Fenton Urges Preservation of Our Lady of Hope Church

SPRINGFIELD—Ward 2 City Council candidate Michael Fenton has called for the Our Lady of Hope Church on Armory Street to be declared a historic district in light of the Springfield Roman Catholic Diocese’s recent decision to close the parish.
“I grew up at that church and its closing deeply affects me on a personal level.” Fenton hopes the diocese will reconsider. Failing that Fenton says, “I hope that this beautiful and historic building, which has been an anchor of the community for so long, remains preserved regardless of what future purpose it might have.”
Fenton believes Our Lady of Hope will continue to have a presence in Ward 2 for many years to come. The Church could be converted to community space for events like local art or theater. “There are a number of reuses for such a building that we should begin considering now and by working with the Historic Commission and the Diocese of Springfield today we can be sure that Our Lady of Hope will, in some way, be with us tomorrow.”

Taxachusettss is Baaaaaack !!!!

Well, it seems that Massachusetts is well in its way to live up to its nickname of Taxachusettss.
Governor Patrick has come up with the brilliant idea of raising the gas tax from 23.5 to 23.69 a .19 cents increase. Cigarette tax was already increased, the Governor wants to tax certain beverages and will increase an array of state fees. With this shaky economy and with consumers being more cautions on their spending habits, this is a terrible time to even think of raising any kind of taxes. Unfortunately, Beacon Hill thinks that the only way to gain state revenues is to tax its residents. Taxing the people in this shaky economy will result in an even more fragile private sector. As people give their hard earn money to the government, they will have less to spend. Employers will lose revenues and they will be forced to give lay offs to its employees. What effect will this gas tax have in Springfield? Well, in simple words: DEVASTATING. As it is Springfield has the HIGHEST business tax rate-- a brilliant move from the Springfield City Council. The housing market has taken a steep decline, and jobs are just not coming to Springfield. Private businesses will lose revenues and might give layoffs to its employees. As we have seen in recent months, some non-profit and private corporations have already given out layoffs. Increasing the gas tax will only hurt Springfield's trouble economy.

The Governor has often say that we can not expect to have roads for free. I find this insulting. We pay excise tax, gas tax, that help with the state's road infrastructure, Mr, Governor we already pay for the roads !!. So the question remains of where do we come up with the needed revenue to close the state budget shortfall? REDUCE GOVERNMENT WASTE !! REDUCE NON-EFFICIENT GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS, TIE IN THE LEGISLATORS AND THE GOVERNOR'S SALARIES TO THE STATE'S ECONOMY. The state legislature recently received a salary increase. Many courageous and conscientious legislators did not accept the salary increase because of the state of the economy. Other greedily accepted the pay increase. I believe that the legislature should do the right thing and not allow legislator's salary increase when there is a known budget shortfall as it was known and warned by Governor Patrick.

And the story goes on, you work hard for your money only to give it to the state government. You pay state income tax, gas tax, excise tax, cigarette tax (if you smoke), property tax, food tax, alcohol tax, capital tax, tax, tax.............

My compliments to the Republican Newspaper

The Republican newspaper recently lashed out sharp criticism in an Editorial against Rep. Swan and Coakley-Rivera for their legislative fiasco and for their petty political threat to hold hostage a bill filed by the Governor designed to extend the state loan repayment obligation, a move that could save $7 million dollars a year to the city.

The Republican portrays Rep. Swan as "a man who operates with total disrespect for the people he was elected to represent". Words that ring true after Swan's arrogance and care free attitude towards his tax obligations to the City of Springfield. His controversial trip to Liberia has become a slap in the face to residents of his district. The people of Liberia deserve appropriate help, but Swan's primary responsibility is to his district not to the people of Liberia. To add to the insult Swan is quoted in the Boston Herald in response to his trip to Liberia, "Whoever wants to say I’m un-American or un-patriotic can go to hell.”

The Republican portrays State Rep. Coakley-Rivera as "impulsive and often rashly unpredictable " Unfortunately, Coakley -Rivera has placed her own political aspirations, including a possible run for Mayor, before the interest of the residents of Springfield.

The actions of these two Reps. are indeed a true disservice to the residents of Springfield.

I believe that the time has come to replace these legislators with capable individuals.

