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Bureau of Indian Affairs Moves Forward with Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe’s
Application for Land in Trust
Notice is a major step forward in Tribe’s pursuit of an initial reservation
Mashpee, MA - Chairman Cedric Cromwell of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe announced today that the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is moving forward with its review of the Tribe’s application for an initial reservation.
The BIA has issued a Notice to State and Local Governments regarding the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe’s pending application for an initial reservation in Mashpee and Taunton, MA. The BIA notified the appropriate state and local governments pursuant to 25 CFR Part 151 of the pending land-into-trust application and informed them of a 30- day opportunity to provide written comments on the acquisition’s impacts on regulatory jurisdiction, real property taxes and special assessments (Section 151 Notice).
“This is a significant step by the BIA since it demonstrates a move forward in taking the Tribe’s lands into federal trust, including for gaming purposes,” explained Chairman Cromwell. “This initial reservation will allow our Tribe to fulfill our duty to provide services to our nation, including housing, health care, education, job training, cultural preservation and more in Mashpee. In addition, this is a significant step forward in our plans to create jobs and revenue for our Tribe, the City of Taunton, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through development of a destination resort casino in Taunton. This is a monumental day for our Tribe, and is due to the hard work and perseverance of Tribal leadership and Tribal citizens, especially our Elders, who have never wavered from the goal of achieving the true sovereignty and economic self- sufficiency that will come with this initial reservation.”
About the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, known as the People of the First Light, has inhabited present-day Massachusetts for more than 12,000 years. After an arduous 30+ year process, the Mashpee Wampanoag were re-acknowledged as a federally recognized tribe in 2007 and retain full tribal sovereignty rights.
Posted at 05:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
BOSTON – Wednesday, May 30, 2012 – Governor Deval Patrick today outlined the progress of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s clean energy agenda in an address to clean energy leaders and stakeholders at FastCap Systems in Boston’s Innovation District. The Governor promised to build on four years of successful energy efficiency and clean and renewable energy policies, pledging to make Massachusetts a global leader in an industry that creates jobs, stabilizes costs and protects our environment.
“Four years ago, we set out to shape a new energy future to grow jobs, stabilize energy costs, and protect our environment for future generations,” said Governor Patrick. “Today, we’re seeing results across the board with increases in wind and solar generation, advancements in energy efficiency, growth in the cleantech sector and greater participation in Green Communities Act. Winners don’t stand still, and if we want Massachusetts to stay a winner in clean energy, there’s more for us to do.”
Clean energy employment in Massachusetts grew by 6.7 percent during 2011 and the industry expects to meet or exceed this job growth in 2012. To date, the Governor’s investments and policies have created close to 115 megawatts of solar power, the equivalent of taking 9,500 cars off the road each year or producing enough electricity to power more than 18,000 homes. In the last three years alone, Massachusetts consumers have saved nearly 40 percent on their electric bills.
In his speech, Governor Patrick announced the Obama Administration’s designation of the Massachusetts Wind Energy Area, the largest proposed offshore wind development area along the East Coast that has already attracted interest from 10 offshore wind development companies. The Governor highlighted his support for new biogas regulations to increase our production of renewable energy and announced that Massachusetts is expected to reach 100 Green Communities by this summer. Finally, the Governor reiterated his support for wind siting legislation and called on the House of Representatives to pass a Senate-approved bill that expands support for renewable and clean energy.
Read the full text of the Governor’s remarks here.
Posted at 05:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Map of the Paul C. Jones Working Forest
LEVERETT – Tuesday, May 29, 2012 – Governor Deval Patrick and Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rick Sullivan today joined local, state and federal officials, along with conservationists, to formally dedicate the Paul C. Jones Working Forest and celebrate the protection of 3,486 acres of land in Leverett and Shutesbury.
“This successful and historic land conservation effort is the result of a unique partnership that protects close to 3,500 acres of forest land and honors a man whose family has been stewards of working forests for generations,” said Governor Patrick. “Today’s dedication ensures the protection of the Commonwealth’s natural beauty for generations to come.”
The conserved forest is named in honor of Cowls’ recently deceased 8th generation family leader, Paul C. Jones, who spearheaded the company’s forestry and lumber manufacturing operations for four decades and promoted public sportsman access on thousands of acres of timberland throughout his lifetime.
In December 2011, the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and its Division of Fisheries and Wildlife acquired a conservation restriction on the property for $8.8 million. It is the largest restriction on a contiguous block of privately owned land in Massachusetts' history – and the Commonwealth’s largest private land conservation deal since the 1920s.
