The Weekend Plans

We've having about 7,000 people over the house tomorrow for The Boy's birthday party. He turns four next week.

Our visitors will be dining on Nick's Pizza and cake from Andyman's in Amesbury.

I, coincidentally,turn 40 on Tuesday.

Anyone else have fun, local plans for the weekend?

Vote For Salemi

Fellow Citizens,

Today, it is with finite humility and abundance of gusto that I hereby announce my candidacy for Charter Review Committee.

I pulled papers today.

I sincerely hope my candidacy doesn't dissuade other would be candidates from running. I promise, I am party to no nonsensical  alliance (sorry, not buying the tripe that's being peddled this week) and encourage ALL folks, particularly those who have commented on my various Charter Review posts to run against me.

Remember, a vote for Salemi isn't such a bad thing.

Holding the Center

I'm curious, but is Larry Giunta--aka Newburyport's voice--so partisan that he can't even align his text to The Left?

Just kidding...

Warms the Heart

I've spent most of the week at a conference at The Westin Hotel in Boston. I heard Newburyport mentioned not once but twice as a likely destination for visitors.

I advised them to find a Newburyport Native and give them a big touristy hug.

Go See It

I actually went to see the Yankee City Theater Project last night. Definitely worth seeing. I'll add some thoughts on the content and message later, but you should check it out.

And you should go tonight so you can catch the hilarious duet performed by John Budzyna.

The Weekend Plans

I'm hoping to hit the Yankee City Theater Project tonight at the Firehouse. Hang with some pals at Lower Tyng Street tomorrow, inside or outside, weather depending.

On Sunday, we'll take the Keens and the khakis for a spin at the Farmers Market. Nice letter in the Daily News today. No mention, however, of this blog, which proposed such an event eons ago. Bloggers have long memories. We're talking some serious rueing of the day coming on.

Then, a Father's Day dinner with The Boy, Mrs., my Dad, a brother and a niece, probably at Stripers Grille.

Finally, a personal note. Yesterday was or would have been my Mom's birthday. She passed away last November after a long illness. She's missed absolutely every day, but yesterday more than most. So, Happy Birthday Ma.

If anyone has some weekend plans worth sharing, please do.

Congrats to the Charter Review Supporters

1920? A good year for wine? Perhaps, but it's also the number of people who signed petitions to put the question on the November ballot.

Congrats to those who worked so hard.

Who's the Boss

I'm taking this opportunity to pull out the comment made to my below post about the Mayor's reason for leaving.

people that truly want to be mayor to make newburyport better will apply despite the salary, those that want the job as a career move would want the raise the salary. its about civic duty, not making it a career...

My response: Nonsense.

Forgive my bluntness, but this just doesn't make sense.

Here's how I see it. As every likes to point out when it suits them, the mayor works for us. We're his boss, and I think we should try to be the best bosses we can be.

How? Well, we could let him or her wear Hawaiian shirts on Fridays. Or another thing is to ensure the mayor is in position to succeed as the manager of the city.

I had a conversation recently with a company executive who put his management style rather succinctly. He wants to be sure his employees enjoy three things: a love for the job; the tools necessary to get the job done and a sense that they are fairly compensated.

That's a fairly good summation of a good working environment, and it's something the mayor's position doesn't offer. If it did we wouldn't be looking at two-plus decades (or more) of one or two-term mayors. (Mayor Moak was the first mayor to get re-elected in 10 years.

Let's address all three.

LOVE FOR THE JOB: By default, the mayor must have a love for the job and a sense of purpose. Why else put yourself through a campaign. CHECK.

THE TOOLS: I'm sure the mayor has all the computers and equipment necessary to get the work done. But the real tool that's missing is a position of strength. The current two-year term makes real change nearly impossible. A reluctant department head merely needs to wait out the mayor, at least until one election cycle. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think the mayor achieved any level of reform (health plans, pay raises, regionalization) until his second-term. Either people felt more comfortable working with him OR they realized he wasn't going to go away.

Or so they thought.

