November 9, 2007

Backtalk 11/09/2007

UNDERPAID: To the people who think police details should be replaced by flagmen because they are overpaid: Give me a break! Police officers are way underpaid for the job they do. They risk their lives every day. If you think it is such an easy job, why don't you go out and protect our streets?

Dracut

LIGHTEN UP: The backpacks kids have at Chelmsford High School are much too heavy. Twenty-five pounds is absolutely unacceptable for a high-school student. The teachers and department managers really need to re-plan their homework assignments or simply give less so kids don't have to carry home large textbooks as often.

Chelmsford

SPECIAL SERVICES: To the man who wrote complaining about the cost of educating special-needs students because, in his words, they won't be able to function in society enough to justify the cost of their education: These children have as much right to an education as any other. These children and their families have enough to deal with without ignorant people trying to hold them back. They deserve any and all services they need.
Wilmington

CONFLICT: I was surprised in The Sun's election section that it didn't indicate who, if any, of the candidates for City Council or School Committee is unable to vote for contracts in the city because of relatives working for the city. Aren't there people who have family members in the system and they can't vote on those contracts? That's a conflict of interest.

Lowell

LEAVE EARLIER: The lights on Lakeview Avenue in Dracut are fine. It's the drivers not allowing enough time to get to where they want to go. All they have to do is go to bed earlier, get up early in the morning, and then you'll be fine.

Tyngsboro

INNOCENT VICTIMS: Babies bring a sense of new beginnings, innocence and a love like no other. To be selfish and cruel enough to harm this little helpless human being is beyond my comprehension. If I were the family member of a person who did such an evil act, I would help lock the door of the cell you would spend the rest of your life in and turn my back on you.

Tyngsboro

CUT BACK ON CALLS: In response to guest columnist Mr. White: Politicians should not be allowed to make all those calls at all times of the day and night. It's really distracting, and it turns everybody off to them.

No town given

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 3:19 PM | Comments (1)

October 31, 2007

Backtalk 10/31/2007

GOOD TIME: I want to thank "Lowell Unleashed" for organizing Wagapalooza on Sunday, Oct. 28. It was nice to get together with other people who enjoy their dogs. My dog really enjoyed it, too. A dog park in Lowell is what we have needed for a long time.

Lowell

TOO MUCH SPORTS: Many of us are fed up with the excess time given to sports on television. About 15 minutes out of every hour, we get some news and most of it is a rerun of previous sports reports. Keep television fair and for all of us, not just the sports lovers.

Groton

BETTER TIMING: They need to fix the lights on Lakeview Avenue in Dracut. Trying to get onto the avenue near Phineas Street, I waited seven minutes for my light to change with no cars coming in either direction.

Dracut

DROOPY DRAWERS: There has been talk about making a law against wearing your pants very low, with your underwear showing. Listen: If these guys want to walk around looking like circus clowns, let them. They obviously think they look "cool!" I just laugh.
Lowell

LIGHT IT UP: I'm glad the Riverwalk lights are turned on. It looks nice and it's safer, too. Whomever is responsible for that did a great job.

Lowell

TRAGIC LOSS: It's so sad that Theresa Frye has lost her young son in such horrible way, She has been my kids' school nurse since they started school and is such a nice person.

Lowell

DANGEROUS: I'm not surprised about the man who got hit by a car in Dracut. Our kids have to get on the bus at 6:45 a.m. in the dark and cold. They should not be starting school so early.

Dracut

OVERBLOWN A-ROD: Once again, the news media and sports announcers blow the whole aspect of a glory moment for the Red Sox. You mean to tell me that selfish A-Rod news was more important than the Red Sox in Game 4 of the World Series -- that what he wants could not have waited a day to talk about? A kid who battled cancer and overcame all odds and most media focuses on A-Rod. Sad.

Tewksbury

NO CREDIT: I will do everything possible to steer my child away from public service. They are undervalued, underpaid, and criticized for being as human as the rest of us. Go for-profit, and leave the selfless work for someone else's child.

Dunstable

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 4:55 PM

October 30, 2007

Backtalk 10/30/2007

DISAPPOINTING: So, two disabled war veterans from the Iraq war throw out the first pitch Saturday night and the Fox network can't even air it. Enough said.

Lowell

KEEP LOWELL: There is no way in the world that you could get me to swap a class act like Mike Lowell for Alex Rodriques and his attitude problem.

Littleton

GREAT JOB: I would like to commend the Lowell High School Junior ROTC unit who stood at attention during the opening ceremonies of the World Series Game 1. To those of us watching the game from outside of Lowell, they did us proud. Congratulations for a job well done!

St. Petersburg, Fla.

TOO MUCH SPITTING: I enjoyed Bob Reed's chaw-in-cheek article about the fine art of spitting. He certainly spit it on the head. It seems the TV cameras zero in on every spit. How'd you like the job of cleaning out the dugout after a game? That could be a candidate for Mike Rowe's Dirty Jobs. Although I think even Mike would take a pass on that job -- yuk. May the game should be called "hittin' and spittin.'"
Hudson, N.H.

SECOND AMENDMENT: I am a Lowell resident and I will not vote for any City Council candidate who would refuse to recognize my fundamental right to keep and bear arms for the protection of my family and myself.

Lowell

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: Regarding the Blue Health Plan for Kids and parents who decided not to include their children in their employee benefits: So Rep. Jamie Eldridge feels the rest of us should pick up the tab when it was the parents who made the decision not to cover their kids. I am outraged -- anyone else?

Ayer

FOOLISH ISSUE: What a relief! Pelham selectmen have now resolved a town crisis by banning a dog from the fire station. Umm, tell me again. Why does Pelham even need selectmen if they waste their time on silly issues like this?

Chelmsford

RAINING INSIDE: The gym roof at Billerica Memorial High School leaks so badly that games held inside are called off because of rain. Students are tripping and falling over broken and missing tiles in their classrooms while administrators are having new windows and carpeting installed in their office. Billerica School Committee, please wake up. Schools are for kids.

Billerica

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:51 PM

October 29, 2007

Backtalk 10/27/2007

USE SOAP: Regarding the staph infection: As an athlete at Lowell High School in the mid-1970s, after gym class or any sport, everyone took a shower. Nowadays, the kids don't take a shower; they just put their clothes back on.

Lowell

MAKE A CALL: Shame and three demerits for the Dracut School Committee. They didn't think to call the Haverhill school system and do their homework. A few phone calls to Haverhill would've given them plenty of reasons to let their cream-of-the-crop candidate stay in Woburn.

Haverhill

BIG JUMP: If the Dracut School Committee thinks W. Spencer Mullin can go from being a principal in a building of 535 students and 52 teachers, to being a superintendent of a school system with 4,200 students and 250 teachers, they're crazy.

Dracut

JUST SAY NO: Billerica zoning bylaws were voted to protect the residents. If Home Depot doesn't conform to the strict interpretation of our bylaws, it should be just told no. It's that simple. Laws are to protect the residents.