My compliments to the Republican Newspaper for serving as an important tool in the stabilization of Springfield.

Latino Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Parrandon Navideno

Yesterday the Latino Chamber of Commerce celebrated its annual community holiday party. There were at least 500 people in attendance. An array of politicians paraded the event, shaking hands and working the crowd. A typical Puerto Rican menu of Arroz con Gandules, ( Rice and Lentils), Pernil (Pork), and Pasteles ( Plantain Patties) was provided by Sabor de Quisqueya Restaurant located at 326 St. James Ave. Springfield, MA.

As I worked the room, I was reminded of all the wonderful Latino talent that there is in Springfield, talent that sometimes is not appreciated or overlooked. The Latino Chamber of Commerce has been doing great efforts in advancing Latino own businesses in the City of Springfield. In fact Latinos are experiencing the fastest business growth in the region. With this shaky economy and uncertain financial future we must ensure that all of our businesses are able to survive. Springfield will be better off with a mix cultural business sector. This will provide a vibrant solid economy for Springfield and the region. City Hall has made some effort in assisting the Hispanic community in starting and maintaining Latino businesses. But we can not expect government to do everything for us. This efforts must be match with private investment to ensure a better, more solid Latino business sector. I wonder where are some of the big companies, like Walmart, Stop and Shop, Best Buy, etc. that enjoy the Latino business but are absent in this effort to improve the Latino business sector.

Dancing the night away....

The Three King brought gifts to the children

The Future

The clock is ticking....

I am shocked that State Rep. Cheryl Coakley-Rivera and Ben Swan are holding up a bill that will extend the state loan repayment to 15 years. This extension, as reported by the Republican will save the residents of Springfield 7 Million dollars a year. God knows that in this shaky financial times Springfield needs all the help it can get. I find State Rep. Cheryl Coakley-Rivera and Ben Swan actions irresponsible. Political differences are fair game, but to use this critical issue, one that will have serious ramifications to the residents of Springfield as a political football is a true disservice to the residents of Springfield. Cheryl Coakely-Rivera is accusing the Mayor of wasteful spending by hiring city employees and consultants. Ben Swan is blaming the Mayor for the recent contract termination with the Springfield Towing Alliance. While the bickering and accusations are exchanged, the time is clicking for Springfield to repay the state loan....

I foresee, that if Springfield is forced to repay the loan next year as originally stipulated, and with the expected local aid reduction looming over our heads, Mayor Sarno will have no choice but to engage in a series of lay offs. This will be catastrophic to the residents of Springfield.

State Rep. Rivera-Coakely and Swan will be directly responsible for every job lost.

Good Laugh ....

I have been extremely busy in the past few weeks. I got this joke in my e-mail that I like to share with you....


BARACK OBAMA: The chicken crossed the road because it was time for a> change! The chicken wanted change!

JOHN MC CAIN: My friends, that chicken crossed the road because he> recognized the need to engage in cooperation and dialogue with all the> chickens on the other side of the road...ZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

SARAH PALIN: BECAUSE, PRAISE JESUS, I WAS GONNA SHOOT HIS SORRY LIBERAL ASS FOR BLOCKING MY VIEW OF RUSSIA !

HILLARY CLINTON: When I was First Lady, I personally helped that> little chicken to cross the road. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to ensure right from Day One that every chicken in this> country gets the chance it deserves to cross the road. But then, this> really isn't about me.

GEORGE W. BUSH: We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road.> We just want to know if the chicken is on our side of the road, or> not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle> ground here.

DICK CHENEY: Where's my gun?

COLIN POWELL: Now to the left of the screen, you can clearly see the> satellite image of the chicken crossing the road.

BILL CLINTON: I did not cross the road with that chicken. What is your definition of crossing?

AL GORE: I invented the chicken.

JOHN KERRY: Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am> now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now, and will remain against it.

AL SHARPTON: Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens.

DR. PHIL: The problem we have here is that this chicken won't realize> that he must first deal with the problem on this side of the road before it goes after the problem on the other side of the road. What we need to do is help him realize how stupid he's acting by not taking> on his current problems before adding new problems.

OPRAH: Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which> is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So instead of having the> chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls, which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a car so that he can just drive> across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens.

