Clear Channel layoffs hit WTAG

As part of a massive round of layoffs nationwide, Clear Channel canned two key staffers at WTAG yesterday.
Longtime Program Director George Brown, who did everything from hosting shows to covering news to running the ship, as well as news guy Tim Cooney were both let go.
Weekday editorial/on-air side personalities are now limited to Jim Polito, [...]

Swine flu in Spencer?

As being reported widely tonight, authorities are saying it’s “probable” two Spencer school children have the swine flu.
If confirmed, they would be the first (or second, if Lowell’s cases are confirmed) cases in Massachusetts.

Worcester Budget Hearing 4/28/09

7:17: INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
Commissioner of Inspectional Services Joe Mikielian is highlighting his department’s cuts

70 positions last year; 17% reduction for FY2010 to 58
$463,000+ decrease in expenditures

Mikielian says the cuts are tough “personally and professionally.

Most services in housing will still be provided, including the property review team and handling of problem properties, neighborhood sweeps, and the nuisance [...]

City Council liveblog 4/28/09

4:24: Palmeri organized a walkthrough of the CitySquare project this morning with Berkeley Investments, and is talking about his observations. One issue is that Front Street won’t connect through to Major Tayor Blvd, at least in this first phase—Palmieri says he may request that a pedestrian walkway be opened, at least during daylight hours. [...]

Swine flu edges closer…

It’s in Connecticut now.

Telegram.com down?

Jeff noticed this morning that Telegram.com seems to be having some backend issues today; as of now, the site is down, showing a page registration placeholder.

State aid to be tied to tax rate?

In the game of taxes – especially during an election year – no politician wants to be the one that will make a move that will be perceived as the most taxpayer unfriendly.  Thus, the majority of Worcester city councilors have already indicated they will vote for the lowest possible residential property tax rate later [...]

Rep. McGovern arrested on misdemeanor charges

Congressman Jim McGovern and four other members of congress were arrested this morning after protesting “crimes against humanity” in Sudan.
McGovern- who was arrested three years ago for a similar protest against the Darfurian situation – was prepared to be locked up, reportedly showing up sans tie and belt.
According to Boston.com,
The lawmakers — who also [...]

School and City HR offices to merge?

The first official council request for the city to investigate merging the school and city HR departments is on the agenda for Tuesday afternoon’s City Council meeting; Councilors Michael Germain, Gary Rosen, Rick Rushton, Joff Smith and Mayor Konnie Lukes filed the item asking for the City Manager to look at the “feasibility and cost/savings” [...]

Armenian Genocide and Worcester

Today, April 24th is recognized around the world as a day of remembrance for the Armenian Genocide of 1915.
But the term “genocide” is a controversial one, and not everyone believes the Turkish treatment of the Armenians qualifies as a genocide.  To this date, the US government hasn’t officially recognized the Armenian Genocide.
Worcester, with a sizable [...]