommend town budgets that are representative of the available funds and global community needs. If for no other reason than it represents one great part of our democratic process of checks and balances.
I am very happy that some members of the Stoughton Senior population had an opportunity to state their opinions to the Finance Committee and also understood why many of them left just as frustrated as when they arrived. I would also welcome any individual to provide us with their thoughts on various budgets and opportunities to increase our revenue to avoid possible cuts.
As I promised last night, the Finance Commitee will continue to try and identify additional funds to help restore various positions and services."-- Holly Boykin
"Mark, I just read your story regarding the proposed budget cut at the Council of Aging and the campaign of mis-information being distributed by some people. I want to all of the seniors who enjoy the Senior Center to know, IT WILL NOT CLOSE, AND IT HAS NOT EVEN BEEN CONSIDERED!!!. I am appalled, but not surprised that there are people who will go to the extreme of intentionally mis-leading and scaring senior citizens. I have been contacted by several seniors who said they were told at the Senior Center it was closing. ITS NOT!!. The town is facing a 1.4 million dollar deficit and unfortunately meeting that deficit is not attainable without personnel cuts. I can't speak for all of the Selectmen, but I think it's safe to say that we all want to provide essential services and keep our town in the best shape possible. There are many people at the Senior Center, both employees and volunteers who do an outstanding job every day. I am confident that they will continue to do so whatever the outcome. Don't diminish their hard work and dedication by spreading rumors and mis-leading people. Its NOT FAIR!!"--Joe Mokrisky
"Mark, I see your headline that our current Town Mgr is a finalist for a job in Kingston. I wish him great luck in this endeavor. It is well overdue that Mark Stankiewicz and the Town of Stoughton part ways. A person in such a position making their personal political feelings known by flying a flag up the Town Hall flag pole is well beyond inappropriate. In response to a Grand Jury investigation one week before a recall election he suspended 6 members of the Police dept. From the Patriot Ledger, 10/29/04 "Town Manager Mark Stankiewicz said he placed ex-Chief Manuel Cachopa and the other officers on indefinite leave yesterday because their continued presence at the Stoughton Police Department is an impediment to the investigation.'' From the same Patriot Ledger article "'It's my responsibility,' Stankiewicz said. "Our overall concern has to be the health and safety of the 27,000 Stoughton residents.''' Mark, correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't Grand Jury Investigations CLOSED and no information is supposed to be shared outside of the grand jury proceedings? So, if the DA's office didn't give Stankiewicz information leading him to make this decision, who did? We, the People of Stoughton deserve better."--Bob Barbell
"Hi Mark! The Stoughton 8th grade travel team was defeated by North Andover, 56 to 52 coming in second place in the Massachusetts state championship. Stoughton defeated No Andover last year for the 7th grade championship. They met us again this year and got their revenge . The tourney consisted of 16 of the state best teams: only Stoughton and No Andover were left after the final round.
Good sportsmanship was shown by both teams . The boys can still be proud of being Metro West champs 3 straight years in the division 1 Hockomock league."--Steve Kelly
"Dear Stoughton Officials and Interested Residents: As a member of the state’s Committee on Federal Stimulus Oversight, I am pleased to alert you to a significant announcement made today concerning FY10 education funding that could bring almost $600,000 additional dollars to the Stoughton Public Schools. As part of the Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state’s economic future, Governor Patrick announced a plan to allocate $168 million in federal education recovery funds to ensure every district in the Commonwealth reaches so-called “foundation” spending levels next school year. The state’s historic education reform law established foundation budgets for communities, setting a minimum funding threshold districts must meet so that students receive a “fair and adequate” education. Based on the Chapter 70 figures in the Governor’s FY10 budget, 166 school districts were funded below foundation-level, including Stoughton.
"Hi- I was wondering if you can put this on your web site? We are organizing our 35 year reunion from SHS, Class of 1974. We are in the process of planning a casual gathering for our 35th Class Reunion. With that in mind we would like your input. If you would, please respond to the following:
"Mark, I would like to impress upon your readers, the residents of Stoughton, two important points concerning the Brickstone Mega-Development, and the hearing before the Selectmen this Tuesday: 1) The magnitude of Brickstone is like no other! It is really a small town with six 8 story high rise buildings, a150 bed nursing home, plus amenities. It will be built in the middle of wetlands, and conservation land with absolutely NO infrastructure to support it. No roads, water, or sewage! THAT BURDEN will be thrust upon Stoughton. It is the antithesis of Smart Growth, being nowhere close to public transportation, or main arteries. They are promising not even the minimum of new (Leeds) environmental standards. This will forever adversely impact us. Literally thousands of trucks and cars will be flowing directly into Stoughton. Hundreds of thousands of gallons of polluted PPCP laden water will be flowing directly into our water and wells, and the money to maintain the roads, and deal with everything else will be flowing directly out of our pockets. No amount of money offered by Brickstone as mitigation for this is acceptable. 2). We need to create a political imperative to unite in defense of the town. That is why the turnout to Tuesday's Selectmen hearing will have a direct correlation to how united we all are in fighting this. SEE YOU AT THE SELECTMEN'S MEETING TUESDAY, MARCH 17 - GREAT HALL!"--Rick Lynch
"Hi Mark:
For the last three years the Stoughton Police and Fire Departments have developed quite an athletic rivalry. Whether it be the gridiron, the softball field, or the ice, both departments have gone head to head to benefit our community. Next Saturday night things are going to change. The hockey teams from the police and fire departments have joined forces to face off against the police and fire departments from Canton. This benefit has a deeper meaning to those of us hitting the ice. This game will benefit the family of Boston Fire Lieutenant Kelley who was killed in the line of duty when the engine he was riding in crashed into a building. Attached is the article from this week's Canton Journal. As always, admission is free and donations will be accepted at the door. If people cannot attend the game but would like to donate to the cause, donations are being accepted at the Canton Fire Headquarters. The game will take place Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. at the Metropolis Rink on Rte. 138 in Canton. We are going into Canton's territory so we would love to have some Stoughton fans come cheer us on."--John Bonney
"This has got to be the dumbest thing I have ever heard, put the COA under the Youth Commission. Lets try it the other way the Youth Commission under the COA.. I will bet that more people take part in the Coa, than in the Youth Commission. Lets get a little common sense back in town. Also, regarding the recent article in the Boston Globe on the Moderators from Milton and Canton getting Pensions.. I there any chance that our moderator will get a pension due to his stipend. Ask this at the next candidate night. Get a yes or no,, not a non denial, denial. I am not afraid of saying who I am."--Leo E. Mellyn
"Dear Mr. Snyder: My name is Kevin Smith and I am a Business Technology Teacher and Assistant Hockey Coach at Stoughton High School. During the month of April, we will be holding a free hockey and skating skills clinic for any Stoughton resident in grades 1 – 8. I was wondering if you would be able to post information about this event on your web site. For your convenience, I am attaching a copy of the press release of the clinic as well as a PDF of the registration form. Any support you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to contact me if there’s anything I can help with. Thank you."--Kevin Smith
"Mark: I learned recently that the senior class at Stoughton High School had lost their senior privileges due to an incident at a basketball game recently involving a handful of students. I thought it was unfair, to say the least. How can a school administrator punish an entire class of students because of the actions of a few? But, it's worse than that. Today, I found out that there were kids involved in this incident that were not seniors, and that they were not punished. I am appalled that the principal punishes close to 300 students in the senior class, and allows the students who were underclassmen to go unpunished! I have a senior at the high school. She has never misbehaved at school. She has never been assigned an after-school session. She has spent four years being respectful, following the rules, and doing what is expected of her. Yet, now she has lost earned privileges due to the actions of a handful of others, some of whom are bearing no responsibility whatsoever. My daughter wasn't even at the game! Neither was the majority of the senior class. The administrationat Stoughton High School should be ashamed of themselves. Making hundreds suffer the consequences for the actions of a few is wrong. Allowing some of those few to walk away altogether is a disgrace."--- Name Withheld Upon Request
"Hi Mark: Stoughton Board of Selectmen has agreed to put Brickstone Sharon LLC on the Agenda for the March 17 meeting, It has been on the agenda in Sharon for over two years! Although we are abutters, we have not been notified since the development will not be in our town. The proposed entrance, however, will be in Stoughton along with all the traffic. This is the reason Sharon wants the entrance on Bay Road.
As Stoughton residents, we welcome the opportunity to address our Board of Selectmen before Brickstone Sharon LLC comes to ask for an opening into our town. Our concerns have been ignored by this developer and by our neighbor, so we would like to be heard by our sworn officials. Please ask you readers to plan to attend this important meeting on March 17. We elected our Selectmen to represent us. The residents of Stoughton do not want Brickstone in our town. We did not vote to put the proposed entrance on Bay, and we own the road. The Sharon residents voted to put the entrance on Bay and they don't own the road. An entrance on Bay impacts the taxpayers of Stoughton while minimizing the negative effects on Sharon."-- Mary Dennett
"Dear Friends and Family:
I recently decided to participate in Walk MS, and I'm inviting you to join my team!
By joining my team, you will be signing up not just for a day of fun, but also for a celebration of the great things we can achieve when working together for a common cause. Each step we take brings us one step clos er to a cure - and closer to a world without multiple sclerosis. So what are you waiting for? Join my team today or make a donation on my behalf.
P.S. Eighty-five (85) percent of the proceeds from the walk provide help for today and hope for tomorrow to 14,000 families affected by MS. Please visit www.MSnewengland.org. Click here to visit my personal page. "--Rhonda Vito
"Mark, I don't know who told you that Francis T. Crimmins, Jr. (or Sr.) was a state representative. He aspired to that office long after Stoughton was Gerrymandered out of its own district.
In the 1950s we were in an Avon-Stoughton- Sharon district. In the
1960s early 70s, before the reduction in the size of the General Court,
Stoughton and Canton and Avon had a two-rep district. Both reps came
from Canton, Paul Schneiders and Michael Curran (?) In 1974 Stoughton had its own district. Francis T. Crimmins, Sr
Charles Ahern, William J. Kelley, Jr.(Moderator), Thomas A. Recupero,
Paul Goulston, Richard T. Murphy, Jack Dembrowsky and Charles Yaitanes
had ambitions for this seat as Democrats. Henry Rist and Orrin Hansen
sought the Republican nomination. In the Democratic Primary Paul
Goulston surpassed Dr. Recupero by 28 votes. Orrin Hansen by 2 to 1 won
got the Republican Nomination. The race divided the Democratic Town Committee. Jack Dembrowsky
quit the Dems and ran as an "Independent". Richard C. Sawyer, who wrote
for the Stoughton Chronicle, and a member of a strong Republican family
also ran as an "Independent" . The reverse of the intention of
decimating the Democrats by having a four way race failed. Pharmacist
Paul Goulston, Steve Goulston's father, won the race by a wide margin.
For the next four years Paul Goulston was STOUGHTON's real State Rep. The irony of this race: Jack Dembrowsky turned Republican; Dr.
Recupero left the Democratic Town Committee because it was "too Liberal."
Orrin Hansen became Chairman of the Republican Town Committee; Francis
T. Crimmins, Sr. remained a Selectmen on the 7 member Board of
Selectmen. In 1976, the LWV pushed for a reduction in the House and the Town of
Stoughton was divided sharing Marjorie Claprood with Sharon, and Bill
Vernon from Easton after the 1978 election. In 1980, Francis T. Crimmins, Jr. still working his way to become a
lawyer became disgruntled with the Democratic Town Committee and decided
to run for Selectman and lost the first time around. Not willing to
leave politics, Frank Crimmins took a second shot at becoming a
Selectman and won in 1982 when the BOS was reduced to 5 members. Frank Crimmins during his Selectmen years, passed the Bar and
opened his own law office.
One year he tried to run for State Rep as an Independent and got
Republican support. Ms. Marjorie quickly reacted with a mid-decade
redistricting hoping to knock Frank out of the district, but failed to
realize that Francis T. Crimmins, Sr. lived in Precinct 4, and FTC, Jr.
lived in Precinct 7!
Frank Crimmins defeated Bill Kelley by 105 votes as Moderator in
1985. In the 7 years of his tenure as Moderator, Frank Crimmins was
challenged 4 times. He became Chairman of the Republican Town Committee
and twice challenged Marjorie Claprood for State Rep.
Both times he LOST. Ironically, Marjorie Claprood endorsed Attorney
Frank Crimmins for his judgeship appointment in 1992."--
Howard Hansen,
Town Moderator
(Howard: I stand corrected. I was thinking of Mr. Goulston, and confused two prominent families!---MARK)
"Mark, Please pass this along to the Selectmen. The Governor's 141 page Transportation Bill "An Act to Reform, Rebuild, and Renew the Transportation System of the Commonwealth for the Twenty-First Century" is attached and can also be found at www.mass.gov/youmovemassachusetts along with other info on the legislation and perspective of the administration. I have also attached a power point presentation by the Under Secretary of Transportation at the MAPC Winter Meeting on Tuesday 2/24/09 title: "Governor Patrick's Transportation and Economic Security Plan". The thrust of the Governor's direction (see Power Point Presentation) as it pertains to Stoughton and to South Coast Rail (SCR) is that 3 cents of the proposed 19 cents gas tax is for South/West/North Rail Projects. I understand that 2 cents of the 3 are targeted for SCR - although I don't find it in print. The argument that some make "Don't worry, there is no money for the project" does not (or will not) hold water. If the Town wants to act, it had better get its act together - and do it soon! Thank you for your help."--Lou Gitto
"Hi Mark: For two years, Stoughton residents have listened to the Sharon Board of Selectmen and Brickstone Sharon LLC discuss their plans for the development of a 300+ acre lot off Bay Road. To date, the proponents of this mega-development have shown a callous disregard for the Stoughton abutters. We heard how they want to widen the road on both sides at the proposed entrance and install a traffic signal. Now we hear that they are discussing "an 8" CLDI inter-municipal water line..the length of Bay Road," as defined in Sharon's January 23 Amendment to the 2007 Agreement to re-zone the property. The residents of Stoughton are wondering what the Stoughton Board of Selectmen has heard? The people making these plans for Bay Road are neither residents nor taxpayers of the town of Stoughton. More importantly, since Stoughton owns Bay Road and we own the properties on it, we are wondering when it will be our turn to be heard? Please ask your readers to contact the Board of Selectmen and ask that Brickstone be put on the Agenda so that Stoughton residents can hear their Selectmen's opinions and they can hear ours. Let's not have a repeat of NSTAR - when nothing was done until it was too late." Mary D
"Hello Everyone.
The Avon 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer is coming to Boston this May and we need your help!
Marci Levitan Bailey, my neice Amanda, and several others will be forming a team in Memory of Jessica Bartell. She was one of our classmates from Stoughton High...Class of 1988. Jessica passed away in January 1996 from Breast Cancer at the age of 25. Please help support our team. Each team member will need to raise the minimum of $1,800.
Last Year, the money raised from the Boston Area Walk was distributed locally. Mass General Hospital/Harvard Comprehensive Cancer Center received $19.6 Million, Boston "Progress for Patients" received $2.9 Million, Dana Farber Cancer Institute recieved $250,000, UMASS Amherst recieved $510,000 in grants to research the affects of pregnancy and increased risks of Breast Cancer, and Boston Medical Center recieved $5.1 Million to help medical expenses for uninsured Breast Cancer patients. Boston is becoming a better place for Breast Cancer patients because of supporters like you!
Please pass the word! Anyone can be a sponsor for any amount. If you can only give $5.00 or $10.00 that's great! Please consider donating part of your Tax Refunds to a great cause!
My Avon Walk page is ....
http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk2009/Boston?px=4538124&pg=personal&fr_id=1770.
If you are interested in helping but prefer to send a check rather than use a credit card, email me at krissygaughan@msn.com and I will provide you with an address to send it by mail!
Thank you in advance for helping put an end to Breast Cancer!"--Kristine O'Reilly
"Hi Mark,
I am still trying to get some answers as to why Verizon is not broadcasting the locally produced shows that I watched on the Comcast Service. I have been dealing with this for several weeks now, and it is truly amazing that no one can give me a straight answer to my rather simple question. Even Verizon’s own people can not tell me why this can not be done, if you have any ideas on who I should call please just send me a quick e-mail. I do know that Selectman John Anzivino has also mentioned this subject at a meeting questioning why this can not be done, and he did not received a clear answer.
To me this just seems so simple, the shows are taped, so make a copy of the tape and play it on Verizon, or if possible simply share the broad cast signal with Verizon until the new studio is built. I am no techno wiz, so I may be really missing something , if I am please let me know what you think. I do know that all the parties involved should get together and resolve this ASAP, then clearly let the public know just what is going on and what we can expect in the future for service and when. I also think that Verizon should discount all the existing Stoughton accounts until the Shows are aired, because we were told that we would have all the local shows and this clearly is not the case.
I do request that you do not release my name.
Thanks."-Name Withheld Upon Request.
(To "T", as the Chairman of the Town's Cable Advisory Committee, I can tell you that MANY people have complained that Verizon LIED to them and said they were offering all the local access shows. It seems to me (my opinion, not that of the Committee necessarily) that if the Board of Selectmen put enough pressure on Comcast (that is looking for a renewal) to permission in Stoughton for Verizon to directly tap Channel 9 and rebroadcast it--until the Stoughton Cable Non Profit Studio is up and running--that this would be instantly solved. The Selectmen are the ONLY ONES that could exert the appropriate pressure to get this done. All the selectmen have listed numbers---call them!---MARK)
"Hi Mark: To all your readers, if you are against any increase in the gas tax, write to your contacts in the State House:
Brian.A.Joyce@state.ma.us,
Rep.LouisKafca@hou.state.ma.us,
or Rep.WilliamGalvin@hou.state.ma.us. Or, visit Governor Patrick @
www.mass.gov/governor/contact.
On another item, Mark, the writer that found fault with your remarks about 'Jabour gone fishing'. If my memory is right, that person had difficulty with the police over a gun permit several years ago, talk about holding a grudge. There is also another very vocal PD critic that had a traffic ticket years ago over a broken tail light. Some people just can't move forward."-- Leo E Mellyn
"To the editor,
Opinion page Headline in July 2005................"OPINION - Has Jabour gone fishing?
Stoughton Journal July 22, 2005
by Mark Snyder."
I guess Jabour did make a "catch".
Well now that Chief Cachopa has been convicted
and Sgt. Cohen has been convicted and Sgt. Cohen
pled the FIFTH in open court regarding his actions
with Chief Cachopa, will Mark Snyder now do an
article on having the Massachusetts Attorney General
do a full investigation of the Stoughton police since
1999 when Cachopa became acting Chief to root out
all violations allowed by Chief Cachopa?
Injustice must be corrected everywhere it is found
regardless of when it occurred.
Not to do so allows injustice to be a threat to justice.
When even small violations of a person's rights are
allowed to exist anywhere, then such raises the
threshold of what subsequent wrongs can be done.
Mark Snyder, will you speak truth to injustice that
has been done to innocent people by those acting
under color of law and demand the Massachusetts
Attorney General to conduct a thorough investigation
here in Stoughton, or have you "Gone Fishing"?"--Don Schwarz
"Hi Mark: The 3rd Annual Guns N Hoses game played on Saturday was a terrific event. People do not realize what an undertaking this game is. Laura Sheehan from Friends Of Stoughton Hockey (FOSH) and Buddy O'Niel of the Fire Department really should be congratulated for a job well done. This years auction items were amazing. The game raised a whopping $2,760.00 which is a new record. To see that amount of money raised in this or any economic climate is a real testament to the people of this town. I say congratulations to everyone who volunteered their time to organize, participate, or come watch this game.
