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No debate for Democrats in state representative race
Top Headlines Spokesmen for the city cable television company and the Attleboro Democratic City Committee said Tuesday that their efforts to organize a debate between Democrats Kate Jackson and William Bowles have fallen through. Paul Grady, chairman of the Democratic committee, and Michael Murphy of the cable company, both said they dropped plans for a debate when Jackson did not respond to their invitations. Jackson, however, said she was willing to do the proposed cable debate, but not one sponsored by the Democratic committee. She said her campaign manager was supposed to talk to the cable company. Murphy said the cable company had not heard back from the Jackson campaign by Monday night's deadline. "Bill Bowles agreed. Kate Jackson did not agree," he said. He said the cable company will hold a debate Oct. 22 between the winner of the Democratic primary and Republican George Ross. Grady said he played "telephone tag" with the Jackson campaign, but it never responded by the deadline. He said there is not enough time now to organize a debate. Jackson said she did not want to participate in a debate hosted by the Democratic committee because many of its members openly support Bowles. Bowles said he was disappointed and said the voters are the losers because they will not be able to judge the two Democratic candidates in a face-to-face debate. He said he wanted a debate to test the ability of the candidates to think on their feet and answer questions about issues. Bowles said his only condition was that he did not want the answers submitted to the candidates in advance so their advisers could write answers for them.
Post Your Comments wfk21 wrote on Sep 26, 2008 2:38 PM: " Ross is a mute in a suit, when he wears one. Oh, he started wearing one again now that the election is approaching. I love the short sleeve dress shirt and tie bus driver look. " casino1 wrote on Sep 25, 2008 6:34 PM: " I got a piece of mail from him today ricknkim. He doesn't say anything. says he's dedicated but his only motions on the council are to adjourn. He says positive leadership? What does that mean??? Jolly Guy. I feel the same way on the presidential, but this race is a little easier for me. I want someone who is going to speak up for Attleboro. never have seen Ross do anything. Fought to keep that Public safty seat though. I think Allard did a lot more with it, and is continuing to do so.....oh we go LOL " ricknkim wrote on Sep 25, 2008 2:10 PM: " Casino1 - Well, I'm having similar feelings in this local race as I am in the presidential race. Not liking the 2 choices available. I'm still dragging my feet on researching Ross. Will make a point to do some reading in the coming weeks. Is there a central theme/issue that he's using to sell himself as a better alternative to Mr. Bowles? " casino1 wrote on Sep 25, 2008 3:58 AM: " Well, go figure ricknkim, a slim margin but Bowles pulled it off. I have been looking at Ross and he doesn't have much substance. Try doing a google search on his council years, and about all he did was show up. State Rep is a meaty job. " ricknkim wrote on Sep 15, 2008 11:28 AM: " Casino1 - I guess you are probably right as to why the lack of Kate Jackson supporters blogging with their support after her less than stellar performance. When your guy/girl bombed, best lay low and wait for the dust to clear. Still see a ton of Kate Jackson lawn signs though . . . I'd still not be shocked if she were to win since I see a shameful turnout tomorrow. " ucbruin wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:41 AM: " Ms Allad-i left a message for you on ARA open door article site. " casino1 wrote on Sep 12, 2008 5:37 PM: " ricknkin, Did you ever think that Jackson supporters were so disappointed in her performance that they had nothing to say. You start out thinking she had least had a clue but, personally I felt bad for her. It doesn't matter to me what she tries to pull out in the next few day. BIG ENDORSEMTS from whoever. The bottom line is she hasn't got a brain, and she won't have someone to hold her hand in Boston " ricknkim wrote on Sep 12, 2008 4:56 PM: " Can't believe there is no debate between the Jackson camp and Bowles camp about the debate. The blog the day after the debate was all Bill supporters . . . kind of boring read since it was all praising Bill or bashing Kate's failure to show-up/prepare for the debate. Come on guys - that makes for great entertainment! " ucbruin wrote on Sep 7, 2008 12:50 PM: " I hope that the newly formed panel will look into why the $17 million increase to the IBP cost was 1st made public during the televised meeting between the council and ARA. Did the ARA hide the increase from the mayor or did the ARA inform the mayor who then kept this information from the council and public? The public deserves and demands to know why and how this happened to be such a well kept secret until the meeting. " ucbruin wrote on Sep 7, 2008 10:53 AM: " 1 " kim allard wrote on Sep 7, 2008 12:32 AM: " uc bruin- I will accept some blame if you read all the blogs I have posted I have stated that publicly already. I am sorry for sounding condesending in my remarks to you. I want to clarify my comments to Michael during the meeting were directed at the IBP not the ARA. I grew up in Ides Hill and was active before I was ever elected to office. I attended the CAC and actually tried to stop the park. If you research me and articles back about 8-9 years you will see that. That is what I said to Michael. I have been around the project from the beginning. As far as Councilors being part time I was merely stating a fact most people are shocked when they realize that as they assume we are full time. The council has asked for updates over and over from the ARA we have received some however they tell us what they want which is another thing I said to Michael I want answers not what sounds good. I want to see the 6 member panel do their work and get their report that will give us a lot of answers. Again I am sorry if I said anything to offend you. " jimr28 wrote on Sep 6, 2008 10:12 PM: " As far as not knowing Betty Porier that could be further from the truth. I have known Betty and Kevin for most of my 40+ years. When she first ran for state rep her only experience was that her husband was the long time State Rep. She may be smart and I don't disagree that she is. But as usual the GOP shows their colors and distorts the facts. " ucbruin wrote on Sep 6, 2008 7:09 PM: " kim-i seem to remember watching you dressdown milanowski during a monday night meeting when he suggested any councilor is welcome to get educated on the ARA and the redevelopment process. you had every right to do so as his statement seemed condesending. in your dressdown you said that you have been well educated in the ARA, even before he was hired and that you were invovled