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this page last updated on January 3, 2007
Councillors announce re-election
bids for third terms
(Excerpts from the Malden Advocate, Friday, December 29,
2006)
Ward One Councillor Gary Christenson and Councillor-At-Large Craig Spadafora both announced that they will both be seeking a third term.
The two councilors have more than the desire to serve a third term in common, both believing that communication and personal contact with residents are vital in city politics.
Both councilors have been known to take calls from residents at all hours of the day and night as well as communicate with residents through e-mail which help keep residents apprised of current topics and discussions that are going on in the city.
Councillor Christenson said, "My dream as far back as high school was to serve as councillor and represent the residents of my ward. I love this city. I even moved into the Belmont Condominiums and my apartment is in my first grade classroom."
The two candidates are both focusing on quality of life issues because they feel that those are the issues that every resident cares about.
Christenson
to seek third term
(Malden Observer, Friday, December 22, 2006)
Gary Christenson still has a lifelong political dream.
That dream could be to oversee the city as Mayor, or move beyond
the borders of Malden to a state position he hasn't yet
made up his mind.
But Christenson said he does know that the drive and passion to
represent his childhood neighborhood still fans the flames of
his political life, and he has no intention of going anywhere.
Christenson last week was the latest local figure to announce
his intentions for the November municipal elections, making it
official that he will seek a third term as Ward 1 councilor.
"When I was in high school my dream was to be Ward 1 city
councilor, and what comes in the future is yet to be decided.
Right now, I am a candidate to seek re-election because I have
the very same drive that I did the first day I took office in
2003, and having that flame is the most important thing when you
are doing this job," he said. "Do I often think about
what the future holds? Do I still have that childhood dream? Of
course. But I'm not sure I can say just what that dream is, because
I don't know."
Christenson was born and raised on Cross Street in Ward 1, and
was the first name on the waiting list four years before
the Belmont Condominiums were completed to inhabit a converted
room at his old grammar school.
Since assuming office in 2003, Christenson has become one of the
most active and vocal councilors, serving as chairman of the city
Finance Committee and spearheading projects throughout his ward
and the city, including the Bike to the Sea project and the effort
to work with Cambridge Health Alliance to open a family medicine
center on Canal Street.
But Christenson said he is focused on working for the residents
of his ward, not just on large city projects, and he wants to
create a community that is involved in the improvement of their
neighborhood.
"I think the biggest, most important thing to focus on is
various quality of life issues," he said. "When I first
started I was trying to learn everything, making sure I knew about
this tax document, or this law or that rate, but in hindsight,
none of that is nearly as important to people as getting the rubbish
picked up, or fixing the hole in the street. The most important
thing we can do is keep residents informed and stay on top of
the concerns they have."
Christenson said he would continue to focus on projects such as
the renovation of the Green Street Park and tot lot, and various
improvements at Bell Rock Park, along with working with neighbors
to keep up on concerns about a new Madison Street development.
The councilor said he has established an open line of communication
with his residents, by sending out a monthly e-mail and making
it a point to send a hello post card to any new residents in the
ward.
He also welcomes calls to his city cell phone throughout the day,
so as never to be far from resident concerns even with a
full-time day job as budget director in the Middlesex Sheriff's
Office.
Christenson quickly squashed rumors that he would run for departing
At-Large Councilor Martin Gately's seat, saying he prefers the
"intimate borders" of being a ward councilor and the
ability to develop relationships with his residents.
"Being a ward councilor goes back to your heart. Malden has
given me the tools and the opportunity that I need to succeed,"
he said. "I want to do the same for the folks in my neighborhood
and the kids in our schools that are the future leaders of the
city. I will work as hard as I can to make the neighborhood the
absolute best it can be, and continue to encourage residents to
be aware and get involved in any capacity they can."
[Insert city picture]
Gary Christenson will seek a third term as Ward 1 City Councilor
in Malden.
(Courtesy)
Ward 1 City Councillor Gary Christenson recently held a fundraiser that drew a large crowd of supporters. Over 150 people were on hand for Gary and most even stayed for what one supporter joked "Councilor Christenson's longwinded speech." Fortunately, there were some great raffles, good food, and enjoyable music provided by DJ Paulie B. to help offset Gary's remarks.
