Welcome!
To better serve you, I regularly update this page to
provide the latest campaign and legislative news concerning Melrose and Wakefield. Please also check out my new addition - a jobs page. As our communities continue to see rising unemployment, I will post jobs that I hear of. If you have a job you would like listed please email the posting to Rep.KatherineClark@hou.state.ma.us
Please feel free to express any ideas, questions or
concerns by contacting us. I look forward to hearing from you. Stand up for Katherine!
Sincerely, Volunteer
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Rep. Clark's New Office Hours
Melrose- Office hours will be held at the Milano Senior Center on the first Friday of the month at 11:30 AM. Rep. Due to the Fourth of July holiday weekend, Rep. Clark's next office hours at this location are on Friday, July 9th.
Wakefield- Office hours will be held at the Wakefield Senior Center every month on the first Friday of the month at 10:00 AM. Rep. Due to the Fourth of July holiday weekend, Rep. Clark's next office hours at this location are on Friday, July 9th.
Constituents are encouraged to stop by. For evening appointments or if you have any questions, please call (617) 722-2220.
Recent Headlines Click here for in-depth newsroom
April 15th- Katherine joined the Caucus of Women Legislators, other State legislators, and former Lieutenant Governor Evelyn Murphy at the Pay Equity Forum at the State House in honor of Equal Pay Day. Later that morning, as part of celebrating early literacy skills in preschoolers, Katherine read to the Pre-School kids at Canterbury Children’s Center in Wakefield. Afterwards, the students toured parts of the State House and met with other legislators to advocate for continued funding of METCO. Here they are on the floor of the Massachusetts House of Representatives chambers. March 13th - In honor of St. Patrick's Day celebrations, Katherine spoke at the Malden Irish American Club's annual St. Patrick's Day breakfast. Later that evening, Katherine attended Wakefield's Shamrock Festival. March 2nd - In honor of the Read Across America program, Katherine read to Ms. Ingram's 4th grade class at the Roosevelt Elementary School in Melrose. Katherine presented the class and the studetns with House of Representatives Citations to recognize their participation in this national event.
April 20th- Cub Scout Den 14 of Pack 615 of Melrose visited the State House for a tour with Katherine. The Scouts went on an official State House tour, as well as walked the floor of House Chambers and visited the balcony off of Senate Chambers - catching a beautiful view of Boston!
Standing in front, left to right, Ryan Nagel, Ryan Donohue, Kelly Nagel, Jackson Texeira, and Andrew Texeira. Standing in back, left to right, Representative Clark and Den leader Jodi Texeira.
Katherine with Marisa DeFranco, Treasurer of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women
April 14th- The Massachusetts House of Representatives passed expanded gaming legislation. Read Rep. Clark's editorial here.
April 13th- Melrose residents visited the State House as part of Autism Awareness Day. Students, family, and teachers met with Katherine to advocate for services and resouces. In particular, they advocated for the post-graduate program at Melrose High School and job placement services for the students.
From left to right: Melrose resident Christie Lee Lind, Representative Clark, Melrose High School teacher Cheryl Whitney, Melrose resident Cassandria Ricker, Melrose resident David Anthony Martins, Melrose resident Michael Lind, and Melrose High School teacher Tim Lawlor.
From left to right: Melrose resident David Anthony Martins, Melrose resident Cassandria Ricker, and Melrose resident Michael Lind.
Melrose residents and siblings, Michael and Christie Lee Lind.
Katherine and Senator Thomas McGee met with the 7th grade class from St. Mary's after their tour of the State House.
April 12th- Katherine joined Representative Jason Lewis (D-Winchester) and Representative James Dwyer (D-Woburn) in hosting a Community Forum for MBTA riders in Stoneham and Melrose to discuss public transit service with representatives from the MBTA. Dozens of riders from these communities attended the forum at the Stoneham Town Hall Auditorium.
“The MBTA offers valuable services to our local communities, and ensuring that these services are run safely and efficiently is critical to economic development in Melrose,” said Katherine. “Through this public forum, MBTA representatives and riders had a candid and productive conversation to share concerns, to ask questions, and to get answers. It is through these types of meetings, that problems are addressed and resolved.”
April 11th- At the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center's (BARCC) 5th annual Walk for Change, Katherine received the Beacon Award, in recognition of outstanding leadership in advancing the rights of sexual violence survivors. Katherine was a committed advocate for the passage of the new law An Act Relative to Harassment Prevention Orders. This law provides criminal harassment, stalking and sexual assault victims with the ability to petition for a protective order against their perpetrators. BARCC honored Katherine in front of a crowd of 1400 walkers at the annual event.