ANDERSON COOPER, CNN: We have reason to believe there is a chicken,> but we have not yet been allowed to have access to the other side of the road

NANCY GRACE: That chicken crossed the road because he's guilty! You can see it in his eyes and the way he walks.

PAT BUCHANAN: To steal the job of a decent, hardworking American.

ERNEST HEMINGWAY: To die in the rain, alone

GRANDPA: In my day we didn't ask why the chicken crossed the road. Somebody told us the chicken crossed the road, and that was good enough.

BARBARA WALTERS: Isn't that interesting? In a few moments, we will be listening to the chicken tell, for the first time, the heart warming> story of how it experienced a serious case of molting, and went on to accomplish its lifelong dream of crossing the road.

ARISTOTLE: It is the nature of chickens to cross the road.

ALBERT EINSTEIN: Did the chicken really cross the road, or did the> road move beneath the chicken?

COLONEL SANDERS: Did I miss one?

Virgin Mary Apparation in Springfield, Ma

Silhouette of the Virgin Mary

I went down to the Mercy Hospital tonight to see the reported apparition of the Virgin Mary in an office window. Unfortunately, I went down during the night time and was unable to see an image. Apparently, the best view is during the day time. The image you see below was taken during the day by a news camera man that was kind enough to show it to those congregating to see the apparition. As you can see, there is a silhouette of a woman in the window. As I gathered the story, a man had a dream the night before where he was told that he would see an apparition the next day. The next morning the man went down to the Mercy hospital to see his wife, who was hospitalized. As the man got out of the car he noticed a silhouette in the window. He ran to the guard house and dragged the security guard out of the guard house to confirm what he was seeing. The guard was equally as surprised and the news spread rapidly. Apparently the image can be seen only from the outside. The office where the window is located is empty and no one has access to this office. According to the security officers, the first day there were approximately 300 people who gathered to see the apparition. Tonight there were approximately 100 people gathered at the parking lot at Mercy Hospital and several news channels. As I was standing in front of the window I thought of a passage of the bible, " blessed are those that believe without seeing for their is the kingdom of heaven" It was moving to see people praying the rosary and there was an aura of respect and humility in the air.

I can not help to notice that the reported apparition happened on September 30, at 300 Stafford St and that were 300 people gathered to see the apparition on the first day. Is there any significance? I do not know, and I will not pretend to know, but I do know that number 3 is consider the number of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. At a Hospital whose name is Mercy. My interpretation, Massachusetts come to the Mercy of God..........

What a perfect time for God to make a statement in Massachusetts. The state is not only in a serious financial situation, but it is also morally decadent. I know that there are those that will laugh and doubt. If they laugh at Christ and ultimately crucified Him, imagine what they will do to you and I.

Virgin Mary's Hands

Night time view of window

The faithful gathering

You need to take care of Me

Recently, an individual that I was talking to, protested at the quality of the food served in the local Hampden County of Corrections. What really ticked me of about his comments was the entitlement tone of voice in which this individual made his demands. "We need better food in jail !!!". My reply to him, " if you do not like the food in jail, don't go to jail !!!". Before I get call insensitive or inhumane, I realize that people in jail have real needs and need all the help that society can provide to them to help them reintegrate into society as productive members of society. The problem is that, in my opinion, the system suggests or even removes the personal responsibility from individuals. Statement like "drug use is a victimless crime", or "you fell through the cracks", encourages people to walk away from their personal responsibility. I firmly believe that government can be a positive influence in people's lives, an influence, an instrument of good, an instrument, not the solution.

If we make jail too comfortable, we in turn are removing the element of determent that jail provides. Unfortunately, as we all know, there are people that are institutionalized. Why should my tax money be used to support people that choose a life of crime? Personal responsibility holds truth regardless of ethnicity or social class.

Here in Springfield, we have a crime niche that needs to pack up and go. Of course, we have the professional scavengers, lurking in the shadows to jump at the first opportunity to drain government. Then we have the undesirables. People that thrive committing quality of life crimes. Drugs, brake ins, loud speakers, public intoxication and the list goes on. Sorry, do not expect me to advocate for better food when these people negatively impact the quality of life of the city.

COWARDS ! ! !

