Merry Phucking Christmas from the Bonfanti Administration!

I hope you all had the time to open your new gift from the asshole in the corner office!  I seem to remember an article in the Salem News about Peabody's taxes going up an average of $198.00!  Well I just opened mine up to see that it has gone up by $564.00 per year!  Is this a going away present from this Piece of garbage that calls himself a mayor?

Happy New Year All!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Gravel plots his course...

I could chaulk this one up as a "Twisted Tanner Rumor Mill" story, but my source is much too wise to allow me to call it such!!!!  There has been a lot of talk about City Council President David C. Gravel running for the corner office in 2011, after-all...that is why he has been trying like hell to force this whole "RE-ZONING" thing down the throats of the current council... to say he did something!!!

So...Anyways...I have heard today from a VERY RELIABLE SOURCE that Dave Gravel was in ward six at a residence on Eisenhower rd. plotting a plan for his candidacy for mayor in the upcoming election! 

Ted Bettencourt came out on top in the At-Large contest and finished atop the pack in Westville, however, Gravel was a close second! Why? How?  So as the plot thickens and the posturing begins, it appears that The Rat is starting to mount his attack!  Let's see if he can get the cheese!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

The Twisted Tanner Rumor Mill

Well, I guess the first part of this article is everything BUT a rumor...and that is, that Theodore Bettencourt will be making a run for the corner office.  I do think, however, that what has begun to make it's way across the city as a rumor could spell DOOM for his campaign!  I am talking in reference to a supposed claim that he has chosen one of Peabody's most despicable politicians to be his campaign manager.

According to a close source, he has chosen David McGeney to be his campaign manager!!  OMG I just threw up in my mouth!  And it is already starting to look like the pieces of the puzzle are starting to line up... The newest plot in McGeney's evil mind is to create some type of Community Center, and as you all know, Bonfanti announced last week that he still plans on closing a school....Hmmmm!  Could we soon see the McGeney Community Center at the site of one of the public grammar schools?

Steffy poo can host her own "we are the world" concerts, or whatever they call it.  Hell she can even run the joint!

Any way you slice it, this is not a smart move on the behalf of Theodore.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Crooked Politics at it's finest!

Just heard from one of my many moles!  Charlie Bonfanti is officially a sitting member of the Peabody Municipal Light Plant.  More to follow, I am sure.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Ward 5 Poll Results!

This really seemed to kick-start the Twisted Tanner blog a bit!  A simple post about the leadership opportunities in Ward 5 Peabody.  We seemed to hear from a lot of older blog participants, as well as some new ones that wanted to be heard.  Mr. Bob Croce trounced the other 3 candidates by a mega-landslide, even though Joel Saslaw seemed to pick up a bit of steam towards the end of the poll.  Over-all it would appear that the majority of people that read this blog are not happy with the current bandit whom is the silent leader of ward 5.

I am hoping that this topic got some of the cob-webs off of the Peabody blogger's keyboards and that it will once again pick up as we enter a very exciting election year.  As I wrote in a previous post, there are an awful lot of rumors and scenario's that could play out this time around!  I am hearing that the one truthful story that I heard ... Ted Bettencourt is running for mayor, is absolutely true!  He has started to tell a number of folks, including many other elected officials!  And from what I hear, he has stated that he plans on running no matter WHO else runs! I am guessing that is intended for Bonfanti!!

And let's not count out Sean Fitzgerald!  Sources close to Tanner HQ suggest that he may be interested in leaving the municipal government up in Podunk NH. to make a stab at the corner office!

So once again, a big Twisted Tanner round of applause for Bob Croce, the TT poll winner for Ward 5!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

AVOID DOWNTOWN AT ALL COSTS!

Looking at this illistration I will bring you all to the year 2031.  In the year 2031 the Mayor of the City of Peabody will be Theodore Bettencourt and he will be in his 10th consecutive term having served as Peabody's Mayor for 20 solid years!  He, amongst other leaders will be looking at this photo on the wall in the corner office of futuristic city hall wondering if it will work! 

Back to today...  A unianimous vote of the city council just passed (pending on state authorization) a plan to make main street into a one lane street in either direction!  Yes, thats right ONE LANE!!  You can read the article HERE IN TODAY"S SALEM NEWS .

THIS NEW PLAN IS A BIG MISTAKE THAT WILL COST THE TAXPAYERS MONEY NOW, AND THEN COST US ALL AGAIN TO CHANGE IT BACK!

How can we rely on advise from a vice president of a small local bank when it comes to traffic flow?  Does he have training in this area?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Peabody School Super, NOT SO SUPER!

After an evaluation such as the one handed to Milton Burnett recently you would wonder why he still has a job!  Out of a possible 5 Ole Milt gave himself a 4.27, the school committee, however handed him a 2.66!!  Looks like Uncle Milt has some work to do!  You can read the whole story HERE IN THE SALEM NEWS .

Many folks here in the Dark City feel as though Ole Milt just punches the clock and goes thoriugh the daily routine!  You can see an example of his lack of knowledge  HERE  .  The Superintendent of Schools should be fully aware of any and ALL stipulations set forth by the unions. In my humble opinion, the leaders City of Peabody look like a pack of DONKEYS due to Milt's unawareness!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Calling Ward 5 Residents!!

It has been brought to my attention that many folks residing in Ward 5 would like to see the recent challenger whom battled against Joyce Spiliotis run for the Ward 5 council seat. As of this time Mr. Scafidi has not indicated that he would be interested in such position, however there is a lot of chatter out there on Lowell Street.  So what do you think Twisted Tanner viewers?  Would you like to see Marty try to de-throne Davey Gamache? 

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!                                                                                        

TT

Congratulations to the Victors!

Another election has come and gone, We are still stuck with Deval and Tierney, and Joyce and Ted will continue to try and keep them in line. All in all, I am happy with the outcome in the Peabody sector, and it looks like the majority of the folks out there are starting to understand how big government works by shutting down question 3.  Hope everyone continues to pay attention to the local blogs as this upcoming election cycle in Peabody should be an interesting one.

Some of the chatter I have been hearing includes...

Bettencourt for Mayor
Gravel for Mayor
Manning/Martin for Mayor
Gamache for At-Large
Sinewitz for At-Large
Bonfanti retiring/maybe another term?
Liacos retiring
Driscoll stepping down/Grayson running again?
Forti running again for ward 1
Osbourne stepping down
Peters retiring for electric light
Past councilor Rizzo interested in electric light

These are all just speculation at this point, but should prove to make the next 12 months pretty interesting here in the dark city.  Let's see how it all shakes out.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Twisted Tanner Endorsements...

