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Encouraging More Transparency in Process; More Dialogue about Fruit Street School, Center School, and Redistricting Dear Editor, I am writing in response to the recent letter, “Why Retiring the Center School is the Best Option”. I have been a resident in Hopkinton for over 25 years and am a graduate of HHS. I currently have children enrolled at Center and Hopkins and third child who will enter Kindergarten in 2012. It is very likely that if the final approval for full design and construction of the new school is approved in March at the Special Town meeting, two of my children would reap the benefits of a brand new school. The reason for this letter is to seek clarification and ask that more detailed information be shared with taxpayers before voting on such an important issue (specifically the decision to fund a new school AND the plan to redistrict if the new school is approved).
After reviewing the minutes of the Hopkinton Elementary School Building Committee meetings it is apparent that a tremendous amount of time and energy has been put into the recommendation to build a new school on Fruit Street. I appreciate the effort that each member has made and do not take their participation for granted. This letter serves to ask for more sound rationale with regards to this proposal. As I read through the two page summary there were many things that did not sit well with me, given the scope of the project and the impact that this change would have on the taxpayers of Hopkinton.
After reading the letter, my first thought was that in May of 2008, voters only authorized the funds to conduct the feasibility study (not build a new school). I was never under the impression that the vote I cast in support of funding a study would now be used to persuade citizens that one option from this study must now be acted on. There were clearly many options that were evaluated in this study. I think taxpayers would appreciate having the opportunity to review and discuss the rationale behind some of the options that were evaluated. For example, the matrix of options that is referenced in the May 10, 2010 minutes may be useful to examine the options that were presented (C-1, C-2, E-4, H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 are options that are referred to, but details are not available). It seems that with so many different options, a better approach to generating consensus around this issue may have been to share the two or three most viable options and the pros and cons to each of these options. By only presenting one option, it appears as though not much is up for discussion. I do realize that garnering support around such a monumental Town issue is a tremendous task, but to have things narrowed down so significantly does not seem to give citizens much of an option on how they wish to spend their tax dollars, nor does it allow them the opportunity to see the findings that were used to bring us to this point.
As I read further in this letter, the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) standards that are referenced made me wonder how many schools there are in the Commonwealth that meet MSBA standards or fall under those standards. This excerpt from the letter illustrates how the MSBA standards are represented, “The library is also grossly undersized at 816 square feet versus the MSBA standard for an elementary school of 3100 square feet”. This led me to believe that the MSBA standards are those that a town should be looking to achieve in their school buildings in order to have a competitive and successful educational program. I contacted the MSBA myself to learn a bit more about the MSBA and how important their standards are to the success of our schools.
For
those who are not aware, a
brief history on the MSBA, as stated on their website; “On
7/28/2004, legislation was signed creating the MSBA as a new independent
public authority. For over a year, various departments of the
Treasurer’s office worked diligently with the Legislature to craft and
pass a responsible reform plan for the school building assistance
program. This reform plan pledges 20% of the state’s future sales taxes
as a dedicated revenue stream to pay down the existing $10.7 billion in
debt, while creating a new authority charged with managing the cost and
operations of the program in the future.
In my conversation with the MSBA they shared with me the following:
Redistricting: Lacking Analysis & Community Discussion It appears that the issue of redistricting is being quietly tagged onto the building of a new school. In no way can redistricting, especially for a Town that has never been redistricted, be pushed through, especially when the last time redistricting was openly discussed with the community was almost a decade ago in 2001. Never in my years of business, would a CEO agree to implement a recommendation that was made by its Board back in 2001, just because it hadn’t been acted on during that time. A full financial review and impact analysis would be completed again before that project would even be considered as an objective to focus on. The Town’s economy is far different from what it was in 2001, student enrollment (and I would assume the projections) are probably much different as well. I don’t know that anyone has fully explored whether or not redistricting is a smart thing to do for the students or the taxpayers right now in this Town (what are the benefits and challenges with redistricting, as well as the financial savings and direct and associated or indirect costs). If this analysis has been done, I would like to see it shared with residents at the earliest possible time so that people can be informed before casting their vote.
Other towns that have chosen to redistrict have shared with its residents reasons why they believe redistricting might be the best solution to a certain problem. At this point, it has not been made clear what significant problem exists that redistricting would solve and that would warrant the cost. I have not seen any redistricting plans or implementation plans that fully articulate how this change would be executed. Just recently, the towns of Old Lyme and Lyme, CT have been dealing with redistricting and have given residents 3 different options that clearly outline the annual savings that would result in redistricting. I have seen no such options or savings estimates. The lack of dialogue and lack of information leads me to believe this is not a smart or sensible decision to move forward with at this time. It does not mean that it might not be a good solution in the future, but there is no compelling argument for me that redistricting is a good solution right now.
Do residents without children in the schools understand how redistricting could impact them and their property values? Do parents understand how the redistricting would impact their families? In reality, only 1/3 of students in grades K-5 would benefit from the new $36M school that all taxpayers would be paying for. Does it make sense for us to create redundancy with 3 schools in our Town during one of the wost economic times when we should be looking to be more efficient? Have we contacted other towns of similar size who have redistricted for the first time to understand what they learned and what they would do things differently? Do we really want to make a fundamental change to our now cohesive Town, where all students have the opportunity for a similar high quality educational experience? Redistricting is a change that could impact where people choose to buy their homes because one school is perceived to be better than another. This happens today in towns that are redistricted and I think the residents of this Town would want to be informed about the possible impacts of such a decision before agreeing to move down this path.
I am not necessarily against a new or renovated school; I see that Center School needs work to be a better functioning educational facility. However, between the lack of information and misleading information that has been shared with residents thus far in the October 2010 letter, and the lack of discussion or sound rationale for why Hopkinton should redistrict I will not be able to support the full design and construction of a new school on the Fruit Street site, or the redistricting that is implied with that proposal.
Whether my children are in a brand new school or an older school that is a piece of our Town’s history, I believe they will succeed not because of the age of the school or the technology in it, but because of the people and teachers they are surrounded by and learn from. I hope that we will set a good example to our children with how we choose to proceed in this important decision.
I support and am grateful for the work of our volunteers in this Town. I also support and value thorough review, thoughtful evaluation, and clear communication when it comes to significant decisions that will impact the education of our children and the additional tax burden that all residents may need to bear in the future. I would encourage others who are concerned, would like more information, or have another perspective to offer, to let our Town leaders know what you are thinking.
I welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues further. Respectfully, Kim Brennan 151 Spring Street December 9, 2010 |
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Souper Bowl Wants More Participants
Editor--
In 1990, a youth group in Columbia, SC acted on a prayer—“As we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those without a bowl of soup to eat.” Inspired to reach out to those in need on Super Bowl weekend, the youth invited other area churches to join them in collecting donations in soup pots. The collaborative effort raised $5,700 with 100% given to local charities. The youth-led initiative became the Souper Bowl of Caring, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people to make a positive impact in their communities. The simple idea has created a national movement, inspiring congregations, schools and communities to work together.
