Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Linde Hosts Campaign Kick-Off

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--The Committee to Elect Mark Linde for the 11th Plymouth State Representative seat will host a campaign kick-off and fundraiser Thursday, May 3 at George's Cafe from 6 to 8 p.m. All are welcome.
For more information about the event or to contribute to the campaign, contact Terri Linde at tlinde1958@gmail.com, or by calling 508-588-4493 or send a check to P.O. Box 974, Brockton MA 02303.

Monday, April 30, 2012

New Cable Show Highlights Brockton Issues

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—Former city council candidate Richard Zaccaro is the newest face on the lineup of shows on Brockton Community Access Channel 9.
Zaccaro and a crew of helpers are working on the third episode of “An Outside View,” a question-and-answer talk show about Brockton and regional issues.
The title, “An Outside View,” Zaccaro said, is a signal to all residents in the community that he is interested in hearing from all members of the community on all kinds of issues.
“The purpose is to allow ordinary citizens of Brockton the opportunity to speak openly and freely,” Zaccaro said. “It’s an opportunity for people to speak their peace,” he said.
Each episode is about 30 minutes and highlights an issue or story about the city.
Zaccaro, 58, is an elected member of the Plymouth County Charter Commission and chair of the Mayor’s Advisory Commission and Trust Fund Commission. He has run for city council and is a self-employed third party marketing representative.
Zaccaro said he is excited to get the show off the ground. It has been in the works for nearly a year.
“We really want residents to join in and talk about the issues in the city,” Zaccaro said.
The first episode features Eddie Byers, co-owner of Cindy’s Kitchen and a leader of StopthePower, who talks about doing business in Brockton, his roots in the city of Brockton, business background and the success of Cindy’s Kitchen—a growing all natural salad dressing and marinade business.
The show is taped once a month on the last Tuesday of the month from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Residents are welcome to watch the tapings at the cable studio at 1 North Main St.
The show will be broadcast on Fridays at 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 4 p.m. throughout the month on public access Channel 9.
For those who are not cable subscribers, each episode will be posted on Zaccaro’s website at www.vimeo.com/anoutsideview.
The first episode with Byers is currently posted.
Upcoming episodes are expected to be centered around the city’s tax rate and how it affects homeowners and business owners and a discussion about the proposed power plant at Oak Hill Way—a show that will run 1 hour long instead of the usual 30 minutes.
Zaccaro invites and urges residents of all backgrounds and political leanings to contact him if they have ideas for the show or want to ask questions and talk about the city and how it is governed.
Zaccaro can be reached by email at anoutsideview@gmail.com or on his cellphone at 617-543-0034.
To find out more about Brockton Community Access shows, services and programs, visit, bcatv.org/

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Commission Proposes New Plymouth County Charter

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--SUBMITTED BY PLYMOUTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER ANTHONY O'BRIEN: The Plymouth County Charter Study Commission held its final meeting on April 17 in Hanover and approved a proposed new charter.
In its 385 year history, Plymouth County has not had a Charter as it is not required since Mass. General Laws govern county government.
Supporters of a charter say it will give the county more administrative, legal, and financial authority. The 19 member Charter Commission was elected in 2010 to consider either abolishing county government in Plymouth County or proposing a charter.
In the 1990's, 8 of 14 county governments in the state were abolished.
Last year, the commission voted to not abolish Plymouth County government.
Highlights of the proposed charter include increasing the number of commissioners from 3 to 5, changing Advisory Board members from elected to appointed, and creating a provision to recall elected officials that citizens may be dissatisfied with.
The County Advisory Board is the legislative branch that approves the county budget.
"Like most citizens that I have talked with, I agree with some parts of the proposal and disagree with other parts," O'Brien said. O'Brien said increasing the number of commissioners is more government when citizens want less and changing elected officials to appointed is less accountability when citizens want more, but the ability to recall officials rightly increases accountability.
But, if the state does not increase support for county government then the county will not succeed," O'Brien said. 
The proposed charter will be forwarded to the state--which may or may not approve the proposal.
 If approved then it will be placed on the November ballot to be decided by the voters.
The last Plymouth County Charter Study Commission in 1988 proposed a charter that was disapproved by county voters.
The commission is planning a campaign to promote the proposal with the state and the public to begin with kick-off event in the next few weeks.
Please see www.PlymouthCountyMass.US for more information or contact O'Brien at 508-830-9100.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Capstone Awaits May Grant $ Decision

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—The principal of Capstone Communities is waiting for a decision from the state Department of Housing and Community Development expected in May about whether or not a nearly $4 million grant to rebuild the so-called Knight Building will be approved.
“There are 52 applicants and only 8 will get it,” said Jason Korb, during last Thursday’s Ward 2 meeting at George’s CafĂ©. “If we get it in May we can be in the ground by August,” he said.
The state housing grant is the last, and an integral piece in a project to convert the Knight Building, also the century-long location of Stall and Dean, into a 25-unit market and subsidized, 1 and 2 bedroom apartment complex.
He said he has high hopes for approval, but there is no guarantee.
“Brockton really needs this, Brockton really wants this,” Korb said. “It’s Brockton’s turn,” he said.
Korb told an audience of more than 50 residents and officials that if the nearly $4 million grant is approved in this round of funding, the company will reapply and try again.
Korb said the money would add to the nearly $4 million already received from state and federal historic grants.
When asked by an audience member what’s in it for him and Capstone, Korb said he has put up much of his own savings—a more than 6-digit figure his wife and family think may be too much--and because of the way the state housing grant is written, he and Capstone are required to maintain and manage the property for at least 15 years.
“There’s a pretty significant stake,” Korb said. “These deals don’t produce cash…the only profit is faith,” he said.
He said the building will be renovated following historical guidelines, including new $1,100 historically accurate windows-and once done will be a beautiful addition to the Montello and Lincoln streets area. Korb said other developments often build projects and then are allowed to sell in 10 years.
He said 14 of the apartments will be rented as workforce units for those making an income between $37,000 and $48,000 per year—or about 35 percent of Brockton’s working residents.
He said he and Capstone receive a fee, according to state guidelines about 10 percent, of the total cost of the project.
Korb said he could flip buildings and houses in Cambridge and other cities and make much more money, but also wants to make a difference where it is needed.
Korb said, it’s a project his heart is in and in a community and location that he believes will have a lasting affect on the neighborhood.
“It’s my passion. When I look myself in the mirror I want to say what I did and this is what I want to do,” Korb said.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Area Fire Academy Graduates Inducted

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Area firefighters and their families gathered Thursday, April 12 for an induction ceremony that included new firefighters in Brockton, East Bridgewater, Hanover, Abington and Needham.
Nine of the firefighters will begin work in Brockton.
Brockton's new firefighters are: Christian Bugbee, James Campbell, Charles Davis, III, Jason Gould, John Medairos, Corey Poudrier, Mario Rizzo, Daniel J. Santry, and Nathan Thellen.
Other firefighters inducted were, for Abington Fire, Christopher Cotti and Justin Silva.
For Needham Fire, Patrick Muir and Joseph Tierney.
For Hanover Fire, Joseph Pacella,
and for East Bridgewater Fire Michael Ryan. The ceremony was held at the Shaw's Center in Brockton.
(Photos courtesy James Rober)

