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News February 2010
 
Democrats to hold Caucus in February
 
Registered Democrats in Blackstone will hold a caucus at the Municipal Center, 15 St Paul Street, Blackstone MA on Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 7 PM to elect delegates and alternates to the 2010 Massachusetts Democratic Convention. Delegates will be divided equally between men and women. The Convention will be held on Friday, June 4th and Saturday, June 5th at the DCU Center in Worcester. At that time, Democrats from across the state will gather to endorse statewide candidates. The caucus is open to all registered Democrats in Blackstone. All ballots will be written and secret. For caucus information please contact Chair Robert J Dubois at 508-883-8522.

 

Selectmen's Race Heats Up
 

Two three year terms on the Board of Selectmen expire in April. These seats are presently held by Margaret Bik and Joseph Marchand. Both are seeking re-election and have returned their papers. Robert Kluchevitz has also pulled nomination papers. Kluchevitz stepped down in 2008 from the Board of Selectmen and as a member of the Blackstone Millville Regional School Committee due to family obligations and work restraints. Also running for Selectmen are John M.Wozniak, Kimberly D. Peloquin, Paul S. Haughey, and Jesse Bousquet.

 

 
Town Election
 

Nomination papers for the April 5th Annual Town Election became available on January 14, 2010. Deadline for filing nomination papers is 5:00PM on Tuesday, February 16, 2010.

The following is a list of present list of candidates and potential candidates for office:

Assessor of Taxes (3 Year Term) Vote for 1
Robert A. Gilbert, Returned Nomination Papers

Blackstone Housing Authority (5 Year Term) Vote 1
Gary Kellenberger BMR District School Committee,

Blackstone Representative (4 Year Term) Vote for 1 Michael J. Buckley Collector/Treasurer (3 Year Term) Vote for 1 Diane A. Warren, Returned Nomination Papers Constable (3 Year Term) Vote for 5 Emil J. Kosior-Returned Nomination Papers Frederick S. Gremza-Returned Nomination Papers Frederick J. Stone Gerald G. Lapierre, Sr. Cheryl A. Marino-Page-Returned Nomination Papers Paul G. Beaulieu Board of Health (3 Year Term) Vote for 1 Frederick S. Gremza-Returned Nomination Papers Parks & Recreation Commission (3 Year Term) Vote for 2 James A. Laren-Retuned Nomination Papers Celeste M. Langlois-Nomination Papers Planning Board (5 Year Term) Vote for 1 No Candidates Board of Selectmen (3 Year Term) Vote for 2 Margaret Bik, Returned Nomination Papers Robert J. Kluchevitz John M. Wozniak Joseph Marchand, Returned Nomination Papers Kimberly D. Peloquin-Returned Nominaiton papers Paul S. Haughey-Returned Nomination Papers Jesse Bousquet Town Clerk (3 Year Term) Vote for 1 Marianne E. Staples, Returned Nomination Papers

 

 
Magic Show Benefits BMMA
 

On February 24 at 6:30, the Blackstone Millville High School Auditorium will host one of the world's largest, award-winning magic/illusion shows. Tickets are only $10. Carson Entertainment's "Reality Magic Show" combines its award-winning comedy/magic/grand illusion production with a live reality show! This unique Reality Magic Show transforms individuals sitting in the audience into stars of the show! Watch as an audience member is levitated before your eyes! See the awe in a five-year old boy's or girl's eyes as he or she becomes the star magician. Like a TV reality show, you never know what will happen next- and it happens live, right before your eyes! Las Vegas-based Carson Entertainment, with professional magician Garry Carson, has performed worldwide and been featured on numerous TV specials in the US, Europe, and Australia. He most recently appeared on Fox TV's special "Masters of Illusion". While performing over 8000 shows at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, he was voted "Family Entertainer of the Year" for two consecutive years In these tough economic times, how can families afford live Las Vegas entertainment, donate to a worthy cause, and stimulate the local economy all at the same time? The Blackstone Millville Music Association's Project M.U.S.I.C.'s upcoming fundraiser is making it a reality with MAGIC! For approximately the price of a movie ticket, families can experience the excitement of a live Las Vegas family-oriented show in their own town and know that they are supporting a worthy cause. Proceeds from this event will be used to help purchase new uniforms for the BMR award winning marching band. The band has been chosen to perform in the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade in April in Washington, D.C. For ticket information call Sue at 508-883-1291 or email maureen.vasquez@comcast.com. For information on Carson Entertainment visit www.CarsonEntertainment.com