The on ice action was the closest competition yet. The police department took home their third trophy with a 2 - 0 win over the FD. In the first period John Lydstone took a perfect feed from Chris Grover. Lydstone fired the one timer by FD goalie Paul McCafferty to make it one nothing. McCafferty was perfect in the second period turning back every effort from the police departments offense. Halfway through the third period Roger Hardy took the puck from his own end and broke down the right side. As he crossed over the blue line he blasted one past McCafferty to bring the score to 2 - 0.
A great night was had by all. The game was video taped with play by play provided by Kevin Smith. Hopefully we will be able to put the game on the Stoughton Public Access channel in the near future.
Thank you for the publicity you gave the game and we hope to see you next year."--
John Bonney
|
"Hi Mark: Stoughton residents should know that Brickstone Sharon LLC is now proposing an 'inter municipal' waterline for Bay Road at the proposed entrance to their enormous development. According to the official town web page, there will be a meeting on Tuesday January 27 in Sharon Town Hall to discuss amendments to the Agreement. Of particular interest to Stoughton families is Exhibit D-2 2608 1-16 09, which can be found on Sharon's web page http://www.townofsharon.net posted January 23.The pertinent amendment is 7 A Bay Road Connection. I am wondering Mark if you, or any of your readers, are aware of the town of Stoughton being approached by either Sharon or Brickstone regarding this utility?"--- Mary Dennett
"Mark, If you love hockey and want to see great saves, sharp shooting, hard hitting, high flying action then I urge your readers to watch the Bruins/Rangers game on Saturday January 31, 2009 at 1:00pm. However, if that does not quench your hockey thirst and you want to watch a bunch of out of shape men act like boys while helping out a great cause come down to the Canton SportsPlex for the third annual Gun N' Hoses hockey game. This game benefits the Friends of Stoughton Hockey, a great organization, which helps defray the high cost of ice time for the high school hockey program. The doors open at 7:00pm and admission is free. Donations will be accepted of course and there will be a silent auction and plenty of great music. In years past the auctions have included unbelievable sports memorabilia from the Bruins, Patriots, Celtics and Red Sox. The fire department has a lot of swagger this year and hopes to take the trophy from the police department. I hope to see you there."---John Bonney
|
"Mark Just a note to let you and your readers know that our website is up and running at www.andersonstoughton.com and we look forward to a lively campaign. Thank you."-- John Anderson, Candidate for Selectman
"Mr. Snyder, I just watched your TV show for the first time last night (Friday) with my husband. We were having an early dinner, and a woman looked familiar (from Women of Wisdom), so we decided to watch it. The sunglasses were a bit disconcerting, but I have an interest in holistic health. After a short time, they played a tape of your visit to their establishment. Shortly thereafter, someone was giving you a massage. Did you know that your plumber's crack was visible? I almost choked on my food. Perhaps you should give a fair warning. My husband laughed. I was admiring your tan, but a bit put off by the whole butt thing at dinner. I can tell you that this Easton family will tread more carefully on the local access channel. All jokes aside, it was an interesting show. When is it on? I caught it by accident early last night."---Julie B. (Easton)
(Julie, sorry for scaring you. I actually DID give a warning at the beginning of the show. Here's the schedule for Easton, and other towns: (here)---thanks for writing.-- Mark )
"Hi Mark, I have received a number of calls and emails regarding the availability of local programming on Verizon. I spoke to Joe Mokrisky and he indicated the Education and Government programs were now available on Verizon FIOS. He also indicated the in-studio programs will be available once the studio is up and running in Stoughton. I also contacted Verizon and they indicated the Stoughton Government and Education channels are available on the following channels: Channel 26 is the Education Channel and Channel 28 is the Government Channel I thought you might be able to pass this along to the community. Regards."--John Anzivino
"Dear Mark: I am writing concerning the recent hiring of the Town Planner position by the Town Manager and Board of Selectmen. My concern is over the salary given to this new hire. Although I am sure that he is very good and the right person, my concern is on what Town Meeting agreed to do for this line item within the budget. I recall $60,000 and it wouldn't be that much because the new hire would not be on board until November or December because of the posting and interview process from July onward till the filling of the position. Now I read that the position is $80,000. At NO time was $80,000 EVER discussed on Town Meeting floor. As you may recall, the Town Planner issue went on for hours and days and concerns evolved around Town Planner vs. Town Grant Writer vs. a position that was responsible for both. Then one night in the lateness of the evening of Town Meeting discussions took place on Town Meeting floor around having the planner and it passed but it was that $60,000 was the salary and that it would be and I quote the Town Manager "it would probably be less because of the timing. " Now, it has exceeded the actual voted upon line item and unless FinCom has further agreed to the overspending where has the money come from? I don't recall $80,000 for a Town Planner. Its been sneaky since day one. By the way why even hire this position during difficulty fiscal times and please don't sell me a bag of goods? Oh, last in first to go should be how we treat this line-item. I will formerly introduce the elimination of this position on Town Meeting floor this spring. Somebody please justify $80,000. Thanks Mark for all you do."-- J. F. Baeta
"Hi Mark:
If you would let your readers know that we are holding our first meet the candidate on Sunday February 1, 2009, at San John Filarmonica Society located at 845 Washington Street, from 8:30 - 11:30 A.M.
We have also launched my campaign website, www.stagnone2009.com.
Thank you."---
John Stagnone, Selectman Candidate
"Hi Mark...was reading the web site and with great interest read about those who are running for selectman. I needed to write to clarify one thing. Mike Pazyra is praising Warren West for his donation of $100,000 in pastrys. Let it be known that all the donations are from Roach, Stop and Shop and Shaws and he delivers them. I live at Lacivita Court, and have not seen him deliver 1 thing to this location?
Also let it be known that long before Warren West was doing this, that John Omera and others did it every morning for years and delivered to all locations."--Dave Milley
"Hey Mark,
Great article on the JCC situation. One of our two daughters went
through early childhood education, and we were once members of the JCC
as well. It goes to show you how apathetic, and pathetic, the JCC and
CJP have become. I for one will never send my kids to a JCC camp, and
nor should any temple in this area give to CJP again. Per usual, they
lack the vision, and foresight needed to make themselves a viable
organization."--S.W.
"The Ames Pond Dam has been issued a Certificate of Non-Compliance and Dam Safety Order by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Below is the link to the report on the study done by Amory Engineers on the the Ames Pond Dam. One of the options mentioned in the report is to permanently lower the level of the pond. On page 3, the report states the dam must be brought into compliance by November 30, 2009. Also, attached is the letter sent to the Stoughton Town Manager from the Easton Town Administrator regarding the Ames Pond Dam."--Diana Germaine
"What great restraint you showed! Those three stooges you met with ARE the weasels you had written about. They have destroyed an entire community, and like Humpty Dumpty, you can't put all the pieces together again in different towns. They have to be united as one. They should all be forced to resign."--Wendy G
"Great write-up Mark, I kept waiting for you to call the unholy 3. flaming constipated ass holes, but alas, you have great restraint. It was difficult for me to sit there Sunday and look at a total waste of 600K in Yiddish donations/year which could have been much better spent on a 'real community meeting place'. As I told a black lady signing up for the YMCA at the old JCC, what the idiots don't realize, as she does, it is nice to go someplace where you are not a total minority, and be forced to overhear some moron cursing the Jews or the blacks for every problem they have/make. She just looked at me and laughed, and agreed. and said she liked it at the JCC because of the friendly people and never hearing racists or religious comments. Sukhole doesn't have a clue, and Barry is too old to continue the fight and to do the right thing by giving the younger generation an opportunity to experience a little bit of Yiddisha community. (no I didn't spell useless's name wrong). He is a disgrace to the title 'Rabbi'.. Keep smiling."-- Kenny
"Mark, in your Town News column on your web site, you now have lowered yourself and your lack of class by referring to "the staff of the CJP/JCC of GB (Greater Boston) as weasels! I thought Stoughton was a No Place for Hate Community. In the past 6 weeks you have shown much hatred and sarcasm to Rabbi Sokol, Edie Brown and other well-known and respected and hard working members of the CJP and JCC. Your tirades against not sending young children to their camps to hurt them financially is both stupid and ludicrous. These two camps have always provided our Jewish youth with fine outstanding summer programs. Parents who will not send their children to either Camp Grossman or Camp Kingswood in Maine as you suggest to hurt the CJP Organization would be merely "cutting off their noses to spite their faces!" The CJP does a lot more for the Jewish and Gentile community than running JCC's. It's time for you and your readers to get over it, to get a life and go onto other important community problems.
|
"Dear Snyder's Stoughton: As you may have seen driving by the Asain Buffet on Rt. 138 Washington Street, the price for dinner has clearly been marked at $8.99. This is clear in not one, but two locations infront of the resturant. This place has horrible service, and is a filthy establishment and should be shut down by the Board of Health. My friends and I had a miserable dining experience. They were not on top of their game in any aspect of the resturant business. They did not only leave us thirsty, but they also failed to clear the table when there was a total of 9 plates when only three were eating. Then they proceeded to charge us $12 and change, with a total of $37.77. I was bewildered to see the price per person knowing how they advertised a decrease for their meals. We then went back inside after checking the signs to make sure they were still there, we kindly asked for our change. Then they showed us the small and nearly hidden sign stating that Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays is priced higher than the signs outside. Being decent customers that did not complain about the service (and poor quality in food) they refused to give us our money back and then started yelling at us. We would like the town of Stoughton and all who visit to know what a horrific view and experience this place, is when looking for a decent meal. Two ladies at the front threw me and my friend out angerly and shouting at us to never come back and that they do not need our business. I would like for me and my friend Zach Apotheker to make this known. Whether it be you putting this issue on your well respected website. Zach and I would glady discuss this issue maturly on Snyder's Stoughton. I appreciate all you can do to help this matter."--Tyler Dennis
"Mark: Thanks for printing the column on the new parking passes in Stoughton. I just picked up my pass this week. The price ended up being $60 and they only are offering them to residents at this time. My understanding was they did not advertise and also did not offer many spots so reading your column every week really paid off. The cost is still a big saving when you take the train every day. The lot they decided to use, next to the police station, is a little out of the way but I guess its the price you pay for not having to find $4 in ones every day. The real test will be to see how quickly the lot get cleared out during snow storms. Keep up the good work."--Ed McNeil
"Hi Mark, Could not agree with you more. We have been sold out.."--Beth R.
"I refer you to the December 19 issue of the Jewish Advocate to read a couple of rational letters of explanation, one by Jeffrey Glassman and the other by Nina Schneider concerning the sale of the Striar JCC. Many of us were hurt by the manner in which we received the information but that does not excuse your advice to our young Jewish families to not send them to Camp Grossman. "--Edie Brown
(To Edie, who was a PR/marketing person at JCC: "Rational letters? My thoughts are MORE than rational. In fact, my column has received over 100 responses---ALL agreeing with it. It hit the local Jewish population with the truth about how they have been treated. The JCC's of Greater Boston and CJP have abandoned this area, with the excuse of "Jewish flight." They have SOLD OUT their own people! They will hopefully discover the South of Boston area has Jewish FIGHT, not flight. No one should lay down and roll over when Jews trample Jews over money. There are NO excuses to be made, Edie. The CJP and JCC's of Greater Boston only understand their wallet. If young Jewish families find other camps, besides the two run by them, they will understand the pain they have inflicted."--Mark Snyder)
"Dear Mark: On behalf of Firefighter Jim Brackett and myself, Firefighter Jim Rush, I wanted to say thank you to you and all your readers who responded quickly and generously to my request for donations for the Harry Landman Committee. To say the response was overwhelming would be the understatement of the year. For those who don't know, the Harry Landman Committee sends care packages to Stoughton residents in the military away from home at Christmas. During the first week of December the Harry Landman Committee mailed packages to Stoughton residents serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and other foreign posts. This Committee/Project has gone on for decades and will continue to go on thanks to the generosity of the people of Stoughton. I want also to include a special thank you to Veteran's Agent Mike Pazyra and the Allied War Veteran's Council for their donation and advice. Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah to all."-- Fire Fighter Jim Rush
"Mark, Just wanted to take the opportunity to thank the volunteers who put together the Holiday Parade this year. My friends and I participated by planning, decorating and riding on the Mario’s Roofing Float, and I’m not sure who had more fun, us or the crowd watching the parade. The committee did an excellent job coordinating the parade and they should be commended for the time and effort they put into it. Also, it was nice to see so many town residents involved and enjoying it! We’re already planning our float for next year!"--Diane McAuley
"Hi Mark, It seems as though what I have read on your site about the JCC being bought by the YMCA is all negative. I for one am very excited about it and am looking forward to the change. I have been a member of the Easton YMCA for some time, but love the thought of one opening closer to me. I looked into programs at the JCC for my family and especially my children and found the prices to be unaffordable for our income. The Y offers discounted membership according to income and
discounted programs for members. My children have been taking swimming classes, karate, cooking, and a variety of other programs at the Y. They also have a large selection
of affordable summer camps for children with free bus transportation. In my opinion this is the best thing to happen in our town in a long time. I think that instead of everybody being upset, they should look at the positives
that the YMCA will bring to our town."-- Heather McGinley
"Mark: Your article, "Selling Out The Area's Jews--One Man's View”, was absolutely accurate. I commend you for expressing what many within the South Area Jewish Community feel. We were sold down the river by the arrogance of a JCC leadership from
"Mark, Best article you ever wrote ("Selling Out Area's Jews")-The truth!!!!!--M.L.
"Dear Friends, The great Unitarian preacher John Haynes Holmes of the Community Church in New York once wrote: “Most of us are fleshly beings. We live in the world of physical sensations and material objects. But this is the world in which we can most easily be reached and injured. We delight in the body—but the body can fall sick, and be wounded, and suffer pain, and grow old, and in the end must die. We cling to money—but money can be stolen, or lose its value, or swiftly disappear. We spend a lifetime perhaps in accumulating property—but property can be dissipated, or destroyed, and finally at death must be altogether surrendered. What wonder, then, in such a world, we are unhappy and most of the time consumed with fear?”
:To: Town Manager, Selectman, Fire Chief, and Police Chief.-- Today in the Boston Globe South there was a article about regional 911
dispatch. With the Stoughton Armory empty we can combine 3 or 4 towns
together to
have regional 911 service. The state will fund some of the design of
having a regional 911 service and the rest of the cost split between the
towns. At the next town meeting I will have a article to request that we
look into having a committee to work with Easton, Sharon, Randolph, and
Canton to have one 911 center. Since Stoughton has the building and is
central to the
other towns in makes sense to start this.
Here is the article that Boston South had. What is your feeling to
regionalize 911 service? Lets work together to be first in this. http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/12/07/four_towns_look_at_regional_911_dispatch. Stoughton should take the initiative start the ball rolling and look
forward! This week Stoughton town government should meet and discuss our
future and
then meet with other towns. Eventually we will have to be in regional 911,
so lets start the planning now!
Regards."--- Al Lipkind,
Town Meeting member precint 6
"While no one wants to live next to a landfill, prison or even a 'light industrial' area, my question is, if you don't want to, then why did you move to Greenbrook in the first place? The Canton light industry has been there for years, presumably long before you bought your condominium. As for this comment, 'Human needs or even lives don't matter for developers. They just want to make money, the public be damned!', since when is capitalism, private property rights and the concept of maximizing the highest and best use of one's resources a bad thing? Kennefick's demolition business, his vendors and his customers all contribute to the economy at some level. In times like this where we are in a recession, it makes no sense to curse and blame developers. We have zoning rules, EPA and Mass EPA oversight, sometimes to the point of absurdity. That is enough for the '"public' Blaming developer in these times however and trying to stop them makes no sense. Trickle Down Economics, a wonderful concept. Who is John Galt?"--M. Georges
"I tuned in during the show covering the opening for the Town Planner
position. I was particularly interested because I applied for that
very position based on my immersion in the initial Boston waterfront
development while residing at Harbor Towers and my volunteer position as Director of the IDFA. We ultimately approved more than 25 IRB
issues for almost a total of 39 million. No hassles, no politics, no
lies, no crap! Only benefits to the Town of Stoughton!
In addition, I must tell you that living at Greenbrook Condominiums,
from Day One, has been something less than an exquisite and rewarding experience! Since we are surrounded on two sides by Canton land that
is zoned for Light Industry, I have a history of many active
appearances at the Canton ZBA, beginning almost immediately with the
proposal by Kenefick for the relocation of his demolition business, including underground storage tanks of diesel fuel and gasoline
located up against the Greenbrook property! Human needs or even lives
don't matter for developers. They just want to make money, the public be damned!"-- R. Warren Ross
"Dear Mark,
"Mark, I would like to echo Al Lipkind's support for Marie! Anyone responsible for Marie to feel undermined from above or below should rectify that with her and get down on your knees, and beg her to reconsider - She is nothing but a positive force in Stoughton, professional, helpful, and willing to give above and beyond her job requirements to help and give extra time to do what is in the best interests of Stoughton. Whatever the problem, it is going to become real clear soon, and Stoughton can't afford to lose good people, especially at this critical time when the town needs to position itself for the tough times ahead. If this is some kind of political maneuvering, heads should roll. We have too much at stake for this kind of a fiasco to happen. If this resignation stands, we need to look soberly at our town government, and do some house cleaning."-- Rick Lynch
"To Board of Selectman and Town manager: Gentleman, I recently heard that Marie Chiofolo has submitted her resignation. If I was a member of the board of selectman I would ask
Marie to stay. She is a excellent
clerk, with the towns best interest at heart. She has been very helpful
when ever I call her or ask for her assistance. Please gentleman ask Marie
to stay and
work with her because she is FANTASTIC! You need someone to represent the
town to fight the State in reference to the train coming, Marie would be the
one to win. Please
see if she will stay, because it is impossible to find a Clerk as good as
Marie Chiofolo!!"--
Al Lipkind
"We are writing to you today to share some important news about the Striar Jewish Community Center (Striar JCC). In the 20 years since the Striar JCC opened, the Center has provided an inviting place for South Area Jews to meet for health and fitness, for cultural experiences, innovative family and special needs services, senior programming and exceptional preschool classes.
During this same time, the Jewish population in the South Area, mirroring a wider trend in Greater Boston, has spread out beyond the Jewish hubs of Sharon, Stoughton and Randolph. These demographic shifts have reduced the ability of a central facility in Stoughton to serve an increasingly dispersed South Area Jewish community, and have resulted in far fewer Jewish families being served by the Striar JCC.
After considerable work by external experts, review by two volunteer task forces, and consultation with Combined Jewish Philanthropies, we have made the necessary, but very difficult decision to transition our services out of the Striar JCC to a community-based model.
Change often brings opportunity as well, and our future plans build upon successes we have already had in other communities. Together with CJP, we are committed to serving the needs of the South Area Jewish community. We have developed a comprehensive plan that will ensure continuity of services and programming, and we are launching an exciting new service delivery model that addresses the changing needs of the South Area Jewish community and provides high quality programming that will reach even more South Area Jewish families.