April 10th- The Second Annual Health Melrose Fair, sponsored by the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, brought together dozens of fitness experts from a variety of fields, to show community members how exercise can be fun and rewarding, while also teaching individuals the importance of caring for one's health. Katherine had a great time and was glad to see such a great turnout!
April 9th- The North Suburban Family Network (NSFN) hosted their annual legislative breakfast at the Purpose School in Stoneham to discuss the importance of early education. Representatives from Stoneham, Wakefield, and Melrose spoke about supporting early education, CPCs, Healthy Families, Early Intervention, WIC and the NSFN.
April 7th- Katherine joined the Massachusetts School Building Authority and Wakefield town and school officials on a site visit to Galvin Middle School. On the visit, they discussed the possibility of renovating/replacing Galvin Middle School.
At the State House, Katherine met with constituents visiting the Beacon Hill to advocate for funding for ALS programs and services.
April 5th- The blind and visually impaired community and their advocates visited the State House for the 2010 Annual Blind Legislative Information Day at the State House. Katherine attended the event and met with the community. This event highlighted the importance of maintaining funding for these services, especially during these difficult economic times.
April 2nd - At her Wakefield office hours, Katherine delivered her Senior Packets to the Wakefield Council on Aging. Visit this location or the Milano Senior Center in Melrose to pick up your Senior Packlets - which include valuable pamphlets, resources, and service information for seniors!
April 1st - Katherine was a sponsor and featured speaker at the Center for Women and Enterprise's (CWE) Legislative Breakfast at the Massachusetts State House. The annual event, which also featured Senate President Therese Murray, Governor Deval Patrick, and other legislators, highlighted the work CWE does in growing and supporting women-owned businesses in the Commonwealth. The theme for this year's breakfast emphasized job creation and growth for small businesses in the Commonwealth. 
“The Center for Women and Enterprise has provided the necessary resources, education, and training to over 19,000 women to ensure that these small businesses succeed and to empower women to become economically self-sufficient and prosperous,” said Representative Clark. “As a result, these small businesses have generated significant economic growth, job creation, and tax revenue for the Commonwealth. By providing this small grant to CWE, the state is playing an important role in jumpstarting economic recovery, as well as getting a strong return on its investment.”
Katherine, CWE Board of Directors member Alexis Brooks, and Representative Gloria Fox (D-Boston).
March 29th - At the Massachusetts General Federation of Womens Clubs held their annual legislative luncheon at the State House.
Ruth Tracy, president of the Womens Club of Melrose, joined Katherine at the lunch and discussed important legislative issues, as well as heard what other clubs across the Commonwealth are doing in their communities.
March 27th - At Melrose's ninth annual Trivia Bee, sponsored by The Bridge: A School Community Partnership, Katherine, former State Representative Mike Festa, and Wakefield resident Fred Rich, participated as part of the "POLLENticians" team. The competition was fierce and fun!
Team "POLLENticians" - Katherine, Mike Festa, and Fred Rich
March 26th - Katherine filmed her television show, "In the House," and interviewed Jon Hurst, President of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts (RAM). Katherine and Jon discussed the current economic climate and its impact on retailers, small business insurance options, a sales tax holiday, and the valuable services offered by RAM. Click these links to check the schedules of WCAT and MMTV and find out when you can watch Katherine's latest show.
March 25th - The Mystic Valley Regional Charter School held their annual Science Fair. Katherine served as a judge and was impressed by the level of research and creativity of the students. Great job!
March 24th - Katherine attended the Mystic Valley Elder Services annual legislative breakfast to learn more about the programs, resources, and funding needs of this valuable organization.
Representative Mark Falzone (D-Saugus), Wakefield resident and Mystic Valley Elder Services board member Ann Doherty, and Katherine.
Katherine then visited the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital to meet with health care workers and to discuss policy issues and budget requests currently before the legislature, as well as to learn more about their work experience.