Massachusetts Senate Floor

Recently the Massachusetts Senate in a a cowardly voice vote voted to strike from the book the 1913 law. This law was used by former Gov.Mitt Romney from keeping the our State of Massachusetts from becoming the Las Vegas for gay "marriage" Opponents claim that the law, which was drafted at the beginning of the last century, was drafted as a bigoted legislation. Of course there is no evidence to this claim, yet it keeps popping up on the papers. The leftist liberals also wants us to believe, in fact to feel guilty, of potential economic 'fruits' that the eradication of 1913 will have for the state. The 1913 law was upheld as constitutional by the Massachusetts Supreme Court in 2006.

The bill now goes to the House of Representatives where it promises to be a fierce battle. I am particularly interested on how the Springfield delegation is going to vote on this issue. We have seen our stellar representatives Ben Swan and Cheryl Coakley Rivera continuously denying the people the opportunity to be heard on State issues. As evident in their vote against the referendum question to allow the people to decide in the definition of marriage. As I have said before, this is our government and we the voters have the ultimate say !!! The people must be allow to vote on such an important social issue. The attempt to eradicate the 1913 is just another attempt by a reckless house of representatives into silencing the people from being heard.

You can't have your money !!!

Suppose that I have access to your personal checking and saving accounts. Now say, that I use half of your money for things that I think are necessary. I now save the other half. Now you come up to me and ask me " Can I have my money back?", and I reply NO !!

Sounds incredible doesn't it? Well, this is exactly what the Governor and the Legislature is doing with you tax money.

There is approximately $450 Million Dollars in the "Rainy Day fund" in Beacon Hill. The Republicans wanted to funnel that money to Cities and Towns to help alleviate the high cost of living that we are experiencing. The proposal was killed twice. The first proposal was to have a one time grant infusion to cities and towns. Imagine what Springfield could have done with the nearly $21,795,215 dollars that the city would have received as a one time grant infusion. At the very least, more roads could have been paved. The second proposal was in direct property tax relief. Click here to see how much your City/Town would have received. Gov. Patrick heavily campaigned on Property Tax relief as a center stage issue during his gubernatorial campaign. Now that he has a real chance to keep his pledge he back paddles in a big hurry. And the intrepid House of Representative has joined the Governor in refusing to give you your money back. Click here to see how the State Representative voted. Of Course our fearless Springfield State Representative delegation joined Gov. Patrick in refusing to give you your money back.

But there is light at the end of the tunnel. The group 450 Million has finished a signature drive through the state to place on the ballot a non-binding question on the November elections.
The referendum question reads.

"Shall the representative from this district be instructed to vote in favor of legislation distributing $450 million from the "rainy day stabilization" fund, originally due to the cities and towns of the Commonwealth, for residential property tax relief."

Let us hope that after the question passes, as I expect that it will. The House of Representatives actually listens to the people and do as the people want and deserve, their money back !!!

Good, Now you look like an American

Picture from Flickr.com

Recently at work one of my co-workers was talking to a young man from Vietnam. My coworker was at awe with the young man's square sandals. The young man went on to explain that the sandals were a new fashion in Vietnam and that they could be bought in NYC. My co-worker complemented the young man on his shirt, loose denim jeans, his close cut haircut and his good English and went on to say, " Good, now you look like an American"

The young man and myself looked at my co-worker with a puzzle look in our faces. This comment lingered in my mind for the next few days. What does an American look like? Blond hair, blue eyes? Dark skin? Brown skin? No accent? A heavy accent? I am still trying to figure it out.

Comments like this reminds me that we as a nation, we still have a long way to treat each other with kindness and respect and that Doctor Martin Luther King's dream of not being judge by the color of your skin, but as an individual, is still not achieved.

I particularly could care two hoots as to who does not like me. I treat others as I like to be treated. I do not live my life thinking, "Oh my God I am a Minority "!! ( God do I hate that word !!) I see people as what they are, God's precious creation.

I leave you with this passage from the declaration of independence.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,..."

Have a happy fourth of July.