 

 
BMR Music Association Winter Percussion/ Winter Guard Show
By Dave Monson

The Blackstone Millville Music Association (BMMA) will hold its Annual Winter Percussion/Winter Guard Show on Sunday February 28, 2010 at 12:00 pm at the Blackstone Millville Regional High School, 175 Lincoln St. Blackstone, MA. The doors will open at 11:00 am, so you can get your seat early! At that time, 50/50 raffle tickets will be available and the kitchen will be open. We will also have a variety of music/guard merchandise available for your favorite musician or guard member! The first percussion ensemble takes the floor at 12 pm. This year, there are 11 percussion ensembles performing from Massachusetts and Rhode Island. BMR will be performing at 1:28. The Winter Guard Show will begin at 2:44. This year, there are 14 Guard groups performing from Massachusetts and Rhode Island. BMR will perform at 4:19 pm. Hope you will join us for what will prove to be a very entertaining evening!

 

 
Town of Blackstone & Firefighters Union Reach Agreement
 

"After an arbitration hearing before a three-member panel of the Joint-Labor Management Committee ("JLMC"), the JLMC has issued its decision/award concerning the contract between the Town of Blackstone and the union representing the Blackstone firefighters. Arbitration was required to resolve the issues between the Town and the union when both parties, after nearly a full year of earnest negotiations, determined that they were unable to agree on the number of hours per firefighter work week and the firefighters' hourly wage figure. In light of this stalemate on these material terms, the parties declared their negotiations to be at an impasse. After the hearing before the JLMC panel, the JLMC determined that the firefighters' work week would be changed from a 56 hour to 42 hour work week, and that the hourly rate for a firefighter with two years of employment with the Town would increase from $18.01 per hour to $22.24 per hour. The decision/award provides that these changes to the agreement shall become effective at the start of Fiscal Year 2011 (July 1, 2010), subject to the approval of funding for implementation of the decision/award by the Blackstone Town Meeting; no retroactive modifications were ordered.

In accordance with the requirements of Chapter 589 of the Acts of 1987, the Town will be submitting for Town Meeting approval at the May Annual Town Meeting a budget article which incorporates the JLMC's award. Should the Town Meeting approve the budget, as submitted, the terms of the decision/award will be implemented as of July 1, 2010. In the event that Town Meeting fails to appropriate funding for implementation of the decision/award, the parties will be required to commence a new round of negotiations relative to the subject union contract." Tentative Agreements: The parties tentatively agreed to five issues in negotiations which are incorporated as part of this award: 1. EMT pay (Intermediates and Paramedics) Effective 7/1/08 no increase. Effective 7/1/09 a $100 increase for Intermediates, a $250 increase for Paramedics. Effective 7/1/10 a $100 increase for Intermediates, a $250 increase for Paramedics. 2. Out of Grade Pay Effective 7/1/10 establish out of grade pay at $7.50 per shift. 3. Extra Duty Assignment Effective upon funding of the agreement increase the outside detail rate to $34. per hour and the municipal detail rate to $35 per hour. 4. Health Insurance co-pays Although both sides indicated that this was a tentative agreement the language and numbers were not provided to the panel. This award thereby references that the copays (and any other changes agreed to by the union) will be implemented the same date that they are instituted with the other union groups in town. Duration: A three year agreement, effective July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2011. Hours of Work- Effective July 1, 2010 the regular work schedule will be changed from 56 hours per week to 42 hours per week on a 1 on-2 off-1on-4 off schedule. Overtime will be paid for all hours worked in a work week beyond the 42 hour regular schedule. Effective July 1, 2010 Holiday pay compensation for hours actually worked between 7 am and 7 pm shall be reduced from double time to time and one half. Overtime- Effective July 1, 2010 bargaining unit members shall have the right of first refusal for all overtime resulting from shift vacancies of less than sever 7 days. Wages- Effective 7/1/08, no increase. Effective 7/1/09, no increase. Effective 7/1/10, the firefighters regular hourly rate is changed to $22.24 per hour.