Prior to Christenson's speech, Councilor-At-Large Craig Spadafora and Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola introduced Christenson stating that he is a great friend and that he epitomizes the meaning of public service. Gary thanked them and he also publicly acknowledged the hard work of his committee, most notably his sister Erika Israelson and dear friend Carol Ann Desiderio. Christenson also held a moment of silence for deceased Malden Marine Edward Garvin who had passed away earlier that day.
In his remarks, Gary discussed upcoming improvements to Green Street Park and Bell Rock Memorial Park. He also talked about how he is constantly trying to find ways to improve communication with the neighborhood. His e-mail tree and postcards to new residents are but two of the ways Christenson uses in getting the word out about Ward 1 and Malden.
Finally, Gary closed his speech by giving the crowd his David Letterman rendition of his top ten City Council moments. The one that seemed to get the biggest chuckle was when Gary was on his way to pick up a date one night during the winter and he happened to see a burnt out streetlight along the way so he climbed the snow bank to get the number of the pole to report it to National Grid otherwise known as Massachusetts Electric but when he got to the top, he fell right through the snow bank causing him to go home and change his clothes. Oh by the way, his date was later cancelled!
For more information on Ward 1 City Councillor Gary Christenson, please visit electgary.com or you can contact him at 781-324-4820.
Ward One City Councillor Gary Christenson enjoyed a great start to his re-election campaign this past Thursday at Anthony's Restaurant. Among the 200 guests in attendance were friends, family, elected officials, and Ward One supporters. Everyone was excited and impressed with Gary's hard work on the council. Mayor Richard C. Howard pointed out that Gary pays attention to every detail involving his neighborhood and is invaluable to the City of Malden. Then four Ward One residents, Michael Drummey, Thelma Massey, Debbie Chesson, and Roberta Linscott, gave heartfelt speeches on what Gary has done for them personally and for the neighborhood.
Gary eloquently outlined his first year in detail and with much humor. Thanks to Gary's efforts, Ward One residents can look forward to a Mother's Day Breakfast, the renovation of Green Street Park, and the hopeful return of a carnival back to Malden to help with the cost of the Holiday Parade. Gary ended his speech in David Letterman Fashion with the Top Ten incidents that have happened since taking office. His number one incident occurred after reading to a class of kindergarten students when one student apparently was not too impressed with Gary's reading as evident by his throwing up everywhere. With the school nurse tied up with another student and the janitor outside of the building, Gary cleaned up the mess. We think it's safe to say that Gary won't be reading again to that class for awhile.
Councillor Christenson wrapped up by humbly thanking his family, friends, and neighbors for their overwhelming support. He reiterated how much he enjoys his time on the City Council and looks forward to doing so for another two years. If you would like to support Gary for his re-election bid, please contact him at 781-324-4820 or ward1info@yahoo.com.
Councillor
Christenson talking about neighborhood issues with Dennis and
Debbie Caristinos
Councillor
Christenson pictured with Ferryway School Fourth-grade student
Max Mattos
Gary
addresses his supporters
Gary
shown with Ward 5 School Committee Member Greg Lucey
Ward
1 resident Thelma Massey commends Gary for all his hard work
on the City Council
Gary Christenson and his supporters recently held a fun-filled Bingo Night with residents of the Robinson-Cuticura Building. Christenson is the Ward 1 School Committee Member and a City Council Candidate.
Veteran School Committee member Bill Mini introduced Christenson calling him an "asset" to Malden. Christenson then thanked the residents for their friendship over the past two years and asked for their vote in the upcoming election on Tuesday, November 4th.
After Christenson's remarks, residents were treated to coffee and dessert and many, many games of Bingo. Prizes included gift certificates to local businesses and lottery tickets.
Gary and supporters
take a break from bingo (click on the photo to enlarge it)
Gary congratulates
bingo winner Thelma Massy (click on the photo to enlarge it)
Even
Gary's nephew Nicholas got into the game.
Mayor Howard and current Ward 1 Councillor Eleanor Cushing introduced Christenson. His remarks centered on his pride as a resident of Ward 1. A top priority for him is that the hard work and dedication of Ward 1 residents is reciprocated when they need help from City Hall.
To accomplish that goal, Christenson pledged one evening or weekend day a month to meet with residents about their concerns. He also pledged to create and maintain a Ward 1 e-mail system as another option to notify residents of city news and neighborhood events such as the Ward 1 Fall Breakfast.