even before your became a coucilor. so what happened to all the education that you had? now you want to use the excuse that you are not a construction expert? now you want the residents to accept the ARA issue because you and the other coucilors are part time? did you not realize that the position of councilor was part time when you decided to run for the office? surely you knew it was part time during reelection. please get out of the kitchen if you are not going to accept the fire. i don't single you out for blame because others are also responsible and should share equally in the blame. i'm just waiting for someone to step up and accept part of the blame. just as milanowsi's statement to you was condescending, so is your statement to me that maybe i have some expertise to offer. do you accept some blame? will you state publicly that you made a mistake not to have checked on the ARA before this $17 million+ increase? " ricknkim wrote on Sep 6, 2008 3:50 PM: " In Kim's defense, I believe she has been the councilor out in front in bringing attention to this issue. I think once the panel has issued their findings, we'll see if there should be some people called to the carpet. The people at ARA are well paid professionals, much of this should have never happened if they had been doing their jobs correctly. In addition, I think Kim, with hindsight 20/20, wishes they had begun their 3-month updates by the ARA to the council earlier. Thank you kim for posting the hud letter and i look forward to reading the response! " kim allard wrote on Sep 6, 2008 3:31 PM: " ucbruin-I am not playing a blame game I have repeatedly told people pointing fingers will accomplish nothing. Do you know that Councilors are part time? We have asked for updates every few months throughout the project. I work in the medical field as my full time job not construction. I have read everything and listened to make an educated decision on every vote I take. Am I an expert in HUD rules and construction projects no I am not. Perhaps you have some expertise you can offer us. The problem is now in the open and we are dealing with it. It is the ARA board that is responsible to oversee the director they have the expertise in the needed fields. " ucbruin wrote on Sep 6, 2008 12:33 PM: " forget the blame game. why didn't the council oversee the ARA redevelopment sitution. overseeing doesn't mean that you have administrative control, but overseeing the project as it is considered a major project for the city? can you answer why the council was blindsided by the increase in cost from $13 million to $30 million? " kim allard wrote on Sep 6, 2008 11:27 AM: " To ucbruin I posted the HUD report because people asked for it and the paper didn't print it. I am not blaming anyone at this time just sharing the information. " ucbruin wrote on Sep 6, 2008 9:22 AM: " where was kim allard and the rest of the city council before the ARA became attleboro's big dig? why did they not oversee what obviously was a situation that was and has been spiraling out of control? city council may not have direct oversight of the ARA but as an entity it is responsible for the "best interest" of the city. even if they couldn't legally create change why didn't they go to the mayor and request that he make changes or get some concrete answers or why didn't they (including kim) make the ARA more transparent by publicly expressing concerns? while helpful, posting info on the ARA/Hud is, in my opinion, CYA in the most classic sense. deflect any culpability by re-directing HUD info which has been available to the city and council and thus residents. residents don't be placated by links to a website. " kim allard wrote on Sep 6, 2008 3:08 AM: " I have posted the entire HUD letter for everyone to read. Click on the link below. I will also post the City response in the next couple of days. http://thesunchronicle.ning.com/profile/KimberlyAllardAttleboroCityCouncilor " attle1 wrote on Sep 6, 2008 12:40 AM: " Kim Allard, Thank you for posting that info!! It is thru you that I have a better understanding of the ARA! " attle1 wrote on Sep 6, 2008 12:26 AM: " For the record, I am NOT Kate's sister...... " attle1 wrote on Sep 6, 2008 12:19 AM: " Hey, Joe for city council...... Stay out of my neighborhood! I saw you today....those dark sunglasses didn't help. Maybe next time you should not plaster your face around! ( that is how I knew it was you!) My sign is not up yet and when it is you better not touch it!!, nor touch the others in my neighborhood. Funny how you went her sisters house.... " ricknkim wrote on Sep 2, 2008 1:25 PM: " Oh, and since this is still a blog about the candidates for rep . . . did some reading of the 2 candidates websites that sing their own praise. Of course I take it all with a grain of salt since I have serious issues with politicians and my own personal view that the vast majority are worthless. Anyway, my take is still that Mr. Bowles has more experience and fiscal responsibility as spelled out on his site. Whereas Ms. Jackson comes accross as VERY light on the real experience side and I'd be concerned that if she were elected, it would be more a learning experience and less a win for Attleboro's immediate interests. I saw it on an 80's flashback not long ago - "where's the beef?". I'd suggest that if there are more accomplishments and experience plesae update the website soon as I just don't see a compelling argument for my vote. Still reserving ultimate judgment but as of now Kate seems a bit sedate. " ricknkim wrote on Sep 2, 2008 1:16 PM: " Hey AttleboroBrockton - I'm sure the ARA has a slew of businesses on their wish list, but it is just that, a wish list. I am 99.9% sure that you're reaching here. Not sure I'm living in Mayberry - just call me more of an optimist but with both feet grounded nicely in reality. I believe in the theory behind the ARA/downtown renewal - my skepticism lays with the leadership to enact it. I think you have the "woman scorned" attitude in which all things ARA are the devil . . . there may be some merrit in that, but not in all. " GOPSue wrote on Sep 2, 2008 7:14 AM: " Regarding Jimr28 comment below - If you actually go to a function or event where State Rep. Poirier is talking you would be amazed at how smart she is. I have been there when someone asks her a question or comes up to her after a meeting to talk about an issue. If you want to knock her down go ahead, but I hope you are talking from actual experience YOU have re: she didn't answer a question you had or couldn't answer an issue you wanted to know about. If you are just knocking Rep. Poirier as part of the "its always Ok to knock any political person", you have the wrong person. You may not agree with her Republican ways or her stand on some issues, but she is no dumb blond! " casino1 wrote on Sep 2, 2008 2:41 AM: " jimr28, I couldn't disagree with you more. the higher the office, the more folks care about the abilities of