Everyone be sure to get out and vote tomorrow!  It is your civic duty, every vote counts!  Below are the choices I will be making tomorrow!

Baker for Governor

Hudak for Congress

Spiliotis for 1-5 wards

Speliotis for ward 6

Yes on question 1

No on question 2

No on question 3

Good luck everyone!  See ya at the polls!

TT

At-Large Councilors poke Bonfanti in the eye!

Looks like two of our elite leaders have stepped up to the plate and have publicly voiced their opinion on some shoddy leadership here in the Dark City!  This all stemming from the "land deal gone sour!"  Both people in question have resigned, yet the mayor still preaches of no willful wrong-doings.  Attorney Christopher stated that even though no laws were broken, something stinks!

I believe that this is the FIRST article mentioning anything about Bettencourt clouting publicly about his intention to run for Mayor, and this isn't the first time that Anne Dean Martin Manning has stood firm and spoken strong about the weak leadership and decsions made by Bonfanti.  Soon things will certainly heat up in the local elections, people are talking about Gravel, Manning, and Bettencourt all ttrying for the corner office in 13 months!  What do you think?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Local Races turn up the HEAT!

Lately there has been a lot of chatter on the streets of the Dark City that the two State Reps may be in trouble!  It appears by watching last night's debate at City Hall that these two challengers are a bit more educated than I once thought. Personally I think that Joyce will pull it off in the 12th district, but think thst Ted's ship has sunk in ward 6.  You can read the story from the Salem Evening News HERE !  Apparently alot has cahnged over the past few weeks with peoples' opinions of these folks.

I have attached several new polls, please participate.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Lighten' up FRANCIS!

Looks like Ward 3 Councilor Rico Mello struck a nerve with Peabody Fire Inspector Joseph DiFranco!  Making a statement in regards to the way it seemed that the Fire Dept. was treating a business man in the Dark City.  Woods trucking went before the council for a permit to store fuel on their property on Farm Avenue near the site of the Department of Public Services garage.  The way I see it, this gentleman was trying to follow proper protocol by attaining the proper permit to store the flammable liquid, the Peabody Fire Dept. seemed to have a "hidden agenda" by giving him an unusual/unreasonable hard time during the process.  Ward 3 Councilor Rico Mello seemed to better expose the probability of a "hidden agenda" by stating that this was a "public lynching" of a person/businessman.  Mello even had the support of his counterpart Jimmy "the grouch" Liacos and should have just used his prior remarks in a prior similar case which was a "public flogging!"

Who knows?? I for one am not sure that comparing the statement from Mello's mouth to thousands of deaths of African Americans is a bit much!   HERE IS YOUR LINK!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Great PI work by PI!

Great story on The Peabody Roundtable by PI about an exposed undercover land deal by a city official!  Please click on the link to his site located in the left hand sidebar.  Feel free to post comments on both sites if you do not feel comfortable on one or the other.

Out of town for a while, be back soon!
TT

1.2 Million in Fed funds!

As the latest article in the Salem News will tell you http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1858744339/-1-2M-in-federal-money-lands-in-Peabody-schools the Peabody School system has received 1.2 Million dollars from the Fed. Now we all know of the gripes regarding the bus fees, user fees, weekend heating/cooling fees, teacher layoffs, recent try to close a school and re-district, and most recently the astronomical charge to obtain a class yearbook as a senior!  What is next?  Oh, let's not forget about the School Superintendent's latest pay hike and that secret closed door meeting amongst the elite leaders of said School Committee.

Some hilarious comments at the Salem News website suggest that Mayor Schmuck-a-lufagus "plans of building a city-run nursing center", and "that he is planning on building a performing arts center for his buddy Dave and his wife."  Just a couple of comments out there today, something to think about.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Back with the results!

It's been a while since I've checked in, but there hasn't really been anything that I thought was worth throwing out there for discussion!  I have removed the poll from the sidebar and here are the results...

John Goulos  70% to Charlie Bonfanti's 30%.  Because I consider myself to be an "Insider", but not the one with the blog moniker I will fill you in as to "whom is with whom" on this whole special appointment.

I am told that Goulos is Dumbato's guy!  For this reason and this reason only he will not get my vote, so far I am told that Goulos has Dumbato, Paras, Wheatley, Peters, Mello, Athas, Garabedian, and possibly Bettencourt is his corner.

As for the mayor's brother, Charlie Bonfanti, I am told that he has Gravel, Gamache, Manning, Sinewitz, Liacos, Driscoll, and Osborne.  And of course, maybe Bettencourt.  This should be a big decision for the future mayor (Bettencourt) as he will show whom he'd prefer to work with. BTW neither candidate has a super-majority the way I see it.

The latest I am hearing about Zellen is that he could be taking over as the city treasurer?  Let's wait and see!

Until the next BIG story,
TT

Improvements to Main Street...etc

Ya, blow it up and start over again!  This time install proper drainage and maybe even a bridge over the monument.  You can NOT fix Main street until you fix the flooding first!  Here in the dark city we have our priorities ass-backwards, and as for making it into 2 lanes!!  Oh my god, could these buffoons be serious, we have discussed this issue more than once on this and other Peabody blogs, so chime in if you feel worthy!

Other news as of late:

Former Coach Edward "Niz" Nizwantowski is in court battling his age discrimination case, in my humble opinion I hope he wins...which is something that the Peabody High Football team has been unable to do since he left.  Go COACH! Oh, and run for School Committee again please we need a solid voice for the kids in those chambers!

And of course that "test-snooping" leutenent that we all know ALL OF THE DETAILS ABOUT...ha ha ha!  Looks like he tucked it to em' too!  So make sure your wearing your pajamas while snooping!

Now one that I oppose with all of my being...the 24 year leave of absence by a teacher whom still will receive her pension!  Let's all congratulate the powers that be for passing that one!  Now I know why we have bus fees and user fees!

ALL ABOARD!
TT

Much to do about nothing...

For the past several weeks I have been hearing a lot about Tom Zellen stepping down from his post at the Electric Light Dept.!  WHO CARES!!  What do they actually do to earn their $4000.00 and cushy benefit packages as electric light commissioners anyways?  Is it the 9 two hour meetings they attend?  Yup, that must be it.  So the buzz is that Mr. Zellen might actually have already been slotted for another salaried position inside the four walls of City Hall!! How ya like them apples?  But, hey..let's wait this thing out and see if you (once again) heard it here first.