The 5.4 square mile area encompasses nearly all of Brushy Mountain and includes additional adjacent parcels. The acquisition protects a very large, unfragmented forest ecosystem – an important climate change adaptation strategy. Over the past five years, the Patrick-Murray Administration has conserved more than 97,000 acres of land in Massachusetts.
“I’m proud that Massachusetts continues to be a leader in conservation," said U.S. Senator Scott Brown. “This project ensures that future generations can enjoy one of our most precious natural resources. I will continue to be a strong supporter of federal conservation programs to protect open spaces.”
“Brushy Mountain is a national treasure and I'm proud to have helped secure Forest Legacy funding for its permanent conservation,” said Congressman John Olver. “Thank you to all of the partners who worked so hard to preserve this remarkable unfragmented forest ecosystem.”
The conservation restriction was supported by a $5 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program, the largest such grant ever in Massachusetts. Approximately $3 million of the total is state funding, comprising DFG’s investment of more than $1.4 million from the Commonwealth’s open space bond authorization and $500,000 in Land Stamp funds from the sale of fishing and hunting licenses, as well as $1 million awarded to DFG and the land trusts by EEA’s new Landscape Partnership Grant Program.
“We are extremely grateful for the help of the Kestrel Land Trust and the Franklin Land Trust and the financial support from the U.S. Forest Service and the Open Space Institute,” said Secretary Sullivan. “This restriction protects a vital working landscape that supports a sustainable, local forest industry that contributes $600 million annually to the rural economy in Massachusetts.”
“Thanks to a great partnership with conservationists and state and local agencies, we are setting aside 3,500 acres for animal habitat, recreation and resources for years to come,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “In preserving this land for future generations, we are paying the ultimate tribute to the Jones/Cowls family legacy.”
“This is great news” said Senator Marc Pacheco. “Every acre of land we protect today is another acre of important habitat, wetlands, or forest that we preserve for future generations. This partnership will ensure that we continue to protect our natural resources in a way that allows for many recreational opportunities for Massachusetts residents. I applaud the Patrick-Murray Administration for their continued commitment to land conservation.”
“This is a great project and shows what can be accomplished when all levels of government and all manner of interested citizens work together in a spirit of partnership,” said Senator Stan Rosenberg. “This is part of our heritage that’s being preserved. This is a great day for Massachusetts in general and Leverett in particular.”
“This protection is a shining example of the environmental policy of the Commonwealth,” said Representative Anne Gobi. “All of the good stewards involved deserve praise especially the Jones-Cowl Family. This should also serve to educate others that responsible, sustainable forestry is necessary.”
The Kestrel Land Trust of Amherst and the Franklin Land Trust of Shelburne Falls led negotiations with the landowner and secured federal and foundation grants totaling more than $5.8 million of the purchase price.
“It has been a tremendous privilege to work on such a significant conservation project for the benefit of the Connecticut River Valley and for the entire Commonwealth, “said Kristin DeBoer, Executive Director of the Kestrel Land Trust. “It is a rare opportunity to conserve virtually an entire mountain in a single conservation project with a single landowner. It can take decades to conserve thousands of acres of land. Kestrel Land Trust has been honored to work with Cowls, the state, and our other partners to complete this Conservation Restriction. We are delighted that the Jones family had the foresight to conserve such a significant portion of their woodlands for future generations.”
“Through this conservation restriction we have conserved one of the most significant privately owned tracts of contiguous woodland in Massachusetts,” said Richard Hubbard, Executive Director of the Franklin Land Trust. “We have also achieved several natural resource conservation goals at once by creating connections with other conserved land, protecting drinking water quality, conserving wildlife habitat, and promoting sustainable local wood production. And, of course, we can’t overemphasize the scenic importance of this magnificent local landmark.”
The Open Space Institute (OSI) provided $839,600 through two grants from the Western Massachusetts Land Protection Fund and Saving New England’s Wildlife, which were made possible with funds from the Kohlberg Foundation and Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. The grants represent the OSI's most significant investment in any land conservation project in Massachusetts.
“This project conserves one of Southern New England’s largest tracts of unbroken forest land, and ensuring the connectivity of our forests is essential to enabling wildlife and humans to adapt to a changing climate, ”said Peter Howell, OSI executive vice president. “This project also brings tremendous benefits to the local community through sustainable forest management and recreational access.”
The Open Space Institute works to protect scenic, natural, and historic landscapes to ensure public enjoyment, conserve habitats, and sustain community character.