Billerica

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DESK PATROL: I've known Lowell Police Sgt. Mickey O'Keefe for many years, and like him, but if he can run a half-marathon, then he can work light duty. It seems beyond reasonable. It's not right.

Lowell

LOOK ELSEWHERE: Why pick on Police Sgt. Mickey O'Keefe when he hasn't collected a dime for his injury, but there are many who have been collecting for years? Why isn't anything said about those people?

Lowell

DO NOT CALL: For all the people who complained they received too many calls so they didn't vote for that candidate: Please be aware that politicians and charities are exempt from the Do Not Call listing. With the first call, you should have requested to be put on their do not call list. To not vote for someone with whom you agree just because they called your house one too many times is outrageous.

Chelmsford

PUT IT OUT: When is Dracut going to enforce no smoking at Pop Warner and high school football games? It's illegal to smoke on school property and it's disgusting.

Dracut

STRANGE DELAY: About the man who was in a hit-and-run in Dracut: I found it very strange that it took three days for the Dracut police to release the information, and that the man who killed the man was picked up, failed several field sobriety tests, and was arraigned only on drunken-driving charges and released. Am I the only one who thinks there's something wrong with this?

No town given

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 11:24 AM

Backtalk 10/28/2007

EXCELLENT TRIBUTE: Congratulations to The Sun for the "Serving Us Proud" section. It's a wonderful page to honor all these people who have made sacrifices. I hope it's going to be a regular event.

Lowell

SPLENDID SPITTER: Terrific column by Robert Reed on Red Sox manager Terry Francona as a champion spitter. I've noticed that myself. I think it helps to keep him calm and focused during games. It was a fun column to read.

Tewksbury

UNNECESSARY: Can someone tell me why Gov. Patrick needs an office in Washington, D.C.? Is he planning on leaving us before his term is up?

Billerica

LET ROCKY STAY: How ridiculous that Pelham selectmen won't allow the fire chief's Dalmatian to stay at the station during work hours. Having a Dalmatian at fire stations is a proud tradition and something that should have been embraced.

Pelham, N.H.

UNEQUAL TREATMENT: Why is Chelmsford allowing one resident on Boston Road to interfere with the current flow of the sidewalk project, just because he doesn't want the standard curbstone in front of his property? He wants a special order of oversized curbstone installed.
Chelmsford

TOO MUCH: I can't believe the town agreed to pay the new Dracut Housing Authority director more than they paid the former director, who had 20 years of experience. That is just so wrong.

Dracut

NO MORE 40B: The 40B laws are bad for our communities. They only help developers, not those who need affordable housing. It's time to change the law.

Wilmington

REPEAL 40B: Thank you to the citizens who are working to repeal 40B. I'm surprised it's taken 40 years for people to realize 40B not only destroys communities, but hurts affordable housing, too. It's time for us to do what every other state does -- produce real affordable housing without a catch.

No town given

SPEED UP REPAIRS: About the bridge work on Princeton Boulevard entering North Chelmsford: Why do they have a two-year state contract when Modern Continental can span a six-lane highway in 14 days? It's impacting local businesses dramatically and fire trucks can't even go over it.

Chelmsford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 11:23 AM

October 26, 2007

Backtalk

GO SOX: Congratulations to the Red Sox. They proved they were the best. Now, let's win the World Series.

Dracut

OVER-EXCITED: I love the Red Sox and am delighted they won the American League championship. But once again, Jonathan Papelbon has gone over the top. It's absolutely ridiculous that he would pour beer over the trophy. It shows disrespect.

Lowell

KEEP BRIDGE OPEN: Shouldn't the prominent Tyngsboro bridge be open for emergency vehicles only? Especially on weekends.

Tyngsboro

ENOUGH ALREADY: More public servants pushing for higher pensions? We can't afford the pensions we're paying them now. Most of us working people don't get a pension anymore. When are these people going to realize what they have?

Tewksbury

FIGURE IT OUT: City Councilor Rodney Elliott is right: The shelter isn't going anywhere; nor should it go anywhere. The councilors have to work this out and do their job.

Lowell

VOTER APATHY: We had a special election Tuesday for the teachers' contract (which
was not recommended by the board) and only 727 residents bothered to vote. I guess the teachers have spoken.
Pelham, N.H.

TOO MANY SIGNALS: Whose bright idea was it to put all those lights on Lakeview Avenue in Dracut? I could travel from Dracut to Boston by the time I'm through all the lights and traffic on Lakeview Avenue in the morning.

Dracut

FOCUS ON VALUES: Don Ordway's letter to the editor suggests the school is taking away parental control by giving birth control to middle-school students. I agree. But, his solution is to make sure children know God, which takes away my parental rights as an atheist. It's about good parents teaching their children good values; God has nothing to do with it.

Lowell

RULE REVISIONS: It's not about the 25 cents for coffee at the Chelmsford Senior Center, it's about the director, changing the rules every single day.

Chelmsford

KEEP GYMNASTICS: The Pelham School Board should leave gymnastics in the school budget for next year. Interest has grown in that program and it deserves to continue.

Pelham, N.H.

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:09 PM | Comments (1)

October 25, 2007

Backtalk

GREAT STORY: Congratulations to The Sun. I'm happy to see on Page 1 the article about the heroes from the Battle of the Bulge. It is so good to see you honoring these veterans.

Lowell

GOOD COVERAGE: I appreciated the article on the veterans of The Battle of the Bulge. That one battle in WWII had far more casualties than this entire Iraq war. I want those guys to know there are people out here of a much younger generation who are aware of your bravery and sacrifice, and are grateful for it.

Tewksbury

BETTER IDEA: I saw where Red Sox were giving food to the fans who were waiting in line to buy tickets. While it was a nice thing to do, wouldn't it be nice if they instead fed the homeless?

Billerica

SURE BET: Whoever wrote the article on the horse race comparison to the city elections should be drug tested. Mike Lenzi, Bob McMahon and Alan Kazanjian are definitely in.

Lowell

WISH LIST: Incumbent councilors Kevin Broderick, Jim Milinazzo, Rodney Elliott, Joe Mendonca and Mayor Bill Martin are working hard for the city. I hope they get re-elected, along with challengers Jo-Ann Keegan, Kristin Ross-Sitcawich, Lou Stylos and David Koch.
Lowell

TOO P.C.: If you can't bring yourself to call your Halloween costume a "hobo" or a "bum," you shouldn't be dressing as a homeless person. That's way too politically correct for me.

Chelmsford

SAFE AND SOUND: We would like to thank the Lowell Police Department, 911 operator Lopez, the K-9 unit of Lowell and the residents of South Lowell for bringing our son home safely. Thank you so very much.

Smith Family, Lowell

STORE WANTED: I second the idea of Michael's, A.C. Moore or Jo-Ann Fabrics opening on Bridge Street at the site of the old Ames store. It would be a great fit.

North Chelmsford

SAFETY FIRST: The reason children are not buckled up on school buses is because if there were an accident it would be impossible to unbuckle all of the children, and get them out of the bus.