Christenson also discussed the condition of the streets and sidewalks. He said that he was moved by the number of residents who questioned the point of improving their homes if the streets and sidewalks remained in disrepair. Gary pledged to work with Mayor Howard and the City Council to address this serious problem.
Christenson reiterated his commitment to the Malden Public Schools. As Ward 1 Councillor, he promised to continue supporting the Ferryway School PTO and School Council. "Quality schools are the anchor of a viable community," he said.
Finally, Christenson said he would work with residents to improve Green Street Park like the other parks in the city and to continue the great work Councillor Cushing and nearby residents have done with Bell Rock Park.
Christenson finished up by sharing a Top Ten list of stories from the campaign trail this summer, including one where he carried a discarded car tire back to his car because the voter said no one else would pick it up.
Gary Christenson said his campaign is going very well. "We're following our plan. We have a terrific team in place and I have been humbled by the support I've received," he said.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 4th. Christenson's campaign team is offering rides to the polls and has launched a website: www.electgary.com. For more information about Gary's campaign, call (781) 321-9546.
Gary
pictured with his many supporters (click on the photo to enlarge
it)
Ward 1 and Ferryway School kids had a great time at the Back-to-School bowling party held at Ryan Family Amusements on Saturday, September 13, 2003. Gary Christenson, Ward 1 School Committee Member and City Council Candidate, and the Ferryway School PTO sponsored the event.
The evening featured a number of activities for children. In addition to bowling and video games, there was face painting, lots of pizza from Town House Pizza, and a chance to make new friends.
To close the event, Christenson and the Ferryway School PTO wished the kids good luck upon their return to school and thanked the Ryan Family Amusements staff for helping to create such an enjoyable family event.
Gary
pictured with his supporters and the PTO (click on the photo to
enlarge it)
On Thursday, September 5, 2003, Ward 1 City Council Candidate Gary Christenson spoke before a packed house at City Hall against the proposed MBTA fare increase. Gary stated that Malden has spent recent years attracting people to move to the area due in part to the accessibility of the MBTA but wondered aloud if that was the right strategy with the T proposing to raise fares for the second time in four years.
Christenson suggested alternatives to raising fares during
these hard-pressed times for Malden residents. Among them were
waiting for more sales tax data, which the T depends on, as receipts
were up in the first quarter of fiscal year 2004; spend down reserve
funds; reorganize the department; freeze all new projects; and
implement recent blue-ribbon commission measures.
On Friday, July 25, 2003, Ward 1 School Committee Member and Candidate for Ward 1 City Councillor spoke to the latest graduates of the Middlesex Sheriff's Office Youth Public Safety Academy. The text of Gary's remarks were as follows:
Good morning. Faced with tough economic times, the sentiment during this past fiscal year in cities such as Malden and Medford has been to work together to develop ways to offset a cutback in services to its youth. The Middlesex Sheriff's Office, led by Sheriff James V. DiPaola, has answered our call by offering Malden and Medford kids a chance to participate in this year's Youth Public Safety Academy.
For the past week, the Middlesex Sheriff's Office has taught Malden and Medford youth about the virtues of public safety. Specifically, the Academy has had local police officers, firefighters and EMT's work with the graduating cadets to show them the importance of public safety; how to act in the event of a fire or an emergency situation; and the role they can play in making their homes, schools and communities safer.
In addition to the invaluable lessons gained by the cadets this past week, the youth of Malden and Medford also got a lesson in what it means to have "guts and determination" because while state dollars continue to dwindle, Sheriff Jim DiPaola's commitment to this great program grows stronger and stronger.
So on behalf of Malden School Committee member Bill Mini, Superintendent Joan Connolly, and Jenifer Henry representing Mayor Richard C. Howard, and myself, I would like to thank you Sheriff DiPaola for your leadership and I would also like to commend your staff, led by Assistant Deputy Superintendent Sean McAdam, for fulfilling your commitment to working together with cities like Malden and Medford during these tough economic times in order to achieve the important goal of preparing tomorrow's leaders.
Good luck cadets and remember you will make a difference
one day because its events like the Youth Public Safety Academy
that will help you to make that difference. Thank you.
Click
on the photo to enlarge it
Ward 1 City Council Candidate Gary Christenson recently submitted
nomination papers containing 400 signatures to the City Clerk.