In 2009, over 14,000 groups of youth generated more than $10.4 million through the Souper Bowl of Caring with 100% going to food banks, soup kitchens and other charities across the country. So far in 2010, over 6,302 groups of youth have generated more than $6.3 million in donations and they are still counting! The Souper Bowl of Caring is simple—youth collect donations on or near Super Bowl weekend and donate to the nonprofit of their choice. No money comes to the Souper Bowl of Caring. Many youth also add a Service Blitz to their Souper Bowl of Caring activity and volunteer at the nonprofit receiving their funds.
For the past two years, Grace United Methodist Church has been the only registered participant for the Town of Hopkinton. We would like to challenge other churches, schools and businesses in Hopkinton to join us in this national movement of caring that is transforming Super Bowl weekend into the nation’s largest youth-led weekend of giving and serving. There’s plenty of time to plan for Super Bowl of Caring 2011, and registrations are already being accepted! Participation is simple: 1. Register at www.souperbowl.org/charities/ . Your organization will be included in a database where Souper Bowl of Caring participants can search for places to volunteer and/or donate. 2. Encourage local churches and schools to participate by using the sample letter available online. Please remember that each group will decide where their donations will go. You are welcome to include information that will help others learn about your organization. However, please do not make the groups feel obligated to send their donations to you. This could be confusing, as many nonprofits may be writing groups in your area. 3. Report all donations you receive by visiting the charities section at
Please join us! Sincerely,
Dawn Puliafico 61 Wood Street, Hopkinton, MA February 12, 2010 |
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Residents Petition Against 2.65% Budget
To the Editor:
We are writing to express concern about the potential cuts to the Schools if they are required to reduce their budgets by 2.65%.
We understand that the task facing our town leadership is a difficult one -- and cuts will need to be made. However, a 2.65% reduction for the schools goes too far. Our children's education is not something that we can sacrifice. Significant cuts have been made for the last five years and this round will severely impact our children's education. Hopkinton must maintain reasonable standards of education for its children, which the current budget cuts do not allow. Therefore, we ask that all parties -- Town Leadership, Unions, School Committee and Department Heads -- work creatively and cooperatively and make every effort to avoid imposing the most harmful cuts.
If
the Schools are required to reduce their budget by 2.65%
($854,617), some of the significant results would be: K Gr.1 Gr.2 Gr.3 Gr.4 Gr.5 Gr.6 Gr.7 Gr.8 2010 20 24 24 22 24 24 24 23 22 2011 increases 22 25 26 24 24 26 25 22 23 · The percentage of High School core classes with over 25 students per class would rise from 18% to 22%. · The Middle School related arts program would be reduced. · A High School Guidance Counselor would be cut. · Five HS and MS athletic teams would be cut. · The Late Buses would be cut. · The 5th grade
instrumental music program would be cut. · Generated $8.8 million in revenue enhancements through grants, fees, gifts and other proactive measures. (Of that amount, $3.3 million has come from athletic, transportation, and community use fees.) · Realized $5.1
million in cost savings and efficiencies through: the
development of in-district Special Education programs;
technology and Special Education reorganizations; administrative
reductions; discounted cooperative purchasing through school
district collaboratives; and energy efficiency initiatives. Sincerely,
Esther Driscoll, 24
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Turkey Drive Successful Editor: Friends and Neighbors,
This would not have been possible without the special assistance provided by many, many individuals. Thanks goes out to Superintendent Phelan for allowing the Hopkinton public schools to participate in the collection. The principals of each of the schools, and especially Principal Silver of Elmwood School, went out of their way to support our in-school efforts. They sent out our fliers and made announcements that helped raise awareness of our cause. They also allowed us to use their facilities for collection and storage. Thanks also go to Mr. Laverdiere and the kitchen and janitorial staff at each school. Without you, this drive would not have worked. Teachers and staff at every school also helped support the drive, especially, Mrs. Burns, the nurse at Center School who started a collection from Center School staff as well as Mrs. Green, Mrs. Hopkins and Mr. Verra, teachers at the Middle School.
Of course we could not have gotten off first base without the help of our volunteers. Brothers Matt and Dylan Johnson, friends Ryan and Sarah Durr, Ryan, Owen and Casey DiNicola, Peter and Jonathan DeMarco, Aidan and Declan Curry, Kacey, Ethan and Julie Kramer, Evan and Olivia Rosen, Danny Collins, Michael Steedman and John Buday all contributed time and effort to support the project. Thanks also to the countless friends who helped make sitting at the collection stands fun. My mom, Kyra Johnson kept the wheels on the track. Mrs. Durr, Mrs. DeMarco, Mrs. Taggart, Mrs. Buday, Mrs. Kramer, Mrs. Steedman Mrs. DiNicola and Mrs. Curry all went out of their way to help with rides, posters and marketing. Also thanks goes out to Market Basket of Bellingham for selling us turkeys below their cost. They enthusiastically supported our program and we are very grateful.
I can’t forget to mention Tracey at the Salvation Army who made the process easier with her enthusiastic support. The Salvation Army of Framingham does a great job of helping people in need. Tracey volunteers lots of time assisting people in need and she went out of her way to make us feel appreciated and important.
Most importantly, thanks go out to everyone who made a donation. Thanksgiving is a time when families come together and spend time thinking about what they have to be thankful for. Your efforts allowed close to 200 families to have something to be grateful for on Thanksgiving Day.
Eleven years ago, Danny Merzel was in 6th grade when he came up with an idea about how we as a community could help others. I’m happy to report that this drive continues to thrive and has become an important Hopkinton tradition. Thank you sincerely and have a great Thanksgiving!
Drew Johnson 14 Erika Drive November 21, 2009 |
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Students Raise $1,045 for Stephen Tyrone Johns Fund Dear Editor,
After the Hopkinton Class of 2013 returned from Washington, DC, we began to collect donations for the Memorial Fund for Stephen Tyrone Johns who was slain at the Holocaust Museum by a right-wing fanatic shortly after we had met him and left the museum in Washington.
We were very saddened by his tragic death and we wanted the Johns Family to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers. Many of us remember the kind smile and friendly manner of Officer Johns. We believe Officer Johns was a very special person and we are grateful for his heroic actions on June 10, 2009.
A check for $1045.00 was sent to the USHMM Officer Johns Family Fund on behalf of the Class of 2013. People from all over Massachusetts, as well as a few other states contributed. We wish to especially acknowledge the Hopkinton Police Association who gave a generous contribution of $200.00. Hopkinton Police Officer Phillip Powers accompanied our class to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum on June 10, 2009.
We wish to also thank Hopnews .com who helped publicize our efforts. We also thank the Hopkinton Schools, especially Dr. Lynch and Ms. Bugg, who supported our efforts.
Sincerely Lindsay Manning, Briarcliff Drive and Alex Kraieski Blackthorn Circle Hopkinton August 2, 2009 |
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Right Call Was Made Editor:
It was tough to have the Hopkinton Community Summer Concert Band concert cancelled this year. It's the band's fifth year and it's an amazing tradition, with adults, recent grads and current students all gathering to enjoy making music. Steve Yavarow deserves an enormous amount of credit for organizing and running this program each year.