COMPENSATION: I recognize the appeal of the citizen-soldier politician. The community-minded individual who puts the city before self. But I think that's short-term.

As the Mayor said in the Daily News article, he came in to stop the bleeding. He feels he did that, now it's time to move on. Why? Because the luster of serving community wears off after a while, at least in most people, leaving people to ask simply, Am I doing what's best for me and my family.

No one should get rich being Mayor, but I want the person working for me to feel they're getting a good wage for a good day's work. Otherwise, they begin to feel like they're doing me a favor by sacrificing for their community.

I don't want favors. I want a good employee.

Worth a read.

Just happened upon this nicely written piece by a youngish local.

Gillian Swart taught me more about my favorite pizza place. Nicely done.

I Love The Recycling Bin

I think I may need to upgrade my trash can if it's going to sit next to such a thing of beauty.

Moak Speaks

Found some interesting comments from Mayor Moak in a nice piece written by Katie Farrell. The main point of the story was the Mayor wasn't going to mail in his final six months, promising to push for closure on the landfill, installation of solar panels, and drawing up plans for the waste water treatment plant.

In the article he has this to say about being Mayor and deciding to leave:

Moak announced his intent last January to seek re-election. Those plans took a turn when it was made public last month that he was the finalist for a town manager position in Winthrop. He learned at the end of May that he did not get the job.

In the weeks following the announcement, Moak said he reassessed his situation. His job hunt was "so public," the mayor said, and reported heavily in the community.

"I thought, 'Do I really want this life again?'" he said yesterday.

He combined that feeling with his finances and came to his decision, Moak said.

"I did it to stop the bleeding," the mayor said. "I didn't realize how expensive this job is."

The expense of being the city's top elected official grew to be too much, Moak said. As mayor, there are events, fundraisers and banquets to support and contribute to. "To be a good mayor, you have to do those things," Moak said. "You have to support the community."

The mayor earns $65,000 a year, less than half of what the city's highest-paid department heads earn.

Clearly, something needs to be done.

No doubt some will point to the campaigns of Donna Holaday and James Shanley as a sign that the mayor's position still draws talented and able candidates. But can we keep those people in place for more than two or four years so they can put those talents to work? That's the real question. Under the current system or salary structure, it's pretty clear we can't.

Welcome the Fat Man's Blog

Back in The Day, when I was a reporter at the Daily News, I had the occassional pleasure of meeting up with Dave Olson, then reporter for our sister paper in Gloucester, now big-time hot-shot editor of the Salem Evening News.

I haven't seen Dave in over a decade, but Tom Ryan was nice enough to bring to my attention a fund-raising effort Dave has taken on.

He's going to climb all 48 of the 4,000 footers in NH. Sound familiar? Yes, Tom and Atticus did this same thing once or twice.

So, while there isn't a direct Newburyport connection, I added Dave's blog (you knew he had to have a blog) to the blog roll. No doubt you'll enjoy the "Fat Man of the Moutains."

Plus, I'm promoting a fund raiser, so it must score me some good karma points, right? I need just 10 more to earn the fuzzy dice.

Two Recyling-related questions

To those who have concerns about the aesthetics of the new recycling bin, I ask only this..

C'mon, really? I mean, they're recycling bins...jeez.


And to those who say they're too big, I say you are not recycling nearly enough of your trash. We've got two adults and one tiny tot and we filled the damn thing. And this is a light week.

More Democracy Please

I often enjoy and sometimes agree with the Masked Preservationist's take on things. I thought this morning was one of those two-fers when he critical of the Mayor seeking a planner or developer to fill a vacancy on the Planning Board.

TMP suggested an item in the paper suggested the city was looking for a real estate agent or developer to fill an open slot. Instead, the item merely mentioned such backgrounds could often be found on the board. But the mayor is looking for residents with backgrounds in environmental engineering or land planning at this point, two valuable skill sets.

So why should you care? You shouldn't. Because here's my larger point, a point so large it's going to take us back to Charter Review.

While I'm generally keeping an open mind on the mayor vs. the city manager debate, one changed I would like to see implemented is the addition of some elected members to some of our city boards, especially the planning board.

