“We’re just now at the beginning of tick season, with the highest number of cases last year reported from May – August, so now is the time for us all to pay attention to ticks—prevention starts with each one of us,” said Representative Dykema. 

The number of Lyme disease cases is rising across Massachusetts.  From 1999 – 2009, the number of confirmed cases of Lyme disease in the Commonwealth grew by 500%, over 4,000 new cases of Lyme disease were reported in 2009.

Representative Dykema was appointed to serve on a comprehensive special commission, chaired by fellow MetroWest legislator Representative David Linsky, that conducted an investigation and study of the incidence and impacts of Lyme disease in the Commonwealth.  The yearlong commission completed their report in February of this year.  A copy can be found here. 

Earlier this year, Representative Dykema also filed legislation that would allow municipalities to opt into a new integrated pest management program to be offered by reclamation and mosquito control boards.  This would begin to create a more centralized location which is responsible for tick management to prevent the spread of the disease.

To learn about Lyme disease and Lyme disease prevention:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/
• International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society
  www.iliads.org
• Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  www.mass.gov/dph/tick
• UMass Extension Tick Assessment Lab
  www.umass.edu/tick

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“I am so glad for this opportunity to be able recognize Donna for all the work she does in Southborough,” said Representative Carolyn Dykema.  “Her good work plays a vital role in strengthening our community and today’s ceremony is a special opportunity to say thank you.”   

The first woman to serve as Selectman for the Town of Southborough, Donna is a model in giving back to the community which she continues to serve as a devoted Town Meeting participant and Board Member of the Southborough Historical Society.  Donna is also a passionate historian.  She has documented the history of Southborough through Southborough Memories and has written widely on topics of race including Fit for Freedom and Not Fit for Friendship. 

“It was an honor to join Donna today and share in her receiving this distinguished honor,” said Senator Jamie Eldridge. “Donna’s hard work and impressive array of personal accomplishments have made a permanent dent in the glass ceiling and undoubtedly paved the way for the next generation of unsung heroines to follow in her footsteps.” 

She is always on the move; performing around the world with two choirs, writing a biweekly column and lecturing on her research.  Among her past careers are: teacher (with several of those years as teacher spent in abroad with the Department of Defense), counselor, community activist, journalist, columnist, editor, and volunteer with inner city “youth at risk.”  

Donna shows a lifelong commitment to equality and democracy and is a guiding example for how we can make our community a better place to live.
The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency that was legislatively created in 1998 to advance women of the Commonwealth to full equality in all areas of life and to promote their rights and opportunities.  For more information please contact the MCSW at 617-626-6520 or mcsw@state.ma.us.

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 “Being accessible to constituents was a pledge I made when I was first elected,” said Dykema. “I’ve learned so much from all those who have come to meet with me and I appreciate hearing their thoughts and ideas.” 

 Residents are encouraged to stop in to the office hours to share concerns, questions and opinions on state issues or simply to chat over a cup of coffee.

 As always, if the scheduled office hours are not convenient for you, please call the office at (617) 722-2210 or email her aide at leah.robins@mahouse.gov to set up a personal appointment either in the district or at the State House. 

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State Representative Carolyn Dykema represents the towns of
Holliston, Hopkinton, Southborough and Westborough (pct. 2).

“What is surprising is that despite their significant role, the owners of Foxwoods are not on the list of qualifiers subject to Gaming Commissioner background checks,” Dykema writes in the letter. “These checks are viewed by the legislature as essential to promoting the highest standards of quality and ethics for gaming operations in the Commonwealth.”

A copy of the letter is available here on her website.

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State Representative Carolyn Dykema represents the towns of Holliston, Hopkinton, Southborough and Westborough (pct. 2).

“This week’s tragic events in Boston are a vivid reminder of the need for vigilance and military readiness to protect the safety of the public,” said Representative Dykema. “This morning’s tour showed us the depth and breadth of operations at the base and the crucial role Air Force personnel play during times of both war and peace. Seeing base operations up close will help us as legislators better fulfill our role in providing supports to our Reservists and their families at Westover and across the Commonwealth. The tour was also a chance to say thank you to our dedicated Reserve personnel, our friends and neighbors who are always ready to take the call for help.”