 

OBITUARIES
 

Alfred R. Grenon
Woonsocket- Alfred R. Grenon, 48, of Poplar St., died peacefully at home, following a long battle with Bladder Cancer, on Friday, January 22, 2010 surrounded by his devoted family. A lifelong city resident, he was the son of Yvette (Petrin) Grenon of Woonsocket and the late Alfred M. Grenon. Al, following in his father's footsteps, was the owner of the former Pinault Hardware Company in Woonsocket, retiring in late 2009 due to illness. Dedicated to his community, he was a member of the Elks Lodge, the Autumnfest Steering Committee, the Rotary Club, the Shriners and served on the Board of Directors for the Stadium Theatre and the YMCA. He established the Old-Fashioned Christmas in Vermont Program and was committed to its cause for the past twenty-three years. Al belonged to the Road Back Alumni Association and volunteered for the Big Brother program. He was also a communicant of St. Joseph's Church. Besides his mother, he is survived by three sisters, Rachel Chudy of Charlestown, RI, Yvonne Benelli of Acton, MA and Renee Gould of Woonsocket and his nieces and nephews, Ryan and Russell Chudy, Jessica and Calvin Benelli and Carissa, Brett and Dan Gould. A Mass of Christian burial was held in St. Joseph's Church, 1200 Mendon Rd., Woonsocket, followed in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Bellingham. Funeral arraingements were under the direction of Holt Funeral Home, Woonsocket.

Diane Gauthier
Diane B. Gauthier, 58, of Lincoln St., passed peacefully Sunday, January 17, 2010 in St. Antoine Residence, No. Smithfield. Born in Woonsocket, she was the daughter of Rene and Pearl (Plante) Gauthier of Blackstone. Diane worked as a Registered Nurse for over thirty-five years and was a former Assistant Director of Nursing at St. Antoine Residence. She was a member of the Friends Meeting House of No. Smithfield. Besides her parents, she is survived by two daughters, Andrea Barbrie of Blackstone and Natalie Barbrie of Hollywood, CA, her husband, David Barbrie of Millville, two brothers, David Gauthier of Uxbridge and Gary Gauthier of Pawtucket and her sister, Celeste Johnson of Deltona, FL. Her service was conducted in the Manor of Friends in Slatersville Congregational Church, On the Common, Slatersville, RI. Burial was private. Arrangements were under the direction of Holt Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Education Fund at St. Antoine Residence for Aspiring Nurses, 10 Rhodes Ave., No. Smithfield, RI 02896.

Claire I. Hardy
Claire I. (Belisle) Hardy, 74, of Blackstone, MA passed away peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010 at her daughter's home with her family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Marcel E. Hardy. Born in Woonsocket, RI on May 6, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Theodore and Merena (Lessard) Belisle. She is the loving mother of Donald M. Hardy and his wife, Natalie, of Blackstone, MA, Richard D. Hardy and his wife, Mary Ann, of New Canaan, CT, Denise C. Daignault and her husband, James, of Blackstone, MA; and her six loving grandchildren. She is the sister of Paul Belisle of Manville, RI, Roger Belisle of Rockridge, FL, Cecile Judson of Rockridge, FL, Doris Hooper of Orange, CA, Lillian Boucher of Greene, RI and the late Lorraine Belisle.A resident of Blackstone for 53 years formerly of Woonsocket and she was a teacher in the Blackstone Millville Regional District for 22 years until retiring in 1995. She was communicant of St. Theresa Church and member of St. Joseph Senior Citizens. Devoted to her family, she will be greatly missed. Funeral was held from Cartier's Funeral Home, with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Theresa Church, Blackstone, MA. Interment followed in St. Charles Cemetery, Blackstone. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Claire I. Hardy may be sent to Compassionate Care ALS, P.O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 and would be appreciated.