the person elected. There is a vast difference between Porier & Jackson. Jackson served some three terms on The City Council and in my opinion wasn't able to really pick up the job. She spoke up on very few issues. State Rep is a highly complex job that requires someone who is a quick study and who can dive into an issue and study it, evaluate it, consider debate and opinions, and reach a reasoned conclusion. I don't feel Kate is close to being the person for this job. It is an important job, and an important decision for the voter of Attleboro. it is clear to me that Bill Bowles is that person. Second place is George Ross, and third is a write in candidate. " jimr28 wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:39 PM: " joe, You don't need experience or education to serve in the State House, Betty Porier has proved that. All you need is a name that is familiar to the voters. It's nothing more than a popularity contest. And the fact that you don't know that shows that you are not ready for the City Council in 2009. " jimr28 wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:27 PM: " joe, You don't need experience or education to serve in the State House, Betty Porier has proved that. All you need is a name that is familiar to the voters. It's nothing more than a popularity contest. And the fact that you don't know that shows that you are not ready for the City Council in 2003. " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 31, 2008 6:58 PM: " Bear, Thanks for supporting Bill Bowles - you see it as I do. Bill has the experience and education as well as the fiancial experience to be the best State Rep and Attleboro needs someone who will be fiscally responsible. I like Kate Jackson as a person, however, I just don't think shes ready for the State House. Both Bill and I appreciate your support and hope that you can continue to support the Bowles Campaign. Questions about the issues visit www.BillBowles.org. " socal1 wrote on Aug 31, 2008 9:55 AM: " Getting back to the debate-don't you just love folks like Helen you say their strong opinions should be heard (and they should be) but who readily admits that she hasn't voted in 3 years? Helen, put some of your energy into actually voting. It will do you, the city, the state and the county some good. " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:08 AM: " The posts below were what I posted in response to the ARA official who stated they would be cleared by HUD. I see some of you asked where those went so I have put them up again for anyone who didn't see them. Again if anyone wants the complete letter email me at councilorallard@comcast.net and I will send it to you. " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:06 AM: " ARA says it will be cleared of grant misuse charges A redevelopment official says the Attleboro Redevelopment Authority will be cleared of charges it misused Community Development Block Grant money. ARA Executive Director Michael Milanoski told the city council Monday that he and Chief Financial Officer Meg Ross know the rules issued by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that govern grant money, and that the rules were followed. HUD alleged last spring that the ARA misspent the grant money and, after an audit, failed to create jobs as required. As a result, HUD barred the city, which distributes the grant and supervises its use, from using any CDBG money for economic development until the matter is " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:05 AM: " kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:49 PM: " Unfortunately I can't copy the whole report on here but anyone who would like a copy email me at councilorallard@comcast.net and I will send you a copy. " " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:04 AM: " kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:50 PM: " Another paragraph from the HUD report: Required Action 1: Within 60 days, the City shall submit documentation that supports the eligibility of CDBG funds paid to the ARA. The City must submit each invoice submitted by the ARA and sufficient backup documentation to support the eligibility of these costs. Costs that cannot be supported will be disallowed. " " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:04 AM: " kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:48 PM: " Allegations that ARA failed to create jobs in a timely manner will also fall flat, he said. He said there's no time limit as long as an entity can show that it's working diligently to finish a project. A "good faith" effort is all that's needed, he said. "These projects take four, five or six years, and the federal government is aware of that," Milanoski said. "If you are working toward the project, you are showing good faith." HUDS response: Furthermore, there are no "excess jobs in the aggregate ... " The $4,300,000 in BEDI and Section 108 funds for the Cookson project requires a minimum of 122 net new jobs, 630: which must be held by low to moderate income individuals. Based on the employee certification forms provided, the City has demonstrated that only 32 low mod jobs have been created since program year 2004. To meet the national objective requirements for this project alone, 90 additional jobs must be created, 31 of which must be held by low to moderate-income individuals. Required Action 1: Within 60 days the City must submit final job certification documentation for its technical assistance/TIF program. If documentation cannot be provided to meet the national objective requirements, then the amounts expended for activity number 151, 174,205 and 224 may be disallowed and the City may have to reimburse its CDBG letter of credit in the amount of$271,831.39. " " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:03 AM: " kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:46 PM: " The city has responded to the charges and HUD is expected to issue a final ruling in 30 to 45 days. Milanoski said he expects the ruling will exonerate the ARA. "We've had years of experience with HUD. We know the rules and we understand the rules," he said during a session to update the council on city projects being run by the ARA. HUD response: Cookson project With respect to the Cookson project, in its April 22, 2008 letter the ARA states, that" the documented jobs created by Cookson be used to satisfy the CDBG funds spent to date on the Brownfield project and that the excess jobs in the aggregate be credited toward the economic development projects if necessary as allowed by 24 CFR Part 570.208." This is not acceptable. As a general rule, each assisted business shall be considered to be a separate activity for purposes of determining whether the activity meets a national objective. Based on our understanding of the City's Economic Development activities, the provision for aggregating the number of jobs created in a given program year under 24 CFR Part 570.208 would not