The other piece of this puzzle is, of course his replacement!  Well of course one option would have to be Mayor Bonfanti's brother Charlie, but then there is another candidate by the name of John Goulos whom name is being spread throughout the dark city as an option.  We know that Charlie B will not get the support of any of the current sitting light commissioners, but will Goulos have enough support from the members of the City Council that will also have to vote on this appointment?  This one should go down to the wire folks, let's be sure to notice whom is supporting Goulos, we already know whom will be backing Bonfanti!

Take the new poll!  Until Next Time,
TT

Minutes? WHAT MINUTES??

Can you believe this shit?  Just months ago the brain surgeons on the Peabody School Committee were contemplating closing an elementary school, this mind-buster of an idea proposed by the Chair person of the School Committee...Mayor Skirt-tail rider.  Then...just weeks later all of the administrators were given pay hikes...now, (as reported in the Salem Evening News) the School Superintendent gets a raise too?

All the while the bus fees rise and the teachers fight over pens, paper, chalk, and books!  I could have never imagined such a clear and utter embarrassment when I cast my vote for Rossignoll and Hochman last year!  What the hell are these guys thinking?  And Brandi Carpenter's comment about not having time to prepare minutes and that she is not a great note-taker, OMG!

Would you ever have thought that these well respected, vote mongering elected officials would do what is right and in the best interest of the schools and the kids that attend them?  Me Neither.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Hello Again!

Not too much going on here in the Dark City lately, so I do not want to bore you all with any insignificant postings.  The only thing that comes to mind to write a post on is the continued success of the Peabody West Williamsport team!  They have a game tonight in Norwood against West Newton.

GOOD LUCK BOYS!

Until something new pops!

TT

It's Joyce and Ted on The Twisted Tanner.

Signs are starting pop up all over Tanner City for the local state representative races which will take place this November!  A political new-comer will face off against Joyce Spiliotis for wards 1-5, his name is Martin Scafidi.  His signs and old broken down truck marred with spray paint in the Hannaford Parking lot have certainly caught the eye of local residents and tow trucks!  Spiliotis has recently been out and about getting her campaign signs propped up on people's lawns as well.  Not much of a race in my opinion, Joyce has always stepped up to the plate to represent her constituents very well and is well known for her constituent services.

The other race is between a well- known former Danvers selectman, Dan Bennett and Ted Speliotis whom is well known for his game show host face and advertised hours at the West Peabody branch library. Ted will certainly have to hold his ground in Danvers with this opponent and be very strong in Peabody.  This race will be a lot closer and could pose a re-count, I predict Ted will prevail due his incumbency.

I have placed 2 new polls to the right hand side of the blog, please feel free to let us know whom you support in these races and your reasoning/feedback is always appreciated!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Rules?? What Rules???

I am often very embarrassed about issues that hit the local papers that reflect how incompetent our current elected officials are.  I happen to be the one and only person from Peabody where I am employed, and holy mackerel...do I hear it!  I happen to work in an environment with a few "ex-Peabody-ites" whom now reside in Salem and Beverly, so boy do they all let me have it!  Ya, we can sit here and talk about transvestites going to the bathroom and how the Anti-Education Mayor's brother will be soon sworn in as the person to replace the person that is going to replace...(STAY TUNED!) 

But all of that stuff is gonna happen and neither you nor I can stop it!  So let's talk about the complete embarrassment that happened at last week's City Council meeting... and that would be:

ENFORCING THE SPECIAL PERMIT VIOLATIONS AT A WEST PEABODY / WARD 6 RESTAURANT. WITH FACTUAL EVIDENCE FROM THE PEABODY POLICE DEPARTMENT THAT THEY WERE OPEN WAY PAST THEIR SPECIAL PERMIT HOURS OF OPERATIONS.

Those whom are not already aware; I watch closely what is going on at the meetings and in this case several members of the "Aggregate Neighbors" where there to both support their councilor and support their friends  on Samos Circle that have issues with the restaurant in question are also friends of mine!  So I have all of the details of what transpired that night and MANY of these folks are disgusted! So I strongly encourage any/all Peabody businesses to pay absolutely no attention to their special permits because apparently they do not apply!

Michael Garabedian whom has been coined here in the past as being "The dumbest man in Peabody" has once again out-done himself by totally shitting on the Peabody Police Department (in my opinion) by describing their efforts as "wondered why it took police three weeks to follow up on the March 6 incident and argued that there were no arrests, fights or other crimes committed and that the owners were under no obligation to violate the privacy of whoever made the reservation." As quoted in the Salem Evening News. Perhaps he is too stupid to realize that he just lost probably close to 500 votes?  Just an estimate.

James Liacos whom has been coined here many times as "The Grouch" left his fellow colleagues with: " uncomfortable with the council holding "show-cause hearings" to discuss special permit violations. He called it "tantamount to a public flogging."

"The idea that you drag someone through all of this is totally disgusting to me," he said. Another quote from the Salem Evening News.  So why have rules Jim? Do you not have the testicular fortitude to uphold the special permits that are passed down to the business owners?  Later in the evening councilor Liacos (and I use that title VERY LOOSELY) wanted to impose a violation on another property and used the possibility of a fire as reason for his concern!!!  Oh,  so having NEARLY 100 PEOPLE LOCKED IN A RESTAURANT WITH NO ACCESS IS NOT A FIRE HAZARD???  THE STATION NIGHT CLUB COMES TO MIND!  Jim, maybe you should brush up on your knowledge of fire department access and emergency exit access in public places before you make a complete ass of yourself next time! Should we mention the fact that the lights in the parking lot were all off too?  A real safe scenario!

Dave Gravel takes the time to listen to the owner's view of how he cleaned up the area with the new building and how he is working really hard.... yada yada yada!  But when one of the neighbors has a chance to talk she is told to stick to the violations at hand or she will be escorted out of the room by a police officer! I can spell O U C H for David Gravel whom has been coined here as "The Rat!" 

So...there you have it folks, a complete embarrassment and a large failure / mark against these previous mentioned folks as the 2011 election cycle nears! 

**Hope I didn't miss anything, Until Next Time!

TT

UNEMPLOYMENT, when is enough...ENOUGH?

I can not help but publish a post based on the 10:00 FOX 25 NEWS tonight!  As always, I am looking for your feedback...