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Crime, Rox Talk At Ward 3 Meeting

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—Along with continuing numerous programs already in place in the department, new Police Chief Emanuel Gomes is enacting some new changes in the department, including revamping the department’s website.
“It should be soon,” Gomes said after a Ward 3 meeting Tuesday night held by City Councilor Dennis Eaniri at the John F. Kennedy School.
Gomes, who was named permanent police chief a few weeks ago, said the department has upgraded its software and expects to have a new and improved website in the next week or so.
“It was supposed to be this week two weeks ago, but they’re behind about a week,” Gomes said.
Some of the new features will include a live or “close to live” Brockton police daily log of calls personnel respond to.
Gomes said the department will also broadcast a 24-hour scanner from the site.
Gomes’ comments came after the Ward 3 meeting during which he introduced himself to the about 20 residents who attended the meeting.
Crime watch coordinator Officer Bill Healy gave residents an update on recent arrests of people suspected of about 150 home and vehicle break-ins in the area of Pine, Bouve and Forest Avenue since January.
Healy said the confidential and anonymous tip-line helped identify the alleged culprits and although sometimes catching the bad guys can take time, police believe the arrests will curb a large portion of the break-ins.
“These types of things take a lot of time,” Healy said.
Also attending the meeting was Thomas Healy, the new general manager for the Brockton Rox who talked about the Rox’s move from the professional Can-Am League to the Futures Collegiate League.
Healy said the Rox have high hopes for the season and are counting on the families and friends of players on the team to come to Campanelli Stadium for games and return the ballpark to its heyday in 2001 and 2002.
Healy said because the team is saving a large amount of money by not paying players, that money will be shifted to advertising games and marketing the team to draw more spectators to the games.
The team has also slashed ticket prices in hopes of enticing fans to games.
Reserve seats are now $5, box seats $8, and $12 for a super box.
He echoed CEO Michael Canina and Chris Carmunicci that the team is actively seeking investors in the team and working in every way to keep the stadium alive, including concerts and special events.
A resident asked Healey how much money the Rox still owes the city, but he deferred those comments to Canina or Carmunicci because he is getting up to speed on the finances.
At the end of February The Brockton 21st Century Corp, which leases the stadium to the Rox, announced a 1-year deal to keep the team running. The deal included the reorganization of the Rox under new management, a plan to pay off the debt the team owes the city and profit-sharing for the 21st Century Corp. if any profits are made.
Henry Silvia, one of the residents at the meeting, said he is a season ticket holder who loves going to the games and noted it's an inexpensive night out for families that is filled with baseball, food and non-stop activities for kids.
"Unless some of us go to the games, they're not going to pay anyone back," Silvia said. "We need to support it whether you like baseball or not," Silvia said.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Ward 3 Meeting Tonight

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Ward 3 City Councilor Dennis Eaniri will hold a ward meeting tonight at the John F. Kennedy Elementary School at 7 p.m.
Expected to speak during the meeting are new Police Chief Emanual Gomes and Brockton Rox CEO Mike Canina.
Members of the public are welcome.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Brown, Cruz Seek Sanctions For Ecuador Over Double Murder Suspect

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--U.S. Senator Scott Brown and District Attorney Timothy Cruz held a press conference Monday to call on Ecuador to return Luis Guaman to the United States to stand trial for the murder of Maria Avelina Palaguachi-Cela and her son Brian who were brutally murdered in Brockton last year.
“I was horrified to learn of the brutal death of Maria and Brian,” Brown said in a prepared statement. “I am deeply disappointed that Ecuador has not done the right thing and returned Luis Guaman to Brockton so that he can stand trial. I have worked all the diplomatic channels available to me as a senator, including communication with the government of Ecuador, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and the Justice Department. DA Cruz and I chose to make a public appeal today because Brockton deserves answers, and Maria and Brian deserve justice,” he added.
Maria Palaguachi-Cela and her 2-year-old son Brian were found bludgeoned to death in a dumpster near their Warren Avenue apartment last February. Guaman, described as a jilted lover and roommate, escaped the U.S. on a flight to Ecuador from New York City hours after the body of Palaguachi and her son were found. Cruz has been battling since to bring Guaman back to the U.S. to face murder charges. During a press conference following the murder indictments, Cruz said there is evidence, including blood, that link Guaman to the crime. In another of several attempts to have Guaman returned to the U.S., Brown said he has written another letter to U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton strongly requesting she put more pressure on Ecuadorian officials to return Guaman to the U.S. for trial.
In the letter Brown notes Ecuador has not only ignored Cruz's pleas to have Guaman returned for trial, but has also engaged in other "disappointing behavior" toward the U.S. including expelling Ambassador Heather Hodges from the country last April.
In a letter to Clinton, Brown writes:
"Finally, I ask that you seriously consider whether it is appropriate to send tens of millions of dollars in foreign assistance to Ecuador when it's government has not fostered a mutually beneficial relationship with our ambassador, and its leadership will not release a double murder suspect to Massachusetts. I stand ready to work with you to resolve this issue, including by introducing legislation to reduce eliminate foreign assistance to Ecuador."
District Attorney Cruz, who has said he will not give in to Ecuador and allow Guaman to be prosecuted in his native country, said Guaman's alleged crimes happened in the U.S. and this is where he should be tried.
“Americans have a right to live peaceably in their communities and to expect that their government will work actively to protect them,” Cruz said in the statement.
“The world is far less safe for our citizenry when others believe they can come to our soil, kill with impunity and then evade justice by fleeing to a country that will not live up to its obligation under international law to return him for prosecution. Failure to pursue Guaman will only embolden others to similarly act.”
CLICK HERE TO VIEW BROWN'S LETTER TO CLINTON...

Linde Makes 4 In Plymouth 11th Dem Race

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--The Democratic Party candidates seeking to fill the 11th Plymouth District State Representative seat is now at 4.
Mark Linde, a life-long Brockton resident, has announced he is collecting signatures to be the fourth candidate on the Democratic primary ballot, which will be held Thursday, Sept. 6.
In a prepared statement, Linde said he is a lifelong resident of the City of Brockton--adding he lives less than a mile from the Brockton-Easton line.
Linde has resided in Brockton’s Ward 1 for most of his life since 1962.
His parents have lived in Easton since 1992. He is married to Teresa "Teri" Linde who shares his passion for volunteer and community service.
They have two grown children.
“My lifetime of involvement in public and community activities shows my commitment to community,” Linde said in the statement.
“All of my community and elected service have been as a volunteer. I hope to continue this commitment to public service as your elected state representative,” he said.
Linde said his public service is extensive.
He is currently the chairman of the Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical School Committee and has served as one of the two Brockton representatives.
He was elected district-wide in 2008.
He is currently the chairman of the Brockton Library Board of Trustees and has served on the library board since 1996.
Linde's decades of community service have gone back to Brockton High School where he served as the Student Advisory Council representative to the Brockton School Committee for his last three years of high school. He is a proud 1979 graduate. He was educated at the Hancock School, Whitman School, and West Junior High School--all in Brockton.
Linde attended Stonehill College through May 1981 where he served as Editor-in-chief of The Summit and worked on WSHL (Stonehill’s Radio Station). He transferred to the University of Miami and graduated in May 1983 with a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Broadcast Journalism. He is a 1992 graduate of Fitchburg State College with a Master of Science in Media Management.
Linde is presently the General Manager of Brockton Community Access since 1994 which is a non-profit organization that provides Public, Education and Government Access television for the residents of Brockton. He serves as a part-time adjunct faculty member at Massasoit Community College since 1993 and teaches Television Production, Mass Communication and Public Speaking. He is a proud member of the Massachusetts Teacher’s Association--community college division.
Some highlights of his community service include volunteer work as past president of the Brockton Rotary Club and three years as a past assistant governor for Rotary District 7950. He is the past chairman of the Downtown Brockton Association. He has served as treasurer of the United Way of Greater Plymouth County, a board member of the YMCA Youth Division, and a subcommittee for My Turn Inc.
Linde’s political experience dates back to 1974 where he has volunteered on many different campaigns. He is the elected Ward 1 chairman for the Brockton Democratic City Committee and also serves at the city-wide secretary.
To assist with the campaign please call him at 508-588-4493 or e-mail him at mlinde61@gmail.com. At present Linde is collecting signatures to place him on the ballot for the September primary. For information on future events a website will be up and running soon.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Wildlands Trust Takes Over Brockton Audubon Land