Brushy Mountain and the adjoining Rattlesnake Gutter were recently named by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism as one of the state's "Best 1,000 Places” to visit. The conservation restriction ensures that the property will not be developed and guarantees public access for hunting, fishing, hiking, and other recreation. Motorized vehicle use – except for snowmobiles, motorized wheelchairs and owner forestry-related vehicles – will not be permitted.
“Many wildlife species, including wide-ranging mammals such as black bear, moose, and bobcat, as well as forest birds like the scarlet tanager, Blackburnian warbler, and Canada warbler, require large, intact forest to thrive,” said DFG Commissioner Mary Griffin. “We are grateful to W.D. Cowls for the opportunity to protect this incredible habitat for wildlife and providing public recreational access to an area with outstanding natural resources.”
The Paul C. Jones Working Forest was acquired by the Cowls family in small-acre parcel purchases over hundreds of years and has been sustainably forested throughout the land company's ownership history. Cowls will continue to own and manage the woodland and conduct sustainable forestry operations under a state-approved Forest Stewardship Plan. Simultaneous with selling the restriction, Cowls added Forest Stewardship Council Green Certification to its existing Tree Farm and Chapter 61 certifications on the property.
A 2009 Conservation and Assessment Prioritization System (CAPS) analysis by University of Massachusetts ranked 2,400 acres of Brushy Mountain at the highest level of ecological integrity. The area also contains five interim wellhead protection areas supplying water to local schools, town centers and state recreation areas. The village centers of North Leverett and Shutesbury, where hundreds of private wells are located, are less than a half-mile from Brushy Mountain.
The Paul C. Jones Working Forest directly abuts a mosaic of 630 acres of additional permanently protected open space and is located between several important reserves, including Mount Toby State Reservation, the Quabbin Reservoir, Montague Plains Wildlife Management Area, and the Wendell and Erving State Forests. Combined, these areas provide a critical core and corridor for wildlife living and moving through these protected areas and larger forested regions.
The northern section of the Paul C. Jones Working Forest drains into the Sawmill River, which is stocked with Atlantic salmon fry through the Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program. Doolittle Brook, Roaring Brook and Sawmill River, which flow through or very near the project area, are important coldwater fisheries resources and support populations of native brook trout.
About 70 percent of the project area is recognized by MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program as BioMap2 Core Habitat, and 97 percent of the property is characterized as critical natural landscape – defined as an area well suited to support ecological processes, disturbances, and wide-ranging species. Core Habitat identifies key areas to ensure the long-term persistence of wildlife species of conservation concern, exemplary natural communities, and intact ecosystems across the Commonwealth.
“In addition to a significant conservation project, this acquisition is also a tribute to the Cowls’ family dedication to creating a lasting conservation legacy,” said George Darey, Chairman of the state Fisheries and Wildlife Board.
“This is an example what can be achieved when state and federal agencies, local and national conservation organizations, and sportsmen come together to work on a common conservation goal,” said Wayne MacCallum, Director of MassWildlife.
Massachusetts' largest private landowner, W.D. Cowls, Inc., Land Company, owns and manages timberland in 28 towns in Western Massachusetts. Cowls' Tree Farms produce trees as a crop. In addition to managing its land to produce wood, Cowls also provides public recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat.
“The Brushy Mountain Forest Legacy Project is the largest contiguous single ownership of working woodlands protected in the history of the Forest Legacy Program in Massachusetts,” said Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Edward Lambert, whose agency administers the Forest Legacy program. “The protection of these working woodlands, which have been sustainably managed by W.D. Cowls for many years, addresses the primary issues of forest fragmentation and parcelization identified in the Massachusetts Forest Legacy Program Assessment of Need.”
This year marks the 270th year W.D. Cowls has been sustainably managing forests in western Massachusetts.
“We're obviously in it for the long run and this conservation achievement demonstrates how commercial forest management can complement open space conservation and recreation,” said Cinda Jones, 9th generation co-owner and president. “My dad was really proud that we were making this happen and I’m so proud that we’re naming the conserved forest after him.”
Posted at 05:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
A whole life policy that lets you set the tempo
(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of Boston News Group's News Publications belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of Boston News Group, it's publications, its staff or publishers.)
Whole life insurance has long been a way to build a foundation for tomorrow while ensuring the things you value most today – your loved ones, your business, your home – are financially protected.
It’s a highly customizable product with a range of features and benefits designed to help you meet your unique financial planning needs. Custom Whole Life from New York Life Insurance Company, however, takes customization to a new level.
