Sun Santa, radiothon for Salvation Army earn record amounts

LOWELL — The generous citizens of Greater Lowell reached deep into their pockets to help those in need this holiday season, setting new charity fundraising records during tough economic times.

The Sun Santa program raised more than $180,000 as of Wednesday, and organizers anticipate to break the record — $182,884 — raised last year. Sun Santa, which is part of Lowell Sun Charities, received donations from 1,283 people so far this year. That number is up from the 1,196 people who donated last year.

The Sun Santa fund assists area families by providing them with vouchers for toys and food through partners Community Teamwork Inc. and the Greater Lowell Salvation Army — the agencies that screen applicants and help distribute the vouchers.

Local radio station WCAP reported it raised a record-setting $102,157.62 in its 14th annual fundraiser for the Salvation Army. The number surpassed the $87,000 raised last year. One of the radiothon’s key organizers, Fred Simon of Tewksbury, had set a goal of $98,000 heading into the event.

“People that didn’t have as much to give, gave a little less and some people that couldn’t give last year, gave money this year,” said radio host Warren Shaw, who was host of the live radiothon fundraiser Dec. 19. “We have a lot of people who were helped by the Salvation Army at some point in their lives and are reaching into their pockets to give.”

Simon, chairman of WCAP’s Salvation Army fund, said the money helped 564

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families in Greater Lowell, including 1,700 children who received Christmas toys and food baskets for Christmas dinners.

“We located the spirit of Christmas, and it’s alive and quite well,” said Simon.

Shaw said he was able to raise more money for the Salvation Army this year from the momentum of the live radiothon.

“At some point it becomes so much fun to be a part of it that people are calling in and stopping by to make large donations and matching the large donations,” Shaw said.

Shaw, a former Dracut selectman who hosts Saturday Morning Live, a political talk show, from 6 to 10 a.m. each week. This year, he performed a radio stunt for the fundraiser, broadcasting his live Dec. 12 show from five different locations around the Merrimack Valley.

“It was kind of like Paul Revere,” said Shaw, who traveled during the 10-minute news break at the top of the hour, switching from broadcast locations at M.L. Shaw’s Country Kitchen in Dracut, River Road Cafe in Tewksbury, Owl Diner in Lowell, Cafe Madrid in Chelmsford and O’Connor’s Hardware in Billerica.

Shaw said he expects to continue participating in the fundraiser for many years to come.

Said Shaw, “As long as I’m doing radio, there will be radiothon on WCAP.”

What will become of H1N1? When will a certain Tiger reappear? Is the economy creeping toward recovery?

These are some of the nagging questions tackled by notable locals offering their predictions for 2010.

Hope is universal. And Earth-like planets in other solar systems are waiting to be discovered.

Health/Science

Frank Singleton, Lowell Health Director: “I’m looking for swine flu (H1N1) to become seasonal flu (in fall of 2010) and we go back to having a normal flu season, when we’re not dealing with having to administer six or seven-thousand flu shots. Back to the normal grind of one or two thousand shots. But there is always something lurking out there. Drug-resistant tuberculosis may be showing up in the U.S. Two of our four public-health nurses deal with tuberculosis that is all treatable with antibiotics. If something shows that is not treatable, we’d have real problems in Lowell. These viruses learn to adapt. We stay ahead of the curve … but not by a lot.”

Norm Deschene, president and CEO of Lowell General Hospital: “It seems that the federal government is going to pass some sort of health-care reform, and I understand it’s quite a long and complicated bill, so we’ll probably spend 2010 trying to figure it all out. But hopefully it will result in better health insurance for all, and hopefully people will continue pursuing healthy lifestyles.”

Roger Cappallo, research scientist, MIT Haystack Observatory:
“There is a pretty good chance in 2010 we’ll observe Earth-like planets in another solar system with the Kepler Space Telescope (launched in March). Most people expect there are other Earths out there, and we’ll see them pretty soon. These may be hospitable if man could find a way to get there. With current spacecrafts, it would take tens of thousands of years to get there. But in a few decades, you never know.”

Sports

Gene Manley, head pro at Long Meadow Golf Club: “The quicker the divorce is filed, the quicker Tiger (Woods) will be back out on the Tour. He’ll probably return for the Masters (April 6-12). It’s an insulated environment. If (fans) say anything, they’ll just get thrown out. Tiger has always lived in a vacuum. He’s never had people against him. He’ll be in the limelight for a while (for reasons other than golf) until he starts winning tournaments. The 2010 U.S. Open and British Open are at Pebble Beach and St. Andrews (respectively), courses that he dominates on. He’s not the only athlete who has cheated on his wife. It’s just that most try to keep it under 10.”