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—The Wildlands Trust is set to bring new life to a 126-acre preserve of forest land and trails behind the Hancock Elementary School that was once a well-walked sanctuary owned by the Brockton Audubon Society.
“We’re really excited that the transfer of ownership has finally been completed,” said Karen Grey, executive director of for-the-moment Duxbury-based Wildlands Trust Inc.
Grey, a 1981 graduate of Brockton High School, joked that not many people are aware there was once a vibrant and active Audubon chapter in the city of Brockton—something the Wildlands Trust hopes to change.
Grey said the transfer of ownership began about 2 years ago several years after she learned about the property when she began working for Wildlands Trust.
Through residents, city officials and the two remaining trustees of the dormant Brockton Audubon Society, Grey said the trust began working to transfer ownership, and after miles of red tape, court proceedings and approval from the state Attorney General’s Office, the land passed into the hands of the trust on March 15.
“We are pleased and proud to be taking on the vast responsibility of protecting this land forever for the people of Brockton,” Grey said.
Grey said the paperwork took some time because the 93-year-old Brockton Audubon Society is a charitable trust and the land had to be conveyed to a non-profit or similar trust, many legal trails had to be followed, but now that they are done, Wildlands Trust is ready to bring the land new life.
The group’s first public activity will be participating in the city’s annual “Keep Brockton Beautiful Day,” Saturday, April 21.
Because the Brockton Audubon Society has been dormant for many, many years, volunteers and members are few and far between so Wildlands Trust is seeking volunteers to help them clean up the debris and trash that borders fences that enclose the 126-acre stretch.
Grey said not to let the location of the property fool you, 100 yards into the site the zooming cars on Pleasant Street and backyards of the housing developments that encircle the land fade and a hiker will be truly amazed at the pristine nature of—well nature in Brockton.
The Wildlands Trust is also looking forward to a new-old home in Plymouth. The trust began in Plymouth and then moved its headquarters to Duxbury. Last summer the group penned a deal to buy the 7 acre Davis-Douglas Farm off Long Pond Road in Plymouth.
Grey said anyone wishing to volunteer for the Brockton cleanup or become a member can contact her at kgrey@wildlandstrust.org or by calling 781-934-9018.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Night Of Promotions At City Council

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Brockton City Council Monday night approved numerous promotions within the police and fire departments, including elevating Officer Tracey Harrington to sergeant--the city's first female sergeant--and Kevin M. Galligan--son of former fire chief Kenneth Galligan--as deputy fire chief.
There was a large crowd for the promotions, however, each of the new employees will need to be sworn-in to their new positions.
Mayor Linda Balzotti's office said a swearing-in ceremony has not yet been scheduled.
Along with Harrington and Galligan other officers promoted were:
Officer William J. Hallisey to the rank of Lieutenant in the Brockton Police
Department;
Officer David M. Dickinson to the rank of Lieutenant in the Brockton Police Department and
Officer Christopher T. Green to the rank of Sergeant in the Brockton Police Department.

Ward 5, 6 Meet Wednesday Night

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Ward 5 and Ward 6 city councilors Dennis DeNapoli and Michelle DuBois will host a combined ward meeting Wednesday, March 28 at the Mary E. Baker Elementary School at 6;30 p.m.
Topics of discussion will include public safety, street repairs, and the Boulders Apartments. Guests include interim police chief Manuel Gomes and crime watch coordinator Officer Bill Healy.
The meeting is open to all residents who are urged to attend.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Advocates Step Up Foreclosure Protests

By Lisa E. Crowley BrocktonPost BROCKTON--Brockton officials are looking to drop Bank of America as one of the banks that handles the city’s financial services--a move sparked by an outcry from residents, their supporters and area public advocates who say Bank of America and other large national banks are decimating Brockton and other communities by kicking out residents instead of negotiating new mortgages to keep them in their homes.
“They not only have the ripped the hearts out of us…they have ruined the basic idea of the America dream and the realization of owning a home,” said Leigh Bigger, a Brockton resident struggling to save her house from foreclosure with Bank of America, during a City Council Finance Committee meeting Monday night.
More than 40 residents and advocates attended Monday night’s meeting to express frustration and anger toward national banks like Bank of America, who they say have taken billions in taxpayer bailout money, returned to giving CEOs huge bonuses and, at the local level are punishing homeowners instead of negotiating with them and in the process have needlessly kicked people out of their homes and destroyed communities. Advocates and residents over the last few weeks have been hitting the streets of Brockton, New Bedford, Fall River, Lawrence, Lynn and other Massachusetts cities and towns that have been hard hit by the mortgage crisis. Brockton Interfaith Community, or BIC, has joined forces with City Life, a Boston-area advocacy group and a recently formed Brockton Bank Tenant Association to raise awareness of individual, regional and national problems associated with the mortgage crisis—a problem they say has only got worse with the banks’ bailout.
A vigil was held Monday, March 12 at 267 Howard St. in support of Luckner Vernet, who has worked with a nonprofit to buy his house and then turn around and resell it to him at current market value—about $150,000 less than he bought it--and avoid foreclosure and allow him to stay in his house. Chase Bank, who eventually bought Vernet’s mortgage from a struggling lender refuses to negotiate or help with the plan.
Vernet, who attended Monday’s finance committee meeting, said Chase will not respond to any entreaties and is moving ahead with foreclosure and plans to auction the house. Vernet said instead, Chase intends to kick him, his wife and their two children out of the house and sell it at auction.
“They want to punish us,” Vernet said. “They won’t sell it to the non-profit who will sell it to me at a cost I can pay. They want it to be empty and ruin the neighborhood and me and my family’s life,” he said.
The City Council finance committee Monday voted unanimously in support of reinvesting the city’s money away from any services being provided by Bank of America—services Treasurer-Collector Martin Brophy said include processing the city’s payroll account—a major change he said that could be beneficial to the city and send a message to big banks like Bank of America.