As the previous writer noted, Steve and the musicians put a lot of work into preparing a wonderful program to offer the community, and the photo of the sun-splashed Common at concert time made it that much harder to know we could have played. However, I reluctantly feel the right call was made. There was more than just a forecast of showers.
Hopkinton was under a severe thunderstorm watch (or perhaps it was a warning) for the time of the concert. We've recently seen how quickly a bad storm can move in and cause damage in our town, and yesterday's storm did just that in the towns to our north. To go ahead with an event that would gather a crowd of people together out in the open would not have been the responsible thing to do. Individually, we are hardy souls, but the concert coordinator had to think of everyone involved. It was a tough call, but I think it was the right one.
John Ritz 11 Erika Drive Hopkinton July 27, 2009 |
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We Are hardy Folk Editor:
Unfortunately the Sunday concert was canceled today for stormy weather
that never materialized. As a result, the Hopkinton Community Summer
Band, having practiced for months, missed the opportunity to perform for
the community. This was not only a loss for the musicians and director,
but also for the citizens of Hopkinton. Personally, I'll opt for the
old way. If it starts to rain, run for cover. Otherwise proceed with
your plans. I thought we New Englanders always considered ourselves
"hardy folk". 32 West Main Street Hopkinton July 27, 2009 |
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Racist Shoe is on Other foot Editor:
ASSUMING that the reports we get to see are correct, one thing jumps out
at me in this incident. Henry Louis Gates and I would have acted very
differently. 7 Tiffany Trail Hopkinton, MA July 26, 2009 |
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Support for Mary Pratt Dear Editor,
May 15, 2009 |
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Support for Todd Cestari
Dear Editor, This Monday, May 18th, we will have the opportunity to impact the future of Hopkinton as we vote for two members to the Board of Selectmen. We urge you to support Todd Cestari, an Independent candidate with a positive message. The job of Selectman is about leadership. On the immediate agenda, members of the Board of Selectmen will have to address complex issues pertaining to budget management and growth of our infrastructure. Additionally, our Selectmen must provide strong support for our schools, creative thinking to reduce our residential tax burden, and realistic plans for expansion and diversification of our commercial tax base.
Todd has a BS in Mathematics from Syracuse University and twenty years experience as a software executive. He is knowledgeable, respected, and a proven leader in his field. His business background will enable him to “hit the ground running” as he transfers his skills and experience to managing the Town of Hopkinton’s business.
Todd is by far the most out-spoken supporter of public education in this race. With three children attending the Hopkinton schools, he understands and values the importance of a quality education. He has stated and strongly believes it is the responsibility of both educators and town leaders to ensure that each child receive the quality education he or she deserves. He has promised that this will be a major priority for him.
We look forward to Todd’s fresh perspective and new ideas, and urge you to please vote for Todd Cestari on Monday, May 18th – we expect this will be a very close election and everyone’s vote will count! We can make a difference when we all get involved!
Sincerely,
Barbara Berke, 10 Gibbon Road*
Susan Condon, 9 Wildlife Road*
Cindy Bernardo, 5 Susan Drive
Esther Driscoll, 24 Appaloosa Circle
Amy Ritterbusch, 54 Grove Street
Cate Doherty-Waldeck, 59 Hayden Rowe Street,
Michelle Weilding, 210 Wood Street
May 14, 2009
* Cestari Campaign Managers |
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Support for Mary Pratt Editor: Mary Pratt has dedicated herself to Hopkinton, and for better than fifty years she has worked tirelessly to support initiatives important to our collective future. She has proven herself time and again.
Education is her top priority. She began supporting public education in Hopkinton over 50 years ago and still stays current and involved. She helped found kindergarten in Hopkinton, has studied special education formally to better support the programs serving children with special needs and continues to attend Science, Technology and Math (STEM) conferences to insure the most current initiatives are available to Hopkinton students. Most importantly she is known by the students in town as a woman who cares about them and their educations; she regularly attends school meetings, concerts and science fairs.
Mary understands how to make Local, State and National Government work together for the common good. No one has more connections than Mary, no one has logged more hours successfully pursuing legislative action, grant funding or support for Hopkinton from State and Federal agencies than Mary, and no one is more current on the issues than Mary. From traffic management, to infrastructure, to innovative “green” technologies, Mary understands them all and stays current, insuring Hopkinton is positioned to take advantage of the opportunities that exist for State and Federal funds.
Mary has been a part of the team balancing the Town budget in tough economic times-nothing beats experience and Mary has it! She has been part of the process as Hopkinton successfully met the budget challenge during the high growth years helping build schools and an educational system we all benefit from with a sustainable budget approach. She has consistently advocated for the vitality of all town departments in the budget process, maintaining a focus on balance, sustainability and great services. And she is there now, working to maintain great services, find efficiencies and put forward a balanced budget without increasing your taxes.
Mary Pratt is and has always been the Selectman to call if you need something. Mary receives calls from all constituents and determinedly tracks down the answers. Everyone knows who to call when they need help on an issue, and everyone calls Mary. Mary has earned your vote with dedicated and selfless service; please vote May 18th for Mary, for experience and for Hopkinton.
Muriel Kramer 39 North St. May 14, 2009 |
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Support for Todd Cestari Editor: I endorse Todd Cestari for Board of Selectmen. Todd will be a strong supporter of the schools. As a parent of three children in the school district, he understands the importance of a strong school system for our community. He will support the need to continue to strive for excellence in our schools. Todd also understands the fiscal situation of the town. His professional background in business and management will be an asset to our community. He will be able to help the town develop strategic goals to meet our challenges and he will know how to achieve those goals. He will also work to bring responsible commercial development to our town to ease the burden on the taxpayers. I am voting for Todd Cestari for Board of Selectmen, and I hope you will too.
Rebecca Robak 3 Riverbend Road May 14, 2009 |
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Urges NO Vote on Question One Editor:
Back
when the Community Preservation Act (CPA) enabling legislation was
passed into state law and the
For this
reason, I feel strongly that we should vote no on the proposed change to
the CPA that would allow CPA funds to be used to purchase land for
active as well as passive recreation. When fields are needed, the town
has shown the will to purchase such land. The CPA funds, on the other
hand, have allowed us to purchase land like the
Peter LaGoy May 13, 2009 |
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More Support for Michelle Gates Editor: Don’t be fooled! This is
one strong woman. Beneath her quiet demeanor, Selectman’s candidate
Michelle Gates has her own
I have served with Michelle for over 10 yrs. in town government and civic organizations where, through her hard work, she has made a mark for herself. She has taken faltering organizations and made them strong, breathed vitality into community events, and worked tirelessly both as a leader and “in the trenches” for our town.
Through her accomplishments, Michelle has earned trust and respect across the political spectrum. Those who are concerned that we care for Hopkinton and protect its character and all that makes it unique see Michelle Gates’ love for the town in her years of work for the cause of historic preservation. Parents see evidence of her strong support for our youth in her outstanding leadership as Chairman of Parks & Recreation and in her shared concern for quality education as a parent of a Hopkinton student and an advocate for the public schools. And who today is not concerned about money? Michelle and her husband are regular people, who live within their means and believe the town should do the same. With professional training in both accounting and town management, Michelle has a keen eye for budgeting and is frugal and practical.