Lucienne Levitre
Lucienne (Crochiere) Levitre, 89, of Blackstone , MA passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at the Lydia Taft House, Uxbridge , MA . She was the wife of Clement H. Levitre. She was born in Bellingham , MA daughter of the late Arthur and Alma (Mongeau) Crochiere. Mrs. Levitre was the secretary of the family contracting business, C.H.Levitre and Sons for sixty three years. She and her husband enjoyed traveling. She enjoyed going out dancing, doing crossword puzzles, and especially enjoyed spending time with her family. Besides her loving husband of sixty three years, she is survived by one son: Richard C. Levitre and his wife Elaine of Woonsocket, RI; three daughters: Lu-Ann Sullivan and her husband Charles of Blackstone, MA; CarolAnn DiLibero and her husband James of Blackstone, MA; and JoAnn Dubois and her husband Jacques of Mendon, MA; nine grandchildren: Michael Levitre and his wife Pamela of Pascoag, RI; Darlene Carey and her husband Gerard of Woonsocket, RI; Charles, Meaghan, and Patrick Sullivan all of Blackstone, MA; Joshua and Tyler DiLibero of Blackstone, MA; and Danielle and Kristina Dubois of Mendon, MA; and four great grandchildren: Britney and Kaitlin Levitre of Pascoag, RI; and Dylan and Liam Carey of Woonsocket, RI. She was predeceased by one son: Harry C. Levitre; two brothers: Arthur and Joseph Crochiere and one sister: Alice Boyce Tiftany. Mrs. Levitre's funeral arrangements was under the direction of James E. Kellett and Son Funeral Home, 38 Main St. , Blackstone , MA . Her funeral mass was held in St. Paul's Church followed by burial at St. Paul 's Cemetery, Gaskill St. , Blackstone . In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mrs. Levitre's memory to either St. Paul 's Church, St. Paul 's St., Blackstone , MA 01504 or to Milford Regional Medical Center , Prospect St. , Milford , MA 01757.
In the Know with Callie O.
By Callie Ostrowski

Cyndee Marcoux, the Blackstone Public Library Director, is leaving the second week of February. She will be working as the library director in Auburn, Massachusetts. Miss Cyndee is excited because a new job means new challenges! Miss Cyndee started working in the library 16 years ago, working only 6 hours a week. Throughout her career in Blackstone, she has taken courses to develop the skills she utilizes as a librarian and to learn new technological skills. She watched the library evolve and move to the new building on Main Street. She has held the position of director of the library for 3 1/2 years. Miss Cyndee has overseen many projects during her tenure as director of the Blackstone Library. She started using the Equal Access Grant for lifelong learning and adult programming. Over the course of the year, the library utilizes 14 programs. Miss Cyndee hired a Young Adult librarian for a summer. She also developed the library website which can be found at: www.blackstonepubliclibrary.org. The library has wireless internet thanks to her. Library patrons can sign up for computer literacy classes and one- on- one computer training. There is delivery for seniors and homebound citizens that occurs biweekly. Miss Cyndee organized special programs at the library, including a Celtic music program, a Boston Jazz Christmas program, the Thrill- Killers forensics presentation, and "Lost in Woonsocket" screening. Miss Cyndee has a wish list for the Blackstone Library in the future. One wish dear to her heart is a librarian for the young adult section of the library, along with more young adult programs. A technology librarian and tech classes would also be something she would like to see. Right now, the Blackstone Library is trying to do more with less because of the budget cuts. The library staff has been reduced. The operating expense budget was cut, but the Friends of the Library and various sponsors help with assorted programs. The library recycles, reuses, and does with less. Miss Cyndee said she always uses recycled paper unless it is being used for an official document. Though she is both nervous and excited to be going to Auburn, Miss Cyndee says it is hard to be leaving. The most difficult part of accepting the new position is saying goodbye to all the trustees, staff, and people of Blackstone that supported her and helped her throughout her career here in Blackstone. Miss Cyndee strongly feels a library is the community center of a town. Through working in the larger library in Auburn, Miss Cyndee is expanding her knowledge and making the most of her skills with technology. Thank you, Miss Cyndee for all you have done in the community for all of us. You will be missed. We hope you find success and happiness in your new job!