At full formal session that day, Katherine and her colleagues voted to cover the costs of the U.S. Senate Special Election. By reimbursing the municipalities, the legislature offers financial protections to cities and towns, as well as eases the already large financial burden on many communities. “The financial cost of this special election should not be shouldered by local municipalities and local tax dollars,” said Katherine. “It is critical that we keep these funds where they belong – with our schools, with our local government, and with our community. This amendment keeps the taxpayers’ dollars where they belong – in Melrose and Wakefield.” While in session, the House also passed legislation funding workforce training. “The workforce training program provides critical resources for businesses and employees that will help promote economic growth in the Commonwealth,” said Representative Clark. “Employee education and training fosters the development of skills to keep businesses running efficiently and successfully, providing a much needed boost to our economy.”
March 18th - Katherine joined the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) in honoring Melrose resident, Susan Nadworny, who was the recipient of the distinguished 2010 Gunnar Dybwad Leadership Award. The Dybwad Award was established in 1999 by Commissioner Gerry Morrissey to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Katherine nominated Susan for this year's award. “Susan has become a leading voice advocating for people with intellectual disabilities,” said Representative Clark. “In addition to providing James with a wonderful life full of opportunities, Susan has also extended herself to families across the state to help ensure that their children achieve their full potential. Susan embraces all that the Dybwad Leadership Award represents and shares the values and ideals followed by the Department of Developmental Services.”
Susan Nadworny accepts her award at the 14th Annual DDS/SAC State House Recognition event.
Susan Nadworny is joined by her husband, John, daughter, Alexandria, son, James, and Katherine.
March 18th - It was a busy day on Beacon Hill. In the morning, Katherine met with families and representatives from Healthy Families to learn more about their Newborn Home Visiting programs for first-time parents age 20 and under. This program prevents child abuse and neglect by supporting positive, effective parenting skills, while also promoting increased educational attainment, job and life skills for parents and reducing repeat teen pregnancies.
Later that day, Katherine joined her colleagues in the House in passing legislation that would prohibit bullying and cyber-bullying while requiring schools to develop a bullying prevention plan and integrate bullying prevention instruction into their curriculum."This legislation sends a clear message that Massachusetts is committed to ensuring schools are a safe environment for every student and free of violence and intimidation," said Rep. Katherine Clark. "Our use of technology and social media brings many advantages, but it also can be used to allow bullying to follow a child 24/7. This bill will go a long way in addressing cyber bullying as well as intimidation that takes place at school."
March 17th - Happy St. Patrick's Day! Katherine's State House office remained open for Evacuation Day.
March 16th - While Katherine attended executive sessions for the Joint Committee on Education and the Joint Committee on the Judiciary, her staff attended a legislative lunch to examine the special education funding crisis. The meeting was organized by the Massachusetts Association of 766 Approved Private Schools (maaps), which recently launched the public education campaign, "All Kids Count," to try to gain support for an increase in funding for special education in both public and C766 private schools. "The Commonwealth has a responsibility to provide all children with access to equal education opportunities, as well as an excellent educational experience, " said Katherine. "Despite these difficult fiscal times, it is important that the Commonwealth continue to adequately fund special education and provide what is best for our school children and our schools."
March 15th - Katherine spoke at the annual METCO Lobbying Day at the Massachusetts State House today. METCO officials, students, and educators traveled to Beacon Hill to meet with legislators, to share their personal METCO experiences, and to highlight the tremendous benefits of the METCO program.
As a speaker at the event, Katherine offered her full support for the program, provided the participants with advice on speaking to legislators, and also rallied all those in attendance to get excited about voicing their strong support for METCO.“METCO is an essential program that provides valuable services and opportunities for the participating students and schools,” said Katherine. “It is critical that METCO supporters reach out to legislators, share their stories, and let them know the incredible benefits, both tangible and intangible, that come from the METCO program. The Commonwealth has a responsibility to provide all students with access to equal educational opportunities, as well as an excellent educational experience, and this is exactly what METCO does for all participating students and schools.”
After the event, Rep. Clark met with the Melrose METCO Coordinator, Doreen Ward, as well as Melrose METCO students and their parents. The students, many of whom had been in the METCO program since elementary school, spoke candidly about their positive experience in Melrose Public Schools.
These Melrose METCO students visited Katherine's office for METCO Lobbying Day. Back Row L-R: Denzel Jones, Shyra Ruffin, Darron Jones. Front Row L-R: LaShawnda Williams, Jasmine Bertrand-Halidy.
Melrose residents, Corinne and Mia Francazio, performed their Irish Step Dance routines at the Malden Irish American Club St. Patrick's Day breakfast.