The Striar facility has been acquired by the Old Colony YMCA, which will continue to provide health and fitness services to you as of March 1, 2009. Based out of Brockton and with historic ties to the Jewish community, the Old Colony Y shares with the JCC a commitment of service to the community. The Old Colony YMCA serves thirty-one communities in Southeastern Massachusetts with programs for all ages and abilities. We could not have found a better partner to work with in this transition, nor a better provider for our members.
Our Early Learning Center will operate without any interruption, ensuring a smooth transition for all families and children. Preschool classes will continue at the Striar JCC through June 2009; thereafter, the JCC preschool will move to a new location, which we are in the process of negotiating, with the same high quality curriculum, leadership and staff.
Similarly, the afterschool program will continue without interruption. After the transition, Old Colony Y will run the afterschool and summer camp programs. The JCC will continue to offer preschool summer camp at our new location and day camp at JCC Camp Grossman in Westwood.
We remain committed to providing exceptional Jewish programming as well, through partnerships with other local venues, which will allow us to be more convenient to emerging Jewish communities, more responsive to the changing needs of Jewish families, and more collaborative with Jewish communal partners.
We recognize, of course, that this transition is not an easy one to make. For 20 years the Striar JCC has been an integral part of many people's Jewish life and experience. We acknowledge that this change will be met with great sadness and we recognize the loss that we will feel as a community.
The JCC's mission is to serve the Jewish population in Greater Boston by providing a gateway for involvement in the whole Jewish community and by supporting the aspirations of a diverse and pluralistic local Jewish community.
We look forward to working with the entire South Area community and with the Old Colony YMCA as we implement our new plans. We are confident that the commitments to our current members will be met and are excited about the new opportunities to engage even more people in Jewish life across the South Area."--Jeffrey Savit, JCCGB Board Chairman & Mark Sokoll, JCCGB President & CEO
(NOTE FROM MARK SNYDER: After reading the above letter, I have put on my boots. The B.S. is piled way to high for me to avoid stepping in!)
"Dear Mark, I read with great sadness your article outlining the new changes at the Striar JCC. It will certainly be a great loss for the Jewish community of the South Shore. Regarding the concern for the future of Jewish Preschool in Stoughton, I want to remind the community that Shaloh House Preschool & Kindergarten is a nurturing Jewish school operating in Stoughton since 1978. We offer care for children age 15 months through kindergarten. Our classrooms are all high quality, developmentally appropriate and fun places for children to fall in love with yiddishkeit and learning!Our staff are the best! Licensed by the state and continuously involved in educational workshops, courses and continuing ed. programs; our teachers are committed to meeting the individual learning needs of the children in our care. The school is open for early drop off at 7:30am, individual classrooms begin at 9 am and the morning program ends at noon. We provide an optional lunch hour and a variety of extended day options. The school closes after extended day at 6:00pm Monday through Thursday and promptly at 3:00pm on Friday. Our scheduling options are available to meet every family's individual needs. Best of all Shaloh House Preschool & Kindergarten is not owned by another entity. We have been here since 1978 and will continue to be here. Information for the upcoming school year can be obtained by calling 781-344-6334. Our website address is WWW.ShalohHouse.com."-- Marilyn Rabinovitz, Shaloh House Preschool & Kindergarten Director
"Mark: On Friday, November 28 Scoutmaster Mark Racicot and the scouts of Troop 516 participated in the annual Senior Citizens Salt & Sand Program. They had one of their best years ever, delivering 51 buckets of salt and sand to seniors throughout Stoughton. On behalf of Stoughton Friends For Seniors, I want to commend Scoutmaster Mark Racicot and Troop 516 for another successful Salt & Sand community service program. We were honored to have Troop 516 partner with us in our efforts to assist our senior citizens. The scouts gave up their Friday holiday to help make the lives of the elderly of our town a little safer from slippery walks and driveways this winter. They are to be commended for their hard work and truly knowing the meaning of “giving back to the community”. The Scouts are a credit to their troop, their parents, and themselves. We are truly grateful for all their hard work."---Stoughton Friends For Seniors, Lorraine J. McCarthy, Secretary
"Mark, I would like to inform you that long time Stoughtou resident Roger Pushee (Pushee field), has started a petition drive to save Stoughton little league. Roger is one of the original founding fathers of little league in our town. Roger along with several other volunteers cleared the land and built the seven little league fields, that the Stoughton children and their parents have been enjoying for the past 56 years. Roger has asked to be heard at the December 2nd, Board of Selectmans meeting. Roger has asked for support in keeping little league history alive in our town. Everyone interested in the future of little league baseball, a non profit, is asked to attend the selectmans meeting, or call and inform the selectman that 56 years of baseball history deserves more than the slap in the face it received at the meeting of Oct. 21st. Mark, could you please inform the people of Stoughton that some of us plan on keeping little league in Stoughton. Thanks. Peace."-- Bill Ward
"Mark,
I hope this note finds you well. I just wanted to drop a line to you about our upcoming football game. This is a big week for Stoughton. After the speeches at the pep rally have been made, after Stoughton walks all over Canton on Thursday, after everyone has eaten more desserts than vegetables on Thanksgiving, after you have made it through the busiest shopping day of the year on Friday, and after you have finished the leftovers on Saturday, Sunday at the Community Field will be the site of the most fierce competition this side of the of the Neponset River. At last years Police/Fire football game we collected over 100 toys for Toys for Tots. We hope we can top that this year. The police department has not prevailed over our friends on Freeman St., but this could be our year. On Sunday, November 30 at noon, come down and cheer us on. Admission is free, but we will be collecting new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and good luck to the Black Knights on Thursday."--
John Bonney,
Wide Receiver
"Dear Mark, The Stoughton Firefighters, along with the Harry Landman Committee, will be accepting names of Stoughton residents in the armed forces away from home at Christmas time. These soldiers, sailors, airman and marines will recieve a Christmas Care package thanking them for their service and sacrifice on behalf of all Stoughton residents. Names should be submitted in writing no later than Monday December 1 to the Fire station at 30 Freeman Street to the attention of either FF Jim Rush or FF Jim Brackett. The only requirement for a package is that the serviceperson is a Stoughton resident. These packages consist of gum, candy, cookies, toiletries, books, babywipes and a Christmas card from all Stoughton residents. A special thank you to all those people who responded generously to my previous email to help keep this great project going strong. Happy Thanksgiving!"-- Sincerely, FF Jim Rush
Funny Business at Page Place? " Mark, we met at last Thursday night's zoning board meeting. Briefly, we discussed that Attorney Stephen David, trustee of the Page Place Condo Trust, did not see that water and sewer bills were paid to the Town of Stoughton. In turn, the individual condo owners had a special assessment on their property tax bill issued this month. This is unfair on the part of both the Page Place Condo Trust and the Town of Stoughton in view of the fact that the water and sewer fees were components of the monthly condo fee paid by the condo owners to the trust. I discussed this situation with an agent of Camber Realty, the realtor handling unit sales for the Page Place developer. She confirmed that the fees in question were covered by the monthly condo fee, I understand that some of the unit owners have independently sent letters to the condo trustee about the unfair special assessment and other issues such as infrequent trash disposal, safety issues such as missing bulbs in the elevator, incomplete painting of common areas, and lack of heat in the halls. The whole situation is very distressing, especially to some of the owners who are 40B owners and or seniors. By the way, the $194.95 special assessment, per unit owner, consisted of: Interest- $6.63, Water-$86.94, Sewer-$101.38. It looks like the Page Place developer is trying to unfairly recoup some of the monies paid out for the clock in the town square. If you learn of anything, please advise."---Name Withheld Upon Request
(Addendum: " Mark, It turns out that the condo association has remitted the water and sewer fees to the town. In turn, the town marked the condo owner's tax liens as paid, It shows what the power of the press can do.' --Name Withheld)
"Dear Mr. Snyder:
Recently my mother and cousin bought Best Pal's in Stoughton, formerly the Stoughton Coffee House.
I want to host a free Thanksgiving dinner for people who can't afford it or just don't want to spend the day alone. I was hoping you could mention it on your show so people in elderly homes and other lonely or struggling people in Stoughton will hear about it. It will take place from 12 to 4 and the diner is located on 79 Canton St. If anyone wants more information or would like to help with donations or making food they can contact me at 781-727-9457 or e-mail me.
Thank you for your time."--
Anna Fegan
"Hi Mark--Happy Halloween! I happen to hear from someone today at work that there is a plan underway to construct up to 150 condos on Lambert Avenue near the senior center? Do you know anything about these and with what looks like a small area of land, is this future project going to be a high-rise brick monstrosity? With all of the new complexes that I read about, are there plans to add teachers and update our school infrastructure? Thanks Mark "--Jim Pernock
"Mark: Let me ask you a question. I remember you writing extensively about the way that Gerry Goulston got rid of Chief Cachopa a few years ago. Yet, the selectmen are doing the same thing to our poor town manager. They have had no public hearings regarding firing him, yet they are huddling behind closed doors trying to pay him off and send him out the door. Why aren't you all over this, or are you just turning a blind eye to this because you agree?"--(Name Withheld Upon Request)
"Dear Stoughton Town Official or Concerned Citizen: I write to you today to relay the latest information available to me regarding how the current national economic crisis has impacted the state budget and what that may mean to Stoughton. As you know, and likely are experiencing, the current national economic crisis gripping our nation has spread from Wall Street all across the nation and to your hometown. The sudden economic downturn has left many states, Massachusetts among them, facing the prospect of substantial budget deficits for Fiscal Year 2009. The Department of Revenue has reported that first quarter tax collections fell $223 million short of the benchmark for a balanced budget and anticipates this trend to continue. It is clear that a balanced budget will require shared sacrifice across the state and at all levels of government. The state budget for FY09 is $28.2 billion. Since 2001, state spending has increased by $6.7 billion, which translates to an average annual increase of 3.5%. Of this increase, $5.6 billion came in two areas: $5 billion in Medicaid and health care costs, including health care reform and $600 million in education. There has been a 16% increase in funding for Ch. 70 combined with an average $200 million increase in general aid to municipalities which helps offset the need to increase property taxes, fees, etc. The remaining increase in spending for all other areas of state government over the last eight years totals only $1.1 billion, or approximately 1% growth each year. Confronting the reality that we are facing at least a $1.4 billion revenue shortfall this year, Governor Patrick announced budget cuts totaling $822.5 million. The cuts were spread across all areas of government, although education, health and human services were hardest hit, as they comprise the largest portions of state spending – 21%, 36%, and 13%, respectively. At this point local aid and Chapter 70 school funding have not been reduced. This is thanks, in part, to the healthy balance in the state’s Stabilization or Rainy Day Fund, which in 2007 ranked as the nation’s 2nd highest with $2.3 billion in savings. Although the Legislature and Governor have committed to looking to local aid only as a last resort, the situation remains fluid. State Treasurer Cahill recently announced that he expects Lottery revenues to drop by 1.5% this year potentially resulting in a $17 million shortfall in local aid. While this potential shortfall represents only a fraction of the over $4.6 billion in local aid budgeted this year, it is indicative of the mounting fiscal pressure we face at every level of government. I will continue to seek to protect local aid accounts to the greatest extent possible while providing you and your town officials with the most up-to-date information to assist your budget planning as we navigate this fiscal crisis. On November 4th, Massachusetts voters will be faced with a question that will have direct impact on the future of local aid, state services, and taxes – Question 1 – the repeal of the state income tax. The repeal of the income tax would wipe out $12.5 billion in state revenues and require across-the-board cuts of some of some 71% in areas of non-mandated spending, which would include local aid. This devastating drop in revenue would affect not only state services, but cities and towns, who will be left with few resources as they try to keep schools open and police on the streets. I am thankful for the opportunity to be your advocate in the Massachusetts Senate and I welcome your input as we look for innovative and efficient solutions to our fiscal crisis. Please know that I am working hard to ensure that we continue to protect our seniors, invest in our schools, and increase public safety without overburdening state and local taxpayers. I always welcome your thoughts, suggestions, or questions and can be reached through my office (617-722-1643), my home (617-696-0200) or via e-mail (Brian.A.Joyce@state.ma.us)."--State Senator Brian A. Joyce (D-Milton)
"Hi Mark, I read recently in your column that there are issues with the town taking over the t station due to costs. What if the town took over the station and sold naming rights to the station. The "Target T Stop" has a nice ring to it. I don't think it would be too hard to figure out the annual cost of operating and maintaining the building. We could then allow a local coffee shop to rent space in the building. If we could get some of our big companies to commit to advertising etc. it could work. I would think Ikea could be convinced that having a shuttle from the t station to Ikea would help business by drawing city customers without cars to the store as well. Just a thought."-- Brian McGivern
"Hi Mark, Just few additional words about the transition and the selectmen meeting. For the past several years the Stoughton Little League Board of Directors has reviewed and discussed potentially moving from our affiliation with Little League; this year we made the decision. The decision was not taken lightly, we interviewed the Cal Ripken District Administrator, towns which have recently made the change, towns which are in the transition process, towns which have been affliated with Cal Ripken for several years, along with the Little League District 8 Administrator. We continue to seek feedback from surrounding towns, league coaches and parents as we move forward with our transition. As the current board, our mission is to constantly pursue the best path not the easiest path. This means making decisions for the betterment of the 550+ children in the organization, not just a select group. We will fulfill alI obligations of the Elm Street Complex License Agreement and I eagerly look forward to the next chapter as Stoughton Youth Baseball. In parting, I would be remiss not to acknowledge all the time, effort and hard work previous Stoughton Little League Boards and league members have dedicated. I will promised that I will do everything I can to lead Stoughton Youth Baseball to the next level while creating an environment all members can be proud of."---Dan Skiba
"Hi Mark,Stoughton residents should know that Bay Road is still the "preferred access" for the Brickstone Sharon LLC development (Sharon Hills). The October 16 meeting is on sharontv.com but here are some of the more interesting points. John Twohig Esq; for the developer confirmed that: * there have been 2 meetings with the Town of Stoughton and he thought "dialogue would be ongoing" * Brickstone Sharon LLC will apply for an access permit from Stoughton Public Works Department in order to bring the proposed "Sharon Hills Driveway" (the entrance) onto Bay Road, ( therefore, into Stoughton). * the proposed "entrance" is within 100 feet of Stoughton wetlands and will require a "determination" from Stoughton Conservation Committee.There are also very important documents on the Town of Sharon web page, relating to the October 16 meeting, which show Stoughton roads that will be impacted by the "anticipated" construction traffic. The proposed site plan is also available. (www.townofsharon.net) Sharon residents are very anxious that the driveway onto Bay should be constructed as soon as possible. Stoughton residents should ask....... ........WHY???"-- Mary
"Mark, I called the tax office at the town hall today to find out when I will be receiving my Tax bill, because it is overdue. I also wanted to know if the town assessor has dropped the home values in proportion with the housing market free fall of home values. Well the answer that I got was a real shocker. They told me that home values have been adjusted, but our taxes were raised, so we will be paying more in taxes this year than last. "We need the money to run the town" she said. I also was told that the tax bills will go out around the 24th of October. Now because the town could not get the tax bills out on time, they are going to have to borrow the money from The Bank of America at a 4% interest rate. Is that any way to run a town? They don't care how they spend our money. Have they been under a rock for the last eight months? There are only two conclusions. Either they don't know what they are doing or we just can't trust them. Take your pick."--Richard Carlton
(Richard: I wrote an extensive column on that, and spoke out against the increase at the Selectmen's meeting where it was announced by Assessor Paula Keefe.--Mark)
"Hi Mark:
The comment from Mr Yaitaines has been duly noted by the School Department . The problem Mr Yiatanes is alluding to has been on going for a year now.
The School Department has been and remains in the process of repainting the seating for the past year. Currently 2/3 of the seating has been re-painted.
The problem , although annoying , does not present a health risk for patrons attending Stoughton Sports Activities. Mr Sarno has stated that he will continue to address this problem and have the remaining seats completed in the very near future!"-- Allan Mills-Chair-Stoughton School Committee.
"Mark, Last Friday night I attended the High School football game. My son's mite football team had a scrimmage with the other mite team for a halftime show. This was my first game in years. The fiberglass seats on the bleachers are producing dust, so much in fact I feel the the stadium should be shut down until the problem is fixed. It was actually drizzling fiberglass in the air, you could see it. My throat was killing me from it. The person next to me had a dark blue sweatshirt on and it looked as though it had been sprayed with glitter. I talked to other parents that said they knew people that had rashes from it last year...Imagine? Rashes? Isn't anyone complaining that the safety of the students in the band and the parents and friends that sit there on those bleachers is being jeopardized? Anyone can contact me to let me know what needs to be done to fix this problem so that we can fix it, call me at 781-341-4747. I have concerns not only for today but I have 4 small children that are headed to SHS in a few years and their safety is my concern. I have sent a similar letter to the principle and asst principle of SHS and to other key people so as to bring attention to this matter. On the positive side...the game was great, SHS won and the halftime show of the mighty mites and the performance by the band was better than fantastic."-- Phil Yaitanes
"Hi Mark, I was at the Gibbons School today and a parent asked me what happened in my neighborhood (Pheasant Hill Development.) I had no idea and then she shared that someone had driven on some of the lawns. I drove through the neighborhood today and saw what she was talking about. It is horrible. People have doughnut marks from tires in their front yards and one yard actually had tracks that went from the driveway to the side, around the back of the house, and out the other side. Have you heard anything about this?"-- Beth Rawl
(Beth, there are idiot kids in every town. I think one visited your part of the woods.---Mark)
"Dear Colleague: As you all know, the national economy -- and the financial system on which the economy relies -- is under significant stress. As the impact spreads to local businesses and families, it has now spread to the state budget. By the end of September, state revenues for the first quarter of this fiscal year are $223 million below benchmark, excluding non-recurring receipts; when you count those one-time receipts, we are $143 million off. While these numbers reflect only the first three months of the fiscal year, and are only a fraction of a percent of our budget, they signal worse news ahead. The national economic slowdown, tightening credit and its impact on business activity and consumer spending, market volatility and its effect on capital gains all require us to take further steps now to assure a balanced budget. These results do not catch us by surprise. Since March, we have implemented spending restrictions, imposed hiring controls, eliminated non-essential spending, and enacted a host of streamlining measures throughout state government. We come to this moment prepared to address the challenges we face. Today I have directed the Secretary of Administration and Finance to recalculate the revenue estimate for this fiscal year. She will complete that task by October 15th. On the basis of that new estimate, I will cut spending under Section 9C. I fully anticipate that this will affect both programs and our workforce. In addition to short-term spending cuts, I have proposed a number of reforms to address our long-term fiscal health. We will work with you to assure that the outcome is fair, reasonable and responsible for you and our fellow citizens of Massachusetts. And we will do our best to keep you informed of our efforts and decisions as we work through them. I do not take these steps lightly. I have not and will not lose sight of the value of your service to the Commonwealth and the benefit of your work to your family. I know the road ahead will be rough. But we must keep going. The responsibility we have and the commitment we make is to govern for tomorrow, not just today. Now, more than ever, we will lean on the sense of community and shared responsibility that I have always believed was critical to assuring a better future for us all. Thank you for your continued dedication to the people of Massachusetts."--Governor Deval L. Patrick
"Hi Mark, This is probably too late to have it announced in your column this friday, but South Shore Habitat for Humanity-Stoughton LPC will be having a collection on Saturday, October 4 at Shaw's. As you know we are building the first Habitat home in Stoughton and still need funding. If people want to stop by and make any donations or sign up as a volunteer, they just need to go down to Shaws Saturday and see one of the volunteers. Also, we'll be doing our first build on Saturday, October 18th. We have the volunteers and we are very excited about starting the building of this home. And lastly, perhaps we could come on your show again and this time have the architect present the final plans of the home? We could update people on what's been going on over the last few years our committee has been meeting."--Denise Lochiatto, Outreach Coordinator, South Shore Habitat for Humanity-Stoughton LPC
"Hi Mark: Any chance you can get a status on the
Mr Snyder, I am a history teacher at Stoughton High School and I am excited to bring to your attention a project my students have been working on for several weeks. I teach an elective course for upperclassmen entitled "The American War in Vietnam" and my students have studied Stoughton's local heroes who fought and died for their country during the Vietnam War. 10 soldiers died in the Vietnam War from Stoughton and only seven of them currently have blue memorial squares dedicated to them around town. All 41 of my students (including some of their parents and friends) have written letters requesting memorial squares for the 3 soldiers who died fighting for their country and have yet to be honored in town with such a square. These letters were sent to the director of Veterans' Services and to the Board of Selectmen in hopes that a dedication ceremony this November 11th could rectify this situation. I write to you in hopes that you might bring my students' efforts to the attention of your readers/viewers and put further pressure onto the Selectmen to honor these men this November. I have talked with both Mike Pazyra (Director of Veterans' Services) and Selectmen Joe Mokrisky and both have indicated that granting a request by non-family members is very possible. Mr. Mokrisky has also indicated that he would like to come into my class and speak with my students about the specifics in order to have a dedication ceremony on Veterans Day in November.I appreciate your anticipated help in this matter and I thank you for your time."--Mike Ingrao, Stoughton High School, Social Studies Dept.