From left: Col. Brent French; Rep. Matt Beaton; David Cohen, Westborough Guidance Counselor; Rep. Carolyn Dykema; Westborough Selectman Tim Dodd, Leah Robins, Legislative Aide to Rep. Dykema; Westborough Selectman Denny Drewry.

 “It’s clear that the legislators, guidance counselors, and other attendees were committed to learning about Reservists and their families, so it’s no surprise Massachusetts is such a great place to be a veteran,” said Colonel Brent French. 

“It was an honor and a privilege to tour Westover ARB with the Westborough delegation today,” said Representative Matt Beaton (R-Shrewsbury).  “To see firsthand the amazing work performed at the base and the top class reservists in action reminds me of how lucky we are to live in such an amazing country.  It was a day I will not soon forget and I thank our service men and women for all that they do to keep us safe.”

During the tour, the group was able to see the many ways that Westover Air Reserve Base (ARB) supports the Air Force Reserve’s mission to provide combat-ready forces to fly, fight and win. 

 ”It was a pleasure to show some of the Commonwealth’s movers and shakers the work we do on the ground and in the air,” said Lt. Col. James Bishop, Westover’s chief of public affairs.

In addition to a tour of the C-5, one of the largest cargo aircraft in the world, and meeting with some of the reservists who service the planes, the group also met with firefighters on base and saw one of their live-fire exercises.

 “Visiting Westover Air Reserve Base provided me with a greater depth of understanding of the critical role that our local reservists play in defending our freedoms during these difficult times,” said Westborough Selectman Tim Dodd.

About Westover Air Force Reserve Base
Established in 1940, Westover ARB located in Chicopee, MA is the nation’s largest Air Reserve base and is home to the Air Force’s largest cargo aircraft, the C-5B.  A total of 5,500 people are assigned to Westover ARB.  The base is home to the 439^th Airlift Wing and hosts joint partners from the Army, Navy, Marines and civil service. According to the fiscal year 2012 Economic Impact Report, $238 million flowed into the Western Massachusetts economy from the base. 

The 439th Airlift Wing provides worldwide movement of troops, supplies, equipment and medical patients. Support units provide communications, engineering, logistical, medical and security support. 

Since 2001, thousands of Airmen from Westover have deployed to support The Global War on Terrorism.  At the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the base had more than 1,200 people deployed in-theater. 

Westover’s C-5 and Airmen also have a long history of supporting worldwide humanitarian missions, including Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and Haiti earthquake relief in 2010.

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Last night, on behalf of our district, I voted to support transportation finance legislation that will increase funding to our towns for road repair and address concerns about state reliance on debt. Despite support for the plan by many business groups, my vote in favor of the plan was not easy; it required supporting a 3 cent per gallon gas tax increase and additional taxes on tobacco and commercial interests that will affect residents and local businesses in all of our towns.

Many of you took the time to contact my office to express your opinion on the bill’s provisions. I appreciate this opportunity to address your concerns and explain why I believe this legislation is in the best interest of our district.

More Stable Transportation Budgeting and Funding
In 2007, a bipartisan commission issued a report raising serious concerns about the state of our transportation system – the safety and condition of our roads and bridges as well as the debt on our public transit systems. Six years later, we can no longer delay addressing these concerns which have implications for public safety, our quality of life, and stable budgeting. Our employers also need reassurance that we are committed to a robust public transit system that will keep us competitive with other states for top labor talent.

It’s important to understand the reason we’re at this point: current fiscal practices, many related to the “Big Dig,” are unsustainable. The most significant of these practices is the inappropriate use of debt to pay for everyday expenses. In our homes, this would be like taking out a loan to pay for groceries.  This is a practice that MassDOT has been using for years as a result of inadequate funding, and which will end as a result of this legislation. While I realize paying more won’t be easy for any of our residents, I believe that most understand that stable finances and investing in our roads, bridges and public transportation is vital for public safety and for accommodating economic growth that will leave us all better off in the long run.

During the debate, I’m pleased that the House adopted my amendment requiring MassDOT to compare performance of our transit system not only with our own past performance, but with other states and countries, as well. Massachusetts is a world class hub and deserves a transportation system that keeps us there.

