We knew this day was coming when nearly 15 months ago the diagnosis confirmed the worst. Brain cancer had stricken the last of the Kennedy boys. Today a family, a Commonwealth, and an entire nation mourns. Think and say what you want about the man.

I apologize for my lack of recent posts. Although, given the likely VT readership in the summertime, I may only be asking myself for forgiveness!

I cannot say that I’m surprised by Governor Patrick’s decision to support the state sales tax increase. It was another poor decision in a long line of missteps by a leader who had enormous potential and opportunity when he became our State Executive in 2006.

It is weekends like these that truly allow each of us to appreciate the sweet taste of a freshly grilled burger or dog, an ice cold beer, and the camaraderie of friends and family. Let us not forget that these delightful freedoms resulted from the honorable sacrifices of U.S. men and women who have died in service to our country.

The news over the recent Massachusetts House vote (108-51) to raise the state sales tax from 5% to 6.25% is laughable. I’m a bit dumbfounded to believe we have arrived at a point where our state legislature sees this measure as a tool in their belt to help mend a severely increasing budget deficit.