"Mark, on behalf of Stoughton Friends For Seniors, I want to thank everyone who supported our 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. The support we received from our Corporate Sponsor, Canam Steel Corporation to the many local businesses, families and friends, too many to name, who come out every year to support our fundraising efforts is so greatly appreciated.We are so thankful to our many local officials, Selectmen Steve Anastos and Joe Mokrisky, School Superintendent Tony Sarno and Acting Police Chief Tom Murphy who continuously support so many charitable events in our town. And also to you, Mark, thank you for always advertising our events on your web page and in your newspaper column. Your continued support means so much to our organization. Again, thank you to all our supporters who partnered with us this year to make our 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament a success. I hope you will consider joining us again next year."--Stoughton Friends For Seniors, Lorraine J. McCarthy, Secretary
"Hey Snyder, take off your sunglasses and look around. It doesn't matter about that suit by Manny against Joe and Gerry. It is going nowhere. You should be writing about the continued extension of his criminal trial, now heading on four years, and the taxpayers of this town paying the bill! The selectmen need to step up and shut off the faucet from our pockets to his. Enough is enough." (Name withheld upon request)
"Hello Mark- We were wondering if we could get the announcement for Mass Khaos Fast Pitch Softball in your column or the sports section. We play competitive fast pitch tournament softball and basically practice all year round. ( Indoors once every two weeks at Extra Innings) I have been doing this for 3 years and after starting out with a U12 team, we now have a U10 , two U14's and a U16. The plans for the upcoming season are (2) U14's a U16 aU18 and a U12. These teams are based out of Stoughton with some players and coaches from Norton and Sharon. Tryouts will be as follows; Saturday September 20 @ West School on Central St. in Stoughton from noon to 2:00 for U18 and U16 , and from 2:00-4;00 for the U14 and U12. The girls birthday as of January 1, 2009 will determine what classification. Please call Paul Casano at 781-510-9146 for more details. Thank you for any assistance you can provide."-- Sincerely, Tim Manning
"Mark, On response to your looking for the last Stoughton Little league team to go deep in the District 8 Championships was the 1986 Stoughton American team who won the district 8 Championship. Clint Mathews was the head coach. Thanks"-- Pete Everett Jr. (Member of this team)
"Mark: I just read your article about the Building Inspector being grilled by the Selectmen on the Gill property. Although I was in attendance at the Selectmen’s meeting that evening, I was terribly disappointed in the Building Inspector. He did not at anytime mention my name during the public portion of his presentation. However, he waited until you followed him out of the meeting and during your interview in the hallway he accused me and Town Counsel with not getting back to him on the subject of the Gill property. Evidently Mr. Tonis believed he needed direction from me and/or Town Counsel on how to proceed with the court order. The court order was very explicit and laid out all the steps he had to follow to carry out the judge’s order. He had received a letter from Town Counsel informing him that Mr. Gill and his attorney were not happy with the judge’s order and might appeal it. Please note the reference to “might appeal it”. Mr. Tonis did not need to hear from myself or Town Counsel to carry out the court order. Why does he now try to put the blame on other people. He told Selectmen Kowalczyk that he spoke to me on a daily basis about the court case. We did not speak on a daily basis, but did talk of the progress of the court case quite frequently. When the judge handed down her verdict I congratulated Mr. Tonis on a job well done, thinking he would pursue the court order. It was his responsibility to see the court order enforced. The possibility of an appeal should never have stopped him from proceeding to enforce the order. Mr Tonis may not have a badge, but he had a very specific court order to enforce. Why he waited to hear from me or Town Counsel doesn’t make any sense. Mr. Tonis fought for that court order like a pit bull and after he received it, he sat on it (for seven years, waiting to hear from Town Counsel). If you believed the property was such a danger to public safety, wouldn’t you keep calling Town Counsel until he paid some attention to you? I certainly would have. Mr. Gill and his attorney never filed an appeal, because the Town (through its Building Inspector) never took any action to enforce the court order. Isn’t it strange that seven years later Mr. Tonis needs to blame me and Town Counsel for his inability to perform his responsibilities under the law. Thank God no one was injured or killed during those seven years that passed and nothing was ever done by the Building Inspector."--Jeanne Fleming, Retired Town Manager
Hi Mark,
I just wanted to comment that I drive through the center of town several times a day and I am thrilled
to see the work being done on the old movie theatre building. I know the property was recently sold and
although I don't know who purchased it, I am glad they
did. It seems that they are looking to improve the
building, thus improving the Center. It is looking
great already and I can't wait to see what becomes of
it when it is done. I just hope that we will someday
see the Theatre reopen. Thanks very much to the new
owners."--
Heather McGinley
"I am writing this letter in response to an article that appeared in the Thursday, July 10th Boston Globe South Weekly publication entitled "Ex-Stoughton Officer is denied a new trial". First of all, to clear the air, I am David Cohen's father and I attended my son's trial from the beginning. I watched as court officers stationed at the inside entry way banned courtroom access to all but family members during the jury selection process. I cannot for the life of me understand how Judge Barbara A. Dortch-Okara could possibly rule in her findings, "that the courtroom was not closed to the public even though court officers at times closed the doors when the courtroom was crowded." Judge Barbara A. Dortch-Okara presided over both the trial and subsequent evidentiary hearing and during that hearing, the judge heard the testimony of 18 or so subpoenaed witnesses, who stated under oath that they were banned from the courtroom during the jury selection process. One additional witness was the head court officer, Larry Sullivan, who stated, again, under oath, that it has been the court practice (over the past 25 years) to close the courtroom to observers during the jury selection process. My understanding is that denying access to the courtroom during jury selection is unconstitutional (depriving the accused of his/her constitutional right to a fair and open trial) and as such, can jeopardize each conviction. Imagine when the word of these past closings gets out how many convicted individuals will then be able to successfully appeal their convictions and be released. Perhaps this is the very reason why the IN-JUSTICE SYSTEM is dragging its feet on the appeal process. David Cohen, who was convicted for doing his job, should not be in jail as the appeal which is feared for the above reasons will bear out."---Roy Cohen
"Hi Mark, my name is Rick Foye, I am a Stoughton resident and a Master Sergeant in the U.S Army currently serving in Iraq. I ran into SGM Kelly over here in Iraq a while back. I have a picture of the two of us together taken just outside Baghdad International Airport which I have enclosed. By the way, I read your article about SGM Kelly online. I enjoy reading the articles on your website, it's a great way to stay in tune with what is going on back home in Stoughton."-- MSG Richard A. Foye
(You can write Rick in Iraq: rick.foye@us.army.mil Let's let him know that his fellow Stoughton residents are thinking of him! ---Mark)
Hi Mark---I wish that I had a lot more time to dedicate to the challenges that I perceive our wonderful town of Stoughton seems to be facing, but unfortunately, your column and my making some comments is all that I can do at this point in time. Today while taking a look through the Pennysaver, I noticed the accouncement regarding the town meeting on the 200 units of apartments and another strip mall that some,what I am sure are, out of town developers are looking to put in across from the Hansen School on Central Street. I remember a couple of years ago going to a meeting to voice my concern about 200 condos and a storage facility that developers were looking to put there and I am wondering if this is the same group? In any case Mark, I certainly hope that our good leaders and concerned citizens come together to fight this newest potential travesty. Like my comments or not, as I have said in the past, Stoughton is on a path to becoming a little Brockton, no offense to the good citizens of our neighboring city, but I don't want my town looking like a city or having city problems, (crime, drain on services, out of control traffic and urban sprawl ugliness). If I remember correctly, the original project was conceived by developers from Westwood or their lawyers arguing for it were from Westwood! I would like to know if they would ever consider putting a project such as they are trying to put in our town in Westwood? I doubt it very much. The people in that town would string them up by their toenails! Really though Mark, The traffic in that area is way beyond out of control as it is in many other areas of this town. Our schools, especially the very outdated West and Hansen Schools cannot handle so many more students and the last thing we need to look at is more brick 3 story buildings full of people that are mostly there because it is the newest cheapest place that the state will put them up in. On top of that, we most definitely do not need another strip mall! Has everyone seen all of the vacant store fronts around town including the new Planet Fitness Plaza that is totally empty with the exception of that gym. We do not need to look at more vacant buildings. I also believe that Stoughton has reached or surpassed the 10% affordability target! Has Westwood, Easton, Sharon and Milton? I don't believe so! Mark, these apartment complexes are bringing in a type of citizen that is not interested in what is best for this town,it is fact! Of course there are some good people, that goes without saying, but just like everything else, moderation is key and Stoughton has done its' share at this point. A couple of years ago the mayor of Taunton attributed the sharp spike in crime in that city to there being so many affordable units being added. Unfortunately, regardless of the fact that there are good people that take up residence in apartment complexes, there is also a large number that aren't so good that do as well. That is where the moderation comes in to play that I speak of. Limit the numbers of these large complexes in one town and be better able to control the cons of having them. It is time for the aforementioned communities do more now! Stoughton has done enough. Mark, I work delivering mail here in town and I can tell you this. When you hear the pro-development folks talk about how these types of developments are good for the citizens of this community, that they will give the people of Stoughton access to housing that they cannot afford they are mistaken. I deliver the mail to all of the new apartments in town and I would have to say that 80%-90% of the change of addresses that I see for people moving into these developments are from the inner city neighborhoods of Boston, not Stoughton or even local communities. Stoughton is one of a number of communities in my opinion that the good mayor of Boston is utilizing to push people into that his re-gentrification of the old Boston neighborhoods is driving out. It is cheaper to live in Stoughton than it is to live in what used to be considered very bad neighborhoods of Boston. That is all fine and good but where is the money to handle what is being pushed on us? When will we be able to update our very outdated school system or better yet, how about building some new facilities. Brockton for some reason has 5-7 new schools and Stoughton can't even get money to update science labs? Before we go adding potentially hundreds of more students to our system, let's worry about cleaning up all of the run down neighborhoods and graffiti and trash around the center neighborhoods. Lets clean up our schools on the inside and get our kids the tools that they need to be successful. Let's utilize already developed but vacant sites before we level more land and forest to add more that we cannot handle. Lets take Stoughton back before we become the next Brockton, Taunton or New Bedford. This development is one to fight but I am also wondering about the large complex proposed by Conroy Development in North Stoughton? The poor people on that end of town can't even get out of their driveways anymore! Is this development a go or is there time to stop it as well? I believe Conroy spoke of extending the "T" bus line from Randolph to their new nightmare they are proposing as well? That should be helpful because it will just be a transplanted Boston neighborhood anyway! Marjk-Please leave my last name off of this message! Thank you."--Jim (Last name withheld by request)
"Dear Town Manager, Selectman, and Town Clerk:
In reference to the selectmans meeting on August 26, 2008 there was a
discussion on the Community Preservation implementation for the town of
Stoughton. There was disscusion on
how many members that should be on the community preservation board. I
feel that having nine members would be positive. Having the addition four
members from the town to represent
the public interest would be a wonderful. However assigning one of the
four to be a selectman might be a conflict of interest and political. Any
resident can request funds for CPA projects including a selectman. None
of the other boards in town are required to have a selectman as a member,
including the powerful Stoughton Finance committee. Lets keep the politics out of the CPA board.
Regards."--
Al Lipkind
"Mark, do you have a mailing address for Sgt. Jimmy Kelly in Iraq. I would like to encourage fellow Stoughton residents to send him a little gift basket from time to time. Perhaps you could find out what kinds of things they need over in Iraq. Even if Jimmy doesn't personally need anything, I'm sure he can find some fellow troops who would appreciate a little gift from home. As you know, Jimmy has been around a long time. I believe he has 20 years of service in the Army. Life is difficult and dangerous in Iraq and as you have stated, I'm sure Jimmy would like to hear from the people back home in Stoughton. I first had the pleasure of meeting Jimmy more than 15 years ago when his kids and my kids played soccer and little league together. I know he felt strongly about serving his country in Iraq. He is a great guy who has voluntarily put himself in harms way. Stay well Jimmy, Thank you for your service, and come home safely."-- Norm Wortzman
(Norm, nice thought. I asked Jim if he wanted the town to send him anything, and he said he has everything he needs. But, he can always use emails from his friends and fellow residents. He can be reached at james.kelly@iraq.centcom.mil---Mark)
"Mark, The top of the Stoughton news page is out dated and sloppy looking. For starters, how long must we endure viewing the "Cable Survey", the "Sex Offender Link" and finally "Walgreen's Plaza being sold". This is old news. Who cares already about Walgreens Plaza being sold? Also, why the ads before the local news? Vewry sloppy presentation even though it might pay your bills. Enough already about the number of hits you receive. You do an excellant job on fairly reporting the local news and events. Don't let your ego get in the way!"-- Donald Smith, Knowlsbrook Resident
Also a great supporter of Friends For Seniors, Len St. Jean will be joining us at Lakeville. Len, one of the most solid and dependable offensive linemen the Patriot Football Franchise ever had will be signing autographs and playing in our tournament. We also have some great raffle prizes. These are just a few: Overnight Stay and Dinner for 2 at Foxwoods Casino and Resort; Overnight Stay and Breakfast for 2 at the Marriott Courtyard; Mass Bay Lines Harbor Cruise for 6; Autograph Patriots Footballs; Autograph Celtic Jo Jo White Picture Matted; and Framed pictures of the Patriots, Red Sox and Celtic Players; 2 Patriots Players Association, Greg Norman Golf Shirts Donated by Len St. Jean; Sport Wine and Gift baskets. Attached is our flyer reflecting the changes. If anyone has any questions they can call my husband, Dennis or me at 781-341-0158. They can also E-mail me. My E-mail address is: lorrainemccarthy@comcast.net .
"Hello Mr. Snyder, This is a true story, that I believe, shows just how 'political' segments of the town of Stoughton can be. I had heard in the past that you had to know someone to play the “Concerts in the Park” series of concerts that are held on Sundays during the summertime, but I never knew how connected you had to be. I am a local musician who has lived in Stoughton for over ten years. The band that I play in has won awards in Tennessee and so has its singer. Last January, I went to the Town Hall and spoke to a very nice person who gave me the contact number for the person from the Lions Organization. I called that number and spoke to the person’s wife and was told to call back in a week, so I did. When I called back, I was told that no decisions have been made yet and to call back in a month, so I did. When I called back that time I was told that the Lions were having a meeting the very next week and that I should call back after that, so I did. The person that I spoke to, the same person that I had spoken to from the very beginning, said that they were very busy and that they were giving up the position of booking the bands and that I should wait to find out who is taking over. So in one week, I called back. I finally got to speak with the man in charge of booking bands. He roughly told me that the Lions Club was out of money and that if they got any more that he would call me. He also said that he booked bands that have been there before because they have always played there. When I asked him if he had my number he replied, “If we took your number, we have your number”, then, he hung up.I called a selectman to find out what was going on. He said that he would check into it and indeed he did. He told me that people he spoke to said that the Lions Club was out of money. Only three concerts could be put on because of the limited funds. The Lions Club, like a quasi board, has soul control of the Concerts in the Park series, they raise the money as a private group to fund this series and they choose the bands they play there. The Lions Club chose a band from Brockton, another band from Brockton, and a band from Boston. Oh yeah, one of the bands from Brockton played in the park a second time so they must have lost my number, surprise! Am I supposed to just be quiet, not make any waves, and let the same old same old continue? What ever happened to showcasing local talent? Bands in this town need support too. Maybe change is needed when only outside bands are selected to play. I don’t appreciate being lied, I don’t appreciate being spoken to roughly, and I don’t appreciate what is going on. This needs to change."--Joe Lemire
(This letter was also sent to the Board of Selectmen): "Gentleman,
We have many committees in Stoughton, Conservation, Finance, Open Space,
Cedar Hill etc. Why don't we have a Alternative Energy committee that would
be responsible to getting solar and wind power to the town. We have to
live in the age of alternative energy and today is the time to look forward
and not wait
till it passes us by. Milton recently recieved solar panels for its Town
Hall and High School. What is Stoughton going to do today for tommorrow?
Here is a interesting article on solar and match funds. Lets start work
today and implement a process."---Al Lipkind
"Lots of whining going on in Sharon…Bay Road detour, Brickstone using Mountain Street for construction, developers looking to lift liquor ban…
"Dear Friends, Neighbors and Supporters: The Stoughton Allied Veterans’ Council has been active in the Town of Stoughton since its inception with a focus on all issues related to providing assistance to veterans and their families. During the past 5 years this has become a much more demanding task, due to both the current war and an increasingly aging veteran population. Therefore, we are proudly developing a program for our brave soldiers serving in the Iraq and Afghanistan theaters, as well as for all our veterans. Funds raised will be used to supply our military men and women with calling cards to call home to their loved ones, and care packages consisting of items welcomed by the troops. These include disposable cameras, baby wipes, playing cards, American coffee, magazines, footballs, soccer balls and foot powder among many different items. We also hope to raise enough funds to provide scholarships and assistance to their spouses, children and families as needed. Finally, we hope to provide for those veterans and their families who fall outside the scope of available assistance programs. This includes providing disabled veterans with items like wheelchair ramps and grab bars. We will be hosting an appreciation night for the troops on Friday, September 26, 2008 at the Stoughton High School. Expect a fun filled evening with a “Tribute to the Legends” Concert. We are also publishing a “Salutation Book” which will be dedicated to the young servicemen and women currently serving their county in Iraq and Afghanistan. We will be contacting businesses and residents of Stoughton and the surrounding area for advertising and donations. Your anticipated help is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support."--Michael L. Pazyra, Stoughton Allied Veterans’ Council, Telephone Number: 617-212-5006
"Hi Mark.