UNEMPLOYMENT in the U.S. and more specifically in MA.  Several people came on to tell how they have been out of work and receiving unemployment benefits for 2 years or more!  That is right, 2 years or more! Just the other day I noticed signs in more than one local supermarket looking for help, as well as a local CVS, are these "unemployed people" too proud to collect carriages, bag groceries, or slice deli meats to put food on their own family"s table without bankrupting the whole freakin' United States?

Now we are waiting for the congress's next meeting to make yet another extension to these people!  It all makes me sick, I say stop the madness!  Make it a 3 month maximum benefit and stop payments immediately, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!  I bet they'd find jobs real quick if that was the case, wouldn't they!  Did you all see all of those bright shiny fireworks exploding over your houses Sunday night?  Yet they all blame it on "THE ECONOMY!"  Apparently they can all afford to light off fireworks to help celebrate their free income!

Until Next Time, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
TT

Your Poll Results

An overwhelming amount of support for the need to have better schools over lower taxes, but like I have said in the past "Add those bus fees and user fees to your current tax rate and you could be living in a colonial in Middleton in a nice new culdesac with a better school system for the same rate!"  But let's take a look at the other poll...Hell this is why our school system has crumbled at it's foundation!!  Since the swearing in of Mayor Bonfanti MCAS has dropped, the curriculum has been lost, found, and changed more than a 1 year old's diaper, the school buildings themselves get little or NO attention, and the staffing of the schools have been depleted.  Hence the outcome of the approval rating VERY NEGATIVE!

Perhaps enrollment has dropped due to the lack of great leadership and the ability to run a great public school system!  Enrollment is down because the word is out that Peabody no-longer takes steps to improve it's School system, they take steps to run it lean!  Before you know it, it will be gone!

Until Next Time, Have a great 4th of July!
TT

Full of Shit in Peabody!

That's what the headline should read in the latest "Community News" section in the Boston Globe under the heading of "Peabody!"

Why nay you ask?  Because there is an article about how Mayor Mikey plans on keeping the Bike Path that Mayor Torigian built for us cut back and free of litter.  He is asking local businesses to "sponsor" a section of Torigian's Bike Path to keep it's appearance up!

Hell why ask those city employees that you just gave a 3% increase to do their jobs?  That would be foolish!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Fact or Fiction?

There seems to be a rumor floating about the Dark City that a longtime Peabody Electric Light Commissioner has resigned?  A proud member of Mayor Mike's Rumpswab Rubberstamp Clan!  Could this just be a set up so that Bonfanti can appoint his brother Charlie?  Let's see how this all pans out!

Until Next Time, Take Care of your own!
TT

Mayoral Madness!

At the meeting last night watching the budgetary process, what a crock of shit. They are completely ruining our public school system, while other various departments throughout the city are being pampered! Not one other dept. has received a pink slip will dozens were passed out within the school system.

Put forth last night was the motion for 3% increases for ALL non-union city employees!  As if that wasn't enough of a kick in the teeth...  LONGEVITY BONUSES!

Cut, cut, cut, and complain about the lack of state aid and raise taxes while handing out raises and making up holidays! Welcome to the Bonfanti era!

Until Next Time, Let freedom Ring!
TT

A couple of new polls----LOOK!

Well, I am not going to do a post about a mulch fire, even though I think that there is something "fishy" there...and I have totally lost all faith that the educational standards will be upheld here in Peabody, well...exept for Brandi.  What the hell happened to the other 6 "or should I waste the time saying 7" school committee members?  OK...we know who you all stand for, participate in my new polls, you can vote for the mini-dick-tator...go ahead!

Pissed off and Out~!
TT

It's a damn shame!

What the hell is going on here in Peabody?  Why is it that the children and their valuable educations are being ignored?  As other departments throughout the city's coffers are receiving raises and cost of living increases...etc. our school system is being completely dismantled!  I will no-longer bring up the fact the Bonfanti coined himself as "The Education Mayor", because clearly that was nothing but a joke in his eyes!  I am very disappointed in the school committee voting this new budget in with only one member having a BACKBONE to stand against it...CONGRATULATIONS BRANDI CARPENTER!!!  The rest of you should all be ashamed of yourselves!

When is the last time ANY of you actually spent a day in one of our city schools watching how the teachers scramble for supplies just to write on the chalkboard?  It should be mandatory that all SC members spend a few days a year watching (internally) how our teachers have to struggle to give the kids the education that they deserve! Then Mrs. Dunne speaks out (after she voted) that it would be now left up to the council...for what, to take the monkey off of her back?  McGeney speaks about the parental commitment and praises their careful wishes while he votes against it!

Bus Fees at $300.00 per child!  School Sports= $$$$!  So much for free education, the people of Peabody with children get penalized for being parents by paying more in fees  /  TAXES!  That should be the headline, and is the legacy of Bonfanti.


Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

THE MAYOR LOSES!

Well it looks like the school committee and the mayor are on different pages as far as closing a school goes! After all, doesn't the school committee merely exist because we HAVE SCHOOLS!  Wouldn't eliminating schools virtually be eliminating their needs also?  Like I said people, you heard it here first A SCHOOL WILL NOT BE CLOSING!  Here is your article  My belief is that the current group of school committee members really DO care about education in Peabody, a lot more than Bonfanti.

Which leads me to my next topic.  The City Council and special permits!  Special permits exist to allow the council to do their job and vote on the needs and wants of special permits, I am hearing that a certain group or block of individuals on the city council are trying to eliminate the special permit process.  Than why the hell would we need a city council? Aside from voting on the budget, we could eliminate 11 potential health care plans and @ $85k a year in city council salaries! So why is this group bickering over this process, because they are losing their ground.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Only believe half of what you hear...

WOW!!  I thought I was having a nightmare last night when I heard of how this School Committee meeting went.  This is really nothing but "political tactfulness"!  Here is what I think...A SCHOOL IS NOT GOING TO BE CLOSED!!!  There are now many scenarios that are on the table:

Scenario #1: Bonfanti knows that Gamache is in trouble in ward 5, this leaves the floor open for Gamache to be a hero and speak out in the future and stop the closing of a school in his ward...my hero!

Scenario #2: It seemed to me that there was a bit of "good cop vs. bad cop" between Bonfanti and McGeney, this could really set up McGeney for a mayoral run with the mayor's backing!!

Scenario #3: Bonfanti is planning on running again and he could increase his vote count by stopping the closure after hyping it all up.

And here is a big question...WHERE WAS TED BETTENCOURT?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

This just in...

I received an e-mail today from a parent that belongs to the PTO in one of the west Peabody Schools,  please read the following and let us know your thoughts!