Woburn

LATE DELIVERY: What is going on with the mail box in front of Fios on Mammoth Road in Lowell? I mailed a mortgage payment on Oct. 4, and got a letter dated Oct. 18 saying they did not receive my payment. The Post Office is no help at all in this.

Lowell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 2:21 PM | Comments (1)

October 24, 2007

Backtalk

GREAT JOB: What a pleasure it is to see somebody finally saying it like it is about the Red Sox. Good going, Dennis Whitton. I wish the other sportscasters were like him.

Tewksbury

THAT'S ONE VOTE: I read the letter to the editor Friday in The Sun, and what Matt Vieira wrote about Lowell voters is true. I congratulate him on his future goals, and I hope to have him serving myself, and the city of Lowell in two years. He's got my vote!

Lowell

LITTERBUGS: If Tyngsboro really wants to make money, maybe it should enforce the no-littering laws, especially between Westford Road and Middlesex Road. All you see are bottles, cups, cardboard boxes. That's a main road into town, and it's disgusting.

Tyngsboro

GREAT POLICE WORK: I would like to thank Sgt. Gilmore and Officer Sargent of the Dunstable Police Department. Both were very helpful to me when I recently had a theft at my place of business. They both were very thorough in catching the thieves. Once again, thanks, guys. It's nice to know you're here.

Dunstable

SPEAK UP: Billerica has more than 30,000 residents, yet we're going to let the fate of the Home Depot project be decided by a couple of hundred people. Let's speak up those of us who are in favor of it or forever hold your wallets.

Billerica

RATIONAL REACTION: In response to the caller from Westford: Those of us who did not vote for Niki Tsongas do not want to see our military men and women die in Iraq. We are all for a rational withdrawal, finishing what we started, and not publishing our timetable to give a heads-up to the enemy.

Chelmsford

PROMPT ACTION: To the kind police officer who contacted the animal control officer for me Sunday: The animal control officer came to my home even though he was going off duty, moved a trash barrel and allowed a very large skunk trapped in it to get free. Both gentlemen were fantastic, and I thank them for their kindness and quick response.

Lowell

CHAIR CONTROVERSY: The Windham School Committee has cost the taxpayers millions of dollars because of its ongoing errors with the construction of the high school project, yet it has the time to criticize an executive over the cost of a chair that cost a couple of hundred dollars more than members think it should. It's absolutely ridiculous and a waste of time.

Windham, N.H.

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 4:18 PM

October 23, 2007

Backtalk

BIG SPENDER: Another election has been won by the big money spender. There has to be a better way!

Chelmsford

SURPRISING: Jim Ogonowski lost the congressional race. But it seems as if the majority of voters in Billerica, Chelmsford and Tyngsboro would've preferred for our military service men and women to stay in Iraq and die for Bush.

Westford

CHANGES: According to my wise old grandfather, people started out as Democrats, but once they got to own a home and had their own lawn and when they got the lawnmower, it was then they became Republican.

Tewksbury

EXPENSIVE FUTURE: The Democrats are in charge; hold onto your wallets, Massachusetts. It's going to cost you more to heat your home this winter and drive a car.

Tyngsboro

LOW INCREASE: I am thrilled that our taxes will not be increasing by much this year. I think we will have the lowest increase of any community in the area. Thank you to City Manager Bernie Lynch and the City Council!

Lowell

TOO LENIENT: I read about the

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Billerica man who was arrested for his fifth OUI. Great court system we have in this state. Guess we'll let him out again and maybe he'll kill somebody.
Tewksbury

NOT FAIR: I agree with Ken Martin's letter. It's an insult to Joe Tully who worked very hard for the Dracut Housing Authority and the residents of Dracut. His salary at retirement was $62,000 after many years of being executive director. How can they in good faith give Mary Karabatsos more money?

Dracut

LONG DAY: My child gets home almost 4 o'clock. Extending the school day is not a good idea. My child is exhausted, has homework, and after-school activities. No wonder there's no time for a family dinner.

Lowell

SILLY IDEA: My dog would not want to be buckled. I have taken upon myself to train my dog. She sits in the well of my car and she loves it. What is next -- helmets?

Chelmsford

COSTLY: The UMass Lowell athletic director stated the hockey team lost $730,000 last year. How can they pay the hockey coach $167,000? It doesn't make sense.

Lowell

JUST A THOUGHT: The new owners of WCAP should have the Yankees games broadcast on their station next season.

Lowell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 10:48 AM

October 16, 2007

Backtalk 10/16/2007

NOT WORTHY: I cannot understand why someone would have a stamp for Jack Kerouac. He was nothing but a bum. There have to be better people out there we can honor with a stamp.

Lowell

WITHOUT VALUE: Thank you, Dennis Shaughnessey, for writing what I've said for years: Jack Kerouac's writings aren't worth the paper they're written on.

Pelham, N.H.

NOT A FAN: Kudos to Dennis Shaughnessey for his comments about Jack Kerouac. I'm glad someone has finally called Mr. Kerouac for what he is, and has seen the truth about his literary ability. I appreciate his article.

Lowell

BUCKLE UP PUP: About the proposed bill for dogs: It's about time they passed this because some of these animal lovers have their dogs practically steering their vehicles and causing accidents. Hopefully this bill goes through.

Chelmsford

WHAT ABOUT KIDS?: About the bill to buckle up dogs: I find it odd that we're wasting our government's time making sure dogs are buckled up, when children don't have to wear a seat belt on a bus. What is wrong with our system?
Lowell

FOOLISH BILL: About the proposed dog-belt law: It's pretty ridiculous that they'll fine you $50 when the children who ride on school buses aren't buckled up.

Dracut

BACK TO WORK: How much longer is the town of Billerica going to waste money paying those three officers who have been paid to stay home for the last eight months?

Billerica

RISKY ROADWAY: Has anyone taken a look at the overpass at Interstate 495 going over Route 38 in Tewksbury? It's falling apart, rusted right to the struts. It looks like a dangerous situation. Is it on the list for repairs or replacement?

Tewksbury

SAFETY FIRST: What's with the lipstick having lead in it? Is that from China also? Don't we make anything here in the U.S.? Let's go back to the olden days -- if we can't make it, we go without. We'd be a lot safer.

Tyngsboro

LET IT GO: Why is the neighbor of Jones Farm making such a big deal of the small cafe with a couple of tables so you can sit for a piece of pie and coffee? Leave it alone; they're not bothering anybody.

No town given

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 2:48 PM

October 15, 2007

Backtalk 10/15/2007

Backtalk
The Lowell Sun
Article Last Updated: 10/15/2007 11:36:09 AM EDT

POOR TASTE: I was very disturbed by Chet Atkins' comments regarding congressional candidate Jim Ogonowski and racism. The campaign should not sink to such low levels.

Lowell

STOP CALLING: I am very tired of the Ogonowski and Tsongas campaigns calling my home. The calls keep coming. My answering machine is full every day. I am getting calls from them both from 6-9 p.m. at night. Stop the calls.

Billerica

SUPPORT TSONGAS: Niki Tsongas will serve the 5th District very well. She has the experience and the contacts to get things done in Washington.