Slight correction to your Journal article this past Friday. The offices of CHARMS Collaborative, which provides special education services and transportation to the towns of Canton, Holbrook, Avon, Milton, Sharon and Stoughton, are moving to 710 Turnpike St, Stoughton (the old Schechter school) in August. In additon, the current CHARMS programs located at the naval yard in Weymouth will be moving there."-- Leslie Cain Tamarkin,
CHARMS Transportation Director
"Mark, Enjoy your article in the Stoughton Journal and your TV show as well .I was at the Town Spa the other night and a big discussion occurred about where traffic lights are needed in town. It was unanimous that they are definitely needed at Walnut and Park Streets;Washington and School streets; Washington and Plain streets; and Canton and Central streets. There were a couple of other spots as well but these are what the majority thought. Is the town planning lights at any of these spots,.especially Walnut and Park streets? Thank you."-- John DiStefano
(John, I have asked former Stoughton Police Safety Officer, now Detective James O'Connor your question. "I don't think there are any plans at any of those locations to install lights. You'd need approval from MA Highway. But, I don't disagree with Mr. DiStefano that those locations are problematic. The State has criteria like trqffic, accidents, visability, etc." Safety Officer William Healey is on military duty.)
"Hey mark, just a heads up. Verizon was in our neighborhood selling their new cable and a sales guy (a real young one) approached me with a package of cable, tv and internet for $69! I couldn't believe it. But, being a rabid fan of your TV show (I watch each episode twice just to make sure I don't miss anything!), I asked him about your show. He told me that I can get your show on Verizon, no problem. I thought you said that local access wasn't going to be on Verizon for a while longer. Did the salesman lie to me?"--(Name Withheld Upon Request)
(Dear ------: The salesman was certainly premature. There will be NO LOCAL ACCESS on Verizon for the foreseeable future. No selectmen, no town meeting, and none of the locally-produced shows like mine. They are only on Comcast, at the moment---MARK.)
"Hi Mark, After reading the emails to the website today, I was pleased to see that a resident, Mr. Matt Woodard sent in a letter regarding the Community Preservation Act of which I was an opponent (on the Snyder show). The reason I am happy is that it shows that people are starting to see that they should have listened to the opponents and voted this down. It is true that the 100% fantasy figure that was advertised to be the determining factor has dropped to 65% effective with Fiscal Year 2009 which starts this month. To everyone reading this, TELL YOUR FRIENDS! Please continue to voice your opinions of this unnecessary TAX on this website and PLEASE watch it. Eventually ALL of the matching funds will disappear. My father raised me to be smart enough to believe if something looks too good to be true then it is just that! Please educate yourselves on this and call your Town Meeting Representatives. This is the only way we will be able to get rid of it when the time comes. It is important that we do NOT allow the proponents to use this 'fantasy' money to finance more money for 'their' projects. I quote Mr. Morton from an email that you can read if you scroll down on this email list... 'I admire any citizen, Including Phil Yaitanes, who feels strongly about an issue and is willing to work hard, and honestly to present his views to the public.' The key word in that quote was honestly. I failed to see it used in the advertising that was done by the group that pushed for this...100% matching funds? Now the match is 65%...next time it will be less until it becomes just what I have called it since the beginning...It is a TAX !"--Phil Yaitanes
"Hey Mark. We tuned in your TV show Friday to watch clips of the fireworks and was surprised it wasn't on. Saturday, we tried again. Did you get canceled? If you did, We'll be getting FIOS. The only reason I keep Comcast is because of your show. We also wanted to catch the new lady restaurant owners."---John and Jane.
"Mark, if Comcast is not going to provide the local cable access why should anyone stay with them when the competition starts accepting new customers? It's ludicrous for them to be so arrogant about their lack of performance. Any worthwhile provider of services would bend over backwards to right whatever wrongs that might have occured. This doesn't appear to be the case here. I'm currently expecting to be switching over to Verizon as soon as possible. If I want to see the Board of Selectman, I can drive to Town hall and see it live. Other than your show, We the People and the BOS, there is nothing else I watch on local cable. Hopefully Dick Murphy's feeble, fiction based, weekly entertainment hour will stay with Comcast while all the respectful local cable will move to Verizon and a Stoughton based studio. Great Job Comcast... NOT!"--Bob Barbell
"Dear Mark: Kodos to Stoughton School Committee member Dr. Erdem Ural for voting against the policy change that eliminated user fees for nonprofits that utilize the Town of Stoughton public school facilities. At a prior meeting, the school committee voted to raise the price of school lunches. Mr. Mills and Mr. Milgroom should get their priorities straight. The availability of reasonably priced lunches for all children comes before providing a free venue for sports, etc. for some children."-- David Camacho( Former School Committee Member and Former Finance Committee Member & Chairman of the Education Subcommittee.)
| "Mark,
You and your press friends may want to be at Town Spa on July 11 at 11:00 a.m.. The State is coming to close the downstairs and issue fines for their lack of following a number of orders to fix their handicapped access. Case has been open since 2000.
I can not give you more right now because the state is the issuing agency not the town. Dave Tonis could give you more info right now than I can.
Press on this issue would be really great for the cause."-- Carin Klipp |
"Hi Mark, Just thought I would pass this along. It was just a few months ago that the town was divided on the Community Preservation Act. If my research on your site was correct, the CPA passed by a slim margin (1932 votes in favor and 1850 votes against - with 355 blank ballots). One of the main focal points of the debate was that the state would/could match 100% of the contribution amount. As you can see by the attached link, that percentage just dropped to 65% effective with Fiscal Year 2009 which starts this month. Thank You,"-- Matt Woodard
"Mark, Why can't Stoughton get some love from the Enterprise or Ledger. We had the best celebration on the South Shore and I did not read one comment or see one picture of the event in their papers. I have heard nothing but praise to the events committee for this year's tremendous show. My hats off to all of them."--Tony Bickerton
"As a member of Randolph's Cable Advisory Committee, I have read your contract and all that I will say is that no way would I ever go with what COMCAST IS OFFERING. Good luck with your new contract, you will be living with it for a long time. "---Gerry Hershoff.
"Mark, I thought you might enjoy sharing this story with your readers.We are proud of the courage that this young man showed during his rescue and are proud of our members of the service they provided. The firefighters on this call felt compelled to provide this brave young man with a new bike after treating him at the scene of his accident."--Peter Denneno, Stoughton Fire Dept.
|
"Hi Mark, I've attached a word document that I received from Chuck Heshion of Brookfield Engineering detailing a public meeting (probably the final meeting) to be held at the Stoughton Police station on Thursday, July 10 at 7:00 PM. Brookfield Eng. released a lot of contamination into the ground in their former location at the corner of Cushing Street and Simpson Street. The company and Chuck Heshion in particular, has worked diligently and spent several million dollars to retrieve and mediate the contamination. This is one of the companies that purchased homes along Canton Street and demolished several of them. They gutted one home and filled it with pump-and-treat equipment and filtering equipment to treat and remove the contamination. They recently received approval from the Conservation Commision to tear down the pump-and-treat building and eliminate the equipment. The meeting will inform Stoughton residents of the treatment being used to eliminate the underground contamination and change the test readings to Zero. Could you feature this meeting on your web site and in your column in the Stoughton paper? It would be great if someone from the paper could cover the meeting. Thanks for anything you can do to make peolpe aware of the meeting. The Concom should attend as they had lots of questions for Brookfield when they applied for permission to remove the filter building. Selectmen?"--Dave Duross, Precinct 8 rep., Stoughton Citizens Association
"Mark, Two rebuttals/comments regarding recent articles:1. The first is the one that usually comes out around graduation time, listing all of the excellent schools that Stoughton High students get accepted to. Plus the fact that they are accepted to the same level of schools as private ones. Well, it goes a little beyond that, and there are reasons some parents send their sons or daughters to private or catholic schools. Our sons went to a catholic school for the purpose of being in an academic faith community. Its endeavor is to instill in the students a mature commitment to the demands of Catholic Christian witness and a lifelong love of learning. Personally, I also felt it was a very good fit for them, and they thrived. I am happy for all the Stoughton High students and wish them well in their future studies. 2. The recent article regarding Chris Ciampa's retirement dinner at X&O. The focus of the article should have been on Chris and all of the work he did for the town through a trying time, and not on the fact that the food at X&O was left on the plates. It should have been an article saluting Chris, not a food critic's restaurant review."--Rich Almeida
UPDATE ON BRICKSTONE Project in Sharon. Here's a letter from Norm MacIniss to Rick Lynch that tells the story! "Hi Rick, it’s been a while since we spoke but a situation has come up in Sharon regarding Brickstone that you and the neighborhood coalition should be made aware. A storm of protest erupted at the Board of Selectmen meeting this week with Brickstone. The developer told the town that the Mountain Street entrance will be the main access for Brickstone construction, this is to be done in two phases of two and a half years each. The Bay Road entrance will not be utilized until the final phase, basically finish work on the buildings interiors. According to the developer EPA will not allow the bridge to be built over the Bay Road wetlands from Bay Road. There was a shockwave in the room when the developer plotted the course of construction vehicles through the center of Sharon from I-95 and 24 to town center and East Street to Mountain. They stated up to 700 construction vehicle trips per day including cement mixers, steel girder trucks and anything else you can envision would be using this course.
(SUPPORT OUR SOLDIER IN IRAQ! Write to Stoughton's Own Jim Kelly! Email him at james.kelly@iraq.centcom.mil)
"Hi----I saw your review and was not going to try the resturant, however after listening to several of my friends, and heard rave reviews I decided to try for myself----It was excellent. This is only a suggestion but maybe you went at the very beginning and it would be nice if you tried it again. Everyone spoke English---they were waiting at the door when we came in---several tables were filled and the service was excellent----This is merely a suggestion and everyone is certainly entitled to an opinion----Thanks"--Marcia Goldberg
(Marcia, thanks for writing. I was there a week ago. It was open for awhile, at that point. Ten people wereworking there that night. One spoke English, and she was too busy to respond to a menu question. The food was horrid, the service was worse. The manager was unresponsive--whether it was a language problem or not caring, I couldn't tell. Since my review was posted, management there hasn't said a word. Maybe they don't care? I am glad you had a good meal.---Mark)
"Mark, The fire at 1688 Central Street last Friday changed quickly from an outside porch fire, to engulfing the entire rear of the building, ultimately destroying the entire structure. What needs to be mentioned is that the Gill property is less than half a mile from Stoughton Fire Station 2. Had Station 2 been operational, Engine 3 and Ladder 2 would have been on scene minutes sooner. Considering the difficult access to the property, the extra time needed to establish a water supply and the size of the building, those minutes that could have been saved by having Station 2 open would have been critical. This was also true with last years fire on Erin Road. A simple brush fire spreads to a car port, then to the residential structure, causing the building to be gutted, making neighboring buildings uninhabitable and destroying many vehicles . Erin Road is less than 1 mile from Station 2. Engine 3 could have been there within minutes and kept it to just an outside fire. The Town Meeting Representatives made it clear how they feel about Station 2. It will remain closed for the foreseeable future and the district that Station 2 once protected will have to endure longer response times. As was seen in just these two incidents, those extra minutes waiting for Fire apparatus or an ambulance can make a big difference. Thank you."--James Brackett, Stoughton Fire Department
"Mark, The Stoughton Fire Department did a tremendous job on the Gill house fire. The Towns that assisted with Mutual Aid also played a big part in making sure this fire didn't spread and no lives were lost. This was a difficult property to access with its long narrow driveway and minimal room to maneuver around the burning structure. Once again, the Fire Department was there doing a great job. I hope all the residents/property owners in Stoughton bear in mind that when your house is on fire is not the time to put the job out to bid. Call 911, the Fire Department is there 24/7 and they will get the job done."--Deborah Varney
"Hi friends and neighbors,
The Stoughton Neighborhood Coalition is hosting a celebration on
Sunday, June 22nd. We have all worked very hard, and achieved
much, over this past year. This will be a time for us to relax and have
fun with one another. We can also discuss our plans for the future.
STOUGHTON HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ STUDENTS ADDMITED FREE.
BRING YOUR INSRUMENTS, AND SIT IN WITH THE BAND! This event will be held from 1:00 - 4:00 PM at
Club Luis de Cameos at
76 Porter Street.
The J.P.Jazz Collective (a well known group that plays all over the
Boston area) will be performing. A buffet brunch will be provided. A cash bar will be available for your enjoyment. This will be a great time!
Tickets are $20.00.
For tickets, you may: e-mail stoughtonnc@yahoo.com or call 781-696-1920. Tickets also available at the door
Talk to your neighbors."--Rick Lynch
"Good morning Mark.
As of 2007, Massachusetts residents and businesses were paying 67% more for their electricity than the national average. But this summer, they may get hit even harder. It was recently reported that electricity rates could jump up to 7% because of the rising prices of fuels used to generate electric power. Many consumers can therefore expect to pay, on average, 12% more than they did last summer.
But in a deregulated market, what can we do? I am contacting you on behalf of the Campaign for Fair Electric Rates. The campaign is attempting to bring reform to a faceless, bureaucratic wholesale electricity market that overcharges customers and shuts out competition. The campaign is a grassroots advocacy effort focused on educating the public on the failures of restructured electricity markets.
Here’s a little background:
In 1997, New England’s electricity market was deregulated with the hopes of creating a more competitive market, ultimately lowering costs for consumers. From 1997-2007, however, electricity rates in the Massachusetts have increased more than twice as fast as the national average.
These outrageous rates are hurting local residents and businesses. Therefore, the Campaign for Fair Electric Rates is hoping to meet with members of the media in order to educate the general public. Please let me know if you’d be interested in a briefing with Joe Nipper, Senior Vice President for Government Relations at the American Public Power Association, the organization that is heading up the campaign.
More info about the Campaign for Fair Electric Rates can be found at www.fairelectricrates.net.
Thanks for your time."--
Michael Frisch
Regarding the Central Street Fire Station: "I have numerous professional licenses such as Master Plumber, Stationary Engineer, etc. Having been in the heating and plumbing industry and being a 3rd generation boiler man, I have developed considerable experience over the years in residential, commercial and industrial applications. Recently, I was given a tour with others of the Central Street Fire Station. I observed many irregularities and inconsistencies in the heating and cooling systems.
After considerable thought, I may have come up with a solution which could safely allow normal occupancy of the building with a method costing far less than those already proposed.
Clean all duct work (abate mold, mildew, etc.); cap off and abandon use of heating and cooling systems. Received one quote of $5,000 to clean all ducts from American Clean Air Corporation. Also received a quote of $3,000 to cap off all heating and cooling ducts. The furnaces could be removed and given to the Public Works Department for use where needed, thus giving more usable space in those areas.
(2). Install 2 small redundant high efficiency gas boilers and provide
forced hot water heating zones as deemed appropriate.
(3). Install ductless split A/C units as needed in various occupied
areas.(
4). In special areas utilize some existing duct work to vent areas
such as radio rooms, elevator mechanical room and other
specialized areas. Existing ducts could be modified to provide
circulation to these areas from the rooftop.
To Summarize: I believe that to invest in the previous plan (revamping as pointed out for $450,00-$700,000) will only solve the problem initially. It is known that there are many distribution shortfalls in the duct system, however, the issue is not only the duct system but the climate at ground level. Thus, according to that plan eventually we will revisit the same problem--erosion of air quality and reoccurrence of the mold and mildew issues that we have today, in addition to this amount of money being gone. I believe that the above suggested remarks will achieve a longer period of stability and durability of the building and its usefulness.
I would be happy to confer with anyone on other ideas I have for the betterment of the building and Town of Stoughton.
Thank you for your consideration to this very important issue."--
Bill Horan
"Regarding the OMS Idol Contest: I can understand why you thought the girls that won second place were so good, or as you said 'They didn't miss a note'. They didn't, in fact, it wasn't their voice that was heard at all. I Was also fooled, imagine my surprize when at dress rehersal they walked away from the mics and the vocal tracks were still coming thru. The people maning the pa system were unable to remove it from the cd the girls brought in for them to use. The judges were not there during dress rehersal and I can't imagine they knew. But, the girls knew and some other more deserving participant lost out because of it."--Robin Peters
"In answer to the questions about Chief Cachopa's trial delays, I submit this from the Court."--Ed Defelice (via phone) <SUBMITTED DOCUMENTS (1) (2) (3) (4)> (They are EXTREMELY show loading)
"As you know, there will be a meeting of the Canton Planning Board on Wednesday, June 11th at 7:30 PM. Take a moment to reflect upon our Nation's history and the fact that so many Patriots died in the War of the Revolution that secured our independence from England. A tangible and lasting legacy of Paul Revere and his family is at risk at the hands of the Napleton Development Company of Chicago, Illinois.
Please reflect upon the legacy of Paul Revere and attend this meeting. Word has to spread and Attorney Paul Schneiders and his clients need to be held accountable for their plans to destroy our national heritage. Let them know how ashamed we are at their behavior and the potential for this loss and needless destruction.
Take a moment to visit the Paul Revere and Sons website (http://revererollingmill.googlepages.com/home). Send the link throughout your entire email list so we can sound the alarm to every city and town. We are the modern "patriots" fighting for our history and for future generations to have and enjoy this place made by Paul Revere.
Thank you!!!!"---
George Comeau
"Hello, My name is Mr. Jan and I am contacting you from Liberia for a mutual business relationship and investment. I have some funds realized through contract dealings and I need your cooperation to invest the funds. The first stage requires transferring the funds to your account for subsequent investment. I therefore want you to work with me as a partner. On receipt of your response, I will send you full details of the transaction and more information about myself. I am waiting for your prompt response. Please send your reply to rlwjan@yahoo.es. Regards."--Jan
"Mark, I would like to take a minute and add a few of my own thoughts about the report on Wednesday nights town meeting. The part I would like to comment on is the last statements made in regards to the Central Street fire station. As most people know this fire station was closed due to mold issues in September of 2006 and remains closed today. Some reports throughout the media have stated the station has been closed for a couple of months. It has been a year and a half. In the eyes of public safety this is unacceptable. It is stated in your report that 750,000 is throwing money down the sewer. This building was opened in 2001 so it is a newer building and can be used for another 70 years if all goes well, so in the long run I don't think it is really throwing money away. Unfortunately this is what happens when cities and towns use low bidders for projects. I live in the town and don't want to put any tax payers money towards this, but I think it would be more of a shame to nev er open this building again and deprive the citizens of fire and medical services. In any form of public safety seconds, not minutes or hours really do make the difference. Another comment made was selling the building off and looking into the Armory site in North Stoughton. As stated there is alot of development in that section of town, but it would not make sense to take away a fire station on the west side of town just to put one up north. In 1934 (not a typo it was 1934) ISO, the insurance rater for the town reccomended a staffed fire station in north Stoughton. That was 1934 and still today there is nothing. The town gave the dept money for a study of the needs of the dept buildings. The chief has those results and brought them forward to be placed on the warrant but we all know what happened there. The study called for a fire station on the west side (the current one) one on Park Street outside the square and one in north Stoughton. The Freeman Street station would be closed . Lets take the first of many steps and fix the Central Street station. The people deserve the protection they had. The what ifs have already happened since the closing. Medicals outside the station and building fires. Soon enough something has to be done with the Freeman Street station. The building was built in 1926 and still has some of the original windows, we do throw new cardboard up now and again to keep the drafts out. I don't know how ADA laws read, but I think there may be issues just trying to get a wheelchair over the curbing to ring the front doorbell to open the apparatus door to get into the building. Just a few problems on a very long list. Hopefully the town starts to do the right thing. Thanks for your time."--Don Chipman, resident precinct 3,
member of Stoughton Fire Dept
"Mr Snyder, I wanted to relay a story to you regarding the Stoughton police department. My daughter was involved in a minor traffic accident and thank God there were no injuries besides the one to my wallet. Needless to say, my daughter was very upset. Officer Tracy Sisco responded to the scene. I got the story from my daughter and closed the issue in my mind. The next day I had a few questions running through my head and wanted to hear from Officer Sisco. I called the police department and left a message for her with the officer who answered the phone (Officer Bonney). I fully expected to hear back from her within a couple of days not knowing her schedule or how quickly she would get the message and also due to the fact that I asked for her to call me without any detail as to why. Within the hour my phone rang with the return phone call. She was professional and courteous and answered every question I had. She even mentioned that my daughter was upset and told me that she was trying to explain to her first the importance that no one was hurt and also knowing that she was new to driving gave her advice on how to handle dangerous intersections. While talking to her, she also gave me information that I was not aware of in dealing with the claim process.