Ferrera a great disappointment

Springfield City Councilor Jimmy Ferrera has surely annoyed several people in the city with his arrogant refusal to schedule a hearing on the ethics proposal submitted by City Councilors Pat Markey and Bruce Stebbings. The Republican has not been shy in stating its annoyance with Ferrara on its editorial pages. Fellow Blogger Bill Dusty of the Springfield Intruder had a commical, yet critical post on Ferrera's arrogance.

I simply do not understand why Councilor Ferrera refuses to schedule a hearing on the Ethic proposal. As I have mentioned before, government must be transparent. After all, it is our government, not Ferrera's government. If Ferrera does not understand this simple concept, then he has no business in city government.

The ethics proposal submitted by Markey and Stebbings is a sensible and good thought out plan in an effort to regain the trust of the people of Springfield. I am sure that Ferrera and the councilors that voted against the proposal are hoping that the voters will forget about this issue.

Well, I want a good and transparent government. Springfield can not afford another financial crisis.

I will not forget.

Obama after the Latino Vote

Presidential Candidate Barack Obama

Barack Obama after securing the Democratic Nomination is now after the Latino vote. Sen.Obama received 35% of the Latino vote during the primaries. Sen. Clinton received 63% of the Latino vote. Clearly, Sen. Obama has a long road ahead of him to convince Latinos that he is the best candidate for the Presidency of the United States.

Sen. Obama has a Spanish website, www.barackObama.com/Espanol. Sen. Obama is touting the endorsement of Globe and Academy Award Puerto Rican actor Benecio del Toro. To win the Latino vote Sen. Obama has to to better than putting up a Spanish website and tout the endorsement of an actor.

During a CNN interview, Arturo Vargas, of the National Association of Elected and Appointed Latinos stated, " There was not a real opportunity for Sen. Obama to introduce himself to the Latino community" What? Sen. Obama has been campaigning for over a year and in all that time he did not get real opportunity to introduce himself to the Latino Community?

Among Sen. Obama's political platform, the issue of immigration promises to be carefully monitor by the Latino community. Sen. Obama supports President's Bush plan, "Comprehensive immigration Bill" to secure the southern border with Mexico and for the opportunity for some illegal immigrants to update their immigration status.
Sen. Obama stated on a May rally, " I like to express my commitment to immigration reform and to do everything I can to bring order and compassion to a broken immigration system"
However, Sen. Obama has the real problem that his Republican opponent Sen. McCain is well liked among the Latino community. Sen. McCain was among the chief architect and early supporter of President Bush's Comprehensive Immigration Bill.

If Sen. Obama really wants to be President, he should really find the time and the "real opportunity" to introduce himself to the Latino community.

I am Baffled

I am baffle with State Rep. Cheryl Coakely-Rivera recent statements regarding Gov. Patrick's bill to extend the $52 Million state loan. The Governor is proposing extending the state loan payback period from 5 years to 12 years. The bill also proposes the creation of a chief Administrator, a Financial Officer, a Director of Internal Audit and placing a binding referendum question on the ballot for the people of Springfield to decide if the want to extend the Mayor's term from 2 years to 4 years. Rivera-Coakely opposes placing the binding referendum question on the ballot, accusing the Mayor of muscling in on the bill.

Coakely Rivera has shown a tendency of not allowing the people to have a say in their government. As it was the case when she voted against placing a referendum question on the ballot regarding the definition of marriage.

Springfield desperately need a clear and transparent government. To achieve this, government must also listen to the people. Why doesn't Cheryl Coakely -Rivera like the people to have a say in their government?

How will the Trash Saga Play Out?

Mayor Domenic Sarno recently took the unusual step of responding to a councilors letter of inquiry through a public release. Councilor Rosamarie Mazza-Moriarty send the mayor a letter asking specifics questions regarding the Mayor's proposed plan to implement a Pay as you Throw (PAYT) trash collection program.

Mayor Sarno actively and aggressively campaigned for Mayor using the elimination of the current $90 trash fee as one of his major platform issues. Now that he is the mayor, he realizes that the elimination of the trash fee will be fiscally hurtful to the city. As the Mayor stated on his press release, "However, five months in office have afforded me a much clearer and comprehensive understanding of the city’s fragile financial state. At this time, it is impossible for the City to absorb the cost of waste collection and disposal while responsibly addressing our top priority of public safety." Is Mayor Sarno admitting that he did not have a clear picture of the City's Financial stability while campaigning for Mayor?

