By Bob Katzen

“I’m outraged that President Trump has once again turned his back on Massachusetts. Our communities were hit by one of the worst winter storms we’ve seen in decades, and instead of helping them recover, he is refusing to provide the federal disaster assistance they deserve. Our first responders, public works crews and local officials worked around the clock to keep people safe and clean up after this storm. They did their jobs. We did ours. President Trump should do his. Instead, he’s leaving cities, towns and Massachusetts taxpayers to shoulder the costs of a major disaster on their own.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate, on a voice vote without a roll call, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a measure that would annually establish June 16 as Domestic Workers’ Rights Day to honor all domestic workers who work in private homes and in recognition of Massachusetts’ historic enactment of basic labor standards in the Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights.
Continue reading DOMESTIC WORKERS’ RIGHTS DAY (H 3417) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave final approval to and sent to Gov. Healey the Senate version of legislation that would allow local licensing authorities to issue temporary licenses to charities in order for the charities to accept donations of wine, beer and alcohol for their charitable events. These licenses were previously allowed under 1997 legislation, but the authorization has since expired. The House had earlier approved a different version of the bill but then agreed to the Senate version.
Continue reading ALCOHOL DONATIONS FOR CHARITIES (H 5351) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey announced the awarding of $1.8 million in student loan repayment grants to 248 early educators and staff across Massachusetts.

This first-time ever program in Massachusetts provides eligible recipients with up to $7,500 per year in student loan repayment assistance and is designed to help experienced early educators stay in the field, build long-term careers and continue providing high-quality care and education for children and families. Recipients were selected based on eligibility requirements and program priorities, with preference given to educators with five or more years of experience and those working in communities serving children and families with high needs or in regions experiencing shortages of early education and care seats.
Continue reading STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT AWARDS FOR 248 EARLY EDUCATORS →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey launched the statewide Blue Envelope Program, a free and voluntary program designed to support safer, more effective communication between law enforcement officers and people with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops.
Continue reading AUTISM AND POLICE STOPS →

I admit I missed Rod Serling eerie series with some thoughtful themes for awhile, but realized TV styles change like fashion. But, I think Twilight Zone is back in political party, sheep clothing. I am not naming a party or person… You can figure them out.
Continue reading Twilight Zone →