March 11th - At the annual Department of Mental Health’s (DMH) Northeast Area Citizens Legislative Breakfast, Katherine, a sponsor and keynote speaker at the event, received an award from DMH and the Executive Office of Health and Human Service (EOHHS) for her exemplary service on behalf of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with mental illness. "My advocacy on behalf of individuals with mental illness stems from my passion and commitment to ensuring that all citizens of the Commonwealth have access to resources and opportunities to provide them with the most fulfilling and rewarding lives,” said Katherine. “Today’s event highlights the important need to continue funding for the wide array of services provided by DMH – from child and adolescent services, to community treatment programs, and inpatient care systems. I am honored to be recognized by DMH for this award and look forward to continuing to work with Commissioner Leadholm and the DMH community on our efforts on Beacon Hill.” 
Department of Mental Health Commissioner Barbara Leadholm presents the award to Katherine.
That evening, Katherine attended the Melrose Alliance Against Violence Appreciation Reception, where she discussed anti-bullying legislation currently pending before the House of Representatives.
Katherine and Shawn McMaster, a MAAV boardmember and the Deputy Chief of Community Outreach and Training for the Victim Witness Services Bureau in the Office of Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone's, at the MAAV Appreciation Reception.
March 6th - Brigid Alverson, executive assistant to Melrose Mayor Rob Dolan, visited the State House for a meeting to discuss the Middlesex Fells Reservation, and afterwards, stopped by the Chambers of the House of Representative with Katherine.
March 6th - Along with hundreds of other individuals, Katherine 'plunged' into the Atlantic Ocean to support the 12th Annual Passion Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Massachusetts. This event raised over $280,000 to support the overall health of individuals with intellectual disabilities through athletic competition, health screening and educational programs. For more information or to donate online visit www.passionplunge.org.
March 4th - Citizens for Public Schools selected Katherine as Legislator of the Year in recognition of her dedication and commitment to education policy and public schools, schoolchildren, and teachers. Katherine received the award at a reception this evening. “I am honored to receive this award from CPS, an organization that has long fought for equity and quality for all public schoolchildren,” said Katherine, a member of the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Education and former Melrose School Committee member and President, who has made education a top policy priority on Beacon Hill. “Education is the civil rights issue of this era, and it is critical that all students are afforded equal opportunities and access to excellent education. I will continue to work hard to improve education policy and provide what is best for our school children and our public schools.”
March 3rd - Katherine once again started her morning off by reading to another class. This time, she read to Mrs. Webster's 1st grade class at St. Mary's School in Melrose. The students and class also received citations for their participation in the Read Across America program.
That day at the State House, Katherine joined supporters and constituents at The Arc of Massachusetts and The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council's 35th Annual Legislative Reception.
The Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators celebrated their 35th Anniversary at the History of Women in Massachusetts Politics special collections exhibit at the State House Library.
At the Full Formal session, Rep. Clark voted to pass legislation to prohibit the debarking or silencing of a dog or cat unless a licensed veterinarian deems it medically necessary to treat the animal. Devocalization procedures, which are surgically invasive and run a high risk of infection, are typically performed to muffle or eliminate dog barking or cat meowing.
February 27th- To show her support for the Wakefield Citizens Scholarship Foundation, Katherine joined Wakefield residents Betsy Sheerin and Bob Cunningham and her Legislative Aide, Katherine O'Koniewski, on the "3 D's and an I" team at the 18th Annual Trivia Team Challenge.
February 26th- Along with many of her colleagues, Katherine attended the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus' "Good Guy Lunch." The event is held every year to honor men who have made significant contributions to women's issues. This year's honorees were United States Senator John Kerry, House of Representatives Speaker Robert DeLeo, Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins Jr., MassINC. President Gregory Torres, and Empower Peace Founder and President Rick Rendon.
February 25th- Katherine attended the Melrose Rotary Club's luncheon and gave a presentation on Laura's Law. Rotary Club members learned more about the legislation and the legislative process, as well as steps they can take to support Laura's Law and have it signed into law.
That evening, Katherine attended the Second Annual Night of Caring, to support Housing Families and Bread of Life. The event, which featured dinner, dancing, raffles, and a silent auction, raised money and collected non-perishable food items to support individuals and families who need food, shelter, and basic living items.
Here, Katherine stands with Jim Goebelbecker, Chief Executive Officer of Housing Families, and Patty Kelly, Community Outreach Coordinator for Housing Families.
February 24th- At the Annual METCO Legislative Caucus breakfast, Katherine met with METCO students, parents, and administrators to discuss METCO programming and the importance of maintaining funding for this essential service. Afterwards, the students and legislators went to House Chambers for a photo.
