Category Archives: State News

Massachusetts House Backs Popular Vote Bill

Posted on July 10, 2008 by billmanzi

The Mass House of Representatives voted 119-36 to back a bill that would commit Massachusetts electors to cast their ballots for the Presidential candidate that won the most popular votes. This legislation would only take effect if enough other states … Continue reading →

Posted in National News, State News | 2 Comments

Casinos take a financial hit

Posted on July 2, 2008 by billmanzi

The casino industry, long thought to be recession proof, is taking a big hit these days as the economic slowdown takes its toll. Even Las Vegas, the capital of casino gaming in the United States, is suffering. The casino industry, … Continue reading →

Posted in National News, State News | 3 Comments

Governor Patrick’s Readiness Report

Posted on June 25, 2008 by billmanzi

I have posted the full readiness report by Governor Patrick, released today. I have not even read it as of yet so I can offer no comment, but it is here for your examination and comment. Readiness Report

Posted in State News | 1 Comment

Governor Unveils Readiness Project

Posted on June 24, 2008 by billmanzi

Governor Deval Patrick unveiled yesterday some key components of his effort to overhaul education in Massachusetts, but without specifying how the initiative would be financed. Governor Patrick has a big agenda in this field, with many stated goals sure to … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, State News | 1 Comment

Readiness Schools

Posted on June 13, 2008 by billmanzi

Matt Viser of the Boston Globe reported yesterday that Governor Deval Patrick will unveil a proposal for a new type of public school that will resemble in some fashion charter or pilot schools. From the Globe: Governor Deval Patrick, in … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, State News | 3 Comments

O’Reilly makes the ballot

Posted on June 7, 2008 by billmanzi

Attorney Ed O’Reilly crossed the fifteen percent threshold at today’s Democratic convention, ensuring a September primary with John Kerry. (I have endorsed John Kerry in this race). The delegate count was 1994 to 580, giving O’Reilly about 23 percent. The … Continue reading →

Posted in National News, State News | 6 Comments

Ted Kennedy to undergo surgery today

Posted on June 2, 2008 by billmanzi

Senator Ted Kennedy will undergo surgery today at Duke University to battle a brain tumor. The Globe is reporting that Ted will follow the surgery with both chemo and radiation, and will not return to the Senate until such treatment … Continue reading →

Posted in National News, State News | 1 Comment

Pension Pile On

Posted on May 29, 2008 by billmanzi

The State Legislature, in its infinite wisdom, has passed a pension package which gives a seemingly small benefit to state and municipal retirees. That small benefit, which lifts the amount of pension eligible for a COLA (cost of living adjustment) … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, State News | 8 Comments

Police Detail Reform withers on the vine

Posted on May 25, 2008 by billmanzi

The Boston Globe is reporting today that the vaunted “reform” of the paid police detail system in Massachusetts appears to be dying a slow death. This reform, announced to great fanfare by the top legislative leadership only a short time … Continue reading →

Posted in Methuen, State News | 13 Comments

The Dream shall never die

Posted on May 21, 2008 by billmanzi

Ted Kennedy’s 1980 concession speech at the 1980 Democratic Convention remains one of his finest. I have posted the speech in two parts from you tube. It is truly a classic. Enjoy.

Posted in National News, State News | Leave a comment