The City Clerk's Office stated that this could be a record for
this election cycle. Although a ward candidate needed only 50
signatures to get on the ballot, Christenson stated that he used
the signature drive as a way of getting around the neighborhood
and hearing from the people he hopes to one day represent at City
Hall.
On Thursday, July 17, 2003, Ward 1 City Council Candidate Gary
Christenson joined others in welcoming Senate President Robert
E. Travaglini to Malden's Ferryway School. After breakfast, Christenson
publicly asked the Senate President during the event's question-and-answer
session about the state's plans to address what many Ward 1 constituents
call a crumbling infrastructure in terms of streets and sidewalks.
While providing no specific plans, the Senate President did respond
to Christenson's question that there is a chance that when the
Big Dig project is completed, more funds will be available to
address infrastructure needs. Below is a picture of Gary asking
the question on behalf of many of his Ward 1 constituents.
After learning that funds used to repair streets and sidewalks
was being held up on Beacon Hill, Ward 1 City Council Candidate
Gary Christenson wrote Governor Romney pleading that those funds
be released as soon as possible. This was done because a number
of Ward 1 constituents stated to Christenson that they are doing
their best to maintain their property but they were beginning
to wonder why if the city and state was not going to do the same
when it comes to streets and sidewalks. The letter sent by Christenson
to the Governor's Office is as follows:
Dear Governor Romney:
Currently a member of the Malden School Committee, I am a candidate to represent Ward 1 on the Malden City Council. This week, I will submit 400 signatures from Ward 1 voters to place my name on the ballot in the upcoming election on November 4, 2003.
As I canvass the neighborhood, I have been inspired by the number of citizens who have invested a great deal of time in the maintenance of their property. However, some are beginning to ask the purpose of doing so if the streets and sidewalks are not going to be maintained.
Compounding this problem is that Malden has been doing everything it can to maintain other essential resources such as police, fire, and educational services to the point that there is little left for infrastructure.
This is why I implore you to direct the Massachusetts Highway Department to issue a letter of authorization to Malden indicating their share of the final $100 million of last year's bond act to fund the fiscal year 2004 Chapter 90 program.
Moreover, I ask that you commit to increasing the Chapter 90 program and to authorizing a study to assess the infrastructure needs of the state. If Ward 1 in the city of Malden is any indication, we are at the beginning of a crisis in Massachusetts that will adversely affect core government services, most notably public safety.
At a time when we are committing precious budget dollars to specialized equipment purchases and first responders, it is hard to imagine how we can justify the lack of a sound infrastructure over which to transport these vital services.
I look forward to hearing your response. I would be happy to work with members of your staff on a resolution to this worsening problem. I can be contacted at (617) 233-7001 if you have any further questions. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Gary Christenson,
Ward 1 School Committee Member and
Candidate for the Malden City Council
Cc: Speaker Thomas M. Finneran
Senate President Robert E. Travaglini
Mayor Richard C. Howard, City of Malden
Executive Director Geoffrey Beckwith, MMA
More than 100 people turned out on Friday, May 16 to hear Ward 1 School Committee Member Gary Christenson announce his bid to be a member of the City Council in the upcoming election to be held this coming November.
Christenson stated that his dedication to the School Committee for what will be nearly five years in December convinced him to want to promote the school system on a much larger scale, that being the City Council where the ultimate financial fate of the school system lies. As chairman of the Budget Subcommittee for the past two years, Christenson also thought it would be beneficial for the Council to have someone with a School Committee background who could speak on important budget matters affecting the school system.
Among those speaking on Christenson's behalf were Adam Weldai, student representative to the School Committee, Jack McGlynn, former Medford Mayor who represented Sheriff James V. DiPaola, Mayor Richard C. Howard, and Ward 1 City Councillor Eleanor Cushing. Also in attendance supporting Christenson were several School Committee and City Council members.
Gary's family and friends also used the event to celebrate his graduation from Suffolk University Law School on Sunday, May 18th. His father praised Gary for all of his hard work and capped off the remarks with a cake acknowledging his achievement.
In closing, Christenson thanked everyone for being at the event
and hoped that they would reward dedicated public service by promoting
him to the City Council this coming November. A more formal announcement
of his candidacy will be forthcoming in the near future.
Christenson
says he will run for Ward One Councilor
(Malden Evening News, Monday, May 19, 2003)
Ward One School Committee Member Gary Christenson announced this weekend that he will, in fact, be a candidate for City Councilor in that ward.