Good Morning,
I want to let you know that On Monday night at 7:30 at the Kiley School, the Mayor is presenting his plans to close a school. It looks like he would target one of our West Peabody Schools. He is doing this on his own because the school committee would not bring it up or the planning board. He really needs to stop threatening our children’s education. We have been advised to contact anyone who may be affected by this and ask them to support us by trying to attend the budget meeting Monday night. There is a time when the public is allowed to speak so if you would like to, please bring your words with you. We should not have to worry at the end of each year if our kids are going to have to change schools. Isn’t it bad enough our teachers don’t know where they are going.
I know I have sent our emails about other things this year regarding “hot topics”, but this is something we all need to come together for. Hopefully we can overpower them with people so they will not agree to this ridiculous proposal.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

The BIG showdown?

Could the Salem Evening News be trying to tell us all something?  Do they know something that we don't?  After reading yesterday's opinion story about Fred Berry's efforts to try and fix parking issues in our blighted down town I came away with an interesting tidbit.  They mentioned both The Rat and Bettencourt as being "potential 2011 mayoral candidates"!  This isn't the first time we've heard of this potential dual, as a matter of fact...I am hearing that some behind the scenes campaign talks are starting to happen.  I am also hearing that Mayor Mike is touting his "grooming" of Bettencourt!  Not the support mechanism I'd be seeking!!  So what do you all think about this?  If these two faced off Bonfanti would not seek re-election, that is for sure therefore we would be voting for a new mayor in the dark city!  Take the new poll!                                                

All in the family, just a quickie!

In today's paper you can read a new story about Mayor Bonfanti appointing his own brother to the board of the mega-voc.  What is your take on this?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Let's talk "Turkey"...

Or should we call it "CHICKEN!" Let's all face it, you would have to live under a rock in Peabody if you did not know that Ted Bettencourt was running for mayor in 2011!    All of the recent drivel from the poorly received Salem News staff has done everything BUT... give you the news!  So while we are talking "Chicken" or "Turkey" or whatever...Would Michael Bonfanti run for re-election against such a popular "Peabody Kid?"

I say NO, and sources close to TT tell me that Mayor Mike is already working on his "hand-off" speach!  What a joke, if this guy was a real leader he would continue his quest.  Though we still do not know what it is. Or will we read the stories in the Salem Evening News about the need for more assisted living because of the higher ages we  have residing in the city...spaces thus...here you have the "BONFANTI HOUSE!"...A house of NOTHING!

GO TED!  

An uprising November 2, 2010

Comment on my comment...

The Peabody Insider blog (the link is at the side of my blog), has a post asking about the revitilization and flooding issues/fixes of our downtown...here is my "comment"!

"I believe that we need to "shit or get off the pot" with the flooding fixes in our downtown! Trouble is, the people that I know (elected officials included) do not think that the current proposed plan will help AT ALL with the problem.
Not sure if you have been a "Peabody lifer" like myself, but hey...let's think realistically here. Ever since I was a kid Peabody Square has been the armpit of Peabody! Am I proud of it? NO of course not, does it effect me in my neighborhood? NO Do I go downtown for anything? NO Why...because there is nothing there..
SEE...it is a viscious circle that continues to fester (sp?) and grow. If I had to make an educated guess how many times a year I visit the "Downtown Area" I would say maybe 4 times. 4 TIMES A FREAKIN' YEAR!!! And I have lived in Peabody my whole life of 49 years!!
Downtown is a ghetto and has been for decades since the leather factories closed! Mavroulas, Torigian, and now Bonfanti are to blame for the problem. YES the problem has been inherited, and YES none of the previousley mentioned names had the BALLS to say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Building owners, Landlords, and Property Managers need to be held accountable to maintain their buildings with upgrades to keep them "current" or eminent domaine should be forced upon them (somehow) to help Peabody prosper.
A new "Out of the Box" thinking Mayor is what we need, and I do not see one currently on the council. We have heard recently of a "Medical Hub"!!!
WE ALREADY HAVE ALL THE BIG NAMES IN PEABODY!!! IS THIS GUY SMOKING A NEW BRAND OF CRACK THAT HASN'T YET HIT FOSTER STREET? THESE BIG MEDICAL EMPIRES ARE STAYING AS FAR AWAY FROM THE CENTER OF PEABODY AS POSSIBLE! Talk about shooting yourself in the foot!?

Will a real leader please step forward? One that can balance a budget and keep up with the times? Truly, that is all we really need! The budget NEEDS TO BE CUT!!! NOT IN SEFETY OR EDUCATION....JACKASS! Step up to the plate and make a difference... your so called legacy depends on it!"

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

A breath of fresh air!

I breathe a small sigh of relief knowing that new school committee members Tom Rossignoll and Jarrod Hochman have sided with Brandi Carpenter in her fight to obtain federal funds to improve our busted school system.  I am even happier knowing that Tom won't just rubber stamp for his friend Dave McGeney.  This relationship cast some doubt with many folks throughout the dark city in regards to Tom's ability to vote on the issues...no more.  Or at least not for now!

As for Mr. Hochman, I don't trust his motives.  There is something about this guy that just does not sit right with me, can't put a finger on it yet...looking for some help here.  Could it be his ties with Dumbato on the PMLP, HE was a big backer of Hochman in the election, even casting aside support of other long term elected figures like Beverley Griffin Dunne.  OUCH  that will surely come back to rage a bitter vengeance in the upcoming election.


Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Funny Email Time!

Dear Mr. President: I'm planning to move my family and extended family into Mexico for my health, and I would like to ask you to assist me. We're planning to simply walk across the border from the U.S. Into Mexico , and we'll need your help to make a few arrangements.

We plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas,Passports, immigration quotas and laws.
I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Calderon, that I'm on my Way over?

Please let him know that I will be expecting the Following:
1.. Free medical care for my entire family.
2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need, whether I use them or not.
3. Please print all Mexican government forms in English.
4. I want my grandkids to be taught Spanish by English-speaking (bi-lingual) teachers.
5. Tell their schools they need to include classes on American culture and history.
6. I want my grandkids to see the American flag on one of the flag poles at their school.
7. Please plan to feed my grandkids at school for both breakfast and lunch.
8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access to government services.
9. I do plan to get a car and drive in Mexico , but, I don't plan to purchase car insurance, and I probably won't make any special effort to learn local traffic laws.
10. In case one of the Mexican police officers does not get the memo from their president to leave me alone, please be sure that every Patrol car has at least one English-speaking officer..
11. I plan to fly the U.S. Flag from my house top, put U S. Flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.
12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying Any taxes, or have any labor or tax laws enforced on any business I may start.
13. Please have the president tell all the Mexican People to be extremely nice and never say critical things about me or my family, Or about the strain we might place on their economy.
14. I want to receive free food stamps.
15. Naturally, I'll expect free rent subsidies.
16. I'll need Income tax credits so although I don't pay Mexican Taxes, I'll receive money from the government.
17. Please arrange it so that the Mexican Gov't pays $4,500 to help me buy a new car.
18.. Oh yes, I almost forgot, please enroll me free into The Mexican Social Security program so that I'll get a monthly income in Retirement.