 
Blackstone-Millville Education Foundation Awards Grants
By Ann Lesperance

The Blackstone-Millville Education Foundation (BMEF) is a non-profit organization, which supports educational programs in the Blackstone-Millville Regional School District. Founded in 1996, BMEF has awarded approximately $85,000 in grants to fund projects from all schools in the District. Each project is chosen because it adds to the quality of education for the children the BMR School District. Projects must be in-line with the school curriculum and school improvement plan. For the 2009-10 school year, over $6,500.00 was awarded to fully or partially fund 17 individual projects. At the John F. Kennedy and A. F. Maloney schools, 5 grants were awarded: "Around the World with Puppets", "Traveling Art Exhibit", "Story time Reading Rug", "Author Program of Alaska", and "African Drumming". Millville Elementary School was selected to receive 3 awards: "Author Visit", "Closing the Gap on Fluency", and "Fitness Skillastics". At the F. W .Hartnett Middle School, 3 grants were given: "The Inside Scoop", "Using Guided Math Centers", and "Connecting Children's Literature". The largest number of grants was awarded to the High School. Six projects were funded: "Motion Detector Classroom", "Understanding Modern Printing", "Treadmill", "Quick Fire Cook-off", "Keeping BMR in Bloom", and "Literary Magazine", You can help BMEF earn money anytime you shop or book a vacation online through Charity Blast. Some of the stores include: Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Dell, Dick's, Kohl's, Old Navy, Orbitz, Staples and Target to name a few! Go to www.CharityBlast.com, select Blackstone-Millville Education Foundation from the menu, click on a store or vendor's ad, and shop. BMEF will receive a percentage of every sale. The main source of revenue has been through an annual golf tournament held in the summer. This year's event is scheduled for Friday, August 6th at Crystal Lake Golf Course. It includes 18 holes of golf, followed by dinner and a raffle. Check the foundation's website, www.thebmefcom, for information which will be posted this spring or email Keith Ducharme at kducharme@bmrsd.net with any questions.

 

 

 

February Happennings at BMR
 
The first month of the new decade is officially over. For many, writing a "10" in the date was a consistent adjustment that took some getting use to. As Christmas trees and holiday icicle lights are being put away, preparations have already begun for the next holiday. Anyone want to take a guess of what that holiday might be? I'll give you a hint… "Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, Sugar is Sweet, and so are you!" Yes, it is Valentine's Day, and BMR is taking part in making this holiday a little bit sweeter. The Senior Class is hosting their annual fundraiser of "Match Maker Surveys." At the end of January, the entire school filled out a detailed questionnaire asking questions about their personality and their interests. The surveys were then sent to a computer that formulated results of each student's "most compatible," "least compatible," and "best friend" results. For the low price of three dollars, students were able to purchase these results at lunch. The temptation of finding your perfect match definitely drew the student body in, which therefore led to a successful fundraiser for the Senior Class! The National Honor Society also is taking part in selling Candy Grams at all three lunches. For a period of one week, students have been given the opportunity to purchase cards for the low price of fifty cents. The card also comes with a bag of candy attached to it. Cards will be delivered the Friday before Valentine's Day. While on the topic of NHS, the National Honor Society's biggest annual fundraiser of the year will be coming up this month. The Empty Bowl Supper will take place on Thursday February 25th from 6:00 to 8:00pm in the BMR cafeteria. The members of the society have been using their creativity in their free time to construct hand made bowls. The bowls started out as wet mounds of clay, which were then fired and delicately glazed into beautiful works of art. The bowls will be raffled off that evening of the event. Additionally, Mrs. Desjardins and her Food's classes will once again be preparing delicious soup to be served that evening. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased from any NHS member. All proceeds benefit the Blackstone Millville Food Pantry. If you have any questions or would like to attend the event, be sure to contact advisor Mr. Charlie Swenson at cswenson@bmrsd.net. Another event you do not want to miss this month is the annual Winter Guard/Winter Percussion home show! This exciting event will take place on Sunday February 27th in the gymnasium at BMR. The Winter Guard will be displaying their talent this season in a show titled "Tribal Pursuit," which will feature flag, weapon, and dance talent. The Winter Percussion's show "Dancing on a Volcano," will feature the drum line playing music of Phil Collins. They will also have accompanying dancers for the first time. The show will start at 12:00 pm, and I can assure you it is a show you do not want to miss! Despite the artic chill and continuous snow fall, this is an exciting time of year for many people… yes I am mainly talking about the Senior Class of 2010! This is the time of year where seniors are starting to hear back from colleges. If you happen to walk through the main A-Wing hallway at BMR, be sure to check out the "Wall of Fame." It shows a diverse list of excellent schools that students have been accepted to. Congratulations to seniors that have been accepted thus far and best wishes in choosing the school you will call "home" for the next four years. As you can see, this is a hectic time for the students of BMR. Between sports, extra curricular activities, and keeping up with academic work, the students work very hard! It all pays of during that much needed school vacation, which will take place during the week of February 15th through the 19th. Enjoy your time off everyone, and I will have more to come about the March happenings next month!