Afterwards, Katherine joined the Caucus of Women Legislators and EOPPS Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan in honoring Colonel Marian McGovern, the first woman appointed to lead the State Police. The legislators also presented Col. McGovern with a joint resolution.
Pictured from left to right are Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan, Katherine, and Colonel Marian McGovern
In the Full Formal session that day, Katherine joined her colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in unanimously passing legislation establishing punishment for the assault and battery of a correctional officer or employee of any jail with bodily fluids. In addition to this bill, legislators also unanimously voted for passing an amednment to prohibit the dissemination of obscene mateirals to minors through "any electronic communication." For additional details on these bills, please visit our newsroom.
February 22nd- Katherine filmed her television show, "In the House," and interviewed Tom Flanagan, State Humane Officer, Investigative Division, Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Boston - Law Enforcement Department. Katherine and Tom discussed the League's Golden Guardians program. as well as its Link Up program, the connection between domestic violence and pets, Operation Proactive, and many other initiatives taken up by Tom and the ARL. Click these links to check the schedules of WCAT and MMTV and find out when you can watch Katherine's latest show.
February 20th- Katherine served as a keynote speaker at the Philadelphia Seventh-Day Adventist Church's Black History Month celebration. Katherine reflected on the resilience of the Haitian people in the face of the recent tragic earthquake and the importance of access to a superior education in making sure that all people have the opportunity to achieve great things and maximize their human potential. Katheirne was "truly honored that she was invited to celebrate Black History Month with this vibrant congregation."
Pictured from left to right are Malden City Councilor Neal Anderson, Malden City Councilor Gary Christenson, author Kiki Latimer, Katherine and Philadelphia Seventh-Day Adventist Church Pastor Pierre Eddy Laguerre.
Later that evening, Katherine celebrated the 78th anniversary of the Melrose VFW at the VFW Post on Chipman Ave. in Melrose.
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February 11th- Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed Katherine's legislation, House Bill 4491, An Act relative to organ and tissue donation and transplantation. This legislation creates an organ donation advisory council, establishes a voluntary fund to be used on organ donation awareness and education, provides organ donation information and ability to register as a donor with state income tax forms, and will study the feasibility of becoming a donor when a person registers to vote. “This is a great step forward for the organ donation community and for the thousands of people on the organ donor waitlist,” said Katherine, the bill’s lead sponsor. “Many thanks to the Linehans, DonateLife Melrose, the medical and CPA associations, and all those who co-sponsored this legislation and came to testify in support of the bill. We could not have done this without everyone’s steadfast dedication and commitment.” This bill, originally known as “Laura’s Law,” is in honor of Laura Linehan, a Melrose resident who lost her lifelong battle with liver disease after waiting for a lifesaving liver transplant. Throughout her life, Laura was a valiant advocate for organ donation and remained committed to spreading awareness for organ donation and to increasing the number of registered organ donors. Through passage of this bill in the House, Laura’s goal of making Massachusetts a leader in organ donor awareness and support is one step closer to fruition.
Katherine, Ann Linehan, and members of DonateLife Melrose at the Organ Donation Awareness day at the State House last year.
February 5th- Nazareth Academy student athletes Julie O’Brien and Kyera Tamagini recently attended the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Massachusetts Celebration of Girls and Women in Sports Day (GWS Day) in the Great Hall at Faneuil Hall in Boston. Katherine and State Representative Mark Falzone (D-Saugus) presented Massachusetts House of Representatives Citations to Julie and Kyere recognizing their participation in the event and honoring their personal athletic accomplishments at Nazareth Academy. Co-sponsored by the MIAA and the New Agenda: Northeast, this formal event recognized hundreds of high school female athletes from across the Commonwealth and the adult role models who support and inspire them. Julie and Kyera were selected on account of their commitment to playing a positive role on both their athletic teams and in the classroom.
Julie O’Brien (left) and Kyera Tamagini (right) stand in Faneuil Hall to receive their Massachusetts House of Representatives Citations from Katherine and State Representative Mark Falzones (D-Saugus). The citations recognized their participation in the event and honored their personal athletic accomplishments at Nazareth Academy.
February 5th- As a keynote speaker at the Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership’s Afterschool and Expanded Learning Opportunities Advocacy Day, Katherine addressed a crowd of hundreds of children, families, and community leaders in the Great Hall at the State House. Katherine highlighted the many opportunities and tremendous benefits offered by the afterschool and expanded learning programs, and the urgency to ensure that all children in the Commonwealth have access to these programs.