More Funding for Local Roads
The legislation I supported last night significantly increases the funding every town will receive for upgrading our local roads. For our district, this means hundreds of thousands of additional dollars for road and sidewalk maintenance.  With many harsh winters and tight state budgets, the maintenance of our roads and sidewalks has suffered. This legislation will allow us to address these concerns that affect our quality of life and safety.

Progress on Toll Equity
I’m pleased to say that last night we took an important step toward addressing the unfair impacts of tolling on commuters from our region. Because we are one of the few areas of the state subject to tolling, MetroWest commuters have long been paying more than our fair share. As a result of this legislation, any future conversations relative to increasing the burden on toll payers will require additional due diligence by MassDOT. The legislation also requires the completion of an implementation plan for equitable statewide tolling, that includes open road tolls. These are modest, but important, steps forward for our region. 

I want you to know that my colleagues and I in the MetroWest legislative caucus also fought for a provision to freeze the tolls currently in place. While not successful, we will continue to make all our colleagues and the Governor aware of the need to address the unfair toll burden we bear. 

Small Business Impacts
One of the concerns I always consider is impacts on our small businesses. A provision in the bill that taxes software development services raised concerns with many small businesses that operate in this industry. Despite my opposition, and that of 53 other House members in both parties, the provision was included in the final bill. I remain hopeful that these concerns can be addressed when the bill moves to the Senate.

Education
Many of you contacted my office to ask for my support of a much larger tax plan proposed by the Governor. The Governor’s plan included funding for education in addition to a greater investment in transportation. As a parent of children in the public schools, I strongly agree with the Governor that education investments are crucial to our economic future. However, I don’t believe it’s fiscally prudent to support a larger increase that could jeopardize our still fragile economy. Further, I’m hopeful that as the economy continues to improve, growth will provide additional revenues for these badly needed education investments. 

Again, thanks to all who shared your thoughts with me over the past months. Your perspectives varied widely, but you all shared a commitment to the well-being of our Commonwealth and its future. In reaching my decision to support this legislation, I attempted to balance all of your perspectives and suggestions. If you have questions or concerns you’d like to discuss this legislation in greater detail, I’d welcome the opportunity to speak with you personally.

Legislators, exhibitors and sponsors were on hand for the day-long forum that explored how leaders can inform their constituencies and contribute to the state’s long-term water resiliency.  The event was held in honor of United Nations World Water Day and the work begun at the forum will continue through a series of follow-up sessions and events throughout the year.

“World Water Day is a great day to reflect on Massachusetts’ long, proud history of caring for our precious water resources,” said Representative Carolyn Dykema. “It’s also a time to recommit ourselves to investments, innovation, and policy that will strengthen our water infrastructure and protect our natural waters far into the future. Today’s events reminded us all that we have a responsibility to our children: to safeguard our most basic, human need – water – and the systems that supply and protect it.”

 “I am proud to join in the celebration of World Water Day Water Day today to highlight the importance freshwater plays in our everyday lives,” said Senator Jamie Eldridge. “Government at home and abroad, plays a key role in providing access to freshwater and overseeing the management of freshwater resources. These are issues that I have worked on very closely through my work on the Water Infrastructure Finance Commission (WIFC) that led to legislation I filed this session that will overhaul and upgrade our state’s water systems.”

 Two key topics that will be explored during the forum are Emerging Water Innovation and Priorities for Massachusetts and Accounting for Water Capital in Massachusetts and Policy Recommendations.  Speakers include Fred Laskey, Executive Director, MWRA; Greg Watson, Commissioner of Agriculture; Martin Pillsbury, Environmental Director, MAPC; and Phil Griffiths, Undersecretary for Environment.   For a complete schedule of the day’s events visit www.masswaterforum2013.eventbrite.com/#.  

In addition, there will be an interactive program for students in grades 7-12 that will focus on water priorities and action steps and an exhibit viewing showing a range of water related organizations. 