I thought my previous town had it right. Two members of the planning board were elected by the people while three were appointed by the Board of Selectmen. (I, btw, won my elected seat in a Gerald Fordesque manner and managed to fend off apathy and undecideds to retain my seat a eyar later.)

Such a system frees at least a few members from having to answer to the mayor or city council. By answering directly to the people, these planning board members--even if they don't have a professional background--can bring a new perspective to the board.

Plus, if a successful board member isn't reappointed by the mayor, he or she would have another avenue to get back onto the board.

In closing, let's get the Planning Board, Zoning Board and some other commissions on the ballot. They too work for--and should answer at least partly to--the people.

No Commentary Necessary

GOVERNOR PATRICK TO HOST TOWN HALL MEETING IN NEWBURYPORT



BOSTON – Monday, June 15, 2009 – In keeping with his commitment to encourage civic engagement and to be the governor of the whole Commonwealth, Governor Deval Patrick will host a town hall meeting in Newburyport on Tuesday, July 21, 2009.



“As we work to overcome the challenges of today, it is important that the citizens of the Commonwealth are involved in the process,” said Governor Patrick. “I look forward to this opportunity to learn how state government can better serve its people.”


WHO: Governor Deval Patrick

WHAT: Town Hall Meeting

WHEN: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Waterfront Park

Market Street

Newburyport



The Governor will host 15 town hall meetings this summer and he encourages all to come and share in the discussion. The meetings are part of Governor Patrick’s efforts to make state government accessible for all people in the Commonwealth. The town hall-style meetings give residents a chance to talk directly to Governor Patrick about issues they care about most, including the economy, the state’s budget challenges, and the Governor’s efforts to push for reforms on Beacon Hill. For more information, and to see photos and videos from previous town hall meetings, visit www.mass.gov/governor/townhall.

Nor'Easter Baseball

I'm eager to catch some Legion-level ball when the Nor'Easters play in Newburyport. Anyone know if there's an online schedule?

Nice report in the News, btw.

Farmers Market Rocked

I can't add much to what's been said here and here and what will be said tomorrow today in the Daily News. Simply put, the Farmer's Market was an great time. Hard to believe anyone thought this wouldn't work out. Seemed like a natural fit.

Charter Review Info

I spent the morning at the high school collecting signatures for the petition to put the Charter Review on the November ballot. I was HIGHLY encouraged by the percentage (and number) of folks who supported the measure, with most calling it a no-brainer.

There was some hesitant types as well, which I respect. They didn't want to sign anything until they felt they full understood the issues.

So, if any of them are reading this blog, please go to the new Charter Review Website here for all the information you might need to make an informed decision, both now and in November.

And pay attention to this space. I'll have more on the subject.

Farmer's Market on Sunday

The weekend plans include a four-year old's birthday party, some work, the Red Sox Alumni fund-raiser tomorrow night (I hope Sam Horn hits a boat) and, of course, the Farmer's Market.

Here's the link the the Daily News piece promoting the upcoming Farmers Market on Sunday. We'll try to be there, weather be damned.

Speaking of the weather, I always thought the Daily News delivery person tied too tight a not on the plastic bags, but it did the trick this morning. The Current, while stuck in a bag, was absolutely drenched.

Am I sharing too much?

Cameron Running for Ward 4

Ed Cameron posted the following on his blog:

Several weeks ago, wanting to keep my options open, I took out nomination papers for three offices: Ward Councillor, At Large Councillor, and Mayor.

With Mayor Moak deciding not to run, capable and committed candidates have declared for Mayor. And candidates have emerged for City Council as well.

As for me, I am going to be a candidate for re-election as Ward 4 Councillor. During the campaign ahead, I will also work hard for the Charter Review effort – a review which will help set Newburyport’s course for the future.

I look forward to the campaign. And I encourage others to get involved either as candidates or as volunteers.

Sincerely,
Ed Cameron
Newburyport City Council

Glad to hear he's staying put.

Hey!