On Wednesday, sitting Ward One Councilor Eleanor Cushing officially announced she would not seek re-election to that seat in November, opening up the race.
Christenson, the chairman of the School Committee's Budget Subcommittee, told family, friends and supporters of his decision during a Friday night fundraiser.
"With an open seat I really did some thinking and decided not much would change if I ran for City Council, because much of my focus would remain on education and the Ferryway School," Christenson told the Malden Evening News.
"I plan on making my life here in the ward and want to try to continue to make a difference," he said Sunday.
Christenson says he believes he can bring some valuable tools to the City Council, especially when it comes to the budget and the impact on things like the schools.
In addition to serving as Budget Subcommittee chairman for the School Committee the last two budget cycles, Christenson has been the Budget Director for Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola and served almost ten years as a budget analyst with the House Ways & Means Committee, including several under current Speaker of the House Thomas Finneran.
"On the School Committee I focused on the budget process' impact on the schools, but I think that it's experience that might be helpful to the Council in a broader sense," he said.
In addition to a continued emphasis on the needs of the Malden Public Schools, Christenson says he would also like to focus on a number of other issues important to Ward One residents, including the future of the Belmont School, parking problems and future of both a new Malden High School and the continued growth of Malden Square.
He says he would also like to take a look at possible improvements
at Green Street Park and would like to continue much of the work
Councilor Cushing has done with Bell Rock Park, the annual Flag
Day Celebration and the popular Fourth of July festivities.
A record
crowd at Malden's Ward One Fall Breakfast
(Excerpts from the Malden Evening News, Thursday, October
31, 2002)
Well over 100 neighbors, families, and friends joined host, Ward One City Councillor Eleanor Cushing last Sunday for the Ward One Fall Breakfast held at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Hall.
Joining Councillor Cushing was Ward One School Committee Member Gary Christenson who spoke about the Ferryway School and the excellent programs and teamwork he is experiencing first-hand by spending one day a month on site at the school.
In conclusion, Councillor Cushing thanked the attendees and the volunteers who assisted throughout the breakfast, as well as School Committee Member Christenson who helped plan the event.
School Committee member bowls
kids over
(Malden Observer, Thursday, October 31, 2002)
Ward 1 School Committee Member Gary Christenson recently held a Back-to-School bowling party at Ryan Family Amusements. Nearly 75 children from the Ward and surrounding areas joined Christenson for a day of bowling with their families. In between strings, the kids were treated to pizza from Town House Pizza and they received tokens for the video game room.
At the end of the fun-filled afternoon, Christenson wished the kids good luck upon their return to school and told the parents that he would work hard on the School Committee for a strong educational foundation from which Malden's children can learn and grow.
Christenson will hold office hours at the Ferryway School once a month during the school year on the following dates: October 18, November 15, December 20, January 17, February 14, March 14, April 17, May 16, and June 20.
For more information on the Committee to Elect Gary Christenson, please call (781) 321-9546.
Ward One School Committee Member
Gary Christenson hosts well-attended fundraiser
(The Malden Advocate, Friday, October 25, 2002)
More than 150 people turned out to support Ward 1 School Committee Member Gary Christenson at a recent fundraiser held at the Malden V.F.W.
Ferryway School parent and School Council member Debbie Chesson introduced Gary to the crowd. In her remarks, she noted how Mr. Christenson has taken the issue of class size head on at the Ferryway School and how his spending one-day a month at the school has helped provide a key link to the School Committee.
Gary thanked those in attendance for their trust and support. He also used the event to talk about his first year accomplishments, including spending one-day a month at the Ferryway School to learn first hand the issues affecting parents and students, co-chaired the Class Size Subcommittee whose findings are being incorporated into the Malden Public Schools long-range plans, led the Budget Subcommittee during tight fiscal times, and helped negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement for the teachers.
Christenson also stated that he hopes to get the minutes and
votes of the School Committee posted on the World Wide Web, create
a Ward 1 Scholarship Fund, reform the way our School Athletic
Revolving Fund operates, and begin preparing for the fiscal year
2004 budget process sooner rather than later. In closing, Gary
talked how much public service means to him and he thanked everyone
for giving him a chance to play a role in it.