A revolutionary product, Custom Whole Life provides all the advantages of whole life insurance, but goes one major step further – it lets you decide how long your premium payment period will last1. Once your policy is paid-up, you no longer pay premiums, but your life insurance coverage continues.
The control and flexibility Custom Whole Life provides lets you plan ahead to meet specific goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Like all whole life policies, Custom Whole Life accumulates cash value you can access2 to supplement your retirement income, help fund your children’s education, take care of home and business expenses, or buy a new car. The earlier your Custom Whole Life policy is paid-up, the faster your cash value accumulates.
A 40-year old woman who wishes to retire at age 65 can select a 25-year premium schedule on her policy. By the time she reaches retirement, she will have paid for her life insurance during her working years and can use the accumulated cash value to supplement her Social Security, pension, or 401 (k).
Parents can time their Custom Whole Life to end prior to their children beginning college and use the accumulated cash value in conjunction with other sources of funding to pay for tuition and other college expenses.
Custom Whole Life offers a host of features that enable you to help ensure the financial security of your family or business without having to worry about market conditions. It’s a next-generation product designed to give you greater choice and control with your financial plan.
Time horizon, cash flow, and your level of investment risk are just some of the factors you should consider and discuss with your financial professional to determine to what extent Custom Whole Life should be a part of your financial portfolio.
This educational article is being provided as a courtesy by Andrew Reitano, an agent with New York Life Insurance Company. For additional information on the topic discussed, please contact Andrew at 781-392-1720 or at areitano@ft.newyorklife.com.
1 In no case can the premium paying period be less than five years or extend beyond age 75.
2 Accessing the cash value via policy loans accrues interest and decreases the death benefit and cash value by the amount of the outstanding loan and interest.
Posted at 04:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
MMA urges riders to support MRF Call to Action regarding US HR 904
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) previously reported on the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF)activities with US Representative Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis) who filed US House Resolution 904 to prohibit the Secretary of Transportation (and thus NHTSA) from providing any funding to be used for the purposes of Motorcycle-only Checkpoints. The MMA believes Motorcycle-only checkpoints are highly discriminatory; because it's the MMA's stance that no Government Monies (Federal, State, or Local) should be used for this purpose, we fully support this measure as a step in the right direction and would like to see it passed despite the fact that it doesn’t prevent states and local governments from self-funding them, such as those over the Memorial Day Weekend in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire.
Representative Sensenbrenner is asking his colleagues in the House of Representatives to sign a letter addressed to the leadership of the House-Senate Surface Transportation Reauthorization Conference Committee to include HR 904 in the conference report. The text of the letter is included in the MRF Announcement below. This approach would avoid seeking a separate debate and vote in the 2 chambers for HR904.
The attached call to action from the MRF was also issued in another form from the American Motorcycle Association today because there is a June 5th deadline to collect signatures from other Representatives. The MMA is joining the MRF and AMA in encouraging all riders, their friends and families to contact their US Representative asking them to sign onto the letter.
Call, write, or fax your US Representative by clicking here: http://www.house.gov/representatives/find and enter your ZIP code.
To read the article, see below or Click Here.http://www.mrf.org/2012/news_release/12NR19.htm
For more information, please see http://www.mrf.org/, http://www.massmotorcycle.org/, or contact mrfrep@MassMotorcycle.org
©2012 Massachusetts Motorcycle Association – Documents referenced herein are with permission of their respective Copyright owners.
MRF Announcement Follows:
MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders Foundation
236 Massachusetts Ave. NE | Suite 204 | Washington, DC 20002-4980
202-546-0983 (voice) | 202-546-0986 (fax) | http://www.mrf.org
12NR19 - MRF News Release - Call to Action - Sensenbrenner Letter
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
29 May 2012
US Representative James Sensenbrenner is asking all Members of the United States House of Representatives to co-sign a letter he is sending to the leadership running the Highway bill conference committee.
The letter urges the leadership to include the language from HR 904, the bill that prohibits any future federal funding of motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints. HR 904 has bipartisan support. Sensenbrenner is asking for signatures before June 5th, so time is of the essence.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation is asking you to call your Federal Representative and ask them to sign onto the Sensenbrenner motorcycle-only checkpoint letter. Pick up the phone and make this important call, its crucial to the future of motorcycling.
With the June 5th deadline, its important to contact your Federal Representatives as soon as possible.