“It wouldn’t just be symbolic. Bank of America seems to be charging more fees for services—they seem to want to get out of municipal and government services--and I think it would be a beneficial for the city,” Brophy said after Monday night’s meeting.
“I’m not thrilled at times with the products and services they are providing. I’ll go out and solicit local options,” Brophy said.
Brophy said the city uses Bank of America, Rockland Trust, Century and Sovereign banks, and Mass. Municipal Depository Trust for much of its financial services, such as payroll, the city’s health care trust, and dedicated revolving funds.
Brophy said not all local banks can handle municipal and government accounts.
He said Rockland Trust, Webster and Eastern Bank have the capability of providing Brockton the services it needs. However, Brophy said, a move depends on what kind of proposals the local banks can offer the city and if it is more affordable than dealing with Bank of America.
“A lot of Is have to be dotted and Ts crossed to do this,” Brophy said. “This is a major change,” he added.
He said each of those 4 banks handle $80 to $100 million of the city’s money per month.
Meanwhile, resident Bigger and others are doing everything and anything they can to not lose their homes and prevent a further decimation of neighborhoods and cities and towns that are being destroyed by rows and rows of vacant homes.
Bigger said she has worked for the state's DYS for more than 20 years.
She is a single mother making about $45,000 a year who bought a 3-family in Brockton 8 years ago because her lender said she couldn’t afford a one-family, but with rent from a 3-family she would be better off and they would approve her for a loan.
She was strenuously steered toward an adjustable rate mortgage, and other moves were made and other promises made, like because the housing market and property values were exploding 8 years ago, she would pay a lower monthly cost and be able to “flip” the house and refinance in a few months.
Instead the housing market crashed, property values plummeted, and after keeping up with ballooning payments for a while she stopped paying because you can’t get help if you’re paying your mortgage.
When she stopped paying angry foreclosure notices followed.
She has been working through different programs to rewrite the loan, but has been stymied by a never ending morass of document searches with Bank of America who transfer her from one department to another with each asking for the same documents and transferring her to other departments until she received bogus company addresses and bogus phone numbers.
She said she owes about $500,000 on a house she bought for $300,000 and it is now worth, “maybe,” $180,000.
Bigger said she has been working with Bank of America to stay in the home, but like millions of other homeowners working with national banks, the bank would rather kick the residents out and put the property up for auction—creating vacant homes where homeless people, transients, thieves and other scavengers come in and sleep, steal copper wiring and pipes, hold parties, and in general create havoc and crime in neighborhoods.
The run-around has been harrowing, Bigger said, and like thousands in Brockton, Fall River, New Bedford and other hard hit areas, she no longer thinks it’s her fault for not understanding the schemes being presented by predatory lenders.
“I’m an educated, hardworking person who has only wanted to own my own home,” Bigger said.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Stewart Takes Job At Easton's Coldwell Banker

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Brockton Councilor-at-large Jass Stewart announced in an email and on his Website, he has joined joined Coldwell Banker in Easton as a realtor.
In the email sent Sunday, March 18, Stewart said Coldwell is a great company and because the job is flexible he will be able to continue his work as a city councilor and campaign as a candidate for the 11th Plymouth state representative seat.
"In short, my real-estate work is the perfect complement to my City Council efforts, and my campaign for State Rep.," Stewart said in the email.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Waldron Remembered For Love Of Brockton

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--John A. Waldron, 54, a lifelong Brockton resident, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 10 at the Good Samaritan Medical Center in Brockton.
Waldron, the husband of Brockton 21st Century Corp. Executive Director Mary Waldron, who is fighting breast cancer, last week went into the hospital for surgery after a fall.
He went into the hospital this weekend suffering from trouble breathing and other complications. He unexpectedly died Saturday.
Waldron was a 1975 graduate of Brockton High School, and he remained devoted to his alma mater throughout his life. He served with the Brockton Boxer Alumni Group raising funds for the football team, and volunteered innumerable hours for the Brockton High School Alumni Association.
Waldron served as Retirement Counselor for the Massachusetts State Retirement Board for more than twelve years. John cherished his service as Legislative Aide to Representative Thomas Kennedy in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
It was at the State House where John met the love of his life, Mary, whom he would marry. John was the proud father of daughter, Casey Angela, who graduates from Brockton High in 2012, following in the tradition of her father.
He loved sunsets down the Cape, golfing with high school and college friends, reminiscing about Brockton – never forgetting anything or anyone.
He was a member of the Polish White Eagles, Brockton Boxer Football Alumni and the Democratic City Committee.
But everyone knew that he lived for his family and would boast about them to anyone who would listen.
Waldron earned a bachelor of arts from St. Joseph’s College in Maine in 1979.
He loved watching all sports, but in particular loved watching Sunday football with friends.
He was the beloved husband of 21 years to Mary (Przybylowicz) Waldron; loving father of Casey A. Waldron; cherished brother of Jean Weathers and her husband Jack of Brockton, Mark Waldron and his wife Cindy of Bridgewater, Maureen Waldron of Brockton, Susan Taylor and her husband Joseph of Hopedale, Sheila Veideman and her husband Jeff of Auburn, and Leo Waldron and his wife Joanna of Warsaw, Poland.
Waldron was the eldest son of the late G. Robert and Mary C. (O’Connor) Waldron.
He was the nephew and godchild of Patricia “Sis” McGillis and her husband John “Butch” McGillis, and nephew of Paul “Brother” and Terese O’Connor.
He was the son-in-law of Angela Przybylowicz of Chicopee, brother-in-law to Kris and Len Clark of West Barnstable, Chet and Jill Przybylowicz of Chelmsford, Theresa Przybylowicz of Belchertown, Tom Przybylowicz of Higganum, CT, and Patty and Dan Guilmette of Chicopee.
Waldron was proud of his many nieces and nephews: Kerry Weathers and her friend Jonathan Grasso, Katie, Chris and Colin Weathers, Mary Catherine and Joseph, Jr. Taylor and his fiancé Heather Lau, Kathleen, Elizabeth and Robert Waldron, Christie and Melanie Frazier, Ian, Mia and Max Waldron and Paige Veideman, as well as Erica Glanville and friend Jonny Martins and Alex, Alli, Anna, Andrew, and Abigail Przybylowicz.
In addition to his immediate family, Waldron leaves many cousins, extended family, and countless friends.
A funeral mass will be celebrated Thursday, March 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Edith Stein-St. Edward Parish, 71 East Main St., Brockton.
Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Brockton.
Calling hours at Russell & Pica Funeral Home will be Wednesday, March 14 from 2 to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers and in the spirit of Waldron's giving back to the community, please consider donations to the Brockton High School Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1765, Brockton MA 02303 – In memory of John or to the Signature Health Care - Brockton Hospital Cancer Walk, Signature Healthcare, Foundation Office,680 Centre St., Brockton, MA 02302.

