Author Archives: billmanzi

The Sales Tax Revisited

Posted on June 7, 2009 by billmanzi

Today’s Herald had a story about what a boon the sales tax increase would be to New Hampshire. As the Mayor of a border community the Herald asked me my thoughts, which remain the same. The increase is a jobs … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, Municipal Finance, State News | Tagged | 1 Comment

The Obama Message on Health Care

Posted on June 6, 2009 by billmanzi

This week President Obama talks health care in his weekly message. The President has spoken about health care before, but it has never been more important. Without cost containment in health care the entire economy is in danger, in my … Continue reading →

Posted in Municipal Finance, National News, State News | Tagged | 3 Comments

President Obama Speaks in Cairo

Posted on June 4, 2009 by billmanzi

The President speaks in Cairo, dealing with the relations between the United States and the Islamic World. While the President and the White House have downplayed expectations (no single speech…)the speech is an important part of the Obama foreign agenda. … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 17 Comments

It Takes an Indictment

Posted on June 4, 2009 by billmanzi

The Governor was joined by Senate President Therese Murray and Speaker Bob Deleo in issuing a joint statement on ethics reform legislation. It appears that they now stand united in agreeing that the “best” provisions of each of their proposals … Continue reading →

Posted in State News | Tagged | 3 Comments

Dimasi Indicted

Posted on June 2, 2009 by billmanzi

Former Speaker of the Massachusetts House Sal Dimasi was today indicted by a federal grand jury on corruption charges. His indictment marks the third consecutive Speaker indicted by the federal government. From the Boston Globe: DiMasi was charged with conspiracy, … Continue reading →

Posted in State News | Tagged | 16 Comments

Patrick in New Push on Civilian Flaggers

Posted on June 1, 2009 by billmanzi

The Boston Herald is reporting that Governor Deval Patrick is going to announce this morning a new push to utilize civilian flaggers on State road jobs. The Governor and his process have been subjected to claims of “phony reform” because … Continue reading →

Posted in State News | Tagged , | 5 Comments

G.M. Files Bankruptcy

Posted on June 1, 2009 by billmanzi

General Motors will today file for bankruptcy protection, bringing an icon of American industry to Chapter 11. President Obama will speak to the filing this morning. (I will attach video to this post as soon as it is available). From … Continue reading →

Posted in National News | Tagged , | 6 Comments

Methuen Relay for Life

Posted on May 31, 2009 by billmanzi

Methuen’s Relay for Life is occurring this weekend, and it has been a huge success. When Scott Yim and Madison Aleska came forward with this idea last year I really do not think that anyone believed it could turn out … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | 2 Comments

The Great Traditions of Massachusetts:Bunker Hill Day

Posted on May 30, 2009 by billmanzi

Senator Jack Hart of South Boston, seen here extolling the virtues of the Suffolk County paid holidays (for State employees) of Bunker Hill Day and Evacuation Day. Senator Hart compares these Holidays to Labor Day and Thanksgiving, amongst others. The … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 17 Comments

President Obama on Judge Sotomayor

Posted on May 30, 2009 by billmanzi

President Obama talks about his nomination of Judge Sotomayor to the Supreme Court in this weeks you tube address. He extolls her judicial virtues, and calls for quick confirmation.

Posted in National News | Tagged | 9 Comments