Bottom line, Officer Sisco's performance in handling the accident with my daughter and answering my follow up questions was outstanding. As minor and common place as this may be in the day of an police officer, its this type of interaction with the community that is important. Even when the events aren't positive. Thank you Officer Sisco."--- Name Withheld Upon Request
"Dear Residents:
Please be advised that there will be a crucial meeting at the Police Conference room 26 Rose Street Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 PM.
An amazing powerpoint presentation will be given by Dick Cazeault, of the Webster Lake Association (WLA), entiltled Fun with Dick and Jane.This presentation is about the residents who formed a powerful lake association in the nearby Town of Webster, Massachusetts. The WLA is a self sufficient enterprise that has managed their lake with pride and success!
I have seen the presentation and was WOWED! It is thorougly enjoyable and entertaining.
Topics discussed are: Fundraising, Grants, the importance of political leverage, meetings, publicity, outreach, social aspects. Having Fun while moving foward is a key note to their sucessful record. One take home message was that such an association should hold social meetings in a restaurant with a bar and good food!
Dick is good enough to assist our community by coming to the Town of Stoughton and speaking to our residents "FREE OF CHARGE"! Lets please give him a warm welcolme and a good turnout for helping us move foward in recovering, managing and preserving Ames Pond!
Governor Deval Patrick atttended the last meeting WLA upon invitation last week. In addition, WLA is planning a waterskiing event in the upcoming weeks in their community that will be attended by Senator John Kerry and other important political figures. The group excells in fundraising. Corporate sponsorship is the newest successful development which has helped the WLA evolve into on of the most successsful community lake association in the Commonwealth.
This is truly an honor to host Dick in our Community next Thursday evening!
Please spread trhe word by sending this e-mail out to all interested parties!
Special Thanks is in order to the Massachusetts Coalition of Lakes and Ponds!"---
Cordially, James Conlon,
Environmental Affairs Officer of the Town of Stoughton.
"Regarding your article on law day I noticed Julia Steinberg name was not highlighted. I also noticed in your review of High School Musical you refered to her as another singer from the jazz choir. Let me inform you of a few things. Julia has been an officer or section leader for both jazz choir and chorus for her entire four years at S.H.S. . Futhermore she was the only high school performer to sing with the Jubilate Chorale last year. Julia accepted a lesser role to sing for the school and gave up an a chance to sing Bernstein with Jubilate the same weekend as the school musical." -- Arthur Steinberg
"Hi Mark, "I just wanted to reaffirm your positive review of Stoughton High School's 'High School Musical.' What an excellent effort put forth by these kids! Each and every cast member was so excited to play their part, and their enthusiasm radiated throughout the auditorium as the audience clapped and sang along with them. The musicians, and the stage crew, it just all came together so brilliantly. After the show, I was able to speak with some of the other parents whos children were in the cast and crew, and like me, they were so very proud of not just their own son or daughter, but everyone who was involved in the productions great success. The cast, crew, musicians, and directors should be very proud of themselves as Stoughton High School cetainly shined last night because of them. This was one of those many moments that our kids make us feel proud to be part of the Stoughton family. Congratulations Mandi, Mom and Dad love you!!"---Jeff Ledin
"To the parent who complained about their child being hoarded into the HS cafeteria to do nothing when a teacher is absent needs to understand something. In the perfect world, the child would have a substitute in the classroom giving the student their lessons for the day. Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world. Substitute teachers are in short supply, esecially at the upper grades. Teachers are professionals who have worked hard to obtain what they have. Unfortunately, they do get ill or have to be out of school for different reasons that are legitimate. When a substitute can be found, the teachers class is covered. When a number of teachers are absent it becomes more difficult to find class coverage and something must be done to assure that the child is in a safe environment. Unfortunately, these large "study hall" situations come about. This isn't perfect, but, there isn't any other choice. Why is it difficult to find an adequate number of substitute teachers? Pay has risen but it still isn't something one can depend upon to support one self. People look for steady employment, especially with rising costs of everything. A steady income is needed. Could you live on 2-3 days pay a week? When students are on vacation you have no income. Secondly, a substitute teacher often times is shown very little respect by older students, and, many who could substitute feel that the aggravation is not worth them going in to work on a part time basis or for such low pay. If this parent is so upset at the situation at the high school, why don't you make yourself available to substitute occationally? You may find that your attitude may change. Its not like you think it is. Don't ridicule the school system until you've seen what its like. I am a Stoughton High graduate (and proud of it) who also taught in the system for many years (and I'm proud of that also). The administration and staff work very hard to provide your children and the rest of the residents children a very good education. Could it be better? Most definately. Instead of complaining become an advocate for the system to make it better. Over the past 6-8 years your School Committee has had to deal with budget cuts, level funded budgets so on and so forth. Funds are getting tighter and tighter. Energy costs are rising that are negatively effecting ALL school systems. Right now, you should be looking at the positives...your graduates are going to some of the finest colleges in the country, you've got a Music Department SECOND TO NO ONE!!! The schools are in good shape (my grand daughter goes to an elementary school that is over one hundred years old). The professional staff is top flight, being able to continue providing your child with a great education. Unfortunately, your complaint is probably going to remain in the near future. I will tell you, though, I sat at School Committee meeting for 5-6 years. Each year this problem was brought up by the committee. They are very well aware of the problem and have tried, in the past, to correct it. Until additional funding becomes available and more people become available to substitute teach, the problem will not go away. Its not a perfect world."-- Peter Everett Morrisville, VT
"I would like to know why it is that when a teacher is absent at Stoughton High School, instead of students remaining in class and BEING TAUGHT BY A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER, they are herded into the cafeteria to do NOTHING, unless the teacher has left work to be done in his/her absence? Personally, I am sick and tired of hearing this scenario played out over and over again. Perhaps, instead of wasting thousands of dollars on fruitless superintendent searches that involve travelling to the other side of the country, only to end up back at square one and have NO CANDIDATE worth hiring, our illustrious school committee could implement some sort of plan that actually EDUCATES our children when their teachers are absent from school! Isn't that what the taxpayers in Stoughton are supposed to be footing the bill for? TEACHING our kids? From what I can see, too much of our money is wasted and not nearly enough of it is going toward the intellectual advancement of the children of Stoughton."--(Name Withheld Upon Request)
"Hi Mark,
Now that the annual town election has been held and I no longer have to be politically correct, I'd like to get something off my chest. I want to inform the residents of Stoughton that many, if not all, of those "Town Hall NO PLACE FOR Levine" lawn signs that appeared two days before the election were put up by John 'Stretch' Fallon, an employee of the town of Stoughton.
I know that everyone was incensed at those signs that ridiculed all the wonderful work that No Place for Hate has accomplished in Stoughton. Unfortunately, the installation of the signs by Mr. Fallon and to the residents who displayed them, has done much to negate those efforts. As long as there are people like 'Stretch' Fallon in Stoughton, this town will never be able to come together for the good of all of its residents.
Mark, this is in no way to be considered as sour grapes. I lost the election to two fine candidates who I know will continue to work on behalf of the town. I have no regrets for the past nine and one-half years that I proudly served the residents of Stoughton. I only wish that the signs were not the main topic of discussion on such an important day for Stoughton. It only detracted from what had been a very cordial and professional campaign among the candidates involved.
Thanks for the opportunity of allowing our residents to voice their ideas, comments, and concerns on your web site."--
Dick Levine
"Dear Mr. Snyder,
On behalf of Stoughton Friends For Seniors, I want to thank you for attending our Dinner Dance and your continued support of our events for the senior citizens of our town. Your willingness to always advertise our events on your web page helps us get the word out to the seniors and their families.
Stoughton Friends For Seniors are not funded by the town or come under any town department. We are under the auspices of the Stoughton Clergy Association. Our organization is committed to the development of our community by service to our senior citizens. We advocate community partnership between the generations. All of our members are volunteers.
From our Executive Board, Friends For Seniors Members, Office Staff of The Immaculate Conception Church, Advisors and Stoughton High School National Honor Society Students, Town Merchants, to our fabulous "Kitchen Crew" their ability to always lend a helping hand is one of the reasons we are able to provide the seniors with a fun filled afternoon. They are to be commended for their hard work and truly knowing the meaning of "Giving Back To The Community". But most importantly, if it wasn't for the support of Rev. Joseph P. McDermott, Father Joe, we would not be able to make any of our events possible.
Again, we want to thank you and everyone who helped to make our Dinner Dance a success."--Stoughton Friends For Seniors,
Lorraine J. McCarthy, Secretary
"Is the town going to hold NSTAR responsible for completing their agreement? They should and should be aggressive about it! I have lived in this town for only six years and am completely disgusted with the town politics and lack of backbone on certain issues. Having to pass the NSTAR monster everyday (I live on Pine St) is a constant reminder that choosing Stoughton for a home may not have been the best choice. Add to that the gas company now...yikes!!"---D.B.
"Hello Mark:
I read with interest the recent letter from Phil Yaitanes that you
posted on your web site. I thought that I should respond because
Phil challenged some of the estimates that I cited when I appeared on
your TV show.
I think the best response is to refer to the actual distributions
that participating towns of our approximate size and assessment value
have actually received from the CPA over the past several
years. While no comparison is perfect, I think that towns such as
Acton, Chelmsford, Grafton, Hopkinton and Sharon might be as close
as we can get. I chose these towns because they were as close to us
in size and value as I could find and they all had approved a
surcharge between 0.5% and 2.0%. As you know, Stoughton voters
recently approved a rate of 1.5%. Attached is a table showing
distributions to those towns for the years 2004 through 2007.
The actual dollar distribution figures for all participating towns
are available at the following web site:
http://www.communitypreservation.org/CPAMatchingFunds.cfm.
The percentage surcharges adopted by each participating community is
available at the following web site:
http://www.communitypreservation.org/CPAVotes.cfm.
There are no secrets here. The numbers are available to anyone who
cares to take the time to look them up.
As for Certain buildings in town being 'Historic Buildings,' I said
on your show (and others) that any building constructed before 1958
(that is, over 50 years old) qualifies to be considered for
classification as a Historic Building. All it takes, is filing an
application and stating the reasons that the building should be put
in the classification. These applications are very seldom
refused. I am certain that we could categorize portions of our high
school and the old Fire station as a historic building . . . all we
have to do is apply.
I have seen Peter Ventresco on the street both before and after the
election. I did shake his hand (by the way, the closing shots on
your CPA broadcast show me shaking his hand on camera) and thank him
for his work in reference to the CPA. I admire any citizen,
Including Phil Yaitanes, who feels strongly about an issue and is
willing to work hard, and honestly to present his views to the
public. Their opposition required us to sharpen our arguments and dig
deeper to present the real benefits of the CPA.
The good news is that the majority of the voters in Stoughton
understood the enormous opportunity presented by the CPA and voted to
approve it. As a result, all of Stoughton citizens will reap the
benefits of those matching funds, including those good citizens who
voted against it.
My sincere thanks to the many, many people who committed so much time
and energy to help the citizens of Stoughton understand the
importance of the CPA - and to those voters who elevated Stoughton
into the list of enlightened communities who have accepted the
CPA. Because of them Stoughton can now reclaim the dollars which we
have been paying into the CPA pool all these many years - only to
hand them over to others."--
John Morton
"Mark, After watching your show that I was on regarding the Community Preservation Act, I realized that Mr. John Morton used some incredible fancy mathematical figures. Not only was the math all wrong but the wording was too! The key words were 'Assumed' and 'Estimated'. He said that the Town of Stoughton had put in 900,000 in the past 4 years and would have received back 'an assumed' amount of 2.5 to 3 million dollars. Well, I am not a calculator but I know that 1+1=2 not 3 or 4! If we put in $ 900,000 and we were matched 100% it would equal $ 1,800,000 dollars. He also said on the show that the average homeowner that puts in $ 38/year will get back an "ESTIMATED" amount of around $ 150.00...Ok, SOoo all of you Stoughton High School graduates...Please do the math! The ads that the 'Pro CPA People' placed in the pennysaver were wrong. The high school is NOT a historic building and NEITHER is the Fire Station. They haven't been approved by the State. The funds will NOT get matched dollar for dollar and I REALLY AND TRULY CANNOT BELIEVE, that with the economy being the way that it is, that the people of Stoughton fell for this, Hook Line and Sinker. Mr. Peter Ventresco should be thanked by all for his 'LONE' effort in making signs and hanging them at the schools by himself and paying for an ad in the pennysaver against this. If you see him on the street, shake his hand, pat him on the back and say...'Thank you' to Peter. He tried to save all of us a lot of money. I already thanked him for his efforts, you should too (even if you were fooled and voted for this tax)! To the all of the town meeting representatives, don't ever use this as a basis for another Bond, that way in 5 years, we will vote it out and put our money back where it belongs. We already pay enough property taxes, we didn't need to pay more!"-- Phil Yaitanes
"Mark,
Wanted to take a minute to first let you know that I enjoy reading your news in town both on your site and on the Stoughton Journal site. Although I live in Mansfield, I still keep up with the news around town via your outlets.
I also wanted to thank you for the fair reporting when it came to my father. It was very unfortunate that he was the only incumbent running and thus had to endure the wrath of disgruntled townspeople alone. No one should have to endure the “below the belt tactics” that came about over the last week by anonymous, spineless people with an axe to grind.
I am extremely proud of my dad (not just for his politics but as a person). He
is probably the most ethical person I know and seeing his reputation dragged
through the mud for perceived “dirty back room glad handing” acts was a very difficult thing to watch from the sidelines.
The voters wanted change and their voice was heard loud and clear. I hope the newly elected officials know what they are in for. I’m sure the natives will get restless in a short amount of time. I pity both Scott and John as they certainly have their work cut out for them.Thanks Mark; keep up the good work.
Best regards,"--
Mark Levine
"Mark,
I want to thank you for your show to allow us to debate the issues. It was
a very close vote and I wish to thank all the people that came out to
vote on the CPA. Both for it and against it. Now lets bring the town
together on this and we will make it work for the benifit of the town!
Everyone should get behind this and the CPA committee will with Town
Meetings approval make this a better town and keep it a small
beautiful place to live !!
Thank you all for voting."-- Al Lipkind
"Dear Mark:
Thanks for the great news.
I am delighted to be chosen to serve on the School Committee. I look
forward to working with my fellow committee members towards improving
the education of Stoughton children.
As you know, I campaigned for making the Stoughton schools to be the
best in the area. The fact that I received the most votes indicates that
Stoughton voters have the same priority.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the supporters of our
campaign: people who placed signs in their lawns, those who held signs
at the town square and at the polls, those who wrote cards, those who
came to our breakfast event, and to Mr. Steven Wilkinson, our campaign
treasurer. I am also grateful to candidates running for other town-wide
positions for their valuable advice. I commend Bickerton and Klein for
running positive campaigns and congratulate Tony Bickerton for also
winning the school committee election. Special thanks go to Mr. Stan
Zoll, our campaign manager, without whom this campaign would have never
gotten off the ground.
I will continue to update my web site www.stoughton2008.org with
education, and school committee issues."--Dr. Erdem Ural
"Mark, although I am certain that no campaign was responsible for the signs in question, I am personally convinced, that it is an impulse that can not be contained. It is like a boiling pot, that is finally blowing the lid off!
It's commonly called the 'Festival of the Oppressed', or in this case, 'the intimidated'. All you can do is let it blow!"-- Rick Lynch
Mark, I was disappointed to see the negative signs today. While everyone has a right to express themselves, our campaign certainly does not condone this style of expression."-- Steve Anastos
"Mark, I have always considered your reporting to be fair. However, as a member I take offense at how quickly you stated as fact that Local 1512 was responsible for a political sign appearing around town. Further more, your reporting of the wording was incorrect. In the past you have demonstrated a higher level of journalistic integrity than publishing hearsay as fact. I respect your true concern for the town and trust this is an isolated incident. Thank you for your apology. I have seen these signs and take them for what they are, a citizen or group exercising their right to expressing a political opinion. In no way should Anti-Semitism be implied, even the suggestion of that is nothing more than sensationalizing. This years election has been characterized by passionate opinions, each with the towns best interests at heart. At this late hour of the respective campaigns, there should be no place for that suggestion."-- Scott Mellyn
"Mark, David Camacho, in his reply to my comments, offers one possible
scenario as to my support for the re-election of Dick Levine.
Unfortunately this sort of narrow thinking usually occurs when one is
trying to find ghosts where none exist. There is far too much of that
in Stoughton and, quite frankly, it is the root of many problems. In
the interest of balance allow me to offer another possible motivation.
Having worked in Stoughton town government for just over five years I
had the opportunity to be very involved in many of the important
issues that the community faces. I was also privy to many of the
detailed reports, analysis and potential solutions to many matters of
very significant importance. It is my opinion, based upon first-hand
knowledge and observation, that Selectman Dick Levine always
approached these issues in a thoughtful and comprehensive manner. I
observed on many occasions his willingness to make very tough
decisions in a fair and consistent manner. These are the kind of
good, old-fashioned and idealistic qualities that one hopes to find in
their elected leaders. I am very happy to report, as one who was up
close and personal to the process, that Selectman Dick Levine uses
these important qualities in every decision he makes. Sorry David but there are no ghosts here. No
self-serving interests! No personal gain! No tangled webs to be
spun! And I most certainly do NOT know it all! What I do know,
however, is that Dick Levine deserves the support and the vote of
every individual who cares about Stoughton."--
Paul Dawson
"Tomorrow (4/8) is the election and we know how the number of voters don't show up all the time. Ask one neighbor to do you one favor. Vote tommorrow for Question #2. Be sure that neighbor likes you !! If you have a email list of neighbors in town, ask them also to vote for question #2 with a Yes. Thanks all for everything."--Al Lipkind
"Mark, this town is going insane. We talk about the divisiveness started in 2004 and the need to come together as a community. Seems as though some, claiming to want the healing are sometimes feeding the flames of divisiveness.