Tewksbury

VOTE OGONOWSKI: I think Jim Ogonowski should be elected to Congress. He knows what it's like to struggle to make ends meet, and he has military experience.

Dracut

THOMPSON FAN: Vote for Kevin Thompson tomorrow. He is the best candidate for the 5th District.

Tewksbury

VOTE FOR MURPHY: Patrick Murphy will make an excellent congressman. He understands the issues and is a terrific speaker. I'm voting for him.

Groton

LET DOWN: How very disappointing that The Sun endorsed Niki Tsongas. Does The Sun now support raising taxes and amnesty for illegals? They should have endorsed Jim Ogonowski, who will stand by the people and will not play partisan politics.
Westford

HAPPY READER: I was stunned, but thrilled, when I read that The Sun endorsed Niki Tsongas for Congress. The Sun will finally agree with the majority of its readership.

Lowell

BOYCOTT: I can't believe lead in toys is still an issue. It's time to boycott everything made in China. I, for one, will check everything I buy this holiday season. If that means I buy no toys this Christmas, so be it. Hit them where they live, right in the pocketbook.

Dracut

WONDERING: Who do you suppose will be president when the bridge in North Chelmsford is completed?

Lowell

HERE'S AN IDEA: They should use the empty Ames Department Store on Bridge Street in Lowell for filming the Micky Ward movie.

Lowell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 3:35 PM

October 11, 2007

Backtalk 10/11/2007

ANSWER QUESTION: Jim Ogonowski's Oct. 3 statement on SCHIP is typical of attack politics today -- "it is all someone else's fault." If he wants me to consider voting for him, he will publicly state specifics of what is wrong with the bill, exactly what fixes he wants to see made, and that he will vote for a bill with these fixes. And his statement should include what level of funding he will vote for. It's time for Mr. Ogonowski to tell us what he stands for -- not against!

Dunstable

HOMETOWN QUERY: If Niki Tsongas wins, will she leave her temporary Lowell apartment and move back to Boston or will she stay here? This is an important issue to consider when determining who to vote for to represent the 5th District.

Lowell

NOT FOR THE BETTER: Beth Kalhauser, former Tyngsboro Council on Aging director, would never have made such an inappropriate decision. Beth ran our center for a good 50 years and never do I remember her closing the center for anyone taking medical leave or going on vacation. Beth's No. 1 priority was always the seniors. I guess times have changed.
Tyngsboro

WRONG LOCATION: Attorney Lentine and his clients can whine all they want. Billerica Center is not the right place for Home Depot. No other town would even consider this.

Billerica

RECUSE: I cannot believe Bob Casey thinks he shouldn't have to recuse himself from the Home Depot vote. He has made it perfectly clear he does not hold the best interest of Billerica at heart but the best interest of his neighborhood.

Billerica

AIM FOR ACCURACY: The sidebar on the front page of Monday's paper has a small headline in the national section that says "Gun rampage." It makes it sound as if a gun committed an act on its own. Why not call it what it is, such as "Disgruntled cop rampage?" I suppose that would step on the wrong toes. I guess it is easier to let legitimate gun owners take the blame.

Ayer

PREDICTION PROBLEM: Hey Chaz, after reading your prediction before ALDS started, I couldn't believe it. You changed your tune after the sweep of the Angels. Will the real Chaz Scoggins please stand up?

Billerica

ROOKIE OF YEAR: Chaz's article about the 2007 Red Sox in review was well written but missed an important point. Dustin Pedroia will be AL Rookie of the year. The last two Sox named over his 35 years were Fisk and Nomar. Good company!

Chelmsford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 4:11 PM

October 9, 2007

Backtalk 10/08/2007

DRUG TESTING: About the two firefighters killed while under the influence of alcohol and drugs: It's an awful thing to say, but any benefits due these two men should not be given to the family. Surprise drug testing should also be done.

Lowell

TOO LENIENT: Luis Negron's punishment of 90 days was not harsh enough; he should've got a minimum of two years. The judge was right on one thing -- he will get mental health counseling because he's got problems.

Chelmsford

GREAT WRITING: About the op-ed column by Bob Reed on Oct. 2: I hope everybody read, "Death, Here and There." It is an enlightening and very good column.

Westford

SUPPORT SAMARAS: I am very strongly watching the Lowell School Committee and possible mayoral candidates running for City Council, to see who supports Headmaster Bill Samaras and who doesn't. I have every reason to want to elect only people who will give Samaras an extension to his contract. He is the right man for Lowell High School.

Lowell

DON'T DO IT: Regarding the article about Dracut giving 13 acres to Lowell: It's ridiculous. There are so many houses for sale that haven't sold. The only one who will make money is the builder. The schools and town will suffer the consequences.
Dracut

JUST SAY NO: The state forest is there for a reason. It was never meant to be subdivided. Totman Road between Lowell and Dracut is a fire road. Dracut, just say no, don't do it.

Chelmsford

OUT OF IRAQ: I won't vote for Jim Ogonowski because he doesn't want us to leave Iraq until it's safe and secure. Iraq will never be safe and secure.

Billerica

SAME OLD NAMES: I'd like to see new names in Washington, D.C. I'm not voting for anybody named Clinton, Tsongas, Kennedy or Bush, if another one ever runs.

Tyngsboro

STOP CALLING: The elections are coming up, and the phone calls have started up again. I thought voting information was private, and it should be kept that way. It would be a great service if you could print the phone numbers for Ogonowski and Tsongas so we could tell them to stop calling our homes during dinnertime.

Chelmsford

OVERKILL: I think I know why Westford's taxes are so high. They have too many police on the force. I noticed during the day there were two police officers looking for speeders within a half-mile of each other.

Westford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 10:16 AM

October 4, 2007

Backtalk 10/04/2007

BRAVE SOLDIER: May Zachary Tellier rest in peace. He was a courageous soldier who gave his life to defend our country. My thoughts are with his family.

Groton

CUT COSTS: Residents are taken over the coals again with extra fees in town. Where are the selectmen for the residents? Maybe if we didn't hire people for more than $100,000 a year who are not needed, these charges would not be necessary. It is time for a new management from the top down to stop spending.

Billerica

WONDERING: I'm confused after Bill Clinton's appearance at Lowell Memorial Auditorium. Who is the Democratic candidate in the 5th District -- Bill Clinton or Nancy Pelosi?

Dunstable

GREAT LEADER: It was wonderful having Bill Clinton in Lowell. What a fabulous speaker. He is such a positive force and has a very dynamic personality.

Tewksbury

SUPPORT TSONGAS: Niki Tsongas is an excellent candidate who has really energized this election. She is intelligent, articulate and talented. She will be a fine addition to Congress.

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Lowell

VOTE OGONOWSKI: Jim Ogonowski has my vote. It's time the 5th District gets out from under the business-as-usual Democrats and votes in a fresh, new face who'll champion common-sense ideas with which the typical guy and gal on the street can truly identify.

Chelmsford

FASHION FAUX PAS: Am I the only one who hates the new clothing styles? Everything is tight, short and low. What is the matter with the fashion designers? It's a sick enough world as it is without adding to it.