You can reach them through the US Capitol switchboard: 202 224 3121
Should you not know who your Federal Representative is, you can use this website to look it up: http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/
The text of the letter is below:
|
Senator Barbara Boxer Senator James M. Inhofe |
Representative John L. Mica Representative Nick J. Rahall II |
Dear Committee Chairs and Ranking Members:
There is broad bipartisan support on Capitol Hill, and among motorcycle groups across the country, for efforts by Congress to prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from funding motorcycle-only-checkpoints (MOCs). We respectfully request that the House-Senate conference committee support this effort by including H.R. 904 in the surface transportation reauthorization conference report.
This provision would prohibit the DOT from providing funds to state and local governments for the purpose of establishing MOCs. MOCs are a controversial and unproven method of addressing motorcyclist safety and have not been an efficient use of limited federal dollars. The very existence of this program essentially profiles a group of citizens – the motorcycling community – for operating a legal mode of transportation.
In addition, DOT should be prohibited from making funds available for MOCs because there are more effective uses of taxpayer money to address motorcycle safety. DOT should focus on programs to instruct motorcyclists on the importance of proper licensing, rider education, and motorcycle awareness campaigns. These efforts will do more to prevent motorcycle crashes than mandatory checkpoints to inspect helmets and tailpipes.
You may recall that H.R. 904 has more than 40 bipartisan cosponsors. Including this language in the conference report would be a victory for encouraging effective motorcycle safety efforts.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
US Representative James Sensenbrenner
Everett Police arrest a bank robbery suspect yesterday for a robbery that occurred at the Eagle Bank at 299 Ferry Street. Arrested was James McDevitt, 33 of Everett. At approximately 1:40 pm Everett Officer Patrick Cassidy responded to a report that Eagle Bank had just been robbed and the male suspect fled on foot. Cassidy observed a male fitting the robbery suspect description, later identified as McDevitt, near Broadway on foot. Cassidy approached McDevitt who fled and after a short chase through several yards, officers apprehended the suspect near 21-23 Timothy Ave. Recovered from the suspect was $1,350 in US Currency. The suspect was arraigned today in Malden District Court. All charges are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. ###
We Challenge You To Run/Walk Or Sponsor The 3rdAnnual Greater Boston Leg 5K Law Enforcement Torch Run To Benefit Special Olympics Massachusetts WHO: Law Enforcement Officers and residents in and around Everett, MA WHAT: Unofficial 5k group run escorting the WHEN: Sunday, June 10, 2012 at 10:00 AM – Registration opens at 9:00 AM WHERE: Everett High School, 100 Elm Street WHY: To benefit your local Special Olympics Athletes DETAILS: RUNNERS • http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1026822 •
Registration opens at 9:00 AM on the steps of the Everett High School located at 100
Elm Street, Everett MA.
•
Run with local officers as they escort the Flame of Hope
as it journeys to the 2012
Summer Games Opening Ceremonies in Boston.
•
Receive an official 2012 LETR runner’s t-shirt, plus post-race snacks and hydration.
•
Entry fee is $20 and we encourage you to try raising additional funds online at:
http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1026822 TO SIGN UP, OR FOR MORE INFO, PLEASE CONTACT: Chief Steven A. Mazzie Steve Huftalen
Poll Results: Maria Curtatone is Still The Voter's Favorite Top Choice Pick! Candidate Curtatone is predicted to win the Democratic election for Middlesex South Register Of Deeds
Favorite Top Choice Pick Candidate Maria Curtatone for Middlesex South Register Of Deeds
Vote for Maria Curtatone On September 6, 2012
My name is Maria Curtatone and I am running for Middlesex South Register of Deeds. I am a practicing attorney and small business owner with my own firm. I have worked in Middlesex County and the surrounding area for the last 25 years. I bring to this job strong administrative skills, leadership and a commitment to public service.
As a business owner and working professional with two children I bring a unique perspective to this office. I am not a politician. I am a working professional who understands the needs of other working professionals. As a business owner, I know what it takes to run a business. I will bring to the office effective management, strong leadership and administrative skills. I am and have been an active member of my community for the last 25 years and I look forward to giving back further and applying my skills to the office of Middlesex County Register of Deeds.
As the Register of Deeds, I will continue to expand and build upon the work the office already does in order to efficiently maintain property records while further implementing the utilization of state-of-the-art technology, electronic recording and accessibility online while simplifying the process and making certain that it is a customer service driven office. It is imperative to me that the office of Middlesex South Register of Deeds maintain ultimate transparency at all times.