For an adult to publicly try to make their point with such language as 'I'm really not as stupid as Mr. Dawson' is ONLY counter productive. Believe in what you believe, share your opinions and give others their oppurtunity to speak, but use facts and be mature when stating your opinions. Mr Camacho's words will probably not change how many, if anyone, votes. If anything, this can only HURT whomever he DOES support... it certainly doesn't help. Personally, I'll be voting for Dick on Tuesday. I'm not asking everyone reading this to do the same... ALL I ASK IS FOR EVERYONE TO VOTE! And tell your friends, family and neighbors to do the same. I also would like to ask residents in Precinct 4 to write me in for Town Meeting rep. I had not taken out papers, so I'm not on the ballot. There are 8 names on the ballot so I know this is probably a long shout, but I have wanted to be a Town Meeting Rep for some time now. This foolishness has inspired me to try to be more a part of the solution. I can assure the residents of Precinct 4 that I don't have all the answers and I guarantee I won't be perfect, but I also guarantee to give my best effort to understand all the articles to be voted on and do what I believe is best for ALL the residents of Stoughton, current and future. For a write in to be counted, it HAS to include the address. Mine is 92 Columbus Ave."--Bob Barbell
"Dear Mark, It appears that unlike Mr. Dawson, I am a fast learner. Could it be that Mr. Dawson is protecting his own interests? If 'Dick' Levine is re-elected, could it be that Mr. Dawson sees himself as Stoughton's next Town Manager? I'm really not as stupid as Mr. Dawson, C.M.M.C./Former Town Clerk and Former Assistant Town Manager would have others believe. Of course, Mr. Dawson appeared to always know it all, so I guess he may know something the rest of us don't know. What a tangled web we weave!"--David Camacho
"Hi Mark, I would not typically respond to false allegations made about me but I feel it's necessary to reply to my 'Dear Friend' David Camacho. As is his mode of operation, only half the facts are told.Regarding the Judge Rotenberg Center, I NEVER negotiated anything with that entity and I certainly NEVER held any cookouts and meet the neighbors as he has testified, What I did do, along with then chairman of the Board of Selectmen, Joe Mokrisky, was to hold an open forum and discussion so that residents could air their concerns regarding the Center moving into Stoughton. That evening, every resident of Stoughton, and even some from Canton, had the opportunity to talk about their concerns. Like so many other State mandated programs, the town could do nothing to stop them from purchasing homes and setting up residences.I can understand that Mr. Camacho's memory is failing him, however I never, ever used any profanity toward him. The incident that he is referring to occurred when I approached him at the conclusion of a finance committee meeting, and asked him if it were true that he was spreading false rumors about me around town. He gleefully admitted that it was, in fact, true. I then told him that if it continued to do so I would bury him politically. I made that statement one time, not four times as he claims. David Camacho has been spreading false stories about me and trying to discredit my reputation for years. Thankfully his allegations have fallen onto deaf ears and residents understand where the allegations are coming from. I know that the voters in Stoughton are wise enough to know that false charges by people like David Camacho, and the timing of them, are only meant to sabotage my election to the Board of Selectmen."--Dick Levine
"Mark: I read with a great deal of interest the comments written by
David Camacho about Selectman Dick Levine. While Mr. Camacho may be
upset by the fact that the Judge Rottenberg Center has purchased 5
properties in Stoughton, it seems to me that he is directing his anger
in the wrong direction. Under Massachusetts Law, educational
facilities are exempt from paying real estate taxes on any property so
long as it is used for "educational purposes." No Board of Selectmen
(and certainly no individual member of any Board of Selectmen) can
change that. Ironically, in his attempt to discredit Dick Levine, Mr.
Camacho has actually served to credit him with more power than he
actually has Mr. Camacho also attempts to discredit Dick Levine for his
involvement in the No Place for Hate Organization. It seems pretty
clear that, through action rather than words, the No Place for Hate
Committee has done so much good for Stoughton. I recall vividly
attending an event sponsored by this group and listening as a
Holocaust survivor told the story of his escape from death at the
hands of the Nazis. I watched as people young and old heard that
man's message of tolerance. It was as emotional as it was riveting.
The importance of that educational meeting can not be overstated. This organization has also answered the call when the hateful
acts of vandals occurred right here in our community. When symbols
and messages of hate were spray painted on the walls of the Jewish
Community Center, Dick Levine and many, many others reacted
immediately to assist. The sad moment, however, was used as an
opportunity for a community to react in a positive way. I for one am
very glad that such an organization exists here in Stoughton.
As a former town official, I have had the opportunity to work
closely with Dick Levine and the other members of the Board of
Selectmen. From first-hand experience I can speak clearly and
honestly about Dick Levine's integrity, commitment and experience. It
is second to none. He has the best interest of the Town of Stoughton
at heart. I find that refreshing at a time when that type of
leadership is often lacking. That is why I will happily vote to
re-elect Selectman Dick Levine on April 8th. I ask those in this
community interested in moving Stoughton forward to please join me
Mr. Camacho, in his mean-spirited attack, only continues to
propagate the divisiveness he pretends to despise. This type of
attitude will only hold this community back. Instead, let's move
forward and return a voice of experience to the Board of Selectmen by
re-electing DICK LEVINE!"-- Paul Dawson ( "P.S. It seems that Mr. Camacho also has a case of selective memory.
Mr. Camacho has told me, on perhaps a dozen occasions, that he does
not even know how to turn a computer on. Knowing that one can only
imagine my surprise at discovering that he is now surfing the web and
sending e-mails to commercial web sites. Could there possibly be a
ghost-writer in his household? Just wondering.")
"Dear Mark,
I have some comments regarding Dick Levine. I received a Dear Friend post card and that did it for me. I really can't keep silent any longer.
Dick Levine was such a good negotiator with the representatives of the Judge Rottenberg Center when it purchased the first property in Stoughton (cook outs and meet the neighbors, etc.) that the school eventually purchased 5 houses in Stoughton. That's approximately $2.5 million in real estate value that is not subject to taxation, trash fees, etc. because they are a school. Should we really have welcomed an organization that has a controversial history of using electric shock to control behavior? I think that they paid approximately $2,000 one year instead of taxes. What a bargain. Good job, Dick!
Dick Levine boasts that he supports a No Place For Hate Community. He must have forgotten that when he told me 4 times after a Finance Committee meeting that he would bury my f------ ass.
Dick Levine has been a divisive force in this community for years. It's people like Dick Levine that have given Stoughton a bad reputation and cost the taxpayers millions of wasted dollars.
Please….No more Dear Friend cards."--David Camacho
"Mark,
I am presently watching the "we the people" show and
John Morton is on it speaking for the cpa tax,
promoting us to vote for it and i just had to write to
you. First, he is saying that it is an average of $38
per household. I have a small cape, 1100 sf, and I
saw on the selectman's meeting that our property taxes
at last year's meeting woulld only increase
approximately $50. Well mine increased $600. So how
much will they increase now? Second, I understand the
town is in financial trouble, but don't you think that
is partly due to the fact that we continue to pay
town employees that are put on leave due to legal
issues, for months, years, etc. Third, John is saying
that the money will be allocated by the selectmen,
town reps, finance committee. Why is this different
than how the money is being allocated out now, it's
the same people."--Jeane B.
"Hi Mark,
I read your comments on the selection of the Algonquin Advisory
Committee(AAC) on tuesday night. Like you, I applaud the Selectmen
for forming the committee and for the composition of the committee.
There is much work to do but not much time remaining before Algonquin
makes their submittal to FERC. I also agree with you that many
competent volunteers were left off, including you. As a member of the
newly formed AAC I hope that those not selected will continue to
advocate alongside the AAC for what is best for Stoughton. I am
certainly interested in listening to and speaking with anyone who
would like to be heard. I can be reached via e-mail at
Anastos2008@aol.com or by phone at 781 341 4981."---Thanks,
Steve Anastos (candidate for selectman)
"Dear Mark: I find it sad that the previous letter writer wished to remain anonymous on a position that must certainly be supported by all. Who could possibly advocate for yet another giant utility project if we had the choice of fighting it entirely? I understood your speech last night needed to be said for or to the Algonquin/Spectra reps, just as arguing against it needed to be avoided in front of same. However, if in any way people in attendance or otherwise were left with the impression we can fight to keep this out of Stoughton, particularly at this late date, that would be a travesty and this is why: To consider fighting for any route that bypasses Stoughton you must look at the lar ger picture. There was discussion last night about the Algonquin's existing I-3 Route that traverses north of Stoughton through Canton, Randolph, Braintree and into Weymouth. This is the Route that we argued early on should be used. That was last summer before we had all the facts or the other town’s positions. To fight for this route now would mean not only fighting Algonquin and FERC, but also Randolph, Braintree, Weymouth and maybe Canton with the three former preferring the Edison route because the existing route that they are already stuck with has vastly more significant impacts than the Edison proposal. The existing route passes so many more homes and schools by such closer distances that its review is merely obligatory. Choosing this fight without the support of the other communities would fail. I've heard several people say they don't trust Algonquin and are suspicious of their purpose for coming through Stoughton. This too may be at least partly alleviated by looking at the bigger picture. Currently, Algonquin has a gas transmission pipeline running east from Medway to Weymouth. From Medway to Canton that line runs along the existing Edison easement, even in a short section of Stoughton just to the south of the condominium complex off of Island Street. At that point it is diverted north of us through Canton. Why? It's an old pipeline that may have had fewer impacts on that route at the time it was built. I don't know, but I do know that FERC advocates and encourages grouping utility easements together in corridors. Looking at the plan as a whole from Medway to Weymouth, Algonquin’s proposal to redirect their pipeline back onto the Edison Easement through Stoughton and east makes perfect sense. What doesn't make sense is how and where it impacts Stoughton with regard to the NSTAR station, The Sinai Hospital, the Dawe School and the multiple protected lands it would run through, thus the work around. We can't change their existing pipeline location in Canton and we can't change where they need to get to in Randolph. The only viable work around connecting point A to point B that arguably makes the most sense is the Glen Echo route. It's the only plan second to the Edison route that Algonquin is willing to submit as their PRIMARY Route. Why is that important? For all intensive purposes, FERC is the Federal equivalent of what the EFSB is to Massachusetts...they are both siting authorities. Anyone close to the NSTAR case or any siting case for that matter knows that the alter native routes may be deemed preferable or better for any or all of the review criteria and still loose out to the Primary Route if the difference isn't considered "clearly superior". Make no mistake that FERC makes the final decision, but FERC does not choose routes, they review the routes submitted against the Primary Route. Algonquin has made it clear that only one of two routes will be t heir primary....Edison or Glen Echo. Those are the choices. We have precious little time left to deal with this. Don't waste it with the red herring that we can just say 'no'"---Nancy Munroe
(Response To Nancy--You have referred to me as treating Spectra/Algonquin as the 'enemy'. THEY ARE. We do not EMBRACE a company that as their FIRST CHOICE wants to endanger our children, our teachers, patients at our hospitals, etc. They are motivated FOR PROFIT and not for the people of Stoughton. We DO need to fight. We need to be strong even to negotiate. I respect very much the work you have been doing quietly negotiating with the enemy. But, the people of this town---and those elected to represent us---need to be strong and garner every bit of mitigation possible before surrender Yes, their alternate route is a better choice than their NSTAR easement rout, but it still presents a myriad of problems. I'd like to see them stick to their current route, which has NO impact on MY town. It has an impact on their bottom line (aquiring property for wider easements), but that does not concern me..---MARK SNYDER)
"Mark, You spoke loud and clear! Now see if you can get the rest of the town off their ass, and just say no, use the existing route that does not go through Stoughton. They already have the easement in place and I assume that they have addressed all the environmental issues, so do the required engineering and put it there. You can make anything work if you want to. I really question their motive for wanting to go through Stoughton. We have some really great people in this town, that give and give, now we need to get our elected officials to take a stand with us (by the way what have the Selectman been doing for the last year) and not allow this to happen. People need to speak up, write letters, make phone calls, etc. or we will be thrown under the bus."--Name Withheld Upon Request
"Mark, much is being said about the proposed Algonquin project. I've read some letters and emails and I've discussed this with friends. It's obviously a very important subject to the future of our town, first, for safety reasons and secondly, property values specifically in the affected region of Stoughton and to a lessor extent, throughout the town.
I understand the fears and concerns. Recent history has not been good in this area. Nancy Munroe lead a hard fought battle; vs. and along with a previous leadership of the BOS to try to keep NStar out of Stoughton and/or put the town in the best position of a bad situation. She warned all who would listen of a scenario exactly as what Algonquin might provide - the ability for power production at the current site of NStar and all the issues surrounding this possibility.
Dick Levine, as noted on Mark's Latest News section under the heading "Is Town on the Same Page?" has scheduled a meeting to be held with Algonquin and INVITED the Conservation Commission and School and Open Space committee's on March 31st. We as citizens need to be heard, we're the most important group of all involved. With the four Stoughton groups invited (all made up of fellow Stoughton citizens) I believe this is the most logical and should be the most productive way to have the process move forward. I, as many of us do, know personally members on each of the 4 groups and know they will not stand by if the town were being led down a path not in line with the shared vision of our towns future.
My advice to all involved is to not spend time blasting the leadership for what they think is a bad idea for a meeting. Frankly, I think town government, when it is at its best looks exactly as this meeting is setup to do. I think too many people have their minds already made up on this issue because of other issues that have nothing to do with Algonquin. Until at least March 31st, we should trust the leadership of our various town boards to do the work they're there to do, looking out for the citizens best interests."---Bob Barbell
"Mark, I attended the Algonquin / Spectra 'Open House' on March 24th at Stoughton High School. I left the meeting extremely disappointed and very offended. I had anticipated a meeting where a panel of Algonquin representatives would be available, in an open forum, to address the very real concerns of Stoughton residents. I had expected a public dialogue where all sides would be able to present their opinions. I had hoped that we might all learn from one another.
Instead, we were all greeted by dozens of smiling, polite, P/R reps from Algonquin. They even served cookies! They were ready to answer any questions 'individually'. The design of the room (long, blocked off corridors of room dividers and maps) was such that no one could hear, or participate in, conversation or debate with anyone other than their own personal Algonquin representative. Algonquin intends to file their proposal with FERC in May. Their meeting, by design, was intended to separate and isolate the citizens of Stoughton. It was intended to diffuse any real questioning of their proposals.
On March 24th, Algonquin / Spectra told the town of Stoughton that we have only two choices. They are proposing two variations of routes that would go through our town. Already, there are Stoughton residents who are beginning to debate, and take sides on, the two Algonquin proposals. This is just wrong! It is backwards and way too late. Choosing between two unacceptable plans is no choice at all. Algonquin/ Spectra is happy to pit Stoughton residents one against the other. Doing so diverts our attention from where our focus should be. We should oppose any route through Stoughton at all. Why once again, do outside developers treat Stoughton like an easy mark? Why have we allowed this?
There has been no leadership from the Board of Selectmen to develop a position and a process that would unify the town. This should have happened a year ago. Our residents deserved an opportunity to express their concerns and grievances, and to have real input in these proceedings. The Chairman of the BOS has called for a special strategy meeting about the pipeline with various town boards on Monday, March 31st. Algonquin has been invited to attend. They will have a voice at that meeting. The public is NOT invited to participate. WE will not be allowed to speak. Algonquin will have their voice in the proceedings, but not the Stoughton residents? How much more could you botch a process? Is this the benefit of 'experienced, proven, leadership' that we are asked to 'celebrate' in Dick Levine's ads?
Stoughton is a diverse town with talented and determined people. We have expertise in many areas, and a history of citizens who aren't afraid of a fight. We should choose to develop a coordinated plan to oppose this assault on our town. At the very least, we could then negotiate from a position of strength and leverage. We would not have to fall back on a choice between the lesser of two evils. If our board members, our town employees, and most importantly our residents, choose to find common ground and unite behind an open opposition to any route at all through Stoughton for the Algonquin pipeline, we could prevail. Together, all of us could win! We could send them somewhere else, or back to their original Braintree route. We could just say NO! Not here. Not this time. Not in Stoughton!"--Rick Lynch
"Hi Mark, I am making efforts to build up membership of the Ames Pond Citizen's Committee. Below is some descriptive text, from the attached flyer. I was wondering if you could please post something on your web site? FYI - I am on Stoughton Conservation Commission. The Ames Pond Citizens Committee would like to invite interested residents of Stoughton to join their distribution list. The Committee is NOT looking for donations, just the contact information of residents who are interested in restoring this lovely recreational facility. There are grants and other assistance available for the restoration of the pond, however without the support of local citizens, advocating for state grants and local funding becomes near impossible. We need your membership! To enroll simply e-mail your contact info to: amespond@gmail.com. Members of the Ames Pond Citizens Committee will receive updates and information relating to the efforts being made restore the pond."--- Diana Germain
"Hi Mark: While no one would dispute the fact that the rail car accident was an unfortunate accident, I would hope that people do not use this as an opportunity to attack the Cohenno family and Cohenno, Inc. I have personally known the Cohenno family for years and they are honest, hard working and conscientious individuals. Let us not forget the fact that in the past, it was Cohenno Trucking's flat bed trailiers that were often used to build reviewing stands for parades (what old townie doesn't remember the 1976 Bicentennial parade with the Cohenno flatbeds parked on Washington Street draped in red, white and blue bunting). Furthermore, we cannot forget the longstanding financial benefit the company brings to the town in the form of tax revenue and employment opportunities, to say nothing of the fact that they provide a valuable service that ultimately benefits everyone (after all, we all have lumber in our houses). We all empathise with the injured, and are greatful no one was killed. We cannot forget however, that CSX, and not Cohenno, Inc. owns or leases the rail car."-- Michael L. Georges
"Hi Mark,
I have already received some great feedback from the posting of our 2008 Charity Golf Tournament on your web page.
If it's not too much trouble could you correct our organization's name.
It is: Friends For Seniors.
It is listed on your web page as: Friends Of Seniors. I know this appears to be a small difference but when it comes to donations and golf fees paid in check form, it makes a big difference.