I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all his people who walk over to the U.S. From Mexico I am Sure that President Calderon won't mind returning the favor if you ask him
Nicely.

Thank you so much for your kind help. You're the man!!!

The "Medical Hub of the North Shore"?

Wow, looks like Councilor Bettencourt is really moving forward with his vision for change and re-vitalization of the downtown!  By way of power-point presentation last Tuesday night at a re-zoning meeting Bettencourt explained his thoughts of trying to make Downtown Peabody into the Medical Hub of the North Shore.  Totally taking all thunder away from City Council President David Gravel and his plan to float (no pun intended) thousands of new apartments and condos into the square.

With a bold presentation like this with well thought out planning this could be the next mayor of Peabody folks!  He easily convinced his colleagues to shutter all previous plans and focus on his plan.  This is the sign of a true leader folks, but I am a bit confused...

After speaking politics to many folks throughout the city recently I have been told that Councilor Bettencourt has been verbally telling everybody that he IS planning on running for the corner office in 2011!!  So why the "lip-service" to the local media, or is it just "lip-service" to the people he is telling about his candidacy?  I guess we won't know until Bonfanti and/or Gravel decide if they are going to run again.

You can read the article HERE

Until next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Bag Job?

After reading an article yesterday in the Salem Evening News I was left wondering if proper procedures were being followed in the PMLP?  As you know, if you read the same article, William Waters the manager of the plant and highest paid city employee was handed a 1 year extension on his contract.  Not too big of a deal right??  He has also obliged the commissioners request to keep the same compensation during his last year on the job...great right?  He plans to retire after 2011.

Now here is where it gets a bit tricky...Also written in the Salem Evening News was that it was also requested that Waters choose his own replacement from someone with-in the PMLP.  First of all, isn't this a public position that has to be properly advertised to the public?  Secondly, doesn't it sound a bit mischievous on Mr. Chairman's/commission's  behalf to present this request?

HERE is your story.

If you can comment I would like to hear what you think about this issue.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Commenting problems!

Not sure if this problem is effecting YOU, but I have received several emails from viewers stating that they can not comment on this blog!  I recently tried to comment and it did not work either.  I am not sure what the problem is but I also know that the Roundtable Blog is having the same issues.  Once again I will apologize for any inconvenience, however I really think that it is pointless to run a blog that can not receive comments!!

Stay tuned, we may pull the plug all together?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
TT

Post re-visited...

Many weeks ago the previous moderator of The Twisted Tanner posted a story about a resident that had a problem with the debris and materials that had become a "fixture" in her backyard...they were being disposed of out behind LATTITUDES.  You can visit the post by clicking HERE

Well I took a ride by the area today to find that a new stone wall was being installed in her yard...BY GUESS WHO???  F.Y.I. they also will level yards and install complete sprinkler systems!!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
"THE" Twisted Tanner!

The Change is done...

About a week ago I took over the domain name http://www.twistedtanner.com/ after I realized that life was a bit boring in Peabody MA without a place for miserable folks like me to be able to speak their peace!  I opened up a new blog and felt that since I paid a monetary amount for the original site that I would open it back up and continue the "Freedom of Speech" theme in 01960!

So here we are, are you or anyone else that you know watching?  We will now know, the counter is live and I am willing to shake some shit up!  So let me know if you have any new dirt that you would like to see exposed for the public to see! Previous comments will load soon!

Peace Out!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
Twisted Tanner

Peabody's Payroll Year...IN REVIEW!

Here we are in the tail end of a historic recession! People across the country using food stamps and collecting unemployment trying to save their homes and put food on their tables. The unemployment rates are still high as we muddle through this dismal time, all the while Obama and his gang of thieves push through this health care bill that will eventually COMPLETELY BANKRUPT this country.

Wouldn't you like to think for just one brief moment that our local leadership here in Peabody is being a bit more fiscally responsible? Trying to "toe the line" for it's local homeowners to offset the corrupt mischief that is happening in Washington? How about you...YA YOU!!! How are YOU doin? YOU live in 01960, YOUR taxes have risen at a steady clip over the past 8 years!

Here are some facts!!

Did you know that the city spent $80,111,005.30 in total gross wages? That's right...EIGHTY FREAKIN' MILLION, ONE HUNDRED AND ELEVEN AND FIVE FREAKIN' THOUSAND DOLLARS AND THIRTY FREAKIN' CENTS!

Did you know that $1.1 MILLION dollars of those wages were split amongst 7 PMLP employees?
Did you know that with the exception of the superintendent of schools ($149,100.56),two fire, Peabody police, and two other school posts, THAT THESE ARE THE TOP 25 EARNERS IN 2009?

Bogus.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

The Challengers step forth

While many seem comfortable with the representation of Ted Speliotis and Joyce Spiliotis they apparently have at least one dis-satisfied person in each of their respected districts! They both have challengers and as Spiliotis' opponent is a virtual unknown, Speliotis' has some political ties, experience, and previous political campaign knowledge.

HERE IS A LINK!

These two races should be very interesting to watch as the summer months are just around the corner, and it should also be exciting to see how the current elected officials compose themselves in these races!! What do you all think? Did Scott Brown start a new turn of political events here in Massachusetts? Could the republican party wake up from the dead?

Let's hear it!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!

www.twistedtanner.com

Twisted Tanner Quiz Time!!!!

I thought I would change things up a bit and add a new segment to the Twisted Tanner blog! Something that has never been done before in the blogs of the Dark City! Something new, something exciting, holy freakin' mackeral...It's Quiz Time!!!

As you all know, Peabody has once again made the headlines with the recent flooding woes of the downtown. Many are quick to point out that the waters receded a lot quicker than in past floods, boasting that the current administration in moving in the right direction? Well, as you probably already know, I do not agree and here is why: The "Mother's Day Flood" as we all remember had over 6 inches more rainwater than this past storm, but yet Foster street and Peabody Square flooded to nearly the same capacity with 6 inches less water!!