I believe building a track record of hard work and accomplishments for this town is a requisite for taking its highest office, the office of Selectman. Michelle Gates has certainly done this. Michelle Gates will serve Hopkinton with wisdom, humility, and common sense. Please join me in giving her your vote on May 18.
Sincerely, Claire Wright 28 Hayden Rowe Street May 13, 2009 |
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Support for Michelle Gates Editor: As election day
draws near I am writing in support of the candidacy of Michelle Gates
for one of the two seats up for election
Of the three qualified candidates running for the position of Selectman, Michelle is uniquely positioned to best represent us in the years to come. As evidenced by her work with the Historical Society and her unwavering efforts to keep the Summer Sunday Concerts on the Common a reality Michelle understands and respects the history and traditions of Hopkinton.
However, she also knows that the town has grown and faces complex issues both in the short and long term that require the embracement of change and measured thoughtful solutions to the issues that our Selectmen face at nearly every meeting.
Having served with Michelle on the Parks and Recreation commission for several years I have seen her reach out to the varied constituencies that we served.
She worked with toddlers to elders, hikers to team sports enthusiasts as well as swimmers and boaters etc. At our meetings, Michelle could be counted on to ask the hard questions but be flexible in her responses to the issues of the day. In addition to Parks and Recreation, she has volunteered her time and talent to the town in a multiple of ways.
You may have seen her at the Marathon, the Lake clean ups, cooking hot dogs for the HHS Booster Club at the Friday night football games and the list could go on and on. By her hands on participation in these activities she has met a large number of Hopkintonian’s and has a real feel for what the average citizen is seeing in and sensing about town government.
By getting out and meeting so many people, Michelle knows that there are diverse interests, issues and economic situations in town and it is my belief Michelle can be counted on to represent all of Hopkinton not just one section of town or one demographic group.
In these harsh economic times when people who have never been out of work find themselves on the unemployment line, our elected representatives have to know every tax dollar must be collected and spent wisely. We cannot just throw money (that isn't there) at problems that face Hopkinton.
With Michelle's background both as a home owner and a person who is in the business world on an everyday basis she knows the fiscal realities we face both on the home front as well as on a tax basis and will ensure monetary responsibility on the part of the Board of Selectmen.
In closing I respectfully ask that you consider Michelle Gates for Selectman.
Thank you, Patrick Mahon 5 Ledgestone Drive Hopkinton May 13, 2009 |
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A Thank You to the Community
Editor: Project Just Because Wishes To Thank The National Association Of Letter Carriers For The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive We wish to first thank each of the Letter Carriers who worked so hard at bringing the food to Project Just Because.
The wonderful Volunteers and children who did shifts at the Post Office. The full crew of Volunteers all day at Project Just Because. A very special thank you to each of our community who put food out and for all those wonderful Hopkinton residents who also came and dropped off food all day. All of you made empty shelves come back alive with food for our seniors, children and families in need in Hopkinton. It is efforts like these working beside each of you that bring our wonderful community together reaching out and helps those who need us.
Thank all of you for your kindness Cherylann CherylAnn
Lambert Walsh May 11, 2009 |
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Remembering Mrs. Dryden Editor:
I was saddened when I read that Mrs. Dryden had passed away. Although I had known she was sick and in a nursing home, I didn’t expect to be reading her obituary today. She was a very caring and loving individual who has earned my greatest respect. Anyone who grew up in Hopkinton in the Seventies and took bus #7 will surely never forget her.
She will always be remembered as the greatest and most sought after bus driver in Hopkinton. We would fight over the back seat of the bus so we could catch a little air on Granite Street when she (intentionally) drove over the “Big Bump”. In the few and far between instances where there was a problem on the bus, you didn’t want to be in her radar.
She held our attention and respect better that any drill sergeant on Parris Island ever could. She always had e few words of wisdom to ponder over at the end of the day and cared for each of us as if we were her own children. She made sure we were all cared for and never forgot our birthdays, always giving us a little special gift for the occasion.
She was a remarkable woman whose passing is a great loss to the Town of Hopkinton.
Craig Stanley (Mr. Stanley, a Hopkinton resident, is a member of the Milford Police department.) March 1, 2009 |
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31 Moms Support Maintaining School Class Sizes, $1.2 Million Budget Increase
To the Editor:
We are writing to
express our support for the
The School Committee has developed a thoughtful budget that includes some cuts to services, but maintains current class sizes. This plan would require an approximately $1.2 million increase from last year.
We believe that maintaining class size (and eventually reducing it in the primary grades) is a significant issue, and is worth the investment of our tax dollars. Research suggests that small class size (13 to 17 students) has a statistically significant impact on achievement in reading and mathematics, especially for students who started in smaller classes in Kindergarten or first grade. The research also concludes that just placing another adult in a larger classroom (such as a teacher’s aide) does not achieve the same results. Based on this research, Hopkinton’s classrooms already have too many students in them. Increasing the class size even more by denying the schools adequate funding would be a disservice to our children and our community as a whole. Our young people deserve better, and it’s our responsibility as a town to provide it for them.
Sincerely,
Cate Doherty-Waldeck (
Esther Driscoll (
Amy Ritterbusch (
Ann Randall (
Melissa Ewing (
Cindy Bernardo (
Michele Crowe (
Jennifer Trendel (
Kerri Joy ( Heather Kelley (115 Spring Street)
Bonnie Waxman (
Lynne Auslander (
Sue O’Connor (
Tracey Scannevin (
Christina Perlov (
Christine Coffman (
Stacey Sannicandro ( Nila Gray (2 Lyn Path)
Kerri St. Pierre (
Deborah Hogan-Cho (
Traci Portnoff (
Sharon McCabe (
Lisa O’Brien (
Christy Mahoney (
Bindu Pal (
Amy Peterson (
Liz Leighton (
Susan Rhodes (
Marie Boyle (
Bernadette Markey (
February 22, 2009 |
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Another School Mother Urges Prop 2½ Override Dear
Editor, At the
same time, we must be sensitive to our Seniors and recognize that some
may find property taxes difficult to pay regardless of an override.
Perhaps we could significantly improve outreach so that more Seniors can
reduce their tax bill by taking advantage of the tax credit and tax
deferral programs that are available.
Sincerely, |
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School Mother of Three Urges Prop 2½ Override Dear Editor,
Thank you for sending a reporter to cover the School Committee meeting last night. I also attended the meeting along with several other moms of children of various ages. Your reporter attributed the sizeable crowd to the discussion of the transportation policy, but I would like to say that personally I was there to hear the discussions of the Elementary School budgets for 2009-2010. I think this was true for many of the others in attendance as well, although certainly some parents were there to make public comments about the transportation policy.
I am the mother of
three children (a 3rd grader, a 1st grader and an
Integrated Preschooler). Last night I was extremely disappointed to hear
about the projected loss of elementary school teachers and the larger
class sizes for next year.