Steve Levine, Tewksbury High boys’ soccer coach since starting the program in 1976: “The U.S. (soccer team) will make it out of the first round of the World Cup (in South Africa in June and July). After that, my hopes are not too high. The U.S. is close, but we’re not there yet as a soccer nation (but) the kids playing today are more passionate about the sport. But for 2010, I’ll pick Spain.”

Derek Ten Broeck of Ten Broeck Insurance Group, Pepperell: “The Boston Bruins are going to win the Stanley Cup. And the economy is definitely going to get a little bit better, but it’s going to take a couple of years to turn this thing around.”

Economy

Sal Lupoli of Chelmsford, president/CEO Lupoli Cos., Sal’s Pizza: “Entrepreneurs who continue to be unique and creative will excel in 2010. Many traditional approaches to doing business will, and should be, bypassed … The economy will continue to be sluggish. Oil prices will creep up, putting a further strain on the expendable income of the consumer, therefore impacting entrepreneurs and causing them to bring more value to the customer than ever before … A newly found and fresh group of Patriot running backs will pound the ball into the end zone throughout the playoffs. Super Bowl prediction: Patriots 24, Eagles 21.”

Jim Wilde, executive director of Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership: “The housing market will stay pretty flat for the first six months of the year, largely because of the $8,000 tax credit (for first-time buyers, which expires April 30). There may be a little dip after that. But the market will stay pretty flat for another two years before we see historically sane rising values. The tax credit has already been extended once. There’s a 40 percent chance it will be extended again.”

Michael Carter, chair, Economics Department, UMass Lowell: “Real Gross Domestic Product growth 2.25 percent to 3.5 percent …The unemployment rate may rise slightly in first half of 2010 as discouraged workers re-enter the labor force. But the overall pace of economic growth should lead to net job creation during 2010 and a slight reduction in the official unemployment rate by the end of 2010 — to around the 9 percent level nationwide. Broad-based inflation pressures should remain subdued due to a continued slack in labor markets and excess production capacity in most industries.

“Downside risks to this forecast include a possible ‘double dip’ in residential real estate, weakness in financial institutions with concentrated exposure to commercial real estate, and above all, a self-reinforcing cycle of weakness in labor markets and increasing hesitancy of consumers to spend.”

George Duncan, founder and chairman of Enterprise Bank in Lowell: Predicts 2010 will be “the turnaround year,” that things have been “firming up nicely.” But “keep an eye on are interest rates and the unemployment rate.” Bad news in those two areas could hinder the recovery.

Michael Hartnett, Pepperell’s tax collector/treasurer: “In the face of our ongoing economic struggles, especially here in the U.S., I predict, and certainly hope, that our brightest people will take the bull by the horns and make even more gains and strides in technology, medicine, energy and industry, allowing the country to right itself in spite of the government’s failures to do so for us.”

Politics

Marie Sweeney, chairwoman of Greater Lowell Area Democrats: “Martha Coakley will be going to the U.S. Senate on Jan. 19. In June, I expect the governor (Deval Patrick) and lieutenant governor (Tim Murray) to be renominated at our convention. When push comes to shove and everything is laid out, (Patrick) is definitely re-electable. (Nationally), if you look at things historically, there is always a (midterm) loss for the party in power. But I don’t think it will be as big a loss for the Democrats as some others are predicting.”

Marc Lombardo, chairman of the Billerica Board of Selectmen: “I predict Charlie Baker will be the next governor of the commonwealth and work to restore fiscal responsibility in the state house.”

Steven Panagiotakos, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee: Predicts that the legalized gambling issue will be “fully vetted” and voted on in 2010. Predicts next budget year beginning July 1 “will be the toughest one yet” as far as funding state and local government. “We’re talking more cuts upon cuts already made. I think those two issues (gambling, budget) will dominate the debate on Beacon Hill.”

Towns

Dracut Selectman John Zimini on the upcoming town elections: “Let’s just say there will be a major political upset. I predict that the Saturday morning coffee group will grow in numbers over the next six months.”

Mark Haddad, Groton Town Manager: “I predict we will get activities on Station Avenue. The project (to redevelop the downtown block for mixed use) will take off in 2010. We will also get through this budget cycle and will still be able to provide great services to the residents because of the good financial planning the town has had … And, I plan on being the town manager for the whole year.”