I am a highly qualified candidate and the right person for the job of the Middlesex South Register of Deeds. I am committed to effectively serving the public and serving you as your Register of
Deeds. I am seeking your endorsement and humbly ask for your vote
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=x5tIv228NBM&NR=1
ACTON, ARLINGTON, ASHBY, ASHLAND, AYER, BEDFORD, BELMONT, BOXBOROUGH, BURLINGTON, CAMBRIDGE, CONCORD, EVERETT, FRAMINGHAM, GROTON, HOLLISTON, HOPKINTON, HUDSON, LEXINGTON, LINCOLN, LITTLETON, MALDEN, MARLBOROUGH, MAYNARD, MEDFORD, MELROSE, NATICK, NEWTON, NORTH READING, PEPPERELL, READING, SHERBORN, SHIRLEY, SOMERVILLE, STONEHAM, STOW, SUDBURY, TOWNSEND, WAKEFIELD, WALTHAM, WATERTOWN, WAYLAND, WESTON, WINCHESTER, WOBURN
Posted at 09:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Governor Patrick is joined by legislators and family members while signing S.2132 “An Act Relative to Medical Emergency Response Plans for Schools.” (Photo credit: Eric Haynes / Governor’s Office). View full size photo.
BOSTON – Thursday, May 17, 2012 – Governor Deval Patrick today joined legislators and family members to sign Senate Bill 2132, “An Act Relative to Medical Emergency Response Plans for Schools.” Local school districts will now be required to develop efficient written medical response plans to be better prepared to respond to life-threatening emergencies.
The legislation, also known as “Michael’s Law” was filed in response to a tragic incident involving Sutton High School sophomore Michael Ellsessar, who died after suffering cardiac arrest while playing high school football in 2010. Michael was 16.
“I am proud that we are honoring Michael Ellsessar’s legacy and implementing important steps to stop tragedies like this from happening again,” said Governor Patrick.
“This new law will provide local school districts with the tools and resources to respond effectively and efficiently in the event of medical emergencies which will help prevent future tragedies like the loss of Michael Ellsessar,” said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray.
Schools will now be required to implement the following steps in addition to the required multihazard evacuation plan: (1) a method for establishing a rapid communication system and protocols, (2) a list of relevant contacts, (3) a method to efficiently direct emergency medical services, (4) safety precautions for injury prevention, (5) a method of providing access to CPR and first aid training, and (6) the location of defibrillators and personnel who are trained in their use.
“Life-threatening emergencies can happen in any school at any time," said Senator Mark Montigny. “A medical crisis can strike students, staff or visitors and occur during class, after school or at athletic events. This bill encourages every school to develop a program which provides the tools to react to any acute medical incident. Such a program will have the potential to save the greatest number of lives. We must ensure the safety of all the members of the public, young and old alike that utilize our public schools and this legislation will accomplish that goal.”
Local districts will be required to submit their plans to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) every three years and DESE will be required to develop and biennially update a model medical emergency response plan to assist school districts in the formulation of their plans. Schools are required to conduct plan simulations at least annually and to evaluate and modify their plans as necessary. DESE will be required to submit a report to the legislature on the implementation of this initiative by July 1, 2013.
“This bill will save young lives in the future, and it's a fitting memorial tribute to a great young man, Mike Ellsessar of Sutton” said Senator Richard Moore.
Posted at 09:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Posted at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
MMA Alert - Right to Repair passes MA Senate, but BAD for Motorcyclists!
Late Thursday evening, the Massachusetts State Senate passed SB2204, also known as "Right to Repair" in a mixed vote, but the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA), upon receiving and reviewing a copy of the passed bill cautions that this bill clearly excludes motorcycles meaning that motorcyclists are not protected under the new legislation. The MMA requests all riders to contact their State Senators to express their displeasure and contact your State Representative to request that they amend this bill to add Motorcycles back to the legislation!
Originally scheduled to be heard on April 26th, Senate Bill 2204 was being amended and was deferred several times until May 17th. The MMA previously reported that it could contain specific and potentially significant language that affects motorcycles adversely. Indeed, State Senator Thomas P Kennedy (D) Brockton filed an amendment to exempt motorcycles completely from this bill and the revised bill passed by the State Senate contains that very language which is based on heavy lobbying from the Motorcycle Industry Council representing the Motorcycle Manufacturers.
In essence, the Bill specifically removes Motorcycles from a list of defined “Motor Vehicles” despite their presence in the Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 90, Section 1. The specific listing of a Motorcycle as excluded from the definition of a Motor Vehicle means that motorcyclists who have bikes with computer controls could lose their right to repair our own motorcycles or to choose our favorite independent motorcycle service shop.