I understand that the Selectmen want a 0% increase in the budget next year, but I believe this will have a huge negative impact on the schools and property values. I would be happy to pay for an override to keep teachers and to maintain (or ideally decrease) class sizes. I know most of my friends feel the same way and I am encouraging them to write to the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee to express their opinions by next Thursday. At a bare minimum we need a 2 ½% budget increase, but with decreased state aid I feel an override is the only way to maintain our school system and property values. Hopkinton has a responsibility to educate its children. Increased fees can only pay for so much, an override is the fairest way to share our responsibility for education. Residents would pay more or less depending on the value of their home and there are programs to help those who truly can’t afford an override.
I am hoping to see an even larger crowd at the School Committee public hearing next Thursday, January 29 at 7:30pm in the Middle School Library. The public hearing will not be televised. For those who cannot attend, I urge you to email the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee by Thursday morning to express your views. I am thankful to have HopNews and other local news media to cover these important meetings and keep us all informed in such a timely manner.
Respectfully, Amy Ritterbusch Hopkinton MA January 23, 2009 |
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LMPA Not Supportive of Rezoning Hopkinton Square for Hotel Overlay District
To The Editor: You may have heard about a zoning change being evaluated which proposes the creation of a “Hotel Overlay District” in several areas of town. Two of the proposed sites are in the vicinity of the lake and could have environmental and/or quality of life implications. The Town of Hopkinton Zoning Advisory Committee has met several times to discuss the requirements and location of the overlay district. Members of the LMPA executive board have been attending these meetings and have provided input to that committee. The LMPA’s mission statement is to protect and monitor the lake and the surrounding area. For this reason the Executive board felt that it was appropriate to comment, as an organization, on only the two sites closest to the lake. A map outlining the 2 sites is attached.
The Hopkinton Square site (Corner of South St. and W. Main) was originally re-zoned to business at town meeting 2 years ago. Much of the support, from the lake area residents, for that change resulted from the promise of shops, restaurants and offices which would benefit the lake area neighborhood. If a hotel was built on this site these hoped for conveniences would be lost. In addition, there is no other land in the lake area, with appropriate zoning, where those types of businesses and services could be placed.
The second site is located along the east side of South St., from W. Main to Hayward St. Current zoning allows for 4 story office buildings all along this strip. If this land was fully developed in that manner the impact to the area could be much worse than a hotel. The number of employees using our streets to reach these offices could add thousands of car trips per day, mostly concentrated in the already congested rush hour time periods. The traffic generated by a hotel would be less and generally spread out throughout the day. Also, the volume of developed land within the watershed could be higher with office buildings and the associated parking lots. It might also be possible to restrict the part of this site closest to Hayward St. so that if a hotel is placed here, the actual building would not be on that corner.
In summary, the lake Maspenock Preservation Association executive board has decided not to support the inclusion of the Hopkinton Square site in the hotel overlay district. The Board would support the site running along the east side of South St., with restrictions, and depending on the actual requirements of the zoning change. It is our intent to support only a higher quality hotel which would not de-grade the quality of life in the area. The LMPA recognizes the need for some growth and the expansion of the tax base but we are asking for some control over the development that takes place. As always, the executive board welcomes input from our members.
From: Executive Board, Lake Maspenock Preservation Association
President Malcolm Page |
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Mother Remembers Son
To the Editor:
I want to take this
opportunity to thank you and your organization for all the kind
words and tributes you posted about my son, Dickie Phillips. He was
a wonderful human being all his ways, and never met a person who
didn't like him nor one he disliked. I have such a hole in my heart
these days, for first of all, he was my He had his last dinner with me the Saturday before he died, spaghetti and meatballs and raved about it; that I cooked it better then the diner he went to and said, "Mom, your the best." As he left I walked him to the door, he gave me a kiss, and again repeated the above and said, "I love you mom, see ya tomorrow."
Well that tomorrow never came. The people who knew him and those who hardly knew him, loved him. He would help anyone or show them what to do to fix the problem. He will be missed by all, as well as by me and my family. To all that knew him, think of all the good he did on Meserve Street and other places all over the U.S.A. I love you Dickie and you will always be my son, friend and best buddy. Again, I thank each and every person who posted such beautiful tributes to my son, the love of my life, Dickie Phillips.
Sincerely, Gail (Phillips) Wetherby 17 Douglas Road Whitinsville, MA 01588 |
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Town Mismanaging South/West Main Street Project Editor:
I read the article about the proposed district rezoning. It is critical that the facts be outlined, so that an informed decision can be made on this important issue.
My comments are based upon my approximately ten year tenure as a Hopkinton Conservation Commission member, most of them as Chairman, as well as dual degrees in Biology and Chemistry.
In summary, the proposed rezoning represents little more that a few individuals lobbying Town Officials and attempting to fuel their greed at the expense of the Town, and the environment. I urge the Town to not to allow this absurd proposal to move forward.
I also urge that the Conservation Commission immediately assert its jurisdiction over the existing site work and move to stabilize the area.
Peter Cholakis 25 Twin Island Road November 14, 2008 |
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League of Women Voters Gives Kudos to Carolyn Dykema Dear Editor,
November 6, 2008 |
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YES on Question 3 To the editor:
We save whales that beach themselves on Cape
Cod; we create a 35-acre forest park for deer in Mendon; we use
Why then do we condone racing greyhounds for profit in Revere and Raynham? Massachusetts state records show that more than 800 have been injured since 2002, suffering broken legs, paralysis, head trauma and even death from cardiac arrest, and thousands are killed when they are no longer able to compete.
Wonderland Greyhound Park and Raynham Park both require a population of over 1,000 dogs to function as gambling enterprises. According to Christine Dorchak, president of Grey2K USA, the dogs lie on shredded newspaper, are often fed inferior, bacteria-laden meat and confined for twenty hours a day in stacked metal crates too small for them to stand up fully. (At the MSPCA Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center, runs used for similarly sized dogs are five times larger than racetrack cages.)
Though the racetracks provide part and fulltime jobs for 650 employees and yield about $3 million annually for the state, “our economy should not be based on cruelty to dogs,” Dorchak contends. Footage spliced from the Raynham track’s website documents broken legs, spinal injuries, and fatal crashes.
A fact sheet from The Committee to Protect Dogs notes that during one month in 2005 nineteen dogs at Wonderland Greyhound Park died from a mysterious illness; in late 2003 and early 2004, a greyhound at the same track tested positive twice for cocaine, an illegal stimulant.
Question #3, The Greyhound Protection Act, narrowly defeated in 2000, will again be on the November 4 ballot. If it passes, commercial dog racing would be phased out in the commonwealth by January 1, 2010. Employees would have more than a year to relocate.
“It is time for the caring voters of Massachusetts to step forward for the dogs, so we can end the abuse and cruelty inherent to this industry,” says Carter Luke, President of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
His view is supported by some of the oldest and most respected animal protection groups in the state, every major animal shelter, Massachusetts dog groups and rescue organizations, religious organizations and leaders, many civic and political organizations, business owners, and nearly sixty Massachusetts veterinarians.