Gwynn Hughes, Executive Director of Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership, introduces Katherine.
Katherine, State Representatives Mark Falzone (D-Saugus), and Jay Kaufman (D-Lexington) and State Senator Richard Tisei (R-Wakefield) hosted an art reception at the Massachusetts State House featuring the work of Wakefield residents, Merrill and Russ Mezikofsky. The father and son duo brought dozens of paintings to the State House, where visitors could browse the artwork and discuss it with the artists. "I want to thank Merrill and Russ Mezikofsky for sharing their beautiful art with the public in the State House," said Katherine. "Wakefield has always placed an emphasis on the arts, and this exhibit is a testament to the many artists and the talent that has fostered."
The Mezikofsky’s pose in front of their artwork with State Legislators at the State House art reception featuring their work. (Left to right) Al Turco, aide to State Senator Richard Tisei (R-Lynnfield), Katherine, Russ Mezikofsky, State Representative Jay Kaufman (D-Lexington), Merrill Mezikofsky, and State Representative Mark Falzone (D-Saugus).
February 2- Katherine joined Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, Senate President Therese Murray, and members of the Legislature to support the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign, which raises awareness of heart disease's impact on women. The event included remarks from special guests, including legislators and women survivors, to celebrate the 7th anniversary of the campaign. All members wore an article of red clothing to honor this cause.
January 28- The Northeast Metro Tech High School Football Team visisted the Massachusetts State House. Katherine joined other legislators in honoring the team for capturing the Division 4 Super Bowl championship football title. While on their visit, the team toured the State House, received citations and resolutions from the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate, and met with Speaker of the House, Representatiev Robert DeLeo (D-Winthrop.)
The NEMT Football Team with Katherine, members of the House of Representatives and Senate, and Speaker of the House, Representative Robert DeLeo.
Members from Wakefield stand with Katherine and Representative Mark Falzone (D-Saugus).
Katherine, joined by Northeast Metro Tech High School School Committee Vice Chairman and Melrose resident, Henry S. Hooton, offers a Massachusetts House of Representatives citation to Melrose resident and Northeast Metro Tech High School junior and football player, John Patrick O’Connell.
January 27- held their Annual Meeting at the State House. Here, the Caucus unanimously elected Katherine to serve on the Executive Committee as Caucus Treasurer for the second consecutive year. The Caucus of Women Legislators is a bipartisan, bicameral group of female legislators, the mission of which is to enhance the economic status and equality of women and to encourage and foster women in all branches of government.
The Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators
Later that day, Katherine joined other Melrose businesses in welcoming Chris Cinella, of Edward Jones Investments, to the local business community at a Melrose Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting, open house, and networking event.
January 23- Katherine attended Mystic Valley Elder Services' inaugural Belly Full of Laughs comedy event and fundraiser. More than 400 people attended the sold-out event. In addition to hilarious comedic entertainment by locals Dave Russo and Paul Gilligan, the event offered great food and an array of raffle prizes. Overall, MVES raised $15,000 to support its Meals on Wheels Program and to deliver 7,500 home-delivered meals to area elders!
(Photo Credit: Shavaun Callahan)
January 21- Katherine, Representative Peter Koutoujian, and Senator Pat Jehlen hosted a legislative briefing on the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. Animal and human services professionals with expertise in the link between violence toward people and animals shared their experiences in this field. The link between animal cruelty and human violence is well-documented both statistically and through stories of abuse. Like children, pets are often used as pawns in domestic violence. One study found that up to 48% of battered women will not leave, or will return to a violent relationship due to fear of what might happen to the animal if left behind. Several bills pending in the Judiciary Committee, including Katherine's bill, House Bill 1319, would allow pets to be included in temporary restraining orders issued in domestic violence cases and would address the problem of victims delaying leaving, or not leaving, a violent situation due to concern about what will happen to the family pet.
Representative Peter Koutoujian (D-Waltham ), Kara Holmquist (Director of Advocacy, Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), Deni Goldman (Animal Control Officer, Hull), and Representative Katherine Clark
January 18- In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Katherine celebrated the life and works of Dr. King at a breakfast in Malden and at the Annual Celebration and Potluck Dinner at the First Congregational Church in Melrose. Tug Yourgrau shared his powerful story about growing up in apartheid South Africa and showed a video. The Melrose MLK Day Choir also performed.