Did anyone else know Taffy's is open???!


Oh, I guess they do, according to the Daily News.


Smelled yummy as I went by this morning.


BTW, speaking of the Daily News, I would have given this stronger consideration for Page 1. Terrifying stuff.

The Mayor Has Spoken

Mayor Moak isn't running. Many others are.

Gillian Swartz has the lowdown on her blog.

The People have Spoken

Well 45 of them at least. Looks like Mayor Moak would indeed have a race on his hands if he decides to run.

Poll Ends Tonight

I honestly thought we would have heard from the mayor by now. What exactly is he waiting for.

The Godzilla of A-Frames

I can't say I like the Germinara Sign Truck, particularly when it's parked on Storey Ave. But it doesn't bother me enough to get angry or push for legislation. If our streets become lined with truck signs, fine, perhaps this is necessary. Otherwise, the proposal being put forth by Councillor-at-Large Barry Connell seems like overkill to me.

Here's the Daily News article on the subject.

Clipper Cash

Here's my unfinished blog post, dated July 18, 2008. (See below post for details.) This just shows you the commitment of this blogger. I wrote a simple complete sentence, apparently copied and pasted from a web site somewhere and got distracted by a bright shiny object.

---
I really like Bean's suggestion to copy from the BerkShares program

Everyone benefits from using BerkShares. Consumers benefit from receving a 10% discount on purchases. Businesses benefit from increased patronage. Local non-profit organizations can also benefit by purchasing BerkShares at the 10% discount rate and selling them at full face value to their supporters.

It will take citizens working in their own communities, region by region, to create the kind of systemic change that will lead to sustainable economic practices—practices that foster ecologically responsible production of goods and a more equitable distribution of wealth. Local currencies are a tool to bring about such change. BerkShares are about building community while building the local economy.

Heard it here first--again

Oh the power this blog wields.

First, I called for the creation of a Farmer's Market. And it will be done.

This morning, I read some locals are exploring the idea--or implementing actually--of establishing a local currency to encourage folks to shop locally. Read about it here in the Daily News.

The proponents say they're basing the idea on a successful program in the Berkshires, and it's an idea that loyal commenter Bean brought to our attention last July when I put out the call for new ideas to bolster our local economy.

I have an idea. What if the city created it's own currency to help support local busineses? "Clipper Cash", perhaps? Out in Western Mass. they have BerkShares, and it is helping to steer people to local shops. I think it could work here.

I actually started writing a post praising the idea, but never finished it. Yet another missed opportunity on my part.

Anyway, sound idea. I like it.

I suppose it's just a matter of time before someone runs off with other ideas germinated at this site.

I'm still pushing for a completely wireless downtown and a lifesized Clipper Ship made from string cheese, although I concede advances in mobile technology might make the former impractical.

Good work Bean.

Poll Update

So, nearly two-thirds of the 34 people polled so far say it's time for Mayor Moak to move on. Interesting.

I'd have to guess the longer the mayor stays silent, the more likely he is to not run for re-election. Just a hunch, but I might be wrong.

And another...

Ari Herzog just announced on Facebook that he's pulled papers for Councillor-At-Large.

I'm confident in stating that he's the first Newburyport political candidate ever to announce his candidacy (or at least intentions) on Facebook.

For what that's worth.

Things are heating up.

A Bit Much

I certainly wish the proprietor well, but I can't help but feel the Trolley Tour is a bit too big-time for Newburyport. We'll see what the summer brings.

Election Update

Gillian Swart has a comprehensive rundown of candidates on her blog.

Check it out Citizen!

Renounce Apathy!

Slight Poll Change

I switched up my poll plans a bit. I realized the political scene will be a bit untidy until Mayor Moak decides (or announces) if he's running for re-election. So I thought that should be the primary concern right now, so I offer the poll to the right.

Should he run for re-election? Does his pursuit of the Winthrop job bother you? Or does he still have your full support? Or perhaps you couldn't care less about his career plans and just think we need a change.

As I stated, the job search didn't bother me, but I think he needs to let us--and others--know what his plans are.