Of course it’s comforting to learn that some racing greyhounds who are injured, however unnecessarily, and young dogs who are treated as disposable commodities when their racing days are over, are currently rescued by the six-year-old Greyhound Care and Adoption Program.
The Greyhound Care and Adoption Trust Fund, which receives 1/2 of 1% of live handle from both Wonderland and Raynham / Taunton racetracks, in 2007 provided care for 540 greyhounds. The veterinary services aspect of the program includes orthopedic care for greyhounds injured at a Massachusetts Racetrack. According to the 2007 annual report of expenditures, funds in the amount of $161,298.72 were dispersed to adoption groups and $104,001.22 to veterinarians. $35,229.12 was spent on staff salaries and indirect costs.
That’s an avoidable $300,529.06 a year.
Furthermore, in 2001, track owners and managers asked for, and received, a $5 million tax break from Bay State legislators by stating their industry was in trouble.
Why spend such huge sums to treat effects when the cause could be eliminated by voting YES on Question 3? Elizabeth Eidlitz 100 Keyes Road Concord, MA October 30, 2008 |
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Endorsement for Dan Haley Dear Editor,
I plan to vote for Dan Haley as our next State Representative.
Like many of you, I am a registered unenrolled voter who votes the person, not the party. I did not know Dan very well until this past summer when I began to hear more about his run for State Representative. I began to study each candidate with more interest and decided to learn more about what Dan stood for. He was very willing to meet me at Coffee Haven where we spent some time talking about his political views and the issues facing our district.
I worked closely with outgoing State Representative Paul Loscocco when he ran for office because I greatly admired his honesty, intelligence, and independent thinking. I wasn't sure where Dan stood with Paul on issues or if Dan was more "right leaning" - he's not. As our discussion progressed, I was convinced that he would be a great State Representative. Like many of my friends and neighbors, I'm concerned about higher taxes, school quality, and safety in our communities. I do not tend to support candidates who are beholden to unions or interest groups. I admire Dan's sincerity and careful consideration of the important issues our district faces. My time with Dan then, and since then has convinced me that we need someone like him now to express that independent and thoughtful perspective.
I've never written to a newspaper or organization to support a candidate but after reading recent character descriptions from others, I felt compelled to share my own view. Dan is a moderate Republican who has the experience to serve us without any connections to groups that will trump my interest. I feel that he is an honest, intelligent and sincere person, who in the same spirit of my friend Paul Loscocco, will see government through my eyes.
This unenrolled voter will be voting for Dan Haley on November 4, I hope you will too.
Sincerely, Denise R. Cronin 40 Holly Lane Holliston, MA October 30, 2008 |
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Retired Teacher for Dykema To the Editor:
Carolyn Dykema is the candidate for Representative in the 8th Middlesex District that I will confidently vote for on November 4th. As a retired high school teacher who still has a deep and abiding interest in our public school system I have found Carolyn’s commitment to public education, coupled with her leadership on other civic issues, to be both reassuring and praiseworthy. I was particularly pleased and proud when I learned that my Massachusetts Teacher’s Association which has been a strong advocate for Public Education since 1845 has endorsed Carolyn candidacy. The citizens of the Holliston, Hopkinton, Medway, Southborough and Westborough will be well served when we elect Carolyn to be our State Representative.
Bill Dooling 37 Spring St Holliston, MA 01746 October 29, 2008 |
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Leda Arakelian for Dan Haley Dear Editor,
I’m going to miss the personal connection with Paul Loscocco over the past eight years. Paul did a great job representing the people of Hopkinton on Beacon Hill. His shoes are going to be tough to fill. The good news is that there is someone up to the task. His name is Dan Haley.
Dan is similar to Paul in many ways. He’s a lawyer from Holliston with a young family and a passionate commitment to the community. Like Paul, Dan is a Republican who believes in lower taxes, responsible spending, intelligent local business development, and strong public education.
I’m fed up with the tax-and spend attitude that pervades the State House. The state income tax, sales tax, capital gains tax, gas tax, and Mass Pike tolls strain the finances of all of us. And where does the money go? Too much of it goes to the pet programs of the power brokers at the State House. Too little of it comes back to local communities to adequately fund schools and pubic infrastructure.
Paul Loscocco fought against the entrenched special interests to get Hopkinton a decent piece of the state revenue pie. Dan Haley will continue the fight. Dan is full of energy and passion. He has worked in the Governor’s office, so he knows how the political game is played at the state level.
We can carry on the legacy that Paul Loscocco has built by electing Dan Haley as our next State Representative on Tuesday, November 4th.
Sincerely,
Leda Arakelian 228 Hayden Rowe St. Hopkinton, MA October 29, 2008 |
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Richard de Mont for Carolyn Dykema Dear Editor,
My choice for State Representative in the 8th Middlesex District is Carolyn Dykema.
WE ALL need to work together toget us out of this terrible mess we are presently in. Not only does Carolyn have the passion and the interest in these issues, Carolyn has the educational (MBA) and business acumen (environmental & financial consulting) to actually have the ability to help us to fix some of these problems the “insiders” have yet to address.
Carolyn has demonstrated her commitment to service, like many of us, in
serving in numerous volunteer posts in our respective towns. She has
served as the Chair of the Holliston Planning Board, which also provided
access to regional and state agency and group interaction in towns and
regions working together for comprehensive plan to balance environmental
concerns with the interests of developers. Walking that particular tight
rope for a state rep candidate is the ultimate in pre-election
training,….. kind of like passing airborne training prior to parachuting
into
Mr. Haley has made much of his “connections” during his campaign, knowing how the “insiders” work, finger on the pulse kind of stuff. But there are a lot of people who work at the state house at various jobs. Some do a better job than others, including our Reps & Senators, but Mr. Haley gives one the impression that he has been basically running the whole show in state government, which presents a couple of problems for Mr. Haley. For one, if he really has been the finger on the pulse of state government, than he hasn’t really done such a great job to date and shouldn’t be elected. On the other hand, if he was merely overstating his role and connections within state government and taking credit for things he had minimal involvement in, then he is puffing his pedigree, a smaller transgression I admit, and one fairly common these days amongst his republication colleagues, but again he still shouldn’t be elected.
It’s time for a fresh face like Carolyn to represent us. A fresh face possessed with ideas and expertise and determination and compassion; a fresh face who will work for all of her constituents without regard to party affiliation, nor financial status and you can bet she will cross party lines on any issue where the cause is right and the action taken is necessary to serve the best interests to her constituents, popular or not; She’s fresh face who can hold her own and then some in the rough & tumble world of state politics. Advance warning to those who misinterpret her kindness and her openness’ for weakness as you do so at your peril.
She
will not be bullied and can hold her own in any forum, as she has
demonstrated throughout her debates. How about a fresh face who has our
Governor’s support and endorsement. In fairness, Dan Haley also had a
Massachusetts Governor come to one of his fundraisers. Of course he was
former Governor Weld, who now lives in
Given the choice, I think I would take the sitting Governor Deval Patrick as my podium pal, wouldn’t you?