Stewart To Run For 11th Plymouth

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Brockton City Councilor-at-large Jass Stewart announced via email and Facebook he will be third Democratic Party candidate to seek election to the 11th Plymouth State Representative seat. 
In a Facebook entry Thursday, March 8 and in an email Sunday, Stewart said he decided to run for the seat after several public meet-and-greets, and a last minute wish from his son Jajuan, who left Brockton last week for Japan and his first tour of duty in the military. 
Stewart notes when Jajuan departed Stewart asked the young man what he thought about Stewart's potential run for the state rep. seat, and Jajuan replied: "Go for it. My job is to make sure people have the freedom to vote. Your job is to make sure they have a reason to vote."
It was then, Stewart writes, he decided to make a run for the 11th Plymouth. 
Stewart said as a Brockton City Councilor, he has earned a reputation for being independent, hard working, and focused on results from holding government accountable and helping to create jobs, to responding to the needs of residents and making my son proud.
"I am ready to bring these values to the State House," Stewart said.  
Stewart will hold a campaign kick-off event,  Tuesday, April 3, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Tutto/Pasta Bene, 1050 Pearl St.
Stewart joins Democrats Claire Cronin and Robert Sullivan, who have already announced their candidacy for the seat which includes precincts 1 to 5 in Easton and in Brockton all of Ward 1, Ward 3D, and Wards 7C and 7D.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Commission Announces Women Of The Year

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--The City of Brockton’s Commission on Women’s Issues has announced the winners of the 2012 Women of the Year Awards.
The commission’s selection committee chose the winners from a long list of nominees last week.
The following women were selected to be the 2012 Women of the Year:
Janice Byer
Donna Cotterell
Michelle DuBois
Barbara Litchman
In addition to these four Women of the Year, the 2012 Women of Courage Award will be presented to:
Samara and Tamara Pires

Award recipients will be honored at the 2012 Women of the Year Awards Breakfast set for Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m. at the Shaw’s Center.
Writer and actress Marianne Leone will be the keynote speaker. 
Tickets are $20 and available for purchase at Rockland Trust locations throughout the city. Proceeds from ticket sales will fund scholarships for young Brockton women.
For questions and/or further information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 508-580-7123

And The Women Of The Year Are...

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--The City of Brockton’s Commission on Women’s Issues has announced the winners of the 2012 Women of the Year Awards.
The commission’s selection committee chose the winners from a long list of nominees last week.
The following women were selected to be the 2012 Women of the Year:
Janice Byer
Donna Cotterell
Michelle DuBois
Barbara Litchman
In addition to these four Women of the Year, the 2012 Women of Courage Award will be presented to:
Samara and Tamara Pires

Award recipients will be honored at the 2012 Women of the Year Awards Breakfast set for Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m. at the Shaw’s Center.
Writer and actress Marianne Leone will be the keynote speaker. 
Tickets are $20 and available for purchase at Rockland Trust locations throughout the city. Proceeds from ticket sales will fund scholarships for young Brockton women.
For questions and/or further information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 508-580-7123

Friday, March 2, 2012

Former SEAL Supports Filmmakers' Depiction

Letter to the Editor: 
As a retired Navy SEAL, I looked forward to seeing recently released "Act of Valor" starring actual Navy SEALs instead of professional actors.  
Like most military veterans, I am a tough critic of all military movies.  
I have no affiliation with the production of this movie.  Prior to viewing it this week, I read reviews that the acting was lacking and some scenes unrealistic.
Since we all value our two hours and $10 and in trying my utmost to not be biased, I respectfully disagree with those reviews.  
Considering they were not professional actors, I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the acting and almost all of the movie was very realistic.   
In a fast-paced less than two hours, the SEAL team hunts down terrorists-a.k.a. "tangos" threatening Americans in a series of world-wide operations showcasing SEAL expertise in parachuting, diving, shooting, and fighting.  
The very realistic attention to tactical details includes using hand signals when silence was required and reloading empty magazines from guns and switching from a primary weapon--rifle--to secondary-pistol--when necessary in a firefight. 
A U.S. POW scene was a realistic contrast to an enemy POW scene with realistic contrasting results. 
A rocket round malfunctions showing, in combat--like in life, that being good is good, but being good and lucky is better.  
The movie did not have excessive or gratutious violence, nudity, or sex nor an overpowering soundtrack but felt like a documentary, which is a style I enjoy. 
Although there were subtitles for foreign languages and locations traveled, my biggest suggestion would be to add sub-titles explaining terms and abbreviations that were spoken, but that most viewers are unfamiliar with to maximize connection with the audience.  
The river boat crews were superbly featured and the crews from the helicopters, submarines, and ships deserve more recognition for their invaluable work.  
Most of the few unrealistic details were likely to protect classified information which conveniently cannot be explained for the same reason.  
Due to obvious and dangerous security concerns, SEALs do not prefer the headlines they have received lately.  
On their behalf, SEALs are only a small part of the team that includes countless warriors from all the military branches whose only purpose is to protect America.  
If I was not proud of this movie's representation of an important part of my life then I would not recommend it. 
I'll bet a popcorn that you agree--medium, no butter please.        
Anthony T. O'Brien, Sr., Lieut. Cdr., US Navy Seals (Ret.)    
P.O. Box 4012, Plymouth MA 02361
cell (508) 868-2547
Facebook: Anthony O'Brien Navy Seal
www.AnthonyOBrien.com
O'Brien is a Plymouth County Commissioner
(Movie poster courtesy IMBD.com)

Rox, Shaw's Center Contract Moves Forward

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--The Brockton 21st Century Corporation has released the terms of a deal that will continue baseball at Campanelli Stadium.
Executive Director Mary Waldron said in an email that final details of a lease with the new management company, Entertainment Management Complex, still need to be worked out, but the bulk of a one-year contract, that could extend 4, 5 or 10 years, depending on the new company’s success, have been finalized.
“There is still a lot of work that needs to be done, but at least they can start selling tickets,” Waldron said in the email.
The new contract allows Entertainment Management, headed by Rox CEO Chris Carminucci, to join the Futures Collegiate League, a one-year-old enterprise that spotlights top college baseball players who have the real potential to make it to the big leagues.
In past interviews, Carminucci likened the Futures League to the popular and successful Cape Cod League. Brockton is the 9th team to join the Futures League.
The move ends the Rox association with the professional Can-Am League.
Highlights of the new contract include:
*$125,000 rent. First payment due in July. The amount is down from $275,000;
*$100,000 already paid Feb. 29 in back expenses owed the city;
*No less than $30,000 be spent on marketing and advertising stadium activities and Shaw’s Center.
There are also numerous naming rights and profit sharing clauses, but readers can see for themselves.
Here's the latest version of the contract:

1. Prior to entering into licenses, a new Corporation or Limited Liability Corporation will be formed.

2. (New Corporation or L.L.C.) A Massachusetts Corporation located in Brockton, Massachusetts will contribute One Hundred Thousand ($100.000.000) Dollars to the operating account (These funds will be used for new operating expenses from the date commencing on the date of this executed agreement.)

3. (New Corporation or L.L.C.) Shall receive a commitment from the Futures Collegiate Baseball League to enter a team for the 2012 season.

If the above preconditions are satisfied by no later than February 29, 2012, New Corporation or LLC will enter into a license agreement with the Brockton 21st Century Corporation on the following terms and conditions:
A. The Conference Center License, Operations and Management Agreement and the Stadium License, Management and Operation Agreement shall follow the format of the same Agreements between the Brockton 21st Century Corporation and Brockton Professional Baseball, L.L.C., with the following modifications.

i. The initial term of the agreement will be for a period of one (1) year.