apply. " " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:03 AM: " kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:40 PM: " More of the HUD report Discussion: In our review of the City's CDBG invoices for program year 2007 we identified that the City was paying interest on a line of credit on behalf of the ARA. In 2007 the City made the following payments to the ARA: $28,090 on 1/1812008, $92,903.63 on 2/4/2008 and $2,796.37 paid on 2/22/08. We did not examine the invoice: paid to the ARA in detail for prior years, although a cursory review revealed that the invoices did not clearly identify what the city was paying for. Additionally, we later learned that the ARA may have used some CDBG funding for acquisition, however this was never disclosed in the action plans submitted to HUD. City staff advised us that $93,706.62 was spent on Automatic Machine and $8,500 was spent on Old Barn. BUD has no information indicating these activities are eligible 0] that they meet a National Objective. Lastly, we noted that the fiscal year 2006 audit of the ARA cited the ARA for failure to maintain supporting documentation for its payroll, fringe, and administrative cost allocations among its grants. For the reasons noted, HUD is questioning the eligibility of all payments made to the ARA in program year 2005,2006 and 2007. " " kim allard wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:02 AM: " I am reposting the previously HUD information since it disappeared. kim allard wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:39 PM: " This is a quote from the above story made by Mr. Milanowski..."Interest can be charged to a CDBG program for direct costs, and that's what was done," he said. "The money was used for capital costs, not operations."...Here is a quote from the HUD letter "Finding 3: The City paid interest on a line of credit on behalf of the Attleboro Redevelopment Authority. The payment of interest is specifically unallowable in accordance with OMB Circular A-87. " " attlebrockton wrote on Aug 29, 2008 8:01 PM: " rick n kim sorry for my laste response ,but have you ever read the list of business's the ARA have listed as apporapiate for the IBP?Probably not ,most ppl haven't ....oddly amongst the thousands of types of businesses in this country ,a newpaepr printing business is listed ....Oliver Stone perhaps ....however you have to admit you are bit Aunt Bee of Mayberry in your outlook " ricknkim wrote on Aug 29, 2008 1:22 PM: " Doubtful, their being in the downtown and that visibility keeps them nestled into the community's idea of being of the community and for the community. Being in the IBP further removes them from that visibility. I think you're becoming more and more Oliver Stone-like! " attlebrockton wrote on Aug 29, 2008 12:26 PM: " Not if they moved to the new IBP and sold their old property to a big time developer, if one ever materializes. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 29, 2008 11:46 AM: " Not sure The Sun Chronicle has a vested interest in property value since I can't imagine them moving to reap such rewards in a sale of the ppty. Plus it would just mean higher ppty taxes for them no? " attlebrockton wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:57 AM: " RICk N KIM did you finish watching the meeting ? WIf so whats your take on the whole situation? " attlebrockton wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:55 AM: " it is as if the paper has a vested interest in the ARA .That story was propaganda pretty much.She showed us stuff that nobody has seen ,why HUD is upset & Mr. M acts like its no big deal. RICk N KIm would the sun's building be worth more or less if the downtown project got rolling? " ricknkim wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:47 AM: " AttleboroBrockton - was wondering the same thing. Saw all the posts from Kim and then it was gone and not follow-up story????? " attlebrockton wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:21 AM: " What happened to the story yesterday on the ARA ,it appeared here for a few hours then it disappeared after Ms. allard started blogging! does anyone have any insight? " " bear wrote on Aug 28, 2008 4:04 PM: " Kevin, I don't see where Rick or I attacked you. I'm a Democrat and pretty happy this way. If you felt as though any of these were attacks on you - then grow some thicker skin. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 28, 2008 10:53 AM: " Sorry Kevin h, just entirely confused as to how any of my posts could ever be interpreted as "personal attacks". I'm not sure voting blanket non-democrat is the answer. Perhaps the answer is voting for individual candidates based upon their individual merrit, not the at-large party they supposedly represent. You want change, vote independent and for all non-incumbants . . . " kevin h. wrote on Aug 28, 2008 10:43 AM: " Ricknkim and bear, Think and say what you like. Your personal attacks show your great intellect. The fact is that this city and state is overwhelmingly Democrat. Both owe huge debt from overspending. If thats what you want, vote for more of the same. If you really want CHANGE VOTE NON-DEMOCRAT. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 28, 2008 9:37 AM: " Is it Joe or Helen that is turning 18 shortly??? Youth is great Joe, enjoy it and don't try to "grow-up" too fast, you'll regret that you let go of that youth too soon. DOn't fall for Helen's juvenile bait, you show your inexperience in the retaliatory responses to her nonsensical posts. As for the debate, I'm looking forward to it as being another platform for the candidates to explain both their accomplishments as well as their views/vison for Attleboro. My main concern with Ms. Jackson is that her apparent lack of experience will lead to her getting lost in the shuffle up in Boston. I have reviewed her website and just don't see any real substance to her aside from her ability to get the backing of labor unions. I'm not a backer of any of the 3 candidates, I'm just looking for as much real info as I can get in order to make an educated vote for the candidate who can provide an authoritative voice for Attleboro. To all candidates, please update your websites with more examples of your accomplishments. " GOPSue wrote on Aug 28, 2008 7:00 AM: " The negative personal attacks are not fair to any of the Candidates and it typically turns most local Voters off. We should be looking at the issues and where the Candidate stands along with their public support or lack of, on votes that they took part in on the Council. Personal attacks about family members and friends do not belong on here. I hope the Sun does some in-depth articles on the issues facing Attleboro and ask the Candidates how their education and past experiences will help Attleboro. " helen wrote on Aug 28, 2008 6:08 AM: " Typical mud throwing from the Bowels camp, its so sad to see them resort to this. It really shows how desperate they are, so