School Committee Member Gary Christenson
holds successful fundraiser in bid to win November 6 election
(The Committee to Elect Gary Christenson, Malden VFW, Friday,
September 14, 2001)
School Committee Member Gary Christenson thanked an enthusiastic crowd for their support at a recent fundraiser held at the Malden V.F.W. He began his remarks by asking for a moment of silence for our fellow Americans who tragically lost their life to the acts of terrorism. Christenson remarked, "By us being here together this evening, we show our strength and unity during this sad chapter of American history."
Gary noted that one positive event to come out of that horrific Tuesday was the birth of his nephew, Nicholas Jeffrey Israelson. It was here that Christenson stated "One of the best ways to improve our world today is through our young children, what we teach them, and how we influence them."
After stating that it would be his goal to try and be a positive influence on his nephew as well as all of the children of Malden, Christenson thanked his family and friends for being such a positive influence on him. He also expressed his gratitude to Mayor Richard Howard and Sheriff Jim DiPaola for guiding him toward a career in public service.
For information about Gary's candidacy, please call (781) 321-9546, or email Gary.
School Committee Member Gary Christenson recently held a Back To School Party at Ryan Family Amusements. Children from throughout the City of Malden joined Christenson for a day of bowling with their families. In between bowling, the kids were treated to pizza from Town House Pizza and they played video games to which they won prizes.
At the end of the fun-filled afternoon, Christenson wished the kids good luck upon their return to school and told the parents that he would work hard to for a strong educational foundation from which Malden's children can learn and grow.
For information about Gary's candidacy, please call (781) 321-9546, or email Gary.
Click
on any of the photos above to enlarge them.On Wednesday, July 25th, School Committee Member Gary Christenson hosted a Bingo Night for the residents of the Robinson Cuticura Building. Christenson was joined by School Committee Member Bill Mini, as they informed the Ward 1 residents of their recent collaboration in ensuring that the Kindergarten paraprofessionals, who were previously laid-off, will be re-hired and returned to their jobs in the fall.
School Committee Member Christenson began his remarks by thanking the residents for their support. "It is your commitment to the Malden community and your paving the way for people of my generation to access a good public school education that inspired me to serve on the Malden School Committee. It is our continued teamwork that will help improve the Malden Public School System," said Christenson.
Christenson is seeking a second term on the Malden School Committee and was recently appointed Co-Chairperson of the Subcommittee for Optimal Classroom Size.
For more information about Gary's candidacy, please call (781) 321-9546, or email Gary.
Christenson
outlines his goals for the Malden Public Schools.
Gary discusses
strategy on how to win at Bingo.
Christenson
pictured with his family.
School Committee
Member Christenson pictured with supporters.
After a fun
night of Bingo, the Santolucitos stopped to pose for a picture
with Christenson.
On Friday, July 20th, School Committee Member Gary Christenson spoke to graduates from the Middlesex Sheriff's Office Youth Public Safety Academy. Sheriff James V. DiPaola established the Youth Public Safety Academy to educate Malden's youth about public safety and the important role that law enforcement officials have in community. Activities include basic first-aid training, proper fire evacuation guidance, tours of local police and fire stations, anti-bullying information and team-building exercises.
After Christenson congratulated Malden's 41 graduates, he went on to say that the Youth Public Safety Academy is the perfect compliment to the Malden Public Schools' efforts in providing young people every opportunity to learn how to take part in community and be productive citizens. Christenson went on to say that Malden parents unanimously praised the program, and he plans to continue to work with the Sheriff's Office to promote the program in order that more young people are able to take advantage of the program.
School
Committee Member Christenson commends Middlesex Sheriff James
V. DiPaola and his staff for an outstanding program.
Christenson
joins Malden's youth as they perform their final act of the day.
On Wednesday, July 18th, School Committee Member Gary Christenson joined a group of Malden officials to tour the Beebe School with Massachusetts Senate President Tom Birmingham. The major purpose of the tour was to observe Malden's MCAS Summer Enrichment Program, which is designed to help students improve classroom performance and raise MCAS scores.
Christenson remarked that Malden has followed the Senate President's lead on MCAS by having a subcommittee in place to support educators and the community-at-large. It was unanimously recommended by the subcommittee that if students need to pass the exam in order to graduate from the Malden Public Schools, then the proper resources are needed in order for students to achieve that goal. Christenson noted that thanks to Senate President Birmingham's leadership, the subcommittee's recommendation has begun to be fulfilled with Malden receiving $204,250 from the state in 2001 for MCAS remediation.