While we are on that subject, given that the republicans are presently
in the minority, do you think a minority candidate such as Mr. Haley
will do well in light of his demonstrated hubris and arrogance during
this campaign with his “I know what’s best for everybody ‘cause I have
all the answers” and “I’m going to personally straighten out the state
house” attitude. Do you think the Newt Gingrich approach is going to
serve him well amongst the majority? I don’t (They tend to be on the
sensitive side on
Which leaves the most important consideration in my mind; Who would be the better rep? Enough said about each candidate’s qualifications and experience, blah, blah blah….. They can be argued back and forth ad infinitum with no changing of opinions……. but I do have to admit that presently Dan Haley, owing to his superior knowledge of the state house grounds, definitely has a leg up on where to park, where’s the office, bathroom and cafeteria. etc. Though I fully expect that Carolyn will be caught up by lunchtime of her first day and then they will both know how to get around the state house. You can call that one a wash.
Lastly, and I believe the most compelling reason to vote for Carlolyn Dykema, especially for those that see the candidates fairly equally matched, is that Carolyn intends to make the job, the fulltime commitment the job warrants. While on the other hand, Mr. Halely would serve as a part timer with the ever proverbial (busier if elected) law office as his second/main job. We don’t need another part time lawyer/legislater. Carolyn on the other hand will not be distracted by outside influences as her focus will be on us and our community. Heaven knows we need someone who will work for us everyday during these tough times. We deserve it.
Please vote for a fresh face who has all the qualifications we need on Tues. November 4th. Please vote for Carolyn Dykema.
Richard de Mont 77 North Mill St. Hopkinton October 29, 2008 |
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Westborough Resident Endorses Haley Editor:
I am a public educator of 30 years who is writing to offer my enthusiastic endorsement of Dan Haley for State Representative of the 8th Middlesex District. We need to elect someone who understands the working of the state house yet is not tied to a special interest group. I feel that Dan Haley is that candidate. This year's race is important for our district. We face bleak financial times both locally and nationally. I want to elect someone who will keep educators interests foremost and ensure our Legislature is held accountable for the tax dollars they spend.
Please join me and vote for Dan Haley on November 4th, our district needs a strong, independent, and intelligent voice on Beacon Hill watching out for us!
Karen Waters Paulin 9 West Street Westborough October 29, 2008 |
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Trystan Phifer O’Leary for Dan haley Dear Editor, As a Democrat and a resident of the 8th Middlesex District, I am writing to express unequivocal support for Dan Haley for State Representative. I have known Dan for 15 years, and for every day of every one of those years, Dan has been one of the best friends a person could hope to have. I have total confidence that Dan will deliver to the voters of this District the kind of loyalty, commitment, integrity, enthusiasm and heart that he demonstrates as a father, husband, son, and friend.
Dan is the guy everyone loves; he is always happy, cheerful and fun to be around. Dan is the guy who people call when they need help; he is the one who would give his friends the shirt off of his back. He is that friend who can be relied on for anything, at any time. He gives of himself unconditionally because that is simply who he is – a person who seeks to make things easier for those around him without any expectation of getting something in return.
Dan is a person of the highest integrity and moral character. He is one of the finest, most decent people I have ever known. Dan is highly principled, with a strong sense of right and wrong and an energetic personality that endears him to anyone who meets him. In addition, he possesses a hard-work ethic that is exceeded by no one. As his friend Paul Loscocco has done, Dan will give the people of the 8th Middlesex District representation that is vested in their best interest, and of which they can be proud.
More than at any other time in history, our nation and our state are at a historical crossroads. We will either get it right, or we will get it wrong. Dan Haley will help us get it right. He will help to restore integrity to the legislative process on Beacon Hill; he will protect us from increased costs and indirect taxes, such as an increase in the tolls, when there are alternative spending reforms that can be made to spare the taxpayers’ wallets; and he will respect the voice of his constituents and the right of his constituents to observe and access the political process. Dan will serve with a passion for making government work better for the people of this District. Dan will take to heart the best interests of the people of this District, and he will seek to protect those interests every day because he cares so much about the place he, and his family for generations before him, have called home. These qualities will make him a strong, compelling voice for our District just at a time when our state legislative process needs that voice most.
As many people know, children are often excellent judges of character because they perceive the unvarnished truth about those whom they encounter. It was, thus, incredibly telling for me when I asked my daughter what she loved most about Dan, and she replied: “He plays with me and tells good jokes. And he gives good hugs...And, don’t forget mom, he is kind and friendly.” Although I tried, I could not have said it better myself.
As a mother of two, a resident of the 8th Middlesex District, and a life-long, die-hard Democrat, I know with absolute certainty that Dan Haley is the best choice to represent the residents of this District. You will rarely find a person more kind, more decent, more caring or more real than Dan Haley. I trust him with my vote. I trust him to do what is right by all of us because he is a person who lives a life of principle, and who is of the highest character. I am certain, beyond any shadow of a doubt that, if honored with the chance, he will tirelessly serve the people of this District every day with diligence, honesty, integrity and passion. I urge all voters – Democrats, Republicans and Independents – to join me in voting for Dan Haley on November 4th.
Sincerely, Trystan Phifer O’Leary 25 Johnson Drive Holliston, MA October 29, 2008 |
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Barbara Gardner Endorses Carolyn Dykema Letter to the Editor
I have known Carolyn for many years as a fellow member of my church and as an active, engaged, and committed citizen in my hometown of Holliston. She and I have interacted on issues as diverse as sewer/septic management and affordable housing as well as volunteer activities. In every single instance, I’ve been struck with her willingness to get into the trenches to see that an article passes at Town Meeting, to build consensus on some thorny issue, and to bring people together so they feel listened to and enabled. Those are the skills that are necessary to build relationships across the 200 member disparate Massachusetts Legislature. Each member represents a district that is uniquely different than one’s own. It takes sensitivity, respect for the other members, and give and take to win on issues that matter to our region. The message that needs to be sent is not about partisanship, the super majority, how few Republicans serve or even positions on ballot questions. It’s about the person – their judgment, their life experience, their honesty, their willingness to lay it on the line, their desire to actively and passionately fight in the trenches with superior judgment and a caring attitude for you and your towns. Based on that criterion, Carolyn Dykema can have a huge impact on her own party and the loyal opposition, our communities and our state. I am profoundly proud to support someone of her caliber and ask you to vote for her on November 4. Cordially, Barbara Gardner Former State Representative 114 Jennings Road Holliston, MA. 01746 October 29, 2008 |
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Tom Garabedian Endorses Dan Haley To the Editor:
I endorse Dan Haley for the position as
our district's State Representative. I am familiar with Dan's
compassion for the
Historian Lord Acton stated in 1887, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Those words seem to describe the current state of affairs on Beacon Hill. Too much of the public's business in our Commonwealth is being conducted by a select few Democratic leaders behind closed doors. It has led to profligate spending, a failure until just recently to recognize our dire economic situation, self dealing, pillaging of our state pension systems, and to an arrogance that the public serves the government rather than the government serving the people. We need someone like Dan Haley who, in the style of Representative Loscocco, can represent our district effectively, work with the majority leadership but provide an independent voice that our legislature so desperately needs.