On May 17th, during the MMA’s Storm the State House, numerous MMA Board Members and riders visited Senator Kennedy’s office to ask for clarification of his position. The Senator seemed reluctant to speak with us asking if we were paid lobbyists (which we are not), but did hear our position, insisting that the bill was only still being written. Despite this, the re-drafted bill was presented to the Senate floor late in the evening with little time for anyone to review before it was passed by a mixed vote, even after some additional concern was raised by Senator Bob Hedlund on the floor.
Many modern motorcycles (those manufactured in the past few years and beyond) are now heavily computerized and many riders are already reporting that their independent service providers do not have the required access to manufacturer's authorized dealers in order to diagnose and reset computer codes.
The Right to Repair Coalition had been lobbying for this legislation to include Motorcycles, however their recent communication asks to support of the House passing the legislation as approved by the Senate. The MMA is actively in discussion with the Right to Repair Coalition to actively support amending the bill to include Motorcycles.
The MMA requests that you contact the Right to Repair Coalition, your favorite independent Motorcycle parts and repair providers, your State Senator, and your Representative via a phone call, letter, or a fax as soon as possible; let them know you do not want to be exempt from this law!! Tell them a Motorcycle is a Motor Vehicle – one requiring a special license, one requiring registration and inspection, and one you pay taxes on. Insist that the House amended Senate Bill 2204 to NOT have motorcycles exempted to the entire bill, rather only the specific section dealing with emissions testing during motor vehicle inspections which does not currently apply to motorcycles anyway.
To contact the Right to Repair Coalition, go to: http://massrighttorepair.com/
To find your State Senator please go to this link: http://www.malegislature.gov/People/Search and type in your address.
For more information see http://www.massmotorcycle.org/, contact chairman@massmotorcycle.org, or call 1-800-432-1MMA
©2012 Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
MMA 2012 Harley-Davidson Bike Raffle Tickets are ALMOST GONE! Visit http://www.massmotorcycle.org to get yours today!
The Everett Police Department has been notified by Massachusetts General Hospital that the crossing guard injured in today’s motor vehicle accident has died. Marie Stewart, 71 was pronounced dead at 6:11pm at Mass General as a result of the injuries sustained when she was struck by a motor vehicle. At approximately 8:05am today, Everett Police responded to Ferry at Cherry Street for a female Crossing Guard struck by an MWRA truck. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Marie Stewart this evening” stated Chief Steven Mazzie. The accident remains under investigation by Everett and Massachusetts State Police.
MMA Announces Member Legal Services Program with Haymond Law Firm
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) and the Haymond Law Firm are proud to announce a partnership between the motorcycle rights association in Massachusetts and New England's premier motorcycle attorneys. On behalf of the Haymond Law Firm, John Haymond, a Gold Card member of the MMA has agreed to significantly lower his fees to 25% and simplify his fee structure for all active MMA members and their immediate families.
Left to Right: Legislative Director Rick Gleason, John Haymond, Chairman Dave Condon
Vice Chairman Doc D'Errico, Member Services Director Kevin Raiche
Law Firm President John Haymond proudly stated that "In my view It's only natural that our firm and the MMA would form such a partnership. After all, we both work on behalf and for the benefit of the motorcycle community. I'm very happy to be able to help the hard working members of this motorcycle rights organization and their families!"
MMA Chairman Dave Condon stated "The MMA is very pleased to establish this new relationship with John Haymond and his Law Firm. They have a proven track record of helping riders out in their worst time of need. We thank John and his firm for this generous offer to our membership and we look forward to working with them."
MMA Vice Chairman and Safety & Education director Doc D’Errico commented, "I know the MMA works diligently to assure that our riders are afforded educational opportunities, and our awareness programs are attempting to make the byways safer, but when an accident does occur, our members should also benefit from strong representation at an affordable cost to assure their efforts are aimed towards getting back on 2 wheels.”
Any questions about these exclusive MMA membership benefits can be answered by John Haymond directly at 1-800- HAYMOND or go to haymondlaw.com.
For further information about this and other benefits available to MMA members please contact the MMA's Member Services Director Kevin Raiche at MemberServicesDirector@MassMotorcycle.org or by visiting www.MassMotorcycle.org
©2012 Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
MMA 2012 Harley-Davidson Bike Raffle Tickets are ALMOST GONE! Visit http://www.massmotorcycle.org/ to get yours today!
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Over a hundred motorcycles from all over the state assembled on New Washington Street in Somerville on Thursday morning to ride into Boston to the steps of the state house for the annually "Storm the State House Rally".