Lowell

GOOD TALE: Great article about top-notch jockey Red Keene. Had him on many winners at Rockingham Park, also Oaklawn Race Park, which is located in Arkansas, not Illinois.

Pepperell

TRAFFIC TIE-UP: Great job planning for the new set of three traffic lights on Lakeview Avenue. Now the traffic is backed up to the Beaver Brook bridge at 7 a.m. -- almost a mile.

Dracut

NO BUTTS ABOUT IT: If you smoke cigarettes and you're driving, please put out your smokes in your own ashtray in your car. Please stop throwing them out your window onto the city streets and country roads. It's not only disgusting, it's a hazard.

Tyngsboro

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 8:27 PM

Backtalk 10/03/2007

GREAT WRITING: Wonderful column by Dan Phelps; he tells the truth. I support the veterans in Lowell. Where would we be today without the veterans?

Lowell

EXCELLENT COLUMN: I loved the article by Dan Phelps about Clinton and Tsongas. Great job.

Lowell

DAN IS WRONG: Shame on The Sun for allowing Dan Phelps to write a column of years ago regarding the late Sen. Tsongas. It showed disrespect to Niki Tsongas.

Lowell

BRING TROOPS HOME: Jim Ogonowski wants to wait until Iraq is "safe and secure." How many more of our sons and daughters will die or be maimed for that? Let's bring them home now.

Billerica

WHAT ABOUT US?: There's a house being sold in Tyngsboro, and one of the selling points is that it's on town sewer. How nice for them. We've been stuck since the sewer project was halted to accommodate funding for that palace of an elementary school. We're being ripped off.

Tyngsboro

RISKY ROADS: They should put either stop signs or lights at the intersection of Fletcher and Pawtucket streets. The intersection is always blocked with cars, and you cannot get onto Pawtucket Street when on Fletcher Street.
Lowell

RINK REQUIRED: If they're going to let the Simon Group build in Tewksbury, they should at least have to build the hockey rink. They shouldn't let them out of that deal.

Tewksbury

RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS: The police are violating people's rights when it comes to carrying firearms. We're supposed to be able to carry them, according to the Constitution, but the cities and towns like to control it. They don't want anyone carrying a gun legally and want to arrest those who are carrying them illegally.

Dracut

ENFORCE RULES: What has happened to our Chelmsford fence committee and bylaw with the rules for height, shape, safety and consideration of others and the right side or wrong side facing one's property?

Chelmsford

STORES WANTED: Why don't they put a Marshalls or Home Depot on Bridge Street? We have nothing over this way.

Dracut

NO PRICE BREAK: Now that National Grid and Keyspan have merged, does that mean we're all going to get a break on our heat, hot water and electric bills? I doubt it. That's called a monopoly. Let's see what happens with the prices now.

Lowell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 8:26 PM

October 2, 2007

Backtalk 10/02/2007

TWO BRIDGES: I have long thought that keeping both bridges is a great idea. One suggestion, have each bridge one direction only.

Chelmsford

EQUAL TREATMENT?: Why do Rev. Al Sharpton and Rev. Jesse Jackson not consider the beating of a white man by six black men a hate crime? Enough with the double standards.

Dracut

ON TARGET: Dan Phelps writes a compelling column regarding the animosity between Bill Clinton and Paul Tsongas. He captures the essence of Clinton's moral corruptness which further explains why honorable Vietnam veterans wished to have their flag removed from the Lowell Memorial Auditorium during his visit.

Tyngsboro

STORE NEEDED: We do need a Walgreen's on Middlesex Street at the bridge. Everyone knows that when the permanent bridge is built, the state is going to take the CVS land to build it because too many people will protest taking the soccer fields.

Lowell

FOLLOW RULES: How can one person cause so much havoc? The cemetery workers have been wonderful as far as letting

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us maintain our loved one's resting place. However, this one person is going to ruin it for everyone.
Billerica

WITNESS WANTED: If anyone witnessed a hit-and-run accident on Middlesex Road in front of the Pheasant Lane Mall around 3:45 p.m. Saturday involving a white Dodge Intrepid and white pickup with a red dirt bike in the bed, please call Tyngsboro Police and ask for Officer Ryder.

Lowell

PRIORITIES PLEASE: My daughter goes to kindergarten and comes home with at least four different booklets of fundraising items after I bought all her school supplies. The superintendent needs a Blackberry, but we can't get new pencils for the students.

Chelmsford

TOO COSTLY: Westford was told that there would be no cost to the town for a camp operation. Untrue. This is a town, not a charity. We have a Recreation Department that is more than capable of running a camp. There's a cute deal going on between the East Boston Camps people and the people in this town who think they are so much better than most of us. Thank God we have three selectmen who see through this.

Westford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:09 PM

October 1, 2007

Backtalk 10/01/2007

Backtalk

KEEP BOTH BRIDGES: If you've already got a temporary bridge, and they're fixing the old bridge, why wouldn't you keep two bridges? There's a lot of traffic over the Tyngsboro bridge. Seems like a waste of money taking the other one down.

Tewksbury

BEST WISHES: Congratulations to Police Superintendent Ken Lavallee. The city of Lowell will be a better place for it.

Lowell

EQUAL TREATMENT: If the Lowell Memorial Auditorium is used for one political party, it should be used for the other -- equal time. I just hope someone is paying the bill.

Ayer

OBEY RULES: Cemetery regulations are in place for a reason. When the woman and her fiancé erected a 20-foot flagpole in the Billerica cemetery, it's just another example of how people in our society think rules are made for everyone except for them. This is a waste of court time and taxpayers' money.

Tyngsboro

THANK YOU: I wanted to send a thank you along to Gunther. the city employee who always responds quickly when called to take care of dumping in the neighborhood.
Lowell

NO INSURANCE: We have a crisis going on in Chelmsford. The schools need money, they want to close fire stations, yet we have four upright citizens for whom we have to pay insurance. They make enough money in their private jobs to pay for it themselves.

Chelmsford

ARTIFICIAL TURF: Now would be a great time for Dracut to look into an artificial field at the high school. Replace the field that's there so it can be used 24 hours a day. The maintenance costs are much lower and the added usage would take care of all the scheduling problems. Dracut refuses to come out of the Dark Ages.

Dracut

DRESSING DOWN: The Style section in the Sun is a perfect example of how low our ideals of proper dress have shrunk. Blue jeans used to be a mark of poverty; today there is no distinction. Any pair of blue jeans will do for any occasion.

Lowell

POWER FAILURE: Why is it that certain parts of North Chelmsford get momentary power outages between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. almost every Sunday? Something strange is going on.

North Chelmsford

MONEY MATTERS: I agree with the person who wrote in and said we should not have "In God We Trust" engraved in our coins. I think we should engrave "In Gold We Trust."

Billerica

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 2:47 PM

Backtalk 09/30/2007

NO CASINOS: Does Massachusetts want to be known for promoting compulsive gambling? The money has to come from another source. Does Gov. Patrick want to be known as the one who promoted the gambling problems of our residents? He should think about personal responsibility.