Courts/Social Services

Joseph Mahoney, Lowell Superior Court sessions clerk: “Because of the dire economy, the court system will be taxed even more. When the economy goes bad, crime goes up unfortunately. Now that the economy has been bad for so long, there will be even more desperate people willing to do anything to survive. There are going to be even more victims of violent crime. With the DA’s office, law enforcement and the court system facing even bigger (budget) cuts this year, it’s going to be a difficult year — unfortunately.”

Laurie Myers, of Chelmsford, co-founder of Community Voices, a victims’ advocacy group: “My prediction for 2010 is that people will become more involved and we will begin to see the type of change people have been wanting for years. Not the type of change that makes you ‘feel good,’ but the type that will make our communities stronger and safer for our children. Massachusetts has seen its share of high-profile abuse cases over the years. Let’s make 2010 the year we all make the safety and well being of our children a number one priority.”

Energy

Stephen Greene, Lowell green building commissioner, owner of Howard Greene Consultants, LLC: “People will realize the financial importance of energy conservation, because it means more money in their pockets. Recycling in Lowell will improve, because it saves the city money.”

The Arts

Steve Syverson, president, Arts League of Lowell, sculptor: “I have the opportunity to talk to many artists in the area — both (Arts League) members and non-members — and the general attitude regarding 2010 is that it’s going to be better than 2009. Art sales have been on a bit of a roller-coaster ride the past few years, and the artists are expressing their opinion that sales are on the way up again. My prediction: A modest 15 percent increase in art sales over 2009.”

Tom Parrish, executive director, Merrimack Repertory Theatre: “While it will likely still be a challenging year, non-profit performing-arts companies will begin to rebound in terms of audience and donations as people continue to gain confidence in their economic situation. At Merrimack Rep, we will build on our many artistic successes in 2009 to create even more exciting and memorable theater in 2010.”

Spiritual (The Final Say)

Father Paul Ring, pastor of Our Lady of Grace Parish, serving Dunstable, Groton and Pepperell: “I see 2010 as a ‘Year of the Rebound’: I think our local sports teams will do very well in their respective sports; I think the economy will come back, slowly but surely; I think people will get back to what is truly important, mainly spending time with family and friends, living simply and taking the time to appreciate what they have — rather than desiring what they want; I think that our world will make great strides for peace, especially in the ‘trouble spots’ of the world. On a personal note, I see our parish of Our Lady of Grace will not only grow, but flourish, and fulfill its mission to reach out to all!”

– Compiled by David Pevear, dpevear@lowellsun.com

In a meeting that seemed a bit off, with members failing to get their points across (yet finally coming together), Murphy was trying to prompt the members, without “leading the witness” so to speak.

Kevin was trying to say that if they were going to advertise for a position, that they should include the Academic Journal used by educators throughout the country.  I think he was just sort of frustrated at the point in the discussion that the board didn’t seem to see the obvious.. so he was trying to prompt them.

I don’t think this had anything to do with the Sun (an obvious choice for advertising).

And on the other point regarding the Globe, I think Mike Miles was making a political statement about the left-leaning newspaper.. indicating that he preferred the Herald’s slant on things… but that’s just my opinion.

From this morning’s Lowell Sun:

Dracut School Department lays off 16 teachers

DRACUT- The School Department issued 16 layoff notices to teachers, according to School Committee Chairman Matthew Sheehan. The positions will not be reinstated, while some teachers were planning on retiring at the end of the past school year, Sheehan said. The Sun filed a Freedom of Information Act request yesterday for documentation about teacher layoffs and the School Department’s budget. The School Department recently received about $400,000 less in Chapter 70 state education aid than what was anticipated, said Town Manager Dennis Piendak. Superintendent of Schools Spencer Mullin did not return calls for comment. – Bridget Scrimenti

I get the feeling there will be no support (at least from the public and parents) to renew his contract when it comes up.. and I would bet he probably isn’t interested in doing so anyways.

With the national economy continuing its downward spiral, job losses increasing and new positions difficult to come by, area charitable organizations were concerned about meeting the region’s needs over the holidays.

They shouldn’t have worried.

Despite the dismal financial picture, Merrimack Valley residents and businesses once again came through for those needing a helping hand.