The bikes enjoyed a breakfast provided to them by the Somerville Lions Club as well a from Cindy Hicky one of the major organizers of "Toys For Local Children before their run into Boston.
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) have played a key role in the success of the "Toys For Local Children Charity" since its formation in Somerville a few years ago.
MMA Supports Motorcycle Safety Programs and reminds riders that inspections are due!
May is national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month which is a perfect extension to the Massachusetts Motorcycle Safety Awareness Period which runs through the Month of April. This period also concludes with all Annual Motorcycle Safety Inspections due on the last day of May. The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA), has been heavily active in promoting Motorcycle Safety and would like to remind Motorcyclists to renew their Motorcycle Inspections as well as joining all motorists to “Check Twice” because the life they save may be their own.
Motorcycle Safety is something that affects all of us, regardless of whether we’re in the saddle, or on 4 or more wheels. It’s hard to come across someone who hasn’t been impacted by someone they know who’s been in a Motorcycle Accident. Yet as much as we’re aware of these concerns, aggressive driving seems to be at an all-time high. Accidents involving Motorcycles are increasing, in part due to inattention and in part due to aggressive driving behaviors – not always on the part of the “other” driver…
Safety in traffic is a responsibility shared by everyone. According to the Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP), 65% of the time, when a Motorcycle is involved in a collision with another vehicle, it’s because the other vehicle turned left in front of the Motorcycle. Most experts would agree, however, that most crashes can be avoided with proper mental and physical preparedness. Such techniques are taught by the MREP schools and yet in approximately 80% of the fatalities involving motorcycles, the Motorcyclist had no rider education at all!
Because of statistics like these, coupled with an unusually high early-season accident rate in the Western part of Massachusetts, the North Adams Police Department began a campaign to promote Motorcycle Safety. Pictured here, the North Adams Police Department has posted signs asking all motorists to “Check Twice, Save a Life”.
Members of the North Adams Police Department proudly displaying their new banner!
The NAPD campaign, sponsored by the North Adams PD with support from the MMA, is aimed at creating greater awareness and respect between Motorists and also asks Motorcyclists to ride with respect in the local community referencing the MMA’s “When in Town, Throttle Down ©” campaign.
Other signage around the state has been visible on the highways, for example, these signs captured in early May on I-495, asking motorists to “Share the Road” and “Look Twice for Motorcycles”.
Road Signs on I-495 and other MA Highways this month ask ALL motorists to
"Share the Road" and to "Look Twice for Motorcycles"
The program, supported by MREP and MassDOT, is initiated every year in support of the MMA’s Motorcycle Safety Awareness Period, and will continue to run sporadically through the major North East Motorcycle Bike Weeks at Laconia and Americade in June.
The National Motorcycle Awareness Period, which ends May 31st, is also the end of the annual Motorcycle Safety Inspection period. The MMA reminds all riders to renew their Motorcycle Inspections annually, but visiting a local Motorcycle Inspection station. Authorized Motorcycle Inspection Stations for Massachusetts can be found here:
http://www.vehicletest.state.ma.us/find_inspection_station.php
For more information, please see www.MassMotorcycle.org or contact SafetyDirector@MassMotorcycle.org
©2012 Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
MMA 2012 Harley-Davidson Bike Raffle Tickets are ALMOST GONE! Visit http://www.massmotorcycle.org/ to get yours today!
Attorney Maria C. Curtatone, Democratic candidate for Middlesex (South) Register of Deeds issued the following message in observance of Memorial Day:
"On Memorial Day we fondly remember those we loved and lost. We honor the men and women who serve and have served for our nation.
We also recognize and appreciate the sacrifices of the families of those who have served and continue to do so.
Our hearts go out to the families who have paid the ultimate price, whose loved ones have died or were taken captive and never returned.
For anyone who may still be in captivity, we offer prayers for their safe return. We have not forgotten them. And we never will."
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Attorney Maria C. Curtatone, Democratic candidate for Middlesex (South) Register of Deeds issued the following message in observance of Memorial Day:
"On Memorial Day we fondly remember those we loved and lost. We honor the men and women who serve and have served for our nation.
We also recognize and appreciate the sacrifices of the families of those who have served and continue to do so.
Our hearts go out to the families who have paid the ultimate price, whose loved ones have died or were taken captive and never returned.
For anyone who may still be in captivity, we offer prayers for their safe return. We have not forgotten them. And we never will."
As part of his district wide school tour, Senator Sal DiDomenico recently visited the Lafayette School, Webster School, and Parlin School. He met with students, faculty, and administrators to see how he can be a resource for our local school districts.