If New Corporation or L.L.C. contributes an additional $100,000.00 into its operating account (for a total of $200,000 in capital) the term of the agreement shall extend for an additional four years only with Brockton 21st Corporation and the City of Brockton’s approval. If that approval is granted there will be open negotiations for the allowance of an extension of the lease for years 5-10.
ii. The combined payment under the license agreement shall be One Hundred Twenty-five Thousand ($125,000.00) Dollars, per year.

iii. No Less than Twenty-five Thousand ($25,000.00) Dollars of the licensing payment shall be paid by July 15, 2012 and Twenty-five Thousand ($25,000.00) Dollars will be paid on or before the 15th of each Month through November 15th totaling the Base rent amount of One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($125,000.00).

iv. The Brockton 21st Century Corporation will pay electricity for the entire Complex for the term of said lease for use commencing after the date of this agreement.

v. Net revenues from naming rights shall be shared equally between the new corporation or L.L. C and the Brockton 21st Century Corporation minus the cost of the production of said sponsorship [definition of “cost of production” would refer to any hard expenses incurred born specifically due to the sale of “naming rights” i.e. signage, P.OS. specific marketing materials, etc..]. The Brockton 21st Century Corporation reserves the right to sell naming rights without further compensation to New Corporation or L.L.C. Any sale of naming rights by New Corporation/L.L.C. is subject to the approval of the Brockton 21st Century Corporation. Any solicitation of Naming Rights to prospective buyers will be communicated with the Brockton 21st Century Corporation and New Corporation/L.L.C.

vi. The Brockton 21st Century Corporation will receive 20% of Net Profit from all Special Events Promoted and executed by New Corporation/LLC or with events where the New Corporation/LLC is in a partnership with a promoter or entity. In addition, the Brockton 21st Century Corporation will Receive 35% of Net Profit from all Special Events where an outside promoter has rented the facility for the purpose of hosting a special event. The New Corporation/LLC will have 30 days to furnish the Brockton 21st Century Corporation with a P&L of the event and a check for their percentage of said event. Until the sum of the TBD Calculation of (old water & sewer bills, Constellation energy debt, and the shortage on Rent and parking for The Shaw’s Center and The Brockton Rox) has been paid, at which time the Brockton 21st Century Corporation will be paid 7% of Net Profit on all Special Events through the remainder of the Lease. The Brockton 21st Century Corporation will be paid 10% of the Net Profit on all special events where an outside promoter has rented the facility for the purpose of hosting a special event. The Term “Special Events” shall refer to all non-baseball events such as Concerts, Boxing, MMA, and any event in which the general public is able to buy a ticket. It shall exclude all privately held events where tickets are not sellable to the general public. The Revenue from “Private events” would fall into the general revenue account and payment would be subject to the revenue thresholds as described in section viii.

vii. The new corporation will spend not less than Thirty Thousand (30,000.00) Dollars promoting the Shaw’s Center and the Baseball Team.


viii. In addition to the payment under the license agreement as required by section A ii (above) ten (10%) per cent of gross revenues (“GROSS REVENUE” shall mean the total dollar amount received by New Corporation or LLC (in all cases less sales or similar taxes) State & Local Meals and Use Taxes, Tips, Gratuities, and Administrative Fees on Food & Beverage on events at The Shaw’s Center) in excess of Two Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand ($2,250,000.00) and eight (8%) percent of gross revenues*** in Excess of Three Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand ($3,250,000.00) Dollars in any Calendar year from the combined facilities shall be paid to Brockton 21st Century Corporation as percentage rent. Special Events at the Stadium will be paid separately as listed in section vi. And not be included in the Complex’s general revenue stream.

ix. Subject to the approval by the Brockton 21st Century Corporation which will not be unreasonably withheld, in the event the baseball team is sold, moves to a different league, or changes its character and becomes affiliated with a new league, the terms of the license agreement shall be renegotiated.

x. Within 30 days of the close of each quarter, the new corporation will submit balance sheets and income statements for the Shaw’s Center and the Stadium to Brockton 21st Century Corporation on a quarterly basis. Failure shall constitute a term of default under the lease.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Gala Night Raises $3,000 For Penelope's Place

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—In the battle against domestic violence, advocates, survivors, and their friends and families are focusing on stopping the problem where it most often begins—with men.
“You’re not a man if you hit a woman,” said Jamarhl Crawford, publisher and editor of The Blackstonian, who also served as the master of ceremonies for the Love Life Now Foundation’s White Ribbon Gala against domestic violence and to raise money for Brockton's Penelope's Place.
Surrounded by a crowd of more than 100 women and men, including Fox 25 News crime reporter Bob Ward, Channel 7 sports reporter Darren Haynes, members of Jane Doe Inc., and an all-male acappella group, the Unisons, from Northeastern University, Crawford spoke the words many in the room felt and were thinking.
“Cherish your woman,” Crawford said. “My Dad told me you’re a punk if you touch a woman,” he said, acknowledging when he received the Love Life Now Foundation’s inaugural White Ribbon Day Ambassador Award, as a young man he wasn't always the best boyfriend.
Now 41, Crawford said when he was in his late teens, early 20s, he intimidated women, threatened them, played mind games, controlled them, and treated them as if they were his property—an attitude that changed when he became conscious of his self and the history and culture of his African people.
Crawford said his violence as a young man wasn’t at the level of some abusers, although all of it is abuse. He said he never punched a woman or made her bleed, or caused severe physical harm.
Crawford said in general he was a violent young man who grew up in a tough environment surrounded by threats, guns, knives and intimidation.
Crawford said that it didn’t help that—like many male teens--his hormones were raging and fueled by alcohol and cocaine—substances he no longer uses.
“I work now to help women out of those situations and get the brothers off that path,” he said.
Crawford led the night of laughter, smiles, dancing and for some, like Love Life Now Foundation head Lovern Augustine—tears.
Augustine, a Brockton resident from Trinidad, won last year’s Mrs. Ethnic World competition and has used her title to advocate against domestic violence in Brockton, Boston and the world because of her mother’s gruesome abuse at the hands of her father, and her own experience with a now long-gone ex-boyfriend. After the event Augustine said the emphasis on men and women sharing in the battle against domestic violence was not lost on the crowd.
“There was a right dose of every aspect of male awareness for both men and women to take in and many have been stating that they now have information they can take back and share with their families, friends and colleagues as White Ribbon Day Ambassadors,” she said.
Augustine and a handful of others launched Love Life Now Foundation to raise awareness against domestic violence and money for New England shelters.
She is a volunteer for Penelope’s Place, a confidential emergency crisis shelter in Brockton and Friday’s event also raised money for the shelter that helps women escape abusive relationships in a hurry.
The White Ribbon Gala raised about $3,000 for Penelope’s Place.
Fox 25’s Ward, an award-winning crime reporter, who worked with Augustine at the news station, said until Augustine approached her to be a part of Friday’s gala held at the Phillips Old Colony House in Boston, he had no idea the pain and suffering Augustine and her mom went through—a silence that permeates the problem of domestic abuse.
Ward noted he has covered several local high profile cases of domestic abuse, including Hopkinton resident Neil Entwistle’s murder of wife Rachel and 9-month-old daughter Lillian, and the quadruple murder of his wife, two children and mother-in-law by seemingly well-to-do Winchester resident Thomas Mortimer IV.
Ward said when Mortimer was being led to court by police he had the chance to ask a quick question--why did you kill the kids—why did you have to kill the kids?
Ward said Mortimer did not answer, but in a lengthy written confession, Mortimer confessed his crimes and said he wished he’d written down his troubles—financial and marital—rather than keeping them bottled up until he lost all reason and killed his family because maybe they were the cause of all his problems.
Ward said male machismo and the failure to communicate problems are evidenced in many domestic murders, especially the phenomenon of family annihilation.
“He couldn’t cope with the responsibility…he was selfish and cowardly,” Ward said. “Men need to know women are not their property, children are not a burden—they are the greatest joy in life…strength is how you treat your loved ones and those you brought into the world,” he said.
During the evening’s program attendees viewed a theatrical skit by Northeastern’s, “Acting Out,” which illustrated a situation when others, such as fellow apartment dwellers, hear a verbal or physical battle in another apartment and debate whether or not it is their business to step in or call the police.
Also, every person in the room took a pledge to combat domestic violence, a pledge that will be repeated by hundreds Thursday, March 1 at the State House in Boston when the 5th annual White Ribbon Day will be held beginning at 1 p.m. followed by a week’s worth of domestic violence awareness initiatives.
Antonio Arrendel, executive director of Metanoia Community Change, and a nationally respected facilitator and conflict resolution coach who specializes in domestic violence and athletes, asked all of the men in the room to gather in front of him and answer a question.
“After a night of drinking alcohol with a woman, do you go home with her and have sex?”
The answers—ranging from “Hell, yeah,” and “No way” elicited many laughs from the crowd—and showed how difficult the problem of relationships can be—with or without violence or abuse.
The night wrapped up with roses for Penelope’s Place managers and volunteers, hugs, kisses and dancing. Crawford’s closing remarks inspired those to work in their communities toward the end of domestic violence.
“Any form of abuse is not acceptable. It’s not even on the menu,” Crawford said.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Catholic Charities Celebrates New Brockton Site