To Mayor Sarno's credit, it appears that the new system will create the same revenue as the $90 trash fee currently in place. But let us not forget that the reason that we are in this trash mess, the reason that we, the common person is paying for trash collection, is in part to the irresponsible financial practices of past administrations which were plagued with corruption. Former Mayor Charlie Ryan, brought the city back on its feet. Former Mayor Ryan made unpopular decisions and stood his ground. It appears that Mayor Sarno is now borrowing the same stance as former Mayor Ryan. At the end, it could be argue that former Mayor Ryan's strong stance on the $90 trash fee contributed to his defeat. Is Mayor Sarno heading in the same path? Is Mayor Sarno, playing a political game announcing this controversial plan so early in his term in the hope that the people will forget come election day?

The people will decide.

Franco Announces Bid To Governor's Council

Mike Franco

Mike Franco has announced his candidacy for Governor's Council, 8th District. Th District includes 93 cities and towns in Western Massachusetts. The Governor’s Council main domain is the appointment of judges to the bench. The 8th District includes 93 cities and towns in all four counties in Western Massachusetts. According to Franco’s press release, a discussion on the judiciary, particularly the re-certification of judges by the people....every four years" will be the main theme of his campaign. According to Franco’s platform, judges will continue to be appointed by the Governor with the approval of the Governor’s Council, and every term thereafter judges will be up for review before the voters in their respective counties based on predetermined set of performance criteria.

I can tell you that as a citizen of Massachusetts in particular a citizen of Springfield, I am tired of seeing judges allowing criminals to walk away with nothing more than a slap in the wrist. Drug dealers, often are back in the same spot whitin hours, dealing drugs again after they are arrested. Potential violent offenders are free on bail. Look at the recent tragedy in Springfield of Mario Hornsby. A promising young man with a bright future was gun down in his own neighborhood. The defendant, a self admitted gang member, was out on bail on a previous charge.

Judges actions on the bench have real consequences on society. I believe that they should be held accountable for their actions as well.

Read my previous titled "Who Should Judge Thee?" relating to this matter.

I did it !!!

State Representative Donald Humanson,R-Westfield and Victor G. Davila

This past Saturday,May 17th, 2008 was a very special day for me. It was my birthday and my graduation from Westfield State College . I graduated with a double Bachelor Degree in Arts in Political Science and Economics. My experience at Westfield State College helped to reinforce my beliefs and opened my eyes to other issues, mainly the importance of having a transparent and clear government and the need for fiscal responsibility. Westfield State College is an educational institution that Western Massachusetts must be proud of. In fact it is a gem of knowledge in Western Massachusetts. There were approximately 1,100 graduates and a total of 5,000 people attended the graduation ceremonies. The guest speaker was Mike Scully, writer and producer of the television show "The Simpsons". Mike Scully is a native of West Springfield and a 1974 West Springfield High School Graduate. He was a comical speaker and with his sense of humor gave a compelling message to the graduates. Mike Scully received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Fine Arts for his work on the television industry.

Mike Scully's message of perseverance and of never giving up resonated with me. I have to admit that I achieved the Economics degree with great effort and perseverance and with help from my tutor Ryan Sabis, to him I am eternally grateful. I am also grateful to Professor Wagner for his words of encouragement, his advice and his confidence in me. Professors Sarnykar and Kingsley were also encouraging and of great help. I would not forgive myself if I do not acknowledge Carmen Diaz. Carmen is the Secretary for the Economics Department. Carmen was ever helpful and cheered me on when I felt down. Gracias Carmen !!!

As I sat on my seat I was proud to see other Hispanics graduating. I only wish that there were more Hispanics graduating from College, but until we successfully curve the high drop out rate among the Hispanic students this will be very difficult to achieve. To this task we can not fail, the stakes are too high.

God willing, I will begin a Master of Business Administration program in the fall.

After the graduation ceremonies, my wife had a surprise graduation party. I was glad to share this moment with my friends. And now I share it with you through my blog.

Victor G. Davila and Professor Wagner

My Tutor Ryan Sabins and Victor G. Davila

How the Four Amigos are spending your money.