So tell me, what direction are we headed? Well quickly after in infamous "Mother's Day Flood" our fearless leader his honor mayor Michael J Bonfanti formed a committee called the "Flood Mitigation Committee" which would meet regularly and focus on fixing the flooding in Peabody Square. OK OK here is your quiz...

When is the last time that the "Flood Mitigation Committee" had a meeting?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

BREAKING NEWS...

6:00 pm

PEABODY SQUARE IS UNDER WATER AND OFFICIALLY

CLOSED!!

Rumor has it that the Peabody fire chief has a fire truck at his home pumping out his basement!!! Great use of taxpayer dollars!!!!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!

http://www.twistedtanner.com/

REZONE THIS!

Pictures of the sewer covers overflowing down on Howley St. Even worse was on Walnut St where the SESD station is. That overflowed also onto Walnut St and was THE major discharge into the North River. People were driving through the sewage. They must have thought that they were driving through water.

Yes Yes Yes...Let's rezone this area so that we can put even more people in harms way and right smack dab in the middle of a known flood plain! MORONS!! Several streets in the downtown area have been closed due to flooding isuues, to name a few...Foster street (above), Crowninshield (sp?), Russell Street (west), portion of Walnut, Pierpont and many back roads.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!

www.twistedtanner.com

D.E.P. back in Peabody

A long time problem that has been neglected by this administration for years is once again back!! Raw Sewage is currently flowing into Brown's pond from a man-hole cover on Fairview ave. The city has continually neglected to properly repair the underground lines and perhaps now, they will be forced to!

A local resident took it upon themselves to call and complain to the MA DEP and it is about time! Our taxes continue to rise while important issues such as this get ignored! I SHOULD HAVE PHOTOS AND MORE DETAILS SOON! How much will this fine be?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

The question has been answered!

Yep, the long awaited answer to a question that has been repeatedly asked during the tenure of these Peabody Blogs has finally come to light!!

The question was "What is it exactly that the Electric Light Comissioners do?"

The answer: They give out 11% raises while pulling away from other previous obligations!

WOW!!! Imagine that, and the Salem Evening News pokes a couple of good dudes ( Wheatley and Paras) in the eyes for knowing about this during their previous election bids! Maybe it is time to shake things up on the Electric Light Commission, from what I hear Thom-ass Zellen chairs that board!

Hey...what about the former candy salesman Dumb-ato? He's up for re-election this time around, maybe we can get rid of that lap-dog?

Frank Peters...I'm still hearing that he isn't running again?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

Congratulations Tanner Hockey

The Peabody Tanners displayed a heck of a lot of skills this past season making it just 1 game away from the TD Boston Garden. We here at TT headquarters would like to congratulate the team on their continued success both on and off of the ice. Hopefully our graduating seniors can make a name for themselves at the college level, and hopefully the troops that come back next season can continue to make us all proud!

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

Peabody Bike Path; many positives,few negatives

I hope everybody had the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful, spring-like weather last weekend! I couldn't help but notice that the new Peabody Independence Greenway got a lot of action with the first string of 55+ degree days that the dark city has seen in a long time. I actually decided to venture out to the bike path and check out the progress, and I was pleasantly surprised!!

1. The car that was submerged in mud on the bed of the Ipswich river has been removed.

2. New pressure-treated fencing has been installed at all high points and water areas.

3. Dog dropping and littering signage has been posted.

4. Nice new stripes have been painted signifying 2 lanes of travel.

5. The areas on both sides of the path have been cut back and cleaned up. (eco brush)

6. I also noticed a few newly planted Quercus Palustris!

Although the city has already had it's ribbon-cutting ceremony and introduced the path to the public as a completed project (I think?), in my opinion a few key issues should be addressed...


1. I noticed a family in front of me trying desperately to roller blade on the path, the path never received it's top (finish/sealer) coat, therefore it is too rough to roller blade, skateboard...etc.

2. Although I did mention previously in this post that proper signage has been posted, I was very discouraged about the amount of litter (empty water bottles,gatorade bottles,coffee cups) and other trash along my trek. I DID NOT SEE 1 BARREL AND I TRAVELED NEARLY 4 MILES!

3. I did notice rusty old tires in the area of the abandoned car that are along the bed of the Ipswich river.

4. There are still areas of entry along the Aggregate Industries fences that have been poorly patched and in my opinion are still a risk for young ones. The residential side of the quarry has a tall wooden stockade type of fence around it, I think that the entire rim of the quarry should have this same type of fence.

I am sure that many of you have had the time to visit this new recreational masterpiece, what are your opinions?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

Foolishness

Checked into the blog today to see how things were going and I was a bit disappointed. This blog is here to discuss city related issues and express our opinions on the elected officials here in Peabody MA. Private citizens are not on the table here for discussion and any/all comments referencing a private citizen will be immediately removed. Keeping in mind that an appointed member of a city board is no longer a "private citizen".

No harm has been done and nobody has been libeled, so let's stick to the issues! Move on.

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
http://www.twistedtanner.com/

Comedy time out!

Funny or Die's Presidential Reunion from Will Ferrell

School closing update...

Not too sure if many of you have been following some of the "goings on" with-in the Peabody School Dept.? Of course not...some of this stuff is being heavily guarded behind closed doors in fear of a panic amongst parents of specific area schools! Well, here is what I have been able to sink my keyboard into:

Apparently the principle of the West Memorial Elementary school in ward 6 sent a request of some sort to the state for funding of all new sidewalks up and down Herrick street, Bow Street, and a portion of Lowell street as well as newly painted stripes, crosswalks,all new signage, and even a new crosswalk light at the corner of Herrick and Lowell streets.

My sources tell me that the funding was approved by the state and that the city is beginning to move forward with the planning process of the project. I guess that it is pretty safe to say the West School will not be targeted to close. Keep in mind that if the city of Peabody should decide to close the West Memorial School that they (the city) would be required to pay back the state (from what I am told) excess of $50,000.00, which is the amount of the state funding.

So it looks to me that all eyes are pointed to the next school on the chopping block which many speculate is the John E. Burke Elementary school on Birch street. A new school playground has been an area of debate by the parents of children in the Burke school, most of the other schoolyards throughout the city have been fitted with new playground equipment, basketball nets...etc. Why not the Burke, could this be the writing on the wall? Could this be the beginning of the end for this elementary school? Maybe the parents over there should start to ask some questions?