 

 
February Children's Events at the Blackstone Library
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Create a Valentine's Day treat for your sweet! On Thursday, February 11, drop in from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. to create a Hershey's Kiss rose! No sign ups are required. Please note that this craft is geared for ages six and up. Use your free time on February vacation to find your inner rock star! On Tuesday, February 16, Thursday, February 18 and Friday, February 19, the Blackstone Public Library will have the Rock Band video game available to play. Similar to Guitar Hero, Rock Band enables you to play guitar, drums, or sing your heart out to your favorite songs! Up to three people can play at once, so bring a friend or two! Players will be permitted to sign up for two a 30-minute time slot. Appropriate for ages eight and up.

Tom Wheeler Wins Scholastic Art Award
 

Thomas Wheeler '13 of Blackstone has been recognized at the state level of the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards of 2010. Wheeler's printmaking, reduction block print, and self portrait received a Silver Key for distinction at the state level. More than 48 public, private, and parochial secondary schools in Rhode Island participated by submitting artwork to the judged. The top 75 pieces were awarded Gold Key Awards and will advance to the national competition, and 125 pieces received Silver Keys. At the national competition, the Alliance for Young Writers & Artists and its 81 Regional Affiliates will review more than 100,000 submissions of art and writing by creative teenagers from across the country. Last year, Matt Rotondo '08 was nationally recognized for this talents in printmaking. The Providence Country Day School, established in 1923, a college preparatory school serving 300 students in grades 5 - 12. The diverse student population draws from more than 30 communities throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Our educational program balances rigorous academics, visual and performing arts, and competitive athletics. Our mission and values are upheld a faculty distinguished by a faculty distinguished by academic excellence and deep personal commitment.