Tom Garabedian 5 David Joseph Road Hopkinton, MA 01748 October 28, 2008 |
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Brian Herr Endorses Dan Haley Dear Editor,
Dan is a proven commodity. Dan will represent us with energy, enthusiasm and a full understanding of how to navigate the halls of the State House. Dan appreciates the financial burdens families must tackle each day and will keep those struggles in front of him as he deliberates on our behalf. Dan is a pragmatic leader who speaks plainly about the challenges our district and state face. Dan will continue the common sense approach to government that Paul Loscocco employed as our State Representative.
Due to the unbalanced nature of the Legislature it is imperative that Dan Haley replace Paul Loscocco as our next State Representative. Dan will immediately participate at the highest levels of government on the many committees and legislative panels available only to the minority party. House Rules require that the minority party be given seats at the table on the various committees that draft and mold legislation. In an unbalanced form of government, this is one clear means for new legislators to quickly gain access to the process. Our district needs this visibility. Just as Paul Loscocco did eight years ago, Dan will jump right in!
Please join me in supporting Dan Haley for State Representative on Tuesday November, 4th.
Thank You.
Brian J. Herr Ocotber 29, 2008 |
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Phil Totino for Dan Haley Editor,
Dan Haley is my choice to succeed Paul Loscocco as State Representative for the 8th Middlesex District.
With experience
working in the Governor’s office, Dan has first-hand knowledge of how
state government works. He won’t be on a learning curve, nor will he be
beholden to the power brokers on
I have been a member of the Hopkinton School Committee for the past eleven years and counting. During this time, I have been a strong advocate for public education as the best investment that a community can make, and I have pushed hard for efficiency in how local government spends taxpayers’ money.
I have gotten to know Dan Haley over the past several months, and I am certain that he will fight for responsible, prioritized spending at the state level and will champion funding for our pubic schools as his top spending priority. Dan is also committed to fostering responsible local business development as a way to lighten the tax burden on homeowners.
Dan will build on the legacy of Paul Loscocco and continue to have state government make a difference in the lives of everyday folks. If you want strong schools, responsible state spending, and intelligent business development, I urge you to vote for Dan Haley for State Representative.
Sincerely, Phil Totino 17 Whalen Road
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Muriel Kramer for Carolyn Dykema Editor:
Throughout the campaign, Carolyn has articulated a thorough understanding of the issues as well as the process. She has a well-rounded educational and professional background with experience in government having served in a variety of capacities. Most importantly, Carolyn has committed to be a full time State Rep; now more than ever we need smart, capable and dedicated individuals like Carolyn serving the district at the state level.
Carolyn has both an environmental background as well as business experience; I am confident she will pursue innovations to bolster and grow the State’s business base while balancing business needs with a long term environmental focus.
Innovations in “green” technology, better public transportation, and renewable energy projects in balance with environmental constraints will help Massachusetts and the Middlesex District grow the economy in viable and sustainable ways.
A stable, sustainable economy is necessary for Massachusetts to be able to continue to build and maintain services; great schools, sound infrastructure, well trained safety personnel and reliable healthcare are priorities for Carolyn.
Please vote for Carolyn Dykema on November 4th; Carolyn has demonstrated that she has the skills, the dedication and the background to effectively represent the Eighth Middlesex District full time as our next State Representative.
Muriel Kramer 39 North Street Hopkinton, MA 01748 October 28, 2008 |
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Joe Markey for Carolyn Dykema Dear Editor, 39 Ash Street NOTE: Mr. Markey is Vice Chairman of the Hopkinton Planning Board |
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Editor's Note: We have deleted Letters that have become stale due to the increased use of the Town Talk Forum for opinions; but we encourage more participation on this page. When someone puts their name on something, it holds a greater value. Return to HopNews.com |
I
just wanted you all to know about the success of Hopkinton’s 11thAnnual,
student run, Turkey Drive. The bad economy put many more families in
need of help with their Thanksgiving dinners so I am happy to report
that we were able to help close to 200 families. On Friday November 20th,
we were able to drop off over 150 turkeys, canned goods and cash
donations to the Salvation Army of Framingham. We later learned that
every single person who showed up for help on Saturday was able to pick
up a meal for Thanksgiving Day. It was great to see the energy people
put into this year’s drive.
Mary
Pratt
Open
Space Preservation, water protection and conservation are also
priorities. Mary understands that
we have to value and protect our resources for the future-from historic
structures to important open space tracts to our valuable water
resources. Responsible stewardship, protection and preservation are
important factors to consider while pursuing responsible and proactive
planning for growth; Mary has a proven track record working hard to plan
for the future while preserving our past and our rural character.
Growth Study Implementation Committee, of which I was a member,
recommended to town meeting that we take advantage of this matching
program, we did so for the primary purpose of meeting one of the key
objectives put forth by the Growth Study Committee, the need to preserve
land. We understood that playing fields are desirable, and felt that
when needed, town meeting would have the will to purchase such fields.
We were, however, concerned that the political will might not be
available to purchase other land, and that land that might be critical
to our town's character might not be preserved. We also understood,
based on the work of our committee, that land turned to houses is lost
as open space, costs more than it gives in taxes, and changes the
character and feel of our town. 
ideas, and she sticks to them. She has the right combination of
characteristics for a town leader in that she is fair-minded, she is
approachable, she listens, and when it comes to decision time, Michelle
makes up her own mind and stands by what she believes. I can say these
things because I know Michelle Gates.
on
the Board of Selectmen. 
son, my best friend, my confidant and my pal. My grandson spent a
year in Iraq, and Dick was here every Sunday to take me shopping.
Other times to doctor appointments or any place I had to go. He
Never worried that he lost time at work and his Mom came first in
his eyes.
tranquilizing darts and air mattresses to rescue bears loose in cities,
we bring our pets to church for a Blessing of the Animals.
Carolyn
is one of us. She is committed to providing our children the best
possible education; She has served her community, friends and family in
so many ways, like we all try to do; Like us, Carolyn cares about our
environment, both locally and globally, as well as making transportation
improvements and toll relief and to maintain services to those of us
most in need during this crisis.
I
have been waiting for a long time to endorse a candidate for State
Representative that I believe is the right combination of intelligence,
independence, forthrightness and good judgment. I am delighted to
support Carolyn Dykema as our next State Representative to the
Massachusetts Legislature.
people
and issues which affect our district and believe that he is best
suited to serve on our behalf. He is attuned to the tax burden
which we in Metrowest uniquely bear and understands the proper role
of government in our society. I echo the endorsement of the
Metrowest Daily News which has recognized Dan's familiarity and
expertise with the legislative process and has noted the dangers of
a state government controlled by a single party. 
Please
allow me to share my thoughts on the best candidate to serve the
citizens of the 8th Middlesex District going forward. As a
Selectman in Hopkinton I am keenly aware of the need for a strong,
independent voice on 
Dan
will provide a strong, independent voice in the Legislature to control
state spending on wasteful programs and to focus resources on local aid,
public education, and policies that encourage local business development
and job growth.
I am writing to endorse