Lowell

DISAPPOINTED: What is going on? Churches are closing everywhere, and businessmen are fighting for casinos. For shame, for shame.

Dracut

KEEP THE FLAG: About the flag pole in Fox Hill Cemetery in Billerica: After seeing that flag, it looks absolutely beautiful. Since the land is town property, with the consent of the family, possibly the family could give the flag to the town. Because it would become town property, it would prevent others from doing the same thing. We hope the flag stays.

Billerica

A GOOD TIME: Townsend's 275th anniversary parade was great. Great crowd; fantastic floats. Congratulations to the committee for putting on such a great parade. I'm sure everyone enjoyed it.

Groton

NO ADMITTANCE: Why did the U.S. allow the Iranian president to come to this country? Don't we have a responsibility to our armed forces and their families? Why should we protect him while he is here? They should have let him fend for himself like every American has to do, instead of using taxpayer money.
Lowell

POSITIVE EXAMPLE: Hat's off to the new Tyngsboro police chief. I've seen nothing but good, positive leadership. Let's hope other chiefs take note of his performance. The region has suffered enough from ineffective police chiefs.

Tyngsboro

A SAD LOSS: I praise Dave Perry, Jon Hill and Bill Bridgeford for the wonderful story and pictures on Kelly Page, the Lowell firefighter who lost his life. It was so well written and made you feel you were there. They should all win awards. May his family have peace in all the years to come. Kelly will never leave their hearts.

Tewksbury

PRIORITIES: The Notre Dame football coach, Charlie Weiss, should spend more time recruiting and less time suing his doctors in Boston. Maybe his team would have better results.

Acton

BRING TROOPS HOME: It's long past time for the U.S. to bring our troops home from Iraq. They have done all that we asked of them and more, now let them come home to their families.

Wilmington

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 11:26 AM

September 28, 2007

Backtalk 09/28/2007

TRUE HERO: It was great to see an outpouring of support for Kelly Page. He was a hero in every sense of the word. May God be with his family in this very difficult time.

Chelmsford

BEST APPLICANTS: About the Lowell superintendent of schools' hiring people from outside the area: I give her credit. Obviously, she's hiring people who are most qualified. Just because they work in the system doesn't mean they're capable of running a school.

Lowell

TWO QUESTIONS: I am hoping when The Sun interviews City Council candidates, two questions are asked: How would they have voted on former City Manager John Cox; and how would they have voted on extending current City Manager Bernie Lynch's contract? This would tell me who truly is for Lowell, and who has his own political agenda.

Lowell

COSTLY CHANGES: First, we lost our Christmas tree removal, then we lost leaf pickup, then our town manager came up with a plan for an ambulance service that will benefit only the firefighters. Now he wants to charge us for trash removal. And he thinks an override will pass? Maybe if he moved to Chelmsford he wouldn't think these are such grand ideas.
Chelmsford

FLAGPOLE FAN: In regard to the flagpole in Fox Hill Cemetery: My son was recently buried in the same section. I have no problem with the flagpole -- it's done very tastefully. If you look at other sites, a lot are very tacky and messy. At least it's a good, American symbol that is kept neat looking. I support this.

Billerica

FEWER GUNS: About the drop in Massachusetts gun sales: That is good; we don't need anymore guns on the streets. All they want is to make money. Reduce crime, don't add more crime.

Lowell

THOUGHTFUL STRANGER: A sincere, thank you very much to the person who found my check on Progress Avenue in Tyngsboro last Friday, and took the time and effort to drive out to Dunstable and put it in my mailbox.

Dunstable

GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS: The LRTA personnel are very kind and patient people. As a newcomer to this area who has never had to ride a bus or train before, I've called them several times to ask questions and they are very nice about it.

Lowell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 4:02 PM | Comments (1)

September 27, 2007

Backtalk 09/27/2007

NO JOKE: Those who think the state will benefit from casinos are kidding themselves. Do you think that the "much-needed revenue" is going to be helpful to you? That money will fund new government bureaucracies, more patronage jobs, and ever-fattening pensions and benefits. Please wake up.

Dracut

KIDS ARE LAST?: About the lack of security at Chelmsford High School versus the administration building: In Chelmsford, school administration takes care of itself first, teachers second and kids last. Remember this when they ask for an override.

Chelmsford

HELP OTHERS: Regarding the divinity student's letter banning "In God We Trust" on money: By keeping the motto, it is a good reminder that we need to share our bounty with those of need. We are "to give alms" and our money should keep us mindful of our humane duties, regardless of religious preference.

Groton

FOLLOW RULES: I have had my parents at Fox Hill Cemetery for many years. I cannot place anything there permanently. They will remove it. This woman should abide by the rules. If she wins, anyone can put anything on the graves. That would be a disaster. The place has been very well kept, until now.
Billerica

STOP TRASH PICKING: Lately my neighborhood has been swarming with trash pickers. It is getting out of control. They come at all hours of the night with their loud trucks. Sometimes they take all of my trash bags. Why is it acceptable for someone to look through my trash? Who is going to put a stop to it?

Lowell

GREAT EFFORT: Kudos to the Center for Weight Management and Bariatric Surgery (Lowell General Hospital) and everyone who came out to do the Walk from Obesity last Saturday. It was nice to see the community get so involved in such a worthy cause. Community is what it's all about!

Pelham, N.H.

RISKY PRACTICE: Traveling south on Route 3 through Nashua, I had to brake quickly when a state trooper standing in the middle of the road was stopping speeders in the fast lane. I almost got rear-ended. Crossing into Massachusetts, another state trooper was stopping speeders on the left side, creating a dangerous situation. Must someone get killed before this practice stops?

Westford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 3:11 PM

September 26, 2007

Backtalk 09/26/2007

USE THE ARENA: As a veteran, I object to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium being used for political purposes when Bill Clinton visits. If it were a Republican who was coming in, I'm quite sure all our Democratic leaders would be up in arms. Let them use the Tsongas Arena, like anyone else would have to.

Lowell

USE AUDITORIUM: What's the big deal about letting President Clinton speak at Lowell Memorial Auditorium? I think the city should rent it out whenever possible. It's a public building.

Lowell

TOUGH SENTENCE: Those individuals who stole the bird and then got into a fatal accident with the motorcyclist should be put away for the rest of their lives. There is no excuse, and there should be no leniency. I feel badly for the family of the man who was killed.

Dracut

PRUDENT DECISION: Thank you to the Shirley selectmen for their concise and logical vote to table the vote regarding the train station. They are more logical than the selectmen in Ayer and will at least look at the regional picture, and not

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just for their town. Having it in the downtown area will only create traffic and chaos. Why not go regional? That makes more sense.
Shirley

About the teacher raises in Tyngsboro: They are actually higher than the article made it appear. They did away with many steps in their contract that automatically gave them additional increases over the percentage reported in The Sun article. There was no way the teachers' union would absorb the town's health-care contribution changes without these hidden increases.