ANNUAL TOWN REPORT 2009 REPORT 0F TOWN ADMINISTRATOR
 
To the citizens of the Town of Blackstone: 2009 has been a hallmark year for the Town of Blackstone. Blackstone Municipal Leaders, in conjunction with Regional School Department officials, were impacted in mid-year with 9C state operation education fund reductions from the governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It was a year where the authority and the right of the voters at the Annual Town Meeting was challenged by guaranteed state revenue allocations on which a formal budget was approved and then required to be changed in a fiscal year. The balanced budget provisions of the Charter were put squarely on town leaders. The Town of Blackstone was able to meet these challenges through the foresight of the Board of Selectmen, competence of our Finance Department, initiative of Department Managers, and most importantly our dedicated staff who accepted more responsibility while freezing their salaries and maintaining excellence in government services. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts reduced state aid for fiscal year 2009 to the Town of Blackstone in the amount of $423,187. The Town of Blackstone Board of Selectmen, in conjunction with Department Managers and the commitment of town employees, implemented budget reductions in the amount of $572,660 to meet balanced budget requirements. This provided $149,473 in additional savings. These savings were achieved by the following actions: 1) Reduction of full and part-time positions while maintaining level services. 2) Freezing all expenses and seeking reductions in operating expenses by strict oversight through my office. 3) A cooperative effort between the Town of Blackstone leaders and Regional School Department officials, in conjunction with Senator Richard T. Moore, and Representative Jennifer Callahan, in advocating that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through the governor's office maintain the previously approved revenue figures on which a town meeting's appropriation was approved. 4) Department Managers successful efforts in acquiring federal state grants. The fiscal crisis of 2008 was still impacting state and local revenue projections for fiscal year 2010. The Town of Blackstone leaders, along with Regional School Department officials, which were dedicated in making additional cuts while maintaining level services for all of our residents. A balanced budget was presented where negotiation with four unions resulted in zero increases and increased 30% co-payments for insurance for new employees. Contracted and non-contracted municipal employees voluntarily froze salaries and committed to maintain the excellence in the delivery of town services due to the pride they take in the performance of duties. The Regional School Department had maintained its pledge to the Finance Committee and municipal leaders and sought no additional town funds and would implement savings. In closing, the important message from my office for 2009 is that the citizens and municipal leaders of Blackstone have met the challenges of the worst fiscal crisis that has beset our nation in 70 years. These achievements could only have been met because of the character of the citizens of our community to maintain a good quality of life during these difficult economic times. I would like to express my appreciation to my office staff Sandy Nadeau-Lemoine and Kim Milliken in meeting all inquiries and concerns of the citizens of the Town of Blackstone. Respectfully submitted, Kenneth M. Bianchi Town Administrator
Information sought on Blackstone Soldier
By Hùng Q. Pham
Rick Demas, a 23 year old living in The Netherlands has adopted 7 American Soldiers graves at the American Military Cemetery Henri Chapelle in Belgium. He tends the graves and lays flowers. "These soldiers were fighting for our freedom during the Second World War," said Demas. One soldier is Blackstone's own Staff Sergeant Edward M. Chorzempa who served in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 401 st. PIR, 101st Airborne Division. He enlisted on July 11, 1942, from Providence, RI. Sgt. Chorzempa was born on June 3, 1921. He was the son of Micheal and Carolina Chorzempa and resided at 3 Farnum Street in Blackstone, MA. When he returned home after the war, he worked at Jacob Finkelstein and Son, Woonsocket, RI. as a canvas worker and machine operator. Staff Sergeant Edward Chorzempa is buried at Plot G, Rown 8, Grave 26 in Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery, Henri-Chapelle, Belgium. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster. Demas would like to know more about this soldier. What he looked like in uniform? How he spent his youth? Years of education completed? What were his hobbies? How did he die? Was he nervous or relaxed before his jump in Normandy and Holland? Was his a standard gun or machine gun or rifle? Did he have a girlfriend? What were the weather conditions during his fights in France and the Netherlands. "As you can see there are so many things I would like to know about Edward M. Chorzempa," said Demas. He would also like to receive several photos of him with relatives. Demas would like to correspond with some of Chorzempa's relatives. If you have any information you would like to share, please contact Rick Demas by email at: rickmommers@msn.com.
 
Senator Moore speaks to providers of disability services
 
BOSTON - Sen. Richard T. Moore, D-Uxbridge, recently spoke to members of the Association of Developmental Disabilities Programs (ADDP) at a State House luncheon held on Tuesday, January 26. The Senator welcomed providers from his district, including the Seven Hills Foundation, Riverside Community Care, the Center of Hope, and Rehabilitative Resources, Inc. ADDP is an organization of more than 120 community providers who support hundreds of thousands of people living with developmental and intellectual disabilities throughout the Commonwealth. The organization's luncheon outlined ADDP's 2010 legislative priorities. Sen. Moore highlighted the fact the he and other health care leaders in Massachusetts remain hopeful that vital Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) funds will be extended to provide for essential care, including disability services. For additional photographs from the ADDP luncheon, please visit www.flickr.com/senatormoore. For more information on ADDP's 2010 legislative priorities and the organization itself, please visit www.addp.org.
 
Unibank Employees give to Others
 
WHITINSVILLE, MA - The employees of UniBank are proud to announce that $450 worth of supermarket gift certificates have been donated to the Northbridge Association of Churches' Food Pantry. Each year, UniBank employees receive gift certificates for use toward the purchase of holiday food items in appreciation of their hard work and dedication to the bank. Over the years, many UniBank employees have chosen to give their gift certificates to a local food bank. This year local food banks have experienced a growth in need for donations. Seeing the rising need, UniBank employees also collected non-perishable food items that were donated to the food bank as part of their Giving Tree campaign for the holiday season. In addition, UniBank provides several dinners each year at the Peace of Bread Community Kitchen located at the United Presbyterian Church on Cottage Street in Whitinsville. James F. Paulhus, president and CEO of UniBank commented, "Our neighbors are struggling in this difficult economy, and UniBank employees are reaching out to help. We are proud to support all of the efforts of the Northbridge Association of Churches to help those less fortunate in our community." According to Tom Morrell, who manages the food panty, 60 local families, made up of over 200 adults and children are assisted by the pantry on a monthly basis. "This donation from UniBank is greatly appreciated. There are a growing number of families seeking assistance each month, creating an even greater need for donations. With help from the community, including UniBank and over 30 volunteers at the food pantry, we strive to help as many families as we can." UniBank, with average assets in excess of $800 million, is a full-service mutual community bank with eight branches in the Blackstone Valley and Milford and a loan office in Worcester . UniBank is dedicated to contributing to the overall quality of life and economic health of the communities it serves, while maintaining a high level of financial soundness and integrity. It is a member of the FDIC and DIF. The company website is UniBank.com.
 