Thanks to the generosity of many, Lowell’s chapter of The Salvation Army was able to meet its fundraising goal of $175,000 and, statewide, the organization surpassed its $3.5 million goal. Despite tough times, the group raised $400,000 more than it did last year.

That says a lot about the munificence of Massachusetts residents. The donations serve as a reminder that despite financial struggles those who are still employed — even if they fear potential layoff or pay reductions — recognize the greater need of those who are already going without.

WCAP 980 AM’s radiothon for the Salvation Army is another good example. The Dec. 12 ice storm knocked out power to hundreds of thousands and seriously threatened the number of donations distracted residents could call in. The decision was made to hold a second radiothon the following Saturday, and total donations set an all-time record.

Then there are the employees of Lowell General Hospital whose annual basket raffle raised $40,400 for Sun Santa. The drive itself raised $20,200 which was matched, dollar for dollar, by the hospital.

Lowell General Hospital’s generous donation is an example of its strong commitment to the region and to Sun Santa. The hospital’s beneficence was nearly one-third of the total contributions to Sun Santa this year. The money went toward helping nearly 1,500 families who otherwise would have had a rather joyless Christmas.

Although we realize good jobs and affordable housing are the long-term keys to reducing poverty, it is also important to provide short-term assistance to those in need.

We applaud everyone in the region who worked so hard and gave so selflessly to make sure struggling families would enjoy a festive dinner and find gifts under the tree on Christmas morning.

On a lighter side, I’d like to chat about the controversy over the item in last Sunday’s gossip column that discussed recent radio ratings that appeared to show a serious decline in WCAP’s audience compared to similar ratings of a year ago.

Talk about gossip. The theories were wild: The Sun is angry because the new owners have been successful at growing ad revenue; The Sun wants to weaken the station so they can buy it at a fire sale; The Sun is upset because the previous owner wouldn’t sell it to them; The Sun is going down the tubes so it wants to bring the station down also. Great theories — no truth.

Could we have handled it better? Sure. The truth is we got along pretty well with the former owner and we feel we have a good relationship with the new owners. We keep in touch. We have had a lot of conversations about joint projects and we respect our different roles.

I’ve always felt good local radio enhances a good local newspaper. If radio stimulates an issue and the public interest, the newspaper becomes more important to elaborate on the issue. Our people are best served by both institutions doing well financially, so they can provide people with information important to their life and community.

Seems like Wallace is agreeing that the paper could have handled the situation a little better. Everyone agrees that media is having a tough time of it lately and nobody needs battle.

Good on them. I give ‘em props for having the guts to admit the mistake.

We had Bob Conroy, the author and artist for the comic strip “Pink Slip”, on the show for a couple segments this morning, where he discussed his work with the Lowell Sun, as well as his other marketing work.

It was sort of a fun interview, as we tried to choose who else he should be making topics of future strips. There was a lot of discussion of what it takes to create a local strip, and what possibilities he has to move this one forward (or create a new one).

Feel free to contact Bob at mantis24@comcast.net

Attached you’ll find a podcast of the interview as well.

Here, you can see Town Manager Dennis Piendak joining two other town managers, and then you can catch the Dracut Football team…

Again.. head over to the Lowell Sun website and make a contribution..

DRACUT — Selectmen Chairman James O’Loughlin and former Selectman Warren Shaw faced off on SunTalk Live on Tuesday night, debating the merits of a $9 million Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion to fund a new town hall.

A town-wide vote will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In a 55-minute discussion, moderated by Sun Editor James Campanini, Shaw and O’Loughlin came at the issue from different sides.

“Building a new town hall is the right decision,” said Shaw. “Spending money to renovate the old town hall would be a poor decision. But don’t ask the taxpayers to come up with $9 million.”

“If this doesn’t pass, my fear is that we will be looking at this five years from now saying that we should have done it when we had the chance,” O’Loughlin said. “We hammered (Town Manager Dennis Piendak) with all kinds of questions and scenarios and he was adamant that it could not be done inside the operating budget.”

For more on this story click on www.lowellsun.com. To hear the discussion in its entirety, go to www.lowellsun.com and click on the SunTalk Live logo on the Web site’s home page.

Update: Another Sun Article 

I encourage everyone to make a quick donation over at the Sun Santa website.

Other local celebrities will be performing as well.. such as Town Manager Dennis Piendak and our own Lowell Sun reporter Dennis Shaughnessey.

Sun Santa is a great charity, providing for a great number of families in need. Please be generous this season.. and enjoy the attached video.