Tyngsboro

REMEMBER HOLIDAYS: As a Chelmsford Pop Warner parent, it's disgusting that they had cheerleading practices on the Jewish High Holidays. They've done it many times in the past, and someone should do something about it.

Chelmsford

DISAPPOINTING: As an enthusiastic soccer fan, I was saddened at the varsity game between Westford Academy and Tyngsboro, and to hear a comment from a Westford player, "Let's not get down to their level." We are the new kids on the block in Tyngsboro, and you do outnumber us in Westford, but I believe we gave you a respectable and challenging game.

Tyngsboro

BOYCOTT: About the article on the couple with twins who work for Holden Health Care: I would not have any further dealings if I were an individual, resident or business in Lowell, because of what they did to that family.

No town given

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:08 PM

September 25, 2007

Backtalk 09/25/2007

PRIVATIZE FIRE SERVICE: If there are not enough fires to keep a fire department busy, then any committee set up to review the ambulance service must also look at the option of privatizing the fire department.

Chelmsford

CUT FROM TOP: They're talking about cutting into the MBTA's retirement fund. I hope they're also going to do that to the senators, state employees and the governor. Why don't they give back some of the big raises they received?

Tewksbury

FOLLOW RULES: Since when does an American have the right to put up a flagpole on another's property? If you didn't think it was against the rules, why put it up on a weekend? Anything erected, including stones, has to go through the cemetery department.

Billerica

DOESN'T FIT: A 20-foot flagpole does not belong at a grave site. The cemetery has rules that have to be followed by all. If this flagpole is allowed, then others will follow and the place will look like an eyesore. I think it's common sense that it shouldn't be there. How many other cemeteries

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do you see that have a 20-foot flagpole in place?
Billerica

LOW-PAYING JOBS: Casinos in Massachusetts will not bring more jobs. When you go to Foxwoods, your tickets are automated, you get your own change and no one offers you a drink. The only jobs will be for housekeepers and security guards.

No town given

CONSIDER THIS: In the 1864 national election, Democrats wanted to end the war, and Republicans wanted to persevere. Where would America be today if the people hadn't voted the way they did? Think about that come election time.

Dracut

RETAIN HEADMASTER: As a lifelong resident of Lowell who has taught in the Lowell schools for over 20 years, it saddens me to see what the Lowell superintendent has done to the morale of our schools and employees. I hope Lowell High Headmaster Bill Samaras is still working when school opens next fall.

Lowell

STUDENTS ON STRIKE: Tyngsboro High School students have to pay $250 to park at school. That's not fair because the townspeople are already paying taxes and passed an override for the schools. The students should strike.

Tyngsboro

COYOTE ALERT: Pet owners should watch out for coyotes. Another cat was killed recently in the School Street area of Chelmsford. We will miss you, Gracie.

Chelmsford

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:20 PM

September 21, 2007

Backtalk 09/21/2007

NO TO CASINOS: At first when I read about the state billing me 5 cents a mile to use interstates, I almost blew a gasket. Then Deval Patrick comes out backing casinos being built here, with them offering new revenue sources. They are trying to scare taxpayers into supporting something that goes against common sense. Don't be fooled.

Dracut

PATRICK FAN: Is Gov. Deval Patrick doing such a wonderful job that his detractors need to make up reasons to criticize him? The Sun's editorial about Deval Patrick's statement on 9/11 was mean and delusional. It was also a failure to understand simple English grammar.

Lowell

EASY DECISION: Let's see now, the residents will gain thousands of jobs, the state will gain hundreds of millions of dollars, and thousands of people won't have to drive to Foxwoods. A true no-brainer. Congratulations to Gov. Patrick. It is about time for casinos in Massachusetts.

Billerica

NO SUBTERFUGE: Bill Belichick was not fined for cheating but for violating an NFL rule by using a video camera on the sidelines after being told not to. If the same cameraman had been in the stands, there would have been no problem. He obviously wasn't trying to hide anything since the camera was in plain view. Maybe he just wanted everyone to know that there was a rat in the stadium.
Tewksbury

VOTE FOR TSONGAS: I am voting for Niki Tsongas. I like her stances on the issues and think she'll be able to get things done for the 5th District.

Dracut

SUPPORT OGONOWSKI: Is there no wonder why people are fed up with politicians? It is always the same political families getting elected. In the end, nothing changes. This upcoming election is an opportunity to vote for someone new. I'm voting for Jim Ogonowski.

Lowell

SCHOOL SECURITY?: I was stunned when I was able to enter Chelmsford High School without having to be buzzed in or even stopped by any adult. I can't get into the school administration building that easily.

Chelmsford

DISHEARTENED: The morale on the Tewksbury Police Department is so poor it could not field 15 current and former police officers to represent the department in a golf match against the fire department. There is a need for change in the administration.

Tewksbury

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:00 PM

September 20, 2007

Backtalk 09/20/2007

REAL GENTLEMAN: I had the pleasure of working with firefighter Kelly Page. He was a true southern gentleman. My prayers go out to his family.

Lowell

GREAT LOSS: The city of Lowell has lost one of its greatest firefighters. I worked with Kelly Page for the last two years, and he will be missed. Our condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

Chelmsford

WHERE'S THE MONEY?: I want to know where my gas and excise tax dollars have gone all these years? The roads and bridges should have been fixed. We had a democratic House and Senate for years. Where is the money?

Westford

THE 'O' WORD: In Saturday's Sun, it said Chelmsford voters have not been asked to consider an override since 1992. There were three override proposals for school-property enhancement in 2003 and 2004. The first two, for more than $100 million and $80 million, were defeated; the third for $31 million passed.

Chelmsford

Editor's note: Those proposals were for debt exemptions, not overrides.

TAPPED OUT: About the override in Chelmsford: With a deficit of $1 million, where are they going to get the money to fund the ambulance service? I'm a senior citizen on a fixed income. How much more do they want to take from us?
Chelmsford

SPLIT RATE: Instead of getting into an override in Chelmsford, why don't the selectmen get into the classification where businesses would pay a different tax differential so they would pay their fair share and the residents wouldn't have to have an override?

Chelmsford

GOOD DECISION: Congratulations to City Manager Bernie Lynch on his contract extension, which was well deserved. Six votes for him, as well as the city and taxpayers; three votes against.

Lowell

PUNISHMENTS: I applaud Dracut High School's new principal for beefing up discipline. I used to teach at that school and quit -- without notice -- because of the administration's failure to back up my attempts at discipline. Kids need discipline, and it looks like this new principal is going to do it.

Dracut

LET IT GO: About the Patriots: The media are making a mountain out of a molehill. Other teams have been doing it for years -- they just got caught. Move on.

Westford

NEW COACH NEEDED: The Red Sox should get a new coach. Francona doesn't know what he's doing. He's lost 14 to 15 games so far by letting the first and second men get on and no bunt.

No town given

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:17 PM

September 19, 2007

Backtalk 09/19/2007

Backtalk
The Lowell Sun
Article Last Updated: 09/19/2007 11:31:39 AM EDT

GOOD JOB: I am very proud of Selectmen Phil Eliopoulos, Clare Jeannotte and Pat Wojtas. They made the right decision last week by pushing for more information on the ambulance proposal. They should be commended.