From left to Right (top) Cheryl Rivera-Coakely, Benjamin Swan, Sean Curran, Angelo Puppolo



The above Four Amigos in their infinite wisdom voted in favor of increasing $250,000 in funding to the Mass. Commission on Gay Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Youth. The Mass. Commission on Gay and Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Youth budget now reaches $750,000. For this upcoming fiscal year Massachusetts is facing a $1 Billion shortfall. Yet, these four Springfield State Representatives are willing to give hard core homosexual activist a hefty budget to use in their quest to force their views on to others. Yes, I say force their views, as the money is primarily use in the school system to indoctrinate your children that homosexuality is natural and that it must celebrated.


The leaders of this commission are a woman that dresses as a man and has sideburns, and a man who cross dresses. Apparently, these people see as their next frontier the societal acceptance of Transgenderism. The commission sets up Homosexual clubs in high schools and middle schools and are notorious in intimidating school officials who balk at their activities. To give you a feel of the power that this commission has, Boston Firefighters, even if they disagreed with the commission's views, were forced to march in the Boston yearly " Gay Pride Parade "

So what are we do next, lay down and let them roll over our values? No way in Hell !!!


The 2009 budget now goes to the Senate and Ways Committee, where it will take up to two weeks to work on it. This Committee can add or change budget items.


To show your displeasure, you can contact Senate and Ways Mean Chairman, Sen. Steven Panagiotakos. Write the number down or the e-mail and contact Sen. Steven Panagiotakos now that you are thinking about it. Your children well being is at stake here. After all, Do you want to the state telling your children that it is okay for them to be homosexuals?

McCain Courting Hispanic Vote

John McCain

Presidential Republican candidate John McCain is actively courting the Hispanic vote. In an effort to reach Hispanics, Sen. McCain has launched a Spanish website. His soon to be predecessor, President Bush received 44% of the Hispanic vote in 2004.

McCain has stated that he believes that the tenor of the immigration debate has hurt the way Hispanics view the Republican party. McCain goes on saying " I believe the majority of Hispanics share our views that the border must be secure,...often, Hispanics are the first ones to lose their jobs to illegal immigration", " But they also wants us to have an attitude that this are God's children and they must be taken care of " McCain will attend a July National Council for La Raza, the largest national Hispanic civil rights organization which seeks to improve opportunities to Hispanics.

Click here to see Sen McCain plan on immigration and Border security.

McCain who as a Senator represents a border state believes that he will do well among Hispanics " I know the people, I know the patriotism, I know the loyalty, I know the respect for life, respect for family, everything about the Hispanics is tailor made to the Republican party"

To this point of Hispanics being tailor to the Republican party I would like to address with Massachusetts Republicans. The Mass GOP has simply done a very poor job in reaching Massachusetts Hispanics. In effect the GOP has scratch them out of the political equation. Hispanics are naturally conservative and hard workers, with a deep emphasis on family and church. In the competitive labor market you see Walmart adding Hispanic products to their shelves. Sears and Lowes have Spanish in stores signs. So, what seems to be the latency of response in the Mass GOP in reaching the Hispanic vote?

Simply put, If the GOP does not tap into the Hispanic vote, it will continue to lose seat in the House and in local seats.

Massachusetts GOP wake up and smell the coffee !!!

Why didn't Mayor Sarno Shut it down?

Fresco's restaurant on East Columbus Ave was the scene of an early morning shooting in the Downtown area. Apparently, this restaurant has been functioning as a night club despite not having an entertainment license. Apparently, the restaurant had petition for an entertainment license but Mayor Sarno denied the permit based on past police records complaints. There is a Liquor License Commission hearing on the matter on May 15.

I agree with the Mayor that the City can not allow "a magnet that is attracting violence " and that the "wrath of the city " will come upon any business operating illegally. All of this sounds good and sounds tough on crime. But I have one question. If the Mayor denied a past request from the restaurants for an entertainment license based on past police complaints and there is not a permit to operate as a restaurant, Why didn't the Mayor shut down Fresco's operations?

I was recently in Downtown, the darkness of the place really bothered me. It gave me the feeling that I had to be careful. We have heard many people recently talking about downtown being safe and suggesting that the unsafe label portrayed upon downtown is a perception issue. Well incidents like this makes their case pretty hard to digest.