 “When we celebrate life, we celebrate water.  This is where life begins and this is what maintains all life,” said Dr. Karen L. Weber, Executive Director of Foundation for a Green Future, Inc.  “The world is headed towards very complicated times regarding water and the more we are able to show good stewardship for our water locally, the better Massachusetts can be a partner globally.  In honor of World Water Day, the Foundation for a Green Future, Inc. is proud to be working with legislators, elected officials, schools, and interested parties, both for-profit and nonprofit, to have a discussion that we hope will lead to concrete sustainable actions.”

During her remarks, Rep. Dykema highlighted the legislative package she filed based on final recommendations of the Water Infrastructure Finance Commission including:

• Creation of a 10-year Water Infrastructure Bond to fund local drinking water, wastewater and storm water improvements;
• Defining and establishing guidelines for best management practices in long-term planning and financing;
• Promoting innovative water technologies; and
• Conducting a feasibility study relative to implementing watershed based permitting.

 A complete schedule of the day’s events and information about the Massachusetts Water Forum can be found here, more information about the United Nations World Water Day can be found here.

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The Water Infrastructure Finance Commission (WIFC) was charged with developing a comprehensive, long-range water infrastructure finance plan for the commonwealth and its municipalities following two years of research, public hearings and meetings. The final report is available online here.

Foundation for a Green Future, Inc. is a Boston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing environmentally focused programs to the Greater Boston community. Throughout the year, we run a series of programs focused on greening our urban spaces through gardening, green roofs and living walls. We also provide green jobs training and promote environmentally friendly business practices. Foundation for a Green Future, Inc. works with local schools, community centers, and neighborhood organizations to educate young and old about the many dimensions of green technologies and design interactive curricula to suit their needs.

World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.  An international day to celebrate freshwater was recommended at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day.

“Water is one of our most basic needs, yet we often take the infrastructure that delivers it to our homes and businesses for granted,” said Representative Carolyn Dykema. “The legislative reception provided an opportunity to share the work of the Water Infrastructure Finance Commission with fellow legislators and the water quality professionals who are the front lines in addressing our water infrastructure.” 

The Massachusetts Water Pollution Control Association is a non-profit organization that represents operators, professionals and both privately and publicly owned wastewater treatment facilities throughout Massachusetts. The Association makes available education and training, and promotes the exchange of information among its members so they can be made more knowledgeable and effective in providing excellent water quality throughout Massachusetts.

“The consistent issue we heard today from our cities and towns in Massachusetts is their struggle to balance the need to comply with mandated federal compliance with wastewater and storm water discharges while also addressing  the need to repair or replace aging infrastructure while limiting the financial impacts to their residents,” said Ray Willis, MWPCA President.

Representative Dykema was joined at the event by Senator Jamie Eldridge, co-chair of the Water Infrastructure Finance Commission.

“Restoring our water infrastructure is a need that has gone unattended to for too long, largely because our water pipes are underground and not in plain sight,” said Senator Jamie Eldridge. “Water pipes don’t become a problem until they spring a leak underscoring the need to invest in the future of our water infrastructure to promote clean drinking water. I applaud the great efforts the Massachusetts Water Pollution Control Association has taken to highlight the need for high quality, updated and reliable water infrastructure and look forward to working on this issue in the legislature.”

Massachusetts cities and towns are responsible for maintaining more than 125,000 miles of sewer pipes and more than 100 municipal wastewater treatment plants, many of which are aging. Cities and towns are tasked with maintaining thousands of drinking water wells and more than 200 surface water supplies.

The Water Infrastructure Finance Commission (WIFC) was charged with developing a comprehensive, long-range water infrastructure finance plan for the commonwealth and its municipalities following two years of research, public hearings and meetings. The final report is available online here.

During her remarks, Rep. Dykema highlighted the legislative package filed based on final recommendations of the WIFC including:

• Creation of a 10-year Water Infrastructure Bond to fund local drinking water, wastewater and storm water improvements;
• Defining and establishing guidelines for best management practices in long-term planning and financing;
• Promoting innovative water technologies; and
• Conducting a feasibility study relative to implementing watershed based permitting.

“By making investment in our water system a priority, we are also prioritizing economic growth, job creation, and the sustainability of our communities,” Rep. Dykema noted during her remarks. 

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State Representative Carolyn serves on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee and represents the towns of Holliston, Hopkinton, Southborough and Westborough (pct. 2).