sad, so true " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:46 PM: " If I was going to be 18 on 9/16 the only person I'd be voting for is Bill Bowles, it would not hurt who I am. Bill has been a great City Councilman and he will be a great State Representative. I'd be proud to call City Councilman Bill Bowles my State Rep. Joe Don't forget to vote on September 16 for Bill! " handystreet wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:39 PM: " Wow this has taken a nasty turn. If Jackson is to inept to debate so be it. It just points to why she shouldnt be our State Rep. There is no need to start tossing mud at folks and going off topic. Its a good thing there isnt a debate. Seems Jacksons campaign has given both Bill & George more fodder. This is really sad if its the only way that Jackson thinks she can win. I long for the old days when folks were judged on positions, and platforms " helen wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:36 PM: " joe, that's good, I will email you my addy tomorrow, dont want it on this blog nite " helen wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:34 PM: " nighty nite Joey, and please do not vote for Bowels - just not a good choice. Mark this down, you will be hurting who you truley are if you vote for Bill, that's all. night! " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:32 PM: " Helen, Actually when I was learning about the State Rep Candidates back in late Feb/early March I looked at Kate Jackson after speaking with her, I knew she was not a viable candidate. Bill has all his issues lined out and has a plan for Attleboro. He is the viable candidate. Helen, please call me Joe. Also, I'd prefer to email with you if you'd like to talk in more detail. jlazzerini@gmail.com " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:28 PM: " Helen, My posts are not being fed from Bill. I speak for myself and myself only. I wasn't giving anything, i was responding to something that was false and impropper. I am not going to entertain these blogs all night long either. I thank you for your comments and I hope you vote smart on September 16, Bill Bowles. Joe Lazzerini " helen wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:24 PM: " Joey, I wish I could tell you youre in the wrong camp.. mabe you have to believe it, you wont, why? Because you have leaning to do, the same learning that took many of us years to see and we started late all I am saying is listenen an learn, not everything that is said is true - no matter how much you think you respect that person go with you got if you can " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:24 PM: " Helen, Im not hysterical ... i'm simply putting down false alligations towards Bill Bowles and defending this campaign. Joe Lazzerini " helen wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:15 PM: " nd all do respect back Joey I think its great that you want to run for council. However, you must learn that when you give it, you must be able to take it. Come on Joey, many of these posts here are from you with info fed from Bill, just know its part of the political game thats played. I havent voted in 3 years but I still have my strong opinions and they should be heard. I have know Bill for many years and I just cant trust him I know Kate and think she can do a great with that fire in her belly but m not voting, Im old and tired, " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:04 PM: " Helen, With all do respect, I am not getting hysterical. I am however, defending Bill Bowles and this campaign as far as these fake alligations are being smeared across the blogs. As these are untrue and not fair, and no one has the right to say this. Joe Lazzerini " helen wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:58 PM: " No need to get hysterical there Joey, If you dont want to hear what people are saying or thinking you still have some growing up and learning to do, and thats ok, youre almost 18. " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:33 PM: " Also just to note... I am also working on Gina DeRossi's campaign for Register of Probate and Bob Jubinville's campaign for the Governor's council also two very viable candidates. I have campaigned around the state with them as well as Bill Bowles in Attleboro. " joeforcitycouncil2009 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:30 PM: " Mark, Your sick! I am the young person working on Bowles campaign as Youth Coordinator. Not to mention, I'm not a little boy, i'm 17 and turning 18 very shortly. These allegations are ridiculous. I am working on Bowles' campaign because he is the only viable candidate for State Representative and I announced back in March that I am running for a seat on the Attleboro City Council and I wanted to see how a real campaign was run, so to say something so sick minded like this is absoloutley ridiculous. Keep these dirty politics out of Attleboro. It's obvious your from the Jackson campaign. I am highly interested in local politics and thats why I am working on Bill Bowles Campaign for State Representative. I would like to assure the readers of the blog that these allegations are simply not true. On September 16 ... Vote for Bill Bowles. As far as the folks saying Bill has nothing on his website as far as issues go. We have a full platform layed out on the website www.billbowles.org. Thanks for your time. Joe Lazzerini City Council Candidate Youth Coordinator, Bill Bowles. www.joeforcitycouncil.com www.billbowles.org If you feel the need to contact me, please email jlazzerini@gmail.com. " Mark from Attleboro wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:10 PM: " Im a sick head why because I call it as I and many others see it? Help me understand how I'm the sick one. " 3473 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 9:52 PM: " I read todays sun chronicle regarding Kate Jacksons refusal to debate her opponent Bill Bowles. I'm sure this came as no surprise to anyone that really knows Kate. The Kate many people know from her short time on the City Council realize that her verbal commumication skills are minimal to say the least. She's certainly not fast or steady on her feet.I think she has good intensions as do all people who pursue or hold public office,but State Rep is way over her head. The district needs and has to have someone with the capacity and ability to stand up behind that podium on the State House floor and command the respect of his or her pears. Just being blond and not o bad to look at won't do the job. There needs to be something in that blond head. A State Rep with a meager education and limited work experience with no financial understanding will certainly hurt our area. Many experienced State Reps will eat her alive and steal the unding for many needed projects in this area. Regardless of who wins we have to send someone to the State House that has the knowledg and experience to bring home the bacon to