School Committee Member Christenson also praised the MCAS Enrichment Program's Co-Directors, Patti Amirault and Paul McCarthy, in a letter to the Chairman of the Malden School Committee stating that it was good to see the students in small groups learning from a curriculum developed by a team of teachers. He also noted that the teachers he spoke with advocate that the MCAS Enrichment Program is instrumental in helping students to pass the MCAS.
On Sunday, July 15th, School Committee Member Gary Christenson hosted a breakfast at the Eagles Club for the residents of Ward 1, where he is campaigning to return to his seat on the Malden School Committee. Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola introduced School Committee Member Christenson to a standing-room crowd of supporters. Christenson stated that he has enjoyed representing the people of Malden during his tenure on the School Committee. He told supporters that having graduated from the Malden Public School System, he knows first-hand that a good public education can inspire young people not only to learn but to give back to community. "Public service is what I'm about. Representing Malden's children, the concerns of their parents and the needs of our teachers is my focus. One of my reasons for seeking another term on the Malden School Committee is that I have been a part of helping to improve our public school system and I wish to continue to help ensure that the children of Malden receive the best educational opportunities available and that our teachers are supported," said Christenson.
Christenson, who has served as Chairperson of the Community Use of School Facilities and Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System Subcommittees, recently took on the task, along with School Committee Member Bill Mini, of finding funding to ensure that kindergarten paraprofessional workers will be reinstated to their jobs in the fall. Christenson, who serves as Budget Director for the Middlesex Sheriff's Office and who formerly served as Revenue Director for the House Committee on Ways and Means has been marked as being an asset to the Malden School Committee due to his expertise with operating budgets.
"I have a strong desire to give back to the Malden Public Schools and to the Malden community at large," said Christenson, who also is a member of the Asian Disability Advocacy Group, and Malden's Local Action Committee for Affordable Housing. Christenson also serves as a Steering Committee Member for Portal To Hope's Youth Services Program, helping young people whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence. Christenson has also been instrumental in organizing charitable events in Malden, including youth tournaments from which proceeds benefited nonprofit organizations including the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the American Red Cross, Tri-City Housing Task Force for Homeless Families and the Bread of Life.
A number of candidates attended Christenson's event, including local elected officials: School Committee Members Bill Mini and Ruth Luca, and Councillors-at-Large Martin Gately and Joan Chiasson.
For more information about The Committee To Elect Gary Christenson To The Malden School Committee Ward 1, please call (781) 321-9546 or email Gary.
School
Committee Member Christenson poses for a picture with friends.
Gary
gets the thumbs up!
School
Committee Member Christenson addresses the crowd.
Christenson
supporters help to serve breakfast to Ward 1 residents.
Local
Veteran's representative Michael Rowan wishes Gary the best of
luck along the campaign trail.
Ward One resident and School Committee member Gary Christenson has announced that he is seeking a second term to the Malden School Committee. In a statement to supporters, Christenson said:
"Two years ago I was provided with the opportunity to represent the citizens of Malden by being appointed to the Malden School Committee. Since that time, I have worked to address some of the critical areas of education, including school safety, fiscal responsibility, and standardized testing.
Most importantly, I have worked to improve the communication and collaboration between our schools and the community-at-large because today our schools are responsible not only for providing students with a basic education but they must also address issues that never before were considered a part of the school day.
For example, at the same time our educators are inspiring our young people to learn, they are faced with the task of preventing problems such as violence and substance abuse. This is coupled with the fact that our educators are working diligently to help our students pass a standardized test required before they graduate from high school. This increasing pressure to serve a myriad of roles places a tremendous burden on our schools. Consequently, our schools need us now more than ever.
There is a place in our public educational system for everyone to contribute. I believe that if we work as a team, we will have a greater ability to reach out to all residents, including those who do not have children in our schools but who are paying taxes in support of students achieving a Malden public school education. It is the collection of ideas from every citizen that will bring about a different perspective to our children's learning process.
In the coming months, I will ask you for your thoughts and ideas because your help is vital to maintaining a strong educational setting for our children to learn. I look forward to working with you and ask that you vote for me as your Ward One representative to the Malden School Committee."
For more information about the campaign to elect Gary Christenson to the Malden School Committee representing Ward One, please call (781) 321-9546 or email Gary.