I could see a massive culdesac with 20 homes in that location, what do you think?

Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
www.twistedtanner.com

Mis-appropriation of funds?

Thought that I would take some time and help educate my captive audience in regards to the proper allocation of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds. Its seems to me, as well as many others that Peabody's leaders see it fit to use these funds whenever and where ever they see fit. Well, I have posted a link below to the State website and here is their definition...

CPA funds: "The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a new tool to help communities preserve open space and historic sites, and create affordable housing and recreational facilities. This web site has been created to assist individuals and municipalities in understanding and implementing the CPA."

A new article in today's Salem Evening News will help you to understand the background to this post.


Until Next Time,
http://www.twistedtanner.com/

New and Old...

We here at the Twisted Tanner got a tad of exposure today in the Salem Evening News. Nelson Benton touched briefly upon an up and coming battle that originated here at the Twisted Tanner. I'll post a link a bit later, as soon my so-called "smartphone" allows me to do so. The story touches upon the posturing taking place by Ted "Boy Wonder" Bettencourt and Dave "The Rat" Gravel as the rezoning talks near. And a quick blurb from the acting mayor stating that he hasn't ruled out another run, funny thing is that if he chose to throw his hat in the ring with Gravel and Bettencourt he probably would not make it through the primary.

Something new that I've heard is that Jim "the grouch" Liacos could have already chosen his guy in this race! Many are starting to speculate that Jim is with the Bettencourt camp and is helping guide young Ted into the spotlight? Recent actions in the council chambers even elude to this, something else to keep an eye on. How about the grouch as Bettencourt's campaign manager?

Now let's not forget about Sean Fitzgerald, there is still a lot of speculation that he could throw his hat into the ring. I've even recently heard that Podunk isn't happy with their new town manager, but you know that you can't believe everything you hear!! So as the world turns here in Peabody, MA we'll have to keep an eye on all of the moves happening and try to piece together the reasons why.

Dean Martin Manning didn't seem too happy last night when she made a motion and was completely shut out, maybe next time she can get the whole Rat Pack to do a song and dance for the rest of the council? A bit more of entertainment may increase viewership of these meetings since most of the time the technical team can not get things straight(last night no sound).

And oh...what about the story of the city purchasing $775k worth of un-usable space? We must be pretty well off to buy land that can serve no future purpose and will no longer generate the property tax income that it has for the past 200 years! Or was that just a backdoor deal that took care of someone in the system? Hmmmm.

Until Next Time,
www.twistedtanner.com

Guess what was spotted in the girls room!

Never thought that a story from a local eatery would remind me of a movie I once watched on beta max! Yup, that's right PORKY'S..."there was a tallywacker in the girls room!" A story headlining in the recent copy of the Peabody Weekly exposes a story of a "transgender" group being barred from Capone's on Summit street. Personally, I think that a much bigger deal is being made of this than needs be. To me, you carry an I.D. for a reason and if for some reason your I.D. does not match your current image than you deserve to be denied! GET A NEW ONE!

As far as the bathroom concern goes..perhaps they should hire Beula Balbricker to do random bathroom checks!

www.twistedtanner.com

A man with a plan!?

Finally caught up with taxes...phew, now I can spring back into action and get back to my extra-curricular interest ; blogging about Peabody politics.

It seems as though Boy Wonder has had enough with Dave Gravel's ruling of the headlines and inspirations for the re-zoning of our downtown! According the the Peabody Weekly , Bettencourt has his own vision of the future of downtown Peabody! And he tends to address the council with his vision during the March 11th City Council meeting. He asked Councilor Gravel his permission to do so...why he asked permission, I will never know?

So could this be simply a reaction to all of the Gravel hype, or just a bargaining chip to make a compromise with the Gravel camp? I'm sure they both have special interest contractors and land owners looking after their better interests! Let's see how this all plays out folks, something tells me that in the end a compromise will be made and Gravel with get his way with Bettencourt dodging a nasty bullet of defeat by that same compromise!

www.twistedtanner.com

Hmmm

Received an interesting e-mail from former candidate for mayor Russ Donovan, it's contents were the below proposal sent into the mayor's office in regards to making adjustments to the tax rates. Please take the time to give these documents a quick read and let us know what you think!

www.twistedtanner.com

You get what you ask for!

Looks like one of the original "backers" of the Lattitudes Sports Club build at 190-194 Newbury street is a bit dis-gruntled over something! From what I have been told, the builder/one of the owners of Lattitudes has been dumping trash such as decaying wood, excess broken bricks, cinder blocks and other debris in the land adjacent to her backyard. Actually I believe that it is the same backyard rumored that the developer leveled for her in exchange for her compliance to his plans. I have seen a copy of the agenda for this weeks city council meeting and item "k" on the agenda is her letter to the city council issuing her complaint. You get what you ask for!

www.twistedtanner.com

Regional Vocational School Hidden Cost #1

As many of the people whom opposed this merger stated "we do not know what the real cost will be", I'm sure this is the first and certainly will not be the last "hidden cost" associated with this mega voc merger that was not included in the city's estimated buy-in figure. 10k is a nominal fee when we are talking about a multi-million dollar educational facility, but these things all add up. Now why is it that we have a school committee packed with people that are supposedly knowledgable of certain facets of the school system, a superintendent of schools, an assistant superintendent of schools, a business manager for the schools...etc; And we still have to go out and spend 10 thousand dollars of taxpayers monies to hire a firm to do research? And of course mayor bozo did not communicate whose budget would be footing the bill!

Let's all try to keep a tab on the "hidden costs" that were not initially in the merger when our illustrious leaders passed it. What was the original amount?....anyone?

Read the story HERE

www.twistedtanner.com

New Council Chief talks rezoning...

An updated post from several weeks ago so do not get confused while reading the past comments which will probably jive with the update anyway...

The Rat has spoken! Yup, that's right, Peabody's future mayoral candidate has spoken aloud at last weeks city council meeting about the need for the proposed rezoning proposal to resurface. A proposal that will effect all future generations and one that can never be reversed once properties comply. Do we really have that much faith in the current 11 Councillors to allow them to make as big of a decision as this that will impact Peabody forever?

You can click HERE to read a story written in today's Salem Evening News and hear what a few of the councillors had to say. Wouldn't fixing the flooding be the responsible thing to do first? Heck even I would give this vision a chance if I knew that the flooding issues were properly resolved! Maybe Bettencourt will sieze this opportunity and prove that he is the right candidate for the corner office?

http://www.twistedtanner.com/