this district and Kate is not that person. " getitstraight23 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 9:44 PM: " handystreet: you've truley got it wrong and everyone even Jim Hand is missing a key piece of information. She has declined two debates! It is my understanding that she first declined the DCC debate at City Hall. I can understand her reasoning there. But I talked to cable today they said they tried to setup a second neutral debate between the Bill and Kate in studio after the first fell through and she still declined and Bill accepted. So if they are as you say "Kate supporters" why would she turn them down? I just don't think this lady can debate without being scripted. A puppet so to say! Also, there was never a co-sponsorship of the first. I understand, again from a simple phone call, there were overtures for moderation but that was it. So while I will agree Kate is not the right Dem for the Job let's keep our facts straight and don't lose sight of the real story. " grega wrote on Aug 27, 2008 9:24 PM: " Her husband's pandering? is that what gets the official endorsement of the MA, AFL-CIO?.. I think not Mr-or-Mrs angry bear. Kate has won ALL her endorsements because she is an honest, sincere, hardworking person. So say the very personal follow up letters from the key contacts from these reputable organizations. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 8:49 PM: " Come on Greg when she debated John two years aog it was painful (as a democrat) to watch her fumble along. The when she was asked, "why she should replace Mr. Lepper", her response was just "because she wanted his job." It is painfully obvious that she should not be elected to this position. The reason that she has "all these endorsements" is because of her husbands pandering, be real Greg. If you feel so strongly about her debate abilities and Bill Bowles "saying anything to get elected", then talk to YOUR candidate and tell her to answer the telephone and take the debate! " GregA wrote on Aug 27, 2008 8:14 PM: " I trust Kate whole heartily. She has already proven her abilty to debate when she nearly defeated John Lepper in 2006. If she has concerns about the panel that was in charge of questions, I believe her. She has her stance on most issues already poseted on her site and is willing to answers of questions her future constituents. Bowels however has not answered any of my questions. I do know through several others who have spoken to him that he will say anything to get elected. I just do not trust him. There is a reason that Kate has all the important endoresements in this race. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 7:54 PM: " First to Mike and Doug: You don't like how Bowles speaks, and that's a reason to not vote for them? Sounds like Doug is joining Mike on the Prom Queen vote. It seems to me that Bill Bowles speaks with knowledge and a firm grasp of the facts. Doug - Kirby?? Are you kidding me? Also, lighten' up already Doug? Why? You seem to always want to speak your piece on every topic that involves the city, not interested in the election this year? JohnnyK - That fact that a majority of the DCC is supporting Bill Bowles speaks volumes first of all. Secondly, no viable candidate for an office would turn down the ability to set themselves apart from their opponent directly to the voters - unless they already know that thet don't measure up. " Mark from Attleboro wrote on Aug 27, 2008 6:55 PM: " Hope2008, or AKA a Bowels campaigner, believe whatever your delusional mind tells you, I havent showed my support for ANY candidate here, I just really dont trust that man and Im not alone. " handystreet wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:58 PM: " I agree with casino1. The Dems in this city are good fair folks. As I undertsnd it was to be co-sponsored by cable. Most of them are Jackson supporters. You didn't hear Bowles cry foul. As casino1 said, I'm sure the panel would have been made up of news folks..and not Dem City Comm folks...and BTW...she has her share of the committee. Since she isn't a member, I guess she doesn't realize that DAH!!!!! " Johnny K wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:28 PM: " ricknkim, I agree but if you read why Kate didnt want a debate set-up by the democratic committee, you will see that the majority are made of Bowels supporters. I think Ms. Jackson would do a debate but not under the control of her opponents questions, it just wouldnt be fair. " casino1 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:07 PM: " Johnny K - Just because the Dems wanted to host the event, I am sure the panel would have been made up of reports etc as always. My opinion is that Jackson or not confident of herself, and would rather just talk one on one with people in the backgroud. She should have been aware when tossing her name into the ring, that some debate would be scheduled. It is really absurd " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:01 PM: " johnny K - why wouldn't you be prepared to answer questions from everyone, regardless of what party affiliation or campaign? We're all citizens, so why shouldn't all candidates field questions from all citizens? Plus, a debate is far from a true test of a candidate's worthy-ness fro my vote. You can be a grand orator and play for the show but that doesn't mean you can actually get any work done. I like the idea of debates, town-hall style meetings with REAL questions from REAL citizens as well as some form of an on-line debate / q&a. Perhaps our friends at The Sun can set the latter up? " Johnny K wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:53 PM: " Why would a candidate put his or herself in a debate that had the questions coming from supporters of the other camp? I dont blame Ms. Jackson for declining under those circumstances.for anyone that would; they would be completely and utterly foolish!! " handystreet wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:51 PM: " It wouldn't surprise me if Jackson campaign tried now to save face an pull out a debate. She should be ready at all times and never turn down the chance to let the voters hear the candidates " handystreet wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:49 PM: " Ms. Jackson was also against the ordinance for the hiring of paramedic. This is a hugh issue for us out in the Briggs area. It is an issue a cross the city. Kate did her best behind the scences to keep that from happening. It is just her self serving nature for herself. GOPSue, the the times they are a changin'. You need to open your mind and heart to the Civil Rights of all. My vote goes to Bill Bowles now and in November. Kate Jackson talks one way to certain groups, and behind their back in others. I have heard this with my own ears. FYI: Kate is NOT a Democrat. I checked and she is NOT a member of the dem City Committee. She claimed to be a to be a conservative Democrat 2 years ago in The Sun Chronicle, yet pandered to the GLBT community in the background. She is self serving to her own issues. G Ross hasw never done a thing on the City Council. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:13 PM: " Nice Doug! Humor in debate keeps it real . . . " GOPSue wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:11 PM: " I have met all three Candidates and feel that ALL in some way care about the City. If you read the 3 web sites or talk to them in person ...you will see that Bowles, Jackson and Ross have some strong differences. I believe this election will be decided on how the Voters feel about the two Democrats Candidates (Jackson/Bowles)who are both very pro-union and socially liberal vs. a conservative Republican (Ross)who lines up in many ways with State Rep. Lepper. I believe strongly that after the Primary - you will have two Candidates who seriously want to represent Attleboro, although our choice as a City in November will be two people who are VERY different. This will come down to a very personal choice for each voter. " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:11 PM: " Don't read any Rick....sorry to misslead you..... " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:56 PM: " You've been reading too much party literature Doug . . . he's a Washington-insider to the core. Maverick was a nickname his staff came up with to sell him! Sorry, he sings the party line for the GOP just as loud as Hillary screams it for the Democrats. Neither candidate is refreshing, just regurgitated play-doh fresh from the cookie-cutter. " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:49 PM: " McCain is at least a "maverick". He has indeed acted independantly on many occasions. I admire that!!! It is different isn't it? I don't claim to now what his motivations are but it is refreshing. It just could be that his loyalty is to the people....not his party. As far as where these politicians get their money? They are all beholden to someone with deep pockets...that is if they want any chance at all of getting elected. Let's at least admit that!! My image verification for this blog is "dizdg"...is somebody telling me something??? " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:43 PM: " Some of you folks need to lighten up already!! Our choices seem to get less viable with each election season....look at the Pres. campaigns for example......Based on previous campaign promises and the resulting nothingness...it's very difficult to take any of this mularky seriously! We can only continue to guess and hope. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:33 PM: " Mike - ever known a candidate/politician who doesn't like to hear themselves speak? Never spoke to Mr. Bowles so I am not sure just how long-winded he really is. Vote as you will, but your comments do nothing to sway anyone's vote to Kate - you seem to be more of a prom-queen vote solicitor for her than helping point out her qualifications. JMHO " hope2008 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:31 PM: " If Ms Jackson had any real substantive accomplishments on the council - they were well hidden. Its all a matter of public record. The one true accomplishment was that she lobbied for - and won - a promotion for a relative that works for the city - well documented. That same relative now wants another promotion - a big one, and as State Rep, Ms. Jackson would be in a position to shall we say "expedite" matters. Ms. Jackson was also against the ordinance for the hiring of paramedics, as she had another family member on the fire dept list that was not a paramedic. No accomplishments - all about herself - all public record - thus - no debate. Self serving. " mike wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:24 PM: " I agree with Doug. Have you ever heard Bowles speak? It's torture! Kate's campaign did us all a favor and kept a microphone away from Bill Bowles!!! " hcar wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:18 PM: " Kate Jackson is a flimsy candidate with no courage or confidence in participating in intelligent debate. Her over bias when it comes to civic unions is enough to never make her a viable candidate in my eyes. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:09 PM: " Pro-Union unconditionaly is not a good thing in my opinion. Each union issue should be judged individually for merrit, just like each candidate/political party. The more I read about her, she seems willing to write a blank check to every Local without questions . . . the unions seem to love her by the looks of her webpage. I'm using caution before passing judgement on her. Still searching for accomplishments and issues tackled while serving as a council woman. " casino1 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:51 PM: " Doug~ Kirby doesn't live in the district~try living on North Main Street and see if you still want him " casino1 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:49 PM: " First to Mike's point. If I recall correctly Bill Bowles was the top vote getter for many years, even topping Kate Jackson one year! He is not to first person to have lost an election and come back. More power to him!! I went to school with Kate Jackson and let me tell you about likeable. It really depends on your gender & quite frankly, I'm getting tired of Jackson thinking she is owed everything in life, without having to work to achieve what she wants. She threw her treasurer under the bus, and now it's someone elses fault that she missed a debate deadline. The Office of State Rep is important not to be able to clearly hear the differences between the two candidates. Kate wants to just work in the background with her unions, and leave the citizens of Attleboro in the dust. What you you expect, when she ran against John Lepper she had no reason to run, other than she just wants "IN". She never did anything as a City Councilor so why should she do anything now....speak about unlikeable that is Jackson all the way! " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:47 PM: " Seriously????? A shot in the dark! " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:44 PM: " Our choices.....Mr. Ross, We know little of him. With the exception of recent weeks he contributed little at council meetings. Very quiet. Mr. Bowles quite the opposite.....could ramble on and on and on and on... Ms. Jackson a true democrat politician..good or bad? My choice, if he had run, would be councilman Kirby. " doug wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:37 PM: " This is a free country Mark...candidates can choose not to debate if he/she likes. We judge them based on that decision. Circumstances being what they may....who really knows? " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:40 PM: " Kevin h - to simply vote along party lines without any serious consideration of the candidates, Republican or Democratic, is a disservice. I think both parties at a national level are a joke personally. For every reality in Obama's lack of experience and spend-aholic's agenda, Mr. McCain can be tied to the ugly side of insider Washington and just reading the party line on countless issues. Until we achieve a viable 3rd party that can balance things out between them, I'm affraid it really doesn't matter who is in the White House or Congress - it will just be more of the same with exceptions a little to the left or a little to the right . . . . " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:12 PM: " Oh Kevin you poor misguided individual. "typical" Democrat, is that right? So if one candidate wants to debate and one doesn't, and they're both Democrats - where does that leave you line of thinking? Barack Obama? How do you come up with that? Sounds like you need a course in deductive reasoning 101. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:06 PM: " >>>>When she was asked, why she should replace Mr. Lepper in a previous election run, her response was just "because she wanted his job." I was stunned at that answer<<< Exactly! I'm still stunned by that answer, and that was 2 years ago. Obviously she is not suited to do this job and represent Attleboro on Beacon Hill. " kevin h. wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:06 PM: " Typical Democrat. Should one expect more when the top Democrat, Barack 0bama, presidential candidate, won't debate or have town hall meetings with McCain. Democrats are not proud of what they would "REALLY" do, and don't want to be pinned down on anything because it's "for the children" and "investing in the future" and other such shifty nonsense. Vote Non-Democrat. " hope2008 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 12:32 PM: " To GOPSue: What makes you think that if Ms Jackson wins the primary that she would debate her opponent at any arranged forum? After all, her opponent would have supporters at the forum. Ms Jackson has denied her would-be constituents, an intelligent democratic debate so that we could make an educated decision for representation. When she was asked, why she should replace Mr. Lepper in a previous election run, her response was just "because she wanted his job." I was stunned at that answer, I will ask once again..."Where's the beef?" If Ms Jackson wishes to run with the bulls, then she better be willing to face the horns - or go home. " ricknkim wrote on Aug 27, 2008 12:28 PM: " I'm completely open to all candidates at this point. I am doing my own research as to where they stand on issues and experiences that qualify them to hold a position as our representative. In my opinion only and based upon what I have learned to date, Ms. Jackson apears to be nice and all but I don't see much in terms of accomplishments and experience that makes her the best candidate. A debate would have been helpful. I am currently trying to better uderstand the other candidate Mr. Ross and his qualifications. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:53 AM: " likeable vs. effective, I'll take effective when it comes to determining what happens to my tax dollars. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:51 AM: " Mike - So substance means nothing compared to looks and popularity? This isn't high school, we're not electing the prom queen. We need someone that can get the job done, and in a very short time frame Kate Jackson has proved that she can't get two simple things done correctly - her finance report and returning a phone call to the DCC to debate the issues. " GOPSue wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:36 AM: " I believe the voters of Attleboro want to know where the Candidates stand on the issues from their own voice. The truth is that web sites can have a lot or very little on what the Candidate really thinks depending on how much is the "input" of the Committee vs. the Candidate. Public debates and forums are a great way for the voters to see the Candidates without their Committees holding their hand. At this late date it's hard to see that the Voters of Attleboro will get a chance to see the Democratic Candidates before the Primary. I do hope after the Primary that the Attleboro Republican City Committee and the Democratic City Committee can offer a combined debate or forum at City Hall, like was offered last year during the Mayor and City Clerk race. I know that the AttleboroGOP has offered to organize a debate or forum in early October with the Democratic City Committee, although no date has been set. " hope2008 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 11:20 AM: " To Mike: What we need for State Rep is someone who is not afraid to stand up and debate, which is what the Statehouse is all about - and someone who has credentials in finances. I can have no confidence in a candidate who cannot intelligently debate the issues. That is part of the democratic process. As was demonstrated in Ms. Jackson's run against Mr. Lepper - she just cannot be engaged on any matter other than on a superficial level. The office of State Rep is just too important, particularly at this point, to take a chance on someone who can only state her views behind the safety of a computer screen. As they say - where's the beef??? " Mike wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:06 AM: " Bill Bowles is a bad choice for State Rep. He is not a likable guy. He continues to get the lowest votes and 2 terms ago could not even make it back on the council. We need someone with energy and enthusiasm to go to Boston to bring back funding. Kate Jackson is the one to do that! Kate for State!!! " Rooster78383 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:03 AM: " I bet if the debate were sponsored by city unions, Kate would be on board. " hope2008 wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:02 AM: " Let me get this straight...Kate Jackson, a democrat, wont participate in a debate sponsored by the Democratic City Committee, because some members support her opponent. Ms Jackson is used to winning elections that are more of popularity contests. The office of State Rep is too important to our city to have this happen in this election. She, and any other candidate, owed it to the people of this city to participate in a discussion of substantive issues. My guess is that she cant. I think that we have seen that she just cant debate important issues. Also - she should stop blaming her committee members for her mistakes. " bear wrote on Aug 27, 2008 9:37 AM: " WOW, last week it was her treasurer and this week it's her campaign manager! Doesn't Kate Jackson understand the idea of accepting responsibility? How can she be considered a viable candidate? She doesn't want to debate because the majority of the Democratic City Committee is backing Bill Bowles - well what does that tell you??? The choice in this primary is clear, it has to be Bill Bowles. " or
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