As always, "Thanks for all your help!"---
Lorraine McCarthy, Friends for Seniors
"Hi Mark, I just read on your site that the March 31 BOS meeting will not be the long awaited public hearing, but rather another meeting for the Town Boards/committees to discuss the gas line/Spectra project and to see if they can come to an agreed position. Why is it to the Town's benefit for Spectra to be present at a meeting in which there is not yet a united direction? A year and seven public meetings later and still no public hearing. Stoughton is listening to "facts" provided only from the developer. At the last open house (Monday), I once again found inaccurate, dated and misinformation within their presentation documentation including maps and matrix. In at least one case, the maps had been updated three times since the correct information was acquired yet still omitted from the mapping. This is what the Town is hearing/seeing with out challenge to base their position on? In the eleventh hour they are attempting to come to a united position before they even hold a public hearing? Sounds to me like the cart pulling the horse."--- Nancy Munroe
(Mike: The State Firefighters Union sent out a media news release stating the town was the most unpatriotic in America <which was picked up by a number of media outlets---including this one.>. At the press conference, which I attended, McCarthy had amended the original statement and talked about "The town manager and board of selectmen are the most unpatriotic politicians in America." i did, however, print your letter on the site.---MARK)Hi Mark, There is an error on your web page concerning the Stoughton FF issue. See this quote: PFFM members descended on the Town of Stoughton at the VFW on Washington Street on Friday, February 29th in show of support for Brother Doug Campbell. PFFM President Bob McCarthy chastised the Stoughton Board of Selectmen as "the Most Unpatriotic Politicians in America" for not paying brother firefighter Doug Campbell while he is on active duty in a war zone. McCarthy never sayd "the Most Unpatriotic Politicians in America" - he referred to Stoughton as "the Most Unpatriotic TOWN in America". Now, I'm sure that he WISHES he had made this distinction, but the fact is he insulted the TOWN and all of us townspeople, and THAT was a huge part of the controversy that they created. For the record, I'd correct that quote as it is incorrect and seems to "spin" the truth in favor of what the PFFM would have preferred to have happened. I remember when this came on the TV news, I nearly fell out of my chair in shock - and took his comments quite personally. "---Name Withheld Upon Request
"Mark, I was quite surprised when I tuned in to Dick Murphy's show to see my two opponents on his show. I expected to see Steve Anastos which I eventually did. I was never invited to participate on the show and share my ideas and thoughts. Seeing Dick Murphys show endorsed my two opponents on a previous show I guess it only fair to try and sway the election in their favor.One question that did catch my attention was fees. I thank Bill Klein for telling people I am against fees. WHICH I AM. How to solve fees? First I would look at retired teachers and the hiring of new teachers. There is a gap in salary. New teachers make less than retired teachers based on the step structure in the contracts. This year about $300,000 dollars. Also gate admission fees. Basketball and football gate fees Where does this money go and how much is involved. Only way to get the answers is be part of the school committee and demand answers. I will explore all avenues to reduce fees."--Tony Bickerton
"Mark, Concerned Citizens of Stoughton is delighted to announce that we have received another generous grant from New England Grassroots Environmental Fund. The residents’ group has supported Stoughton’s Open Space Plan’s mission to preserve the Goddard Property between Washington Street and Sumner Street. A 40B Affordable housing project threatens to develop the land with more than one hundred new houses on the marginal land. Concerned Citizens of Stoughton continues to oppose the proposal. At this stage, the project is in litigation, and the residents remain confident that the regulations regarding the presumption: that the Open Space is a priority, will prevail. Donations are greatly appreciated. Please send donations to Concerned Citizens of Stoughton , Care of Paula Grubenskas, Co - treasurer , 127 Benson Road, Stoughton, Mass 02072."---Donna Ayers
"Mark, I was just reading through your website and I found that the Community Preservation Act is on the ballot again. Why can't these people that are pushing this TAX give it up? The people have voted against this TAX twice. In very simple terms, It is a TAX. Your readers need to look through the wording the supporters are using to make it seem like a wonderful thing. Wonderful for who? Me? You?-- or the people that choose to live near the woods? I have been told that I don't care about the future of Stoughton because I am against this. I have four young children that my wife and I are raising in this town, so I assure everyone that the future of Stoughton is truly my number one concern. Basically the rising cost of living is enough without having to deal with this TAX on the ballot. This TAX will be forever, it isn't a one time thing. If you read this, spread the word...This is a TAX. I urge the voters of Stoughton to always vote against it."-- Phil Yaitanes
"Hi Mark, Just curious if you have heard of purse snatchings from mothers cars picking up their kids at local schools. My wife's purse was taken from her unlocked car as she picked up our children at the Gibbons School two weeks ago. The police said that it has happened quite a few times. The thief waits for moms to pull up to the day care or school and when they get away from their cars, he (or she) opens the door and grabs the purse. My wife's was found at a CVS dumpster in Easton two days later. Everything except the cell phone and cash was there. Let me know if you hear anything. I was told Hugs Plus was hit hard. Kids sports was another and the day care on West street (at the Academy Gymnastics Place) too. There has to be a way to inform the parents of this happening here. Too many are taking their safety and security for granted in Stoughton. They leave the car open with the bag in the car and assume that it is just the parents that are around them. Thanks." (Name Withheld Upon Request)
"Mark,
this may be untimely. However, after reading your article regarding
proposed hazardous product storage by Barrett Dist. Ctr., I wanted to
clarify where the adjacent brook flows. All water in the southeast
side of Stoughton is in the Taunton River Watershed and flows south
through Brockton. There is another, smaller brook flowing on the
east side of this Industrial Park that flows into D. W. Field Park
and the Brockton Reservoir. The brook adjacent to the former Hoboken
plant eventually crosses South Street then behind T.J. Maxx and into
Brockton and becomes Lovett Brook, I believe. It is difficult to
walk this stream and the USGS topographical map is incomplete in this
regard. I believe the flood insurance map, available at the Town
Hall, may be the best reference map. I also think the flood
insurance map will show that Campanelli Industrial Park (this area)
is in a 100-year flood zone as a result of the brook that flows by
the Hoboken building."--Harold Frost
I will be hosting a meeting at my house (541 Sumner Street) tomorrow evening (March 19) at 7:30 pm to continue our discussions regarding the Community Preservation Act. I hope that you can attend and that you might bring along one or two (or more) others who might help out in the campaign for the passage of the CPA. The more folks learn about the CPA the more they support it. In the absence of the CPA, the Town is facing some grim alternatives such as further reductions in services, increased borrowing to finance its day-to-day operations, and the continued transfer of necessary costs fro the tax-deductible real estate tax base to the non-deductible fee-for-services base. I hope to see you and others that you might invite at the meeting. Thank you for your help."- John Morton (johnhmorton@verizon.net)
"Dear Mark: Please ask your readers to contact me at 341-1300, extension 262, or send me a note if any are aware of tire dumps anywhere in town in the woods. Tires are a huge source of mosquito breeding and harborage. Free swimming, air breathing larvae known as "wrigglers" in staggeriing numbers escape predation in the water in these tires. The species which prefer th ese "low oxygen" conditions are those which carry dangerous viruses such as Eastern Equine Encephalitus and West Nile Virus. Dragonfly nymphs water beetles and other aquatic insects are natural checks who feed on the "wrigglers" in natural healthy ecosystems of ponds and swamps. With the assistance of a group of organized individuals in the community TBA, we hope to clean some of these dumps up in honor of upcoming Earth Day Festivities. Our Household Haz-Mat/ Used tire and used needle collection will be held Saturday April 12 from 8:30 to Noon at the O'Donnell Middle School. Thank you very much Mark for helping us get the word out!"--Jim Conlon
"Mark, This is the actual email that we received from the union's attorney, Joe Sandulli. Subsequent to receiving his email, our attorney had several discussions with him in which he lobbied for the parties to stay with the original plan of NOT issuing statements beyond what would be in the joint statement previously agreed upon. He was however ultimately unsuccessful. It was after these discussions that Attorney Sandulli sent the email to our attorney stating that they would issue their own statement. Perhaps Mr. Denneno should get together with the union's attorney so they are in concert as to what their decisions are. So far they have not been on the same page."--- Dick Levine, Chairman, Stoughton Board of Selectmen
"Dear Mark, I did not think that this type of propaganda was going to take place any further in the public as was stated by Mr. Levine in an earlier comment. I cannot stand by and let lies, insults, and misinformation be published without a response. I must let you know that I had no intention of sending any type of letter to this forum. My intent was keeping our exchanges gentlemanly as was also agreed to by Mr. Levine. It only took 4 days for that to go out the window with the letter he sent to you today. To answer, I must assure you we in no way shape or form feel that a mistake was made in holding our press conference on February 29; In fact I have gotten a wonderful response from most residents that I have spoken with. Most understood that the unpatriotic theme was directed toward the Board of selectman and Town manager. They were trying to force an agreement to be signed that had never needed to be signed before. We showed the Board documentation that other town employees received similar benefits while they were deployed without a signed agreement. I did call Mr. Levine on March 4th, not because we felt we were wrong, but to resolve the issue as soon as possible for both sides. This local had and was already prepared to send a message to the residents regarding our press conference. I sent a copy to the town but they did not like what was written and chose to rewrite it for me. I expressed my displeasure with having my words rewritten and was told that the Town no longer wanted a joint statement.(I will attach our version of what we were going to say and then the towns version). Mr. Levine’s insistence on an apology is simply an attempt to draw negative attention away from himself and the board of selectman. As for negotiations there never should have been any. It should have been as simple as what has been done for others. What they should have said is, We will do it for you stay safe Captain Campbell and don’t worry we will make sure your family is cared for BUT NOT IN STOUGHTON AND NOT WITH THIS BOARD."--Peter Denneno, President, Firefighters Local 1512
"Dear Mark:
Last Thursday Algonquin Gas/Spectra Energy representatives conducted two meetings and made an offering in both of various routes the gas line could take. The first meeting was held with the Town of Stoughton and attended by various department heads and Board/Committee representatives and the other meeting was with me (my third meeting held at Algonquin’s Norwood office). Algonquin reviewed all the route options considered over the past year and narrowed the field down to three routes as they relate to Stoughton or its work around the area. They are:
The initial Proposed Route also identified as "the Edison Route", the Q System Cross Country Alternatives also identi fied as "The Glen Echo or Gibson Route" (with three optional adjustments through the Gibson property), the I-2 Replacement Alternative also identified as the route that follows the existing gas pipeline east into Canton then south through Stoughton parallel to Rt 24. Of these three routes, Algonquin proposed that they are prepared to submit the Glen Echo Alternative route as their Preferred Primary Route within their formal filing to FERC in May, 08, if and only if they receive support for this route from the Town and/or those affected. Should they not hear from the Town or receive support for this alternative, they will file the Edison Route as their Preferred Primary Route. They will consider no other routes as their Preferred Primary, but all alternative routes will be considered by FERC and arguments to support other routes can be made directly to FERC.
Please know that The Glen Echo Route was proposed as an alternative to accomplish four main goals: To circumvent passage through the Dawe School and Hospital property. To generate settlement funds to help acquire the Gibson property for open space. To reduce social and environmental impacts and to divert the pipeline crossing away from the NSTAR switchstation thereby greatly reducing the probability for future utility expansion in our town. I am an advocate of the Glen Echo/Gibson route, second only to Spectra's current existing easement and pipelines that omit Stoughton or pass south through Stoughton along Rt 24.
To date FERC and Algonquin have heard from the Stoughton School Committee and Richard Levine as the BOS Chairman both requesting thorough review and weakly suggesting preference for the Glen Echo/Gibson Route. The Stoughton Open Space Committee submitted their position opposing all routes through Stoughton and strongly condemning the Glen Echo/Gibson Route. Though I applaud the committees work and efforts to secure and protect this property for open space, their arguments do not offer a fair analysis of our options. For instance, the Edison Route would pass through acres of already protected open space and conservation property including land in perpetuity north and west and east of the NSTAR switchyard, The Dawe School recreation fields and nature walk trails and the Reynolds Farm. The Glen Echo/Gibson route passes through no property protected to date. The Edison route travels through an IWPA protected water supply and the States Mapped Habitat for Rare Wildlife, neither of which are located along the Glen Echo Route. Most important however is that the Town is being given a choice to protect our children and workers of the Dawe School and to shut the door on future utility expansion proj ects within our town. When you weigh all these issues is there really a choice at all? Protecting Glen Echo is a worthy and important endeavor that should be pursued with or without the pipeline. Keep in mind that gas pipelines currently pass through state parks and protected open spaces all over this state including miles of pipeline laid through Blue Hills reservation. Finally the Town has been given a choice. All we have to do is speak up and let our position be known. I can assure you Canton will. Lets not be left in their wake. I have asked the BOS for a year now to please hold a public meeting on this issue. I've submitted yet another request to be placed on their next available agenda as it is imperative that the Town makes its position known prior to Algonquin's formal filing to FERC in May. I am also collecting peti tion signatures supporting the Glen Echo Gibson route second only to the Canton work around. Please watch for and sign this petition. Please tell the town to speak up on your behalf. Algonquin w ill hold its third open house sometime within the last week of March/First week of April at undetermined location that may be sited in Canton. Please watch the papers and SnyderStoughton for updates."--- Nancy Munroe
"Hi Mark, I would like to take this opportunity through your web site to thank all of the residents that voted for me in the preliminary election. I am very excited for the opportunity to move on to the annual election to be held on April 8. Congratulations to the other finalists and I look forward to an invigorating campaign over the next 4 weeks. I would reach out to any resident who has confidence in what I stand for, and is willing to support my campaign through hard work, to contact me. I promise it will be a rewarding experience. Thanks for printing this, Mark."-- Dick Levine
"Hi Mark--Thank you for posting my letter, as always I appreciate it very much. I also appreciate Dori Frankels rebutal. Being able to voice ones'opinion is a very American thing to be able to do. I am a Christian and of course I find absolutely nothing wrong with churches being built and people coming together to celebrate their faith. Who could find something wrong with that? What I do have a problem with is the fact that in an area where there is so much possibility for many different kinds of businesses that may be a draw for out of towners to come into our great community to spend money supporting local business, we are faced with a situation where small churches are going into major business blocks instead. Randolph I believe had a similar problem and they corrected it from getting out of control in their central business district by zoning certain areas for certain types of businesses. I don't know if what I am saying is right or wrong, others in town can speak up if they would like as well and Dori is certainly open to her opinion. As far as schools are concerned, I know how great our system is. I have a daughter that takes full advantage of the sped program here and other children who are excelling as well. My point is the schools are falling apart on the inside and in many cases the kids are learning out of text books that are way outdated. If you want to attract the type of resident to Stoughton that is professional and has a desire for their children to get the best education they can, then we had better start focusing on getting funding to the schools. Stoughton has always been a community open to all, but the town is becoming more and more a place for poverty than for a professional family. We have to have a healthy mix of resident. If you think I am a well to do person who just doesn't want to mingle with the lower classes, then you are wrong. I am low income living in an apartment with my wife and four children. I am far from a snob, and although you consider me pessimistic, I consider myself a realist. I know what it is like to scrape by! I do it every week. I also know that it is about more than just me! For this town or any community to be healthy in feel, finance and environment, there has to be a healthy mix of resident. To much poverty and there is a large drain on town services including the school system, police and fire. That is reality. It is great that Mr Levine wants to focus on the positive. I don't think that any candidate anywhere could get elected by just focusing on the negative, but to just talk about the good without talking about what needs to be fixed is not going to get us anywhere either. Mr Levine talks quite a bit about diversity which is a wonderful thing. My wifes family are from the Azores and my grandparents from Europe as well. My opinion is however that to much reminding about all of our differences is a bad thing. How about talking about the fact that all of us came here from different places and we now all share our American culture and have united as one. The word diversity has become to me one the the most overused, politically correct words in our vocubulary today. The word was put to use for a good cause and now has become a symbol in this community and this country of a reminder that we are not alike as Americans, but very different. That is a bad thing. Again, this is just my opinion. Stoughton is and always has been a true American town. Blue collar, white collar, black, white and whoever and whatever else has always been welcome here. With that said, the drastic increase in crimes, the falling apart infrastructure of our schools, our square slowly turning into Main Street Brockton and out of control development and traffic needs to be addressed. Like I said originally, I do not support or know any candidate. Mr Levines ads caught my eye and I wanted to respond. I may vote for Mr Levine, I don't know. I will vote for the candidate who tells me that they will care about the residents of North Stoughton and the out of control development that they are faced with. I will vote for the candidate who tells me he will work to clean up the graffiti and blight converging around our town square. I will vote for the candidate who tells me he will stop another large apartment complex coming in which will drain ours chools and town services even further. That is the kind of representative I want and I am sure others do as well. Thank you Mark and Dori. Someday, when I am freed up more I would like to put my money where my mouth is and do more about what concerns me. Thank you."--Jim Pernock
"Good Afternoon, Mark: As both co-chair of Dick Levine's campaign for ReElection to the Stoughton Board of Selectmen, and as a proud citizen of Stoughton, I felt the need to respond to Jim Pernock's views about our town and Dick's focus of the campaign. At the beginning of our campaign meetings, we felt that the more positive aspects of our town, and its focus on the future was the best avenue to help our townsfolk generate that pride in ownership of our community. We have definitely focused on 'Celebration' as the theme because it will accomplish our goals. Lets take a look at what Mr. Pernock says is wrong with Stoughton: (1). Our schools are old and outdated and have a problem with drugs and violence. Wow, that's a big difference between Stoughton and every other community in the Commonwealth! That's not irresponsible, its realistic. The problems occurring in the schools are being jumped on by all avenues possible. The School Department has done a terrific job of keeping up the facilities on limited funds without requesting a 2 1/2 override or a debt exclusion. Their joint work with the Police Department should be commended, not critiqued. Working to keep on top of these kinds of issues, and finding short and long term solutions to them is a high priority for Dick and the entire rest of the Board of Selectmen and School Committee. If Mr. Pernock is unaware of the many programs set up for these issues, he should talk with the powers that be to be brought up to date. (2). Our Square: A good Christian would be happy to see churches of all denominations springing up wherever they can. Religious connections ground our peoples, and have for millenniums. It is not the place of worship that is important, it is the worship in all places. Mr. Pernock gives more credit to Dick than he deserves, as Dick Levine is not the landlord of any properties in Stoughton Square, unlike some other candidate. (3). Diversity: We celebrate the diversity of our residents in both social and ethnic categories because it is what allows our residents to know and understand the various cultures and traditions of our townspeople. Diversity breeds growth of spirit, and that's what this town needs. We will continue to exemplify that fabulous trait of our town. America was built of a nation of peoples from all over the world, that's what makes America the best country in the world. Just the fact that there are six people wanting to be a Selectman in Stoughton should be celebrated. We have a great town here, and with a positive outlook and realistic views of the issues we face, I know Dick Levine will be able to continue the good work our town management has achieved in the past number of years. Mr. Pernock needs to lose the pessimistic attitude. That's what is keeping him in the dark."--- Dori Frankel
"Hi Mark--I have written before but felt the need again. I am not endorsing any candidate, but feel the need to make a comment about the ads run by Dick Levine. Each week in the Pennysaver, Dick is celebrating everything good about Stoughton, but I think some of his thinking is off. I understand that to focus on negative things isn't neccesarily the way to go to correct problems, but to ignore them and make it seem as though all is great is also wrong and not a way to fix the problems this town is experiencing. Dick mentions our superioir school system. There are a lot of great things about our schools from teachers to students to programs, but our schools are in a lot of trouble as well. The inside of our schools are run down and outdated to say the least. The schools are also starting to experience a lot of problems with violence and drugs. To ignore this and say all towns are having their issues is irresponsible. Dick talks about our beautiful town square! Really! I am a Christian by faith, but to allow churches to spring up all over the center in vacant store fronts and low end dollar stores is damaging to say the least. Stoughton Square is looking more and more like Main Street Brockton every day. We are a town with a beautiful historic train station and village type set up. Instead of taking advantage of these things we are allowing nothing but poverty and blight to set in. One more major apartment complex to go in like the one planned in North Stoughton, and you can say goodbye to Stoughton and hello to Brockton! Our schools and our emergency services cannot handle this out of control development. Mr Levine also needs to stop celebrating diversity in his attempt to win elections and realize that to keep reminding all of us about how different we are from one another we need to remember that for all of us that are here responsibly and legally, we are first and foremost Americans. That is a message not heard to often lately due to the political correctness that has gripped this town and this country. Thank you Mark."--Jim Pernock