Chelmsford

NONE OF OUR BUSINESS: Chelmsford has a very valuable asset in their firefighters. The Sun ought to keep out of our arguments and let the townspeople speak for themselves.

Chelmsford

WHY LAPTOPS?: About the laptops that were stolen from Tewksbury High School: Why are they buying laptops for a high school? They are more expensive than traditional computers. What do they need them for? If they're using them at school, why do they have to be portable?

Tewksbury

HARSH REALITY: Every bit of newspaper coverage to honor and remember Paul Sullivan has been wonderful. Paul's column left blank the other day was really stunning. It really brought the reality home.

Lowell

THANK YOU, PAUL: I was saddened to hear about Paul Sullivan. He was a great guy. Thank you to him for supporting the Lowell School custodians years ago. We're still here thanks to him.
Lowell

A KIND HEART: Paul Sullivan lived in our neighborhood during our adolescent years. He was a friend to our son who had a learning disability. Many young folks couldn't be bothered with him, but Paul did. Our son passed away suddenly in 1979, and we still remember what kind of person Paul was. Thank you, Paul.

No town given

MORE TO COME?: The Patriots have been caught. I'm willing to bet there are many other teams doing the same thing. Let's hope they also get caught.

Westford

INTERESTING IDEA: Now that the Patriots have admitted they are guilty, they are being fined and are losing draft picks. On an up note, I suppose we could save some face by changing our name and logo, and then we can join the other two cats that are in the franchise with the NFL -- the Jaguars, Panthers, and now, the "Cheetahs."

Lowell

JUST CURIOUS: The Patriots were not cheating, they were just trying to figure out what the Jets were doing wrong on defense that would cause such a blowout in the first quarter.

Lowell

COMPETITION WANTED: Verizon, when are you coming to Pepperell with your cable so we won't be held hostage any longer by Charter Communications?

Pepperell

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 11:43 AM

Backtalk 09/18/2007

NEVER POPULAR: When Democrats refer to Iraq as an "unpopular war" isn't that an oxymoron? When is a war popular? We shouldn't be playing politics with a dire fact of life. Read the history books and see what happens to the weak. Are we next?

Groton

NO TOLERANCE: The Sun editorial of Saturday, Sept. 15, "NFL has unfairly tainted Patriots" implies that it is OK for the Patriots to cheat because other NFL teams have done the same. The Sun is sending the wrong message. The supposition that "other NFL violators were left off the hook" does not excuse dishonesty. Young people need role models that convey uncompromised integrity. The Sun should rethink its position and advocate zero tolerance for such behavior.

Tyngsboro

A SAD LOSS: Kelly Page, we will miss you. You were truly a family guy and someone who would do anything asked of you. I know we will miss you and your great southern sense of humor. Your "brothers" will indeed take care of Kate and the girls, don't worry.

Westford

THINKING OF PAUL: I never met Paul Sullivan, but I was always grateful to him for taking time on his radio show to say some nice words about my late husband who passed away from lung cancer in 1998. I only wish I could have heard those words, but I was attending my husband's funeral while Paul's show was on. But the many people who came up to me after to tell me what Paul had said lifted my heart. Please know that my thoughts are with Paul's wife and family at this time of great sorrow.
Dotty McGarry, Dracut

GOOD DECISION: I'm happy to see that the majority of the City Council approved the extension of City Manager Lynch's contract. He's doing a terrific job. Unfortunately, however, the vote wasn't unanimous, as it should have been. Unfortunately, we still have a small group of nay-sayers on the City Council.

Lowell

CONSIDER TEWKSBURY: If Lowell doesn't want Bernie Lynch anymore, maybe Tewksbury should take him. He'd straighten out the budget problem for us.

Tewksbury

ON TARGET: I loved Dennis Whitton's article about Holliston and Tyngsboro in the football program. I agree with him that Tyngsboro is going to need some help this year coming into the DCL.

Westford

TICKET THEM: I wish the Billerica police would ticket all the illegally parked cars on Station Street. They'd make a fortune.

Billerica

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 9:12 AM

September 13, 2007

BackTalk Entry 09/13/07

SHOCKING: After all these families and U.S. citizens have gone through since 9/11, I think it is a disgrace that this seems to have turned political. There is a time and a placefor politics and politicians have no shame.
Chelmsford

Posted by Admin at 2:23 PM

September 12, 2007

BackTalk 09/12/07

Backtalk
The Lowell Sun
Article Last Updated: 09/18/2007 11:31:45 AM EDT

NEVER POPULAR: When Democrats refer to Iraq as an "unpopular war" isn't that an oxymoron? When is a war popular? We shouldn't be playing politics with a dire fact of life. Read the history books and see what happens to the weak. Are we next?

Groton

NO TOLERANCE: The Sun editorial of Saturday, Sept. 15, "NFL has unfairly tainted Patriots" implies that it is OK for the Patriots to cheat because other NFL teams have done the same. The Sun is sending the wrong message. The supposition that "other NFL violators were left off the hook" does not excuse dishonesty. Young people need role models that convey uncompromised integrity. The Sun should rethink its position and advocate zero tolerance for such behavior.

Tyngsboro

A SAD LOSS: Kelly Page, we will miss you. You were truly a family guy and someone who would do anything asked of you. I know we will miss you and your great southern sense of humor. Your "brothers" will indeed take care of Kate and the girls, don't worry.

Westford

THINKING OF PAUL: I never met Paul Sullivan, but I was always grateful to him for taking time on his radio show to say some nice words about my late husband who passed away from lung cancer in 1998. I only wish I could have heard those words, but I was attending my husband's funeral while Paul's show was on. But the many people who came up to me after to tell me what Paul had said lifted my heart. Please know that my thoughts are with Paul's wife and family at this time of great sorrow.
Dotty McGarry, Dracut

GOOD DECISION: I'm happy to see that the majority of the City Council approved the extension of City Manager Lynch's contract. He's doing a terrific job. Unfortunately, however, the vote wasn't unanimous, as it should have been. Unfortunately, we still have a small group of nay-sayers on the City Council.

Lowell

CONSIDER TEWKSBURY: If Lowell doesn't want Bernie Lynch anymore, maybe Tewksbury should take him. He'd straighten out the budget problem for us.

Tewksbury

ON TARGET: I loved Dennis Whitton's article about Holliston and Tyngsboro in the football program. I agree with him that Tyngsboro is going to need some help this year coming into the DCL.

Westford

TICKET THEM: I wish the Billerica police would ticket all the illegally parked cars on Station Street. They'd make a fortune.

Billerica

BackTalk is an anonymous call-in line for readers to voice opinions on local, state and national issues. Personal attacks will not be published.

Posted by Admin at 12:59 PM

September 11, 2007

BackTalk Entry 9/9/07

BOYCOTTING: We have two people running on name only with no political experience. This will be the first election that I won't vote in because neither candidate should be there.

No town given

Posted by Admin at 3:54 PM | Comments (2)