The Legislature, meeting in joint session as a constitutional convention, has finally taken definitive action on the citizens' initiative petition defining marriage as between a man and a woman. Fifty votes were required to place this question before the voters in November 2008, but the measure received only 45, including mine and that of Sen. Panagiotakos. I am disappointed in this outcome, since I have long supported the right of the people to weigh in on this question, but it is now time to move on and devote energy to other pressing legislative matters.

One of these matters is the FY 2008 state budget, currently being considered by a conference committee of three representatives and three senators. I have requested that the members give due consideration to two items that were included in the version passed by the House, but not included by the Senate. These are an expenditure of $125,000 to improve and maintain the Squannacook Dam near Rivercourt in West Groton, and $50,000 for the Fort Devens Museum.

As I reported in a recent press release, my longtime (nine years) aide Ron Englade is leaving the State House and retiring from state service at the end of this month. Ron has served both me and my constituents with distinction and professionalism, and he will be greatly missed. His position will be initially filled by Brittany Pulford, a student at Boston College and a 2006 Groton Dunstable graduate who formerly served as a legislative intern in my office. Meanwhile, I will continue my search for a permanent replacement.

Congratulations to Dunstable Fire Chief George Bacon, retiring after 43 years of service to the Department, including 37 years as Chief. Congratulations also to Louise and Paul Bresnahan on the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, and to Pepperell residents Christopher Catalini, Travis LeBlanc, Aaron Simmons, and Ryan St. Onge for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.

Finally, Ellen and I wish everyone a safe and festive Fourth of July.