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Catholic Charities South will celebrates its relocation  with a special ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, March 1, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. which will be highlighted by a visit from Most Reverend John A. Dooher, South Region Bishop of Boston's Archdiocese.
The event is open to the public and attendees are asked to help restock Catholic Charities' food pantry shelves by bringing a bag of non-perishable groceries or a grocery store gift card to donate to the pantry.
Participants are asked to RSVP by contacting Nicki Meade Draves at 508-587-0815 x 264 or email norma_draves@ccab.org.
The ceremony will be held at Catholic Charities' new location at  169 Court St., Brockton.
Also in attendance will be members of the Metro South Chamber of Commerce, Deborah Kincade Rambo, President of Catholic Charities, Brockton Mayor Linda M. Balzotti, and the Catholic Charities South Advisory Board and Staff.
Catholic Charities South, one of the largest social service providers in the state, offers nearly 100 programs and services to the poor and the working poor throughout Eastern Massachusetts. 
The goal at Catholic Charities is to help people become self-sufficient, provided with the very basics of life – food, fuel and shelter. 

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Cronin Highlights Mediation, Activism Skills In Run For 11th Plymouth

Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--Days after State Rep. Geraldine Creedon announced she would not seek reelection to the 11th Plymouth seat, an Easton resident and Brockton native is ready to launch a campaign for the district.
Claire Cronin, 52, in an email announcing her candidacy, said she believes her skills as a lawyer and active member of the Easton and Brockton communities would bring effective leadership in the political arena.
“My mediation experience requires an ability to bring parties with different agendas together and I hope to apply this skill to make government the best it can be,” Cronin said. (Pictured, top)
Creedon, (Pictured, middle) who has had medical problems over the last few years, announced over the weekend she would not seek reelection to the seat she has filled since 1995.
The 11th Plymouth district
represents Precincts 1 through 5 in Easton and Wards 1, 3D, 7C and 7D in Brockton.
Cronin is believed to be the first candidate to announce she will seek election to Creedon’s seat.
Brockton Councilor-at-large Jass Stewart (Pictured, below) said Cronin’s announcement will not effect his decision to run for Creedon’s seat-- a run that has been speculated about in political circles for at least a year.
Stewart said in a phone call tonight he would not decide until after two meet-and-greets with residents Feb. 25 and 26 if he will make a run for Creedon’s seat.
“Whether (Creedon) was in the race or not was irrelevant to me,” Stewart said. 
Stewart said Cronin seeking the position has not prompted him to run or not run for the 11th Plymouth and repeated his Super Bowl Sunday statement that he will decide to run after taking into account the feedback he has received from constituents while out in the city and during the public meet-and-greets at the end of the month.
Cronin and any other candidate for Creedon’s seat must collect the necessary 150 signatures to be placed on the ballot for the Sept. 6 primary and, if successful in the party primary, the Nov. 6 election. 
Nomination papers are due at the city elections office May 1.
For those who may not know Cronin, here is a brief bio she provided with her email:
Cronin was born and raised in Brockton, the daughter of James and Phyllis (Lucey) McLaughlin. She is the niece of former Brockton Mayor C. Gerald Lucey.
 A 1978 graduate of Brockton High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Stonehill College in 1982 and a law degree from Suffolk University Law School in 1985. She is a former member of the Brockton Democratic City Committee.
Cronin lives in Easton with her husband, Ray Cronin, and their two daughters.  She has her own law practice in Brockton.  She is also a mediator at Commonwealth Mediation and Conciliation, Inc., in Brockton, where she mediates civil disputes including business, contractual, and personal injury matters.
Cronin serves on the board of Old Colony YMCA and has also been chair of the Frothingham Family YMCA’s Annual Strong Kids Campaign.
She also serves on the Foundation for Excellence in Education in Easton (FEEE), a non-profit organization that supports the students of the Easton Public Schools by raising funds for state-of-the art technology and innovative grants.  
Cronin is a member of the Easton Democratic Town Committee.

Wed. Last Day To Register For Presidential Primary

Below is a list of deadlines for voter registration from Secretary of State William Galvin's Office. 

If you are not already registered to vote, these are the deadlines for upcoming federal and state elections. 

As noted, Wednesday, TOMORROW, Feb. 15 is the last day to register for the Presidential Primary which will be held "Super Tuesday," March 6, when Republican hopefuls will get a sense of who Bay Stater's want to put up against President Barack Obama. 

Head to City Hall and register vote, otherwise...here are other ways to register, just remember...

* When registering by mail, your voter registration form must be postmarked by the deadline for you to be eligible.

To register to vote in person, you must appear and register at a registration location by 8 p.m. on the last day to register--Wednesday, Feb. 15 for the Presidential Primary.