Glodis Announces Campaign for State Auditor
 
BOSTON - Surrounded by supporters, Worcester County Sheriff Guy Glodis today formally announced his much-anticipated campaign for State Auditor. Touting a record of reform and independence, Mr. Glodis outlined his agenda for how he'll improve the Auditor's Office to better serve the Commonwealth's citizens. When asked why he's running for Auditor, Mr. Glodis responded: "I believe elected office shouldn't be about being comfortable or complacent. It should be about the challenge and commitment to reforming and improving government on every level," Glodis said. "Five years ago I could have taken the easy road and run un-opposed for a fourth term to the State Senate. Instead, I saw an opportunity to reform an antiquated and outdated institution at the Worcester County Sheriff's Office. Challenging the political establishment and against long odds, not only did we succeed, but we instituted over 50 new reforms, including national accreditation for the first time in the department's history." Sheriff Glodis served in the Legislature for eight years before being elected Worcester County Sheriff in 2004. During his tenure as Sheriff, Mr. Glodis implemented an anti-nepotism hiring policy, mandatory promotional testing for officers, senior citizen TRIAD programs, the Responsible Fatherhood Initiative, a first of its kind post-incarceration treatment center, and an expanded community service program that saved Worcester County taxpayers approximately $4.2 million in labor costs. For his efforts, he was awarded the New England Council on Crime and Delinquency's Award for Innovation, the Patrice O'Malley Hagan Award from Pernet Family Health Services, the Father J. Hickey Award from Dismas House, and many more. Mr. Glodis explained his vision for the Auditor's Office, specifically playing a greater role in fiscal and policy issues: "I believe the Auditor's Office can and should be more than just a fiscal watchdog. The Auditor can be on the front lines of job creation, reducing property taxes, economic development, and good government." During his remarks, Sheriff Glodis said that, as Auditor, he could help with job creation by working with labor to commission a study that would examine the effect of hiring out of state employees and contractors, including the cost of unemployment insurance, benefits, and lost revenue. In order to reduce property taxes, Mr. Glodis he said he would advocate on behalf of cities and towns to curb and reduce unfunded state mandates. The Auditor can also play a key role in economic development, according to Glodis, "by ensuring stimulus funding is being spent wisely, appropriately and with the greatest positive impact." Equally as important, Mr. Glodis said, the Auditor can be a greater proponent of good government. Right now, the Commonwealth spends more than $60 million per year on rent for office space. As Auditor, Glodis said he will spearhead an effort to dramatically reduce this cost by better utilizing surplus property that is currently underutilized or unused. In addition, he wants to "expand the Auditor's ability to be an effective advocate for taxpayers by exposing waste and fraud through the improvement of citizen-based reporting." "I want the State Auditor's Office to be a marquee Constitutional office that has the resources, determination and commitment to make government more effective and efficient," Glodis said. Sheriff Glodis stated why he is uniquely qualified to be an effective Auditor: "As a legislator and sheriff, I've had a long history of marching to my own beat, being an independent, fiscal conservative; someone not afraid to take on the status quo. I've long championed tax relief and job growth for the middle class. I was one of the only Democrats in the Legislature to vote for a reduction in the state income tax to 5%, and tackle controversial issues like bilingual education reform. " Glodis continued: "As Auditor, I will continue that no-nonsense, independent approach, ensuring the Auditor's Office is a non-partisan, non-political agency driven only by the best interests of taxpayers and not the status quo." Sheriff Glodis lives in Auburn, MA with his wife Tina, and two sons. Those interested in learning more about the campaign are encouraged to visit the campaign website: www.guyglodis.com, or contact Sheriff Glodis by email: guywglodis@aol.com.
 
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