January 13- Katherine and the the local US Census Office in Woburn hosted a legislative briefing to discuss the 2010 US Census. At the event, legislators and aides met with the Census Office staff and learned about the types of operations that will be conducted, the time line for communities, the community outreach efforts, and job opportunities offered by the Census. To learn more, click here.
That afternoon, Katherine attended the Merrimack Roundtable Association's luncheon for Superintendents and Legislators to discuss important education legislation and hear about educational developments in local communities.
That evening, the Caucus of Women Legislators held a reunion of current and former women legislators at the State House. The event, "165 & Counting," honors the 165 women legislators who have served and are currently serving in the Legislature. The reception was hosted by Senate President Therese Murray. Katherine is honored to be one of the 165!
As the Caucus Treasurer, Katherine stands with the other board members of the Caucus of Women Legislators.
January 11- New presidents of the Melrose Board of Aldermen and the Melrose School Committee, as well as additional members of each group, were sworn in during the Melrose Inaugural Ceremony at Memorial Hall. Melrose Mayor Rob Dolan also gave his annual “State of the City” address. Katherine enjoyed watched the ceremony, as well as hearing Mayor Dolan's speech.
January 6- After many hearings, meetings, Democratic Caucus sessions, and proposed amendments, Katherine joined her colleagues in the house to pass House Bill 4410, An act relative to the achievement gap. To read the bill, with the included amendments, click here.
January 5- Members, which include Katherine, of the Early Education and Care (EEC) Advisory Council met to discuss FY2011 Grants and Programs, as well as the EEC Advistory Councils role in System Building.
January 4- Katherine watched as Malden's 11 member City Council, nine member School Committee, and Malden's representative to the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School Committee took their formal oaths of office at the City of Malden's inaugural ceremonies in The John and Christina Markey Senior Community Center. Katherine offers her congratulations to all the individuals who were sworn in!
(Photo Credit: Shavaun Callahan)
December 23 - The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) lowered the hockey rink rental fees for Melrose Youth Hockey. Katherine and Mayor Dolan worked to pass emergency regulations to keep youth hockey affordable. To learn more, click here.
December 17 - Katherine toured the Beachmont School, a Bay State Reading Insitute partner school, in Revere. After touring the school, Katherine participated in an informal round-table discussion with several teachers, guests, and administrators.
December 16 - Katherine interviewed Middlesex District Attorney, Gerry Leone, for her local cable television show, "In the House." In the interview, they discussed DA Leone's background, Melissa's Bill, the Sexual Dangerous Persons Statute (SDP), and other important pieces of legislation related to the DA's office. Please check the WCAT and MMTV schedules for the showtimes.
December 15 - Along with other legislators who are interested in the positive environmental elements of the recent transportation reform legislation, Katherine attended a briefing by Secretary of Transportation Jeff Mullan. Secretary Mullan discussed implementation strategies of this legislation and provided valuable information regarding how Massachusetts can decrease the environmental impact of our transportation system. Secretary Mullan will be joining Rep. Clark in February on her local cable television show, "In the House."
That evening, Governor Patrick traveled to Melrose's Memorial Hall to host a FY 2011 budget forum to discuss the state of our economy, our budget, what it means for the critical services the government provides, and how the decisions the government makes will affect us all. These forums help ensure that all feedback can be taken into account in developing the Governor's budget recommendations, which are due in late January.
(Photo credit: Eugena Ossi/Governor's Office)
(Photo credit: Eugena Ossi/Governor's Office)
(Photo credit: Eugena Ossi/Governor's Office)
December 14 - Katherine spent the morning at Excel Academy Charter School in East Boston. Excel Academy Charter School prepares middle school students to succeed in high school and college, apply their learning to solve relevant problems, and engage productively in their communities. For the second year in a row, the students in Excel Academy’s Class of 2009 ranked first in the state by achieving a perfect 100 percent Advanced/Proficient rate on the state’s annual English MCAS exam. This year, they matched their first place performance on the math MCAS examination, ranking first out of all public middle schools in Massachusetts on both subject tests. Katherine met with students, teachers, and administrators to learn about Excel's effective and innovative teaching methods and academic results.
Katherine then joined Governor Deval Patrick, Congressman John Tierney, and other Massachusetts Legistors in announcing the state's intention to use $5.9 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) stimulus funds for signal and intersection improvements in Lynnfield and Wakefield. "I thank Governor Patrick and Congressman Tierney for the investment of ARRA funds in Wakefield and Lynnfield," said Katherine. "This project will not only create immediate jobs, but will add long term economic benefits to these towns and the region through increased affordable housing, improved transportation and pedestrian uses and broader tax revenues. This is great news and a great investment in our communities." To read more about thse projects, click here.