Registration sessions will be held in cities and towns on the last day to register from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m., except in towns having less than 1500 registered voters, registration sessions will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 8 p.m.
Mail-in registration forms are widely available.
The Secretary of State has a Voter Registration Form request feature to obtain a mail-in registration form or call 617-727-2828 or 1-800-462-VOTE and a form will be sent to you or you can visit the Secretary's website to download a National Voter Registration form.
Mail the completed form to your local city or town hall. You should receive a confirmation notice in 2 to 3 weeks. If you do not receive a confirmation notice, or wish to confirm your voter registration status, please contact your local City or Town Clerk to verify your voting status.
Who may register? Only a person who is:

2012 Voter Registration Deadlines

Election Type

Election Date

Voter Registration Deadline*

Presidential Primary
State Primary
State Election

Monday, February 13, 2012

Learnard's History Passion Crosses Country, Generations

By Lisa E. Crowley
BrocktonPost
BROCKTON—When AmeriCorps volunteers come to Brockton to work in the community, one of their first stops before hitting the streets is to visit with John W. Learnard, a pillar of knowledge about Brockton’s history, and now the namesake of Brockton’s Shoe Museum.
“John’s passion for Brockton’s history is unparalleled,” said Matt Powers, a 20-something Pembroke native who joined AmeriCorps and met Learnard to learn a little bit about Brockton’s history.
Powers said the visit has stayed with him and dozens of AmeriCorps workers who come from all over the country to serve in Brockton.
“I’m here because of his passion for Brockton’s history,” Powers said, “and he’s spreading that passion for Brockton’s history around the country.”
Learnard, a longtime member of the historical society and past president, was honored Sunday with the dedication of the Brockton Shoe Museum in his honor.
More than 200 people attended a celebration of not only Learnard’s stewardship, but also the release of a new book, “Brockton Revisited,” by recently outgoing historical society president James E. Benson through Arcadia Publishing’s “Images of America” series.
The foreword is written by Mayor Linda Balzotti.
Benson said the book is a trip through Brockton’s past during the 1950s and 1960s, when Rocky Marciano lived and rose to fame in the city’s Ward 2, and the book is filled with pictures of city life by photographer Stanley Bauman, whose collection has been at Stonehill College since Bauman died in 2007.
Over the last few years, Stonehill College has become a repository for Brockton-centric photographs, collections, and libraries beginning with the Bauman collection in 2007, and in June 2011 the college came to an agreement with Brockton’s Historical Society to transfer the society’s rare and unique shoe collection to Stonehill’s archive department for preservation and exhibition.
Stonehill has promised to continually display the historical society’s shoes and prevent further deterioration of the collection.
The society’s collection had been exhibited and stored at the society’s headquarters at 216 Pearl St.  where the Shoe Museum, Fire Museum, Marciano Museum and Edison Museum are located.
However, the museum building is not climate controlled and some of the shoes were being ruined by a major mold infestation, humidity and chewed by mice who found the leather tasty.
The buildings are small and many of the society’s artifacts were tucked away in the basement and attic, out-of view and rarely seen by the public.
A problem noted by Learnard Sunday when he thanked Lynn Brandenburg, daughter of Bill Rossi, who after years of balking, finally agreed to donate his extensive shoe collection to the historical society which has in turn donated to Stonehill for exhibit and research.
The Rossi collection and those donated by William Doyle were the core artifacts which launched the Shoe Museum in the 1970s and 1980s. 
“I asked him over and over again: Are you ever going to give us your collection? Absolutely not, he said, not if you’re just going to put it in that basement or an attic,” Learnard recalled.
Since the opening of a relationship with Stonehill, most notably through Archives and Historical Collections Director Nicole Tourangeau Casper, last fall negotiations began with Stonehill to receive as a loan the historical society's collections with the underlying goal to preserve them and open more of them to the public.
Many items have been moved to the Stonehill campus, but a standing exhibit will always be on view at the Pearl Street headquarters of Brockton's Historical Society. 
Learnard said with the addition of the new collections, Stonehill’s archive department is a premier facility to learn about the once thriving shoe industry.
“Now, perhaps we have the library of shoemaking in the country, maybe even the world,” Leanard said, noting the Stonehill collection maybe second to none, except possibly an archive in England.
For her part, Stonehill's Tourangeau Casper, said the college is looking forward to preserving Brockton's rich history and developing rotating exhibits for public view.
"Our goal is to help the historical society preserve and exhibits its collections," Tourangeau Casper said. "We're caretakers," she said.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Balzotti Appoints Gomes As Interim PD Chief

BrocktonPost
BROCKTON--On Friday, Feb. 10, Brockton Police Capt. Emanuel Gomes will be sworn-in as interim police chief in preparation for the retirement of current Chief William Conlon.
“The position of police chief is one of the most, if not the most important job in the city,” Mayor Linda M. Balzotti said in a prepared statement. 
“Captain Gomes has the experience and knowledge to continue the successful work being done by the Brockton Police Department,” she added.
Gomes is expected to take over for Conlon, who will be retiring after more than 6 years as chief, and 26 in the department.
The ceremony will be held at City Hall, Friday, Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. in City Council Chambers. 
The event is free and open to the public.
“A lot of very good things are going on in the Brockton Police Department, and we want to continue being a full service police department,” Gomes said in the prepared statement.  
“I intend to continue the good things Chief Conlon has put in place and maintain those standards,” he said.
A 25-year veteran of the Brockton Police Department, Gomes began his career as a patrolman in April of 1986. 
He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in April 1997.
Gomes became a Lieutenant in July 2000, and promoted to Captain in April 2002.  
Gomes has overseen operations of the department on several occasions in the chief’s absence.
 Gomes was born in Portugal and moved to Brockton’s Campello section at the age of 8.  
He attended the Huntington School and South Junior High.  He is a 1981 graduate of Brockton High School.
 Following his graduation from Brockton High School, Gomes earned an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Massasoit Community College.  
He also holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Roger Williams University.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Warren Visits Brockton's Cindy's Kitchen

By Lisa E. Crowley BrocktonPost BROCKTON--Democratic Party senate hopeful Elizabeth Warren spent more than an hour Monday afternoon visiting with owners and employees of Cindy's Kitchen in Brockton during campaign stops that included Brockton, Abington and New Bedford. "It was great," said Cindy's Kitchen co-owner Eddie Byers, who with his wife Cindy escorted Warren around the company's plant. Warren aide, Alethea Harney said Cindy's Kitchen was singled out because it is one of the manufacturing success stories in the state. "We want to make sure the conditions exist for these type of companies to succeed," Harney said. Warren, a Harvard professor and consumer advocate, is running against Republican Senator Scott Brown for the seat in Congress. While Warren has competition in the Democratic Party, most believe she will be the party's eventual nominee.
For his part, Byers said he was happy, but unsure how Warren and her campaign heard about Cindy's Kitchen, a producer of all natural salad dressings, marinades, dips and sauces that ship to restaurants and wholesalers across the country, including Whole Foods, Costco, and Roche Bros. Byers, a Brockton native, who began operating in 1996 and in 2008 expanded the facility to its headquarters at Minuteman Way, (correction: Industrial Way) said he is not involved in Warren's campaign and only knows he was contacted by her staff members for a visit yesterday. Harney said during Warren's travels across the state they heard great things about Cindy's Kitchen and wanted to highlight a successful manufacturer as a part of a program to continue positive conditions for small business and manufacturing growth. Harney noted Cindy's Kitchen has grown from less than 50 employees, to about 100 today, and the company hopes to double by the end of 2012. "They're a success story," Harney said. Earlier in the day, Warren visited Cafe Arpeggio and the downtown business district in New Bedford. Warren then headed to Brockton and Cindy's Kitchen, followed by a stop at Martin's Bakery in Abington. (Photo caption: Top photo: Co-owner Eddie Byers shows Warren one of the company's specialty dressings. Second photo: Warren, center, talks with Cindy Byers, left and Eddie Byers, right. Photos courtesy Cindy's Kitchen/by Justin Kane.)