Later in the day, Katherine attended the Annual Lighting of the Chanukah Memorah at the State House. Rabbi Rachmiel Liberman of the Congregation Lubavitch Jewish Education Center led the ceremony, and a children's chorus provided the musical entertainment. It was a very heart-warming and festive affair!
December 12 - At the annual Assault on Mt. Hood Road Race, Katherine joined a large crowd to cheer on the participants (including her husband, Rod, and many friends) of the 3.5 mile cross country race/walk along the fairways of Mt. Hood Golf Course. As a sponsor of the event, Katherine was impressed not only with the hard work and dedication of the participants, but also with the amount of money raised for Housing Families.
December 9 - Katherine joined Lt. Governor Murray to tour Epsilon in Wakefield. Katherine learned about the latest strategies and resources Epsilon is utilizing to be the leading provider of multi-channel marketing services. With offices across the United States and throughout the world, it is great to have a leader in the marketing services industry right in our own backyard!
Later in the afternoon, Governor Patrick hosted the Annual State House tree lighting ceremony, featuring music by St. Paul's AME, the Boston City Singers, and the Wilmington Strings. After the musical performances, all in attendance proceeding to the State House frotn steps for the countdown to the tree lighting.
December 7 - Governor Patrick signed the Melrose Traffic Safety Zones legislation into law. This law will make it easier for the Melrose community to establish traffic safety zones. Katherine, along with State Senators Thomas McGee and Richard Tisei and Melrose Alderman Frank Wright, worked together to spearhead this effort as the bill's lead sponsors. This law gives Melrose the authority to establish traffic safety zones in the community. Through the reduction of vehicular speed limits and by installing appropriate signs, more safety zones can be created in Melrose neighborhoods. “These zones not only deter dangerous driving, but will also increase the road safety of neighborhoods throughout Melrose,” said Katherine. “In light of recent traffic accidents in Melrose and across the state, it is important to implement these precautions as a way to protect Melrose drivers and pedestrians.” Read more about it here.
December 7 - Katherine joined State Senator Richard Tisei and State Representatives Paul Donato, James Dwyer, Chris Fallon, Mark Falzone, Brad Jones, Jason Lewis and Stephen Smith in announcing that the communities of Lynnfield, Malden, Reading, Stoneham and Wakefield were among the recipients of 2010 Student Awareness of Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) grants from the state. The grants pay for fire safety programs administered by fire departments at their local schools. According to State Fire Marshall Stephen Coan, the S.A.F.E. program has led to a 66 percent decrease in the number of Massachusetts children who die in fires each year.
December 5 - Katherine offered a Massachusetts House of Representatives Citation to Lori Muse and Lena Giordano in recognition of “introducing a fabulous dining experience to the Melrose community through your exquisite cuisine, your impeccable taste, and the opening of your restaurant, Absolutely Fabulous.” Muse is the owner and head chef of the recently opened Absolutely Fabulous restaurant in downtown Melrose. Giordano is her business partner and the restaurant’s head waitress.
December 4-6 - Katherine and her family attended the Home for the Holidays festivities in Melrose and Wakefield. It was great to see each community come together to celebrate with holiday season with festive activities, ceremonies, and events!
December 3 - Katherine's staff attended Congressman Markey's impending appropriations and TIP process briefing at Woburn City Hall. Members of the Congressman's staff were on-hand to answer questions about the federal side of the earmark process, as was Guy Bresnahan, who discussed STIP, the State Transportation Improvement Program. This event provide valuable information to understand how Katherine can bring federal aid to the Melrose and Wakefield communities.
December 2 - Katherine attended the Melrose Veterans Memorial Middle School's Acts of Kindness Summit Week. With legislation in the House addressing bullying in our schools, Katherine is proud of Melrose for taking a proactive approach to educate our students about the dangers and effects of bullying. Read Katherine's editorial here.
December 1 - Katherine's office attends the Powderhouse Production screening of "A Girl's Life" - a documentary that examines the challenges facing young women as they deal with adolescent issues, such as cyber-bullying, body image, and violence.
November 20 - Katherine attended the North Shore Executive Directors Association's (NSHEDA) Regional Legislative Brunch on public and affordable housing.
