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Kingston’s
Top Ten
Movers and Shakers
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NOTE: This list appears in
alpha order. Kingston’s Top Ten list of
movers and shakers was compiled by the Observer network based upon
effectiveness, position, community influence, commitment, and a two year
history of public service. Only local municipal officials were considered.
It is a given that our elected state reps would make any list. Feel free
to take issue with our choices in any of our forums: letters, Squawk Box,
our online Community Discussion Groups.
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GEORGE
CRAVENHO: Well into his second term as a Selectman,
Cravenho brought to the table a decade of service as a Water
Commissioner. His involvement on the Tri-Town School Committee was
more than casual, he was a leader in that capacity serving as a
liaison for the Selectman and the Town. He is an introspective
leader and considers himself a facilitator. We sometimes grow
impatient with his style but seldom question his commitment. No
flash in the pan, his service to the community has been a long- term
affair with many more successes than trips. |
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OLAVO
DEMACEDO: Whatever you think about Olly, he gets things
done and is innovative. A two term Selectman, there are few who don’t
remember his re-election slogan, "Olly Cares", and he
does. It’s difficult to stay angry at Olly when he smiles and
gives you that little boy look. Behind the disarming appearance is a
guy that does care about a town he has called home almost from the
day he left Cape Verde. We still remember his successful Christmas
Vigils to his stirring 9/11 Memorial Service. Olly is, despite any
stumbles, one of Kingston’s Treasures. |
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ROBERT
KOSTKA: Bob became a Water Commissioner in 1992 when
George Cravenho stepped down after 12 years. Few believed that
Kostka could assimilate as quickly into a board that hadn’t seen a
membership change in 12 years. Not only did he adapt at warp speed
but then became Chairman which he remains to this day. We have good
water in Kingston and the wells to keep us full. Bob presents water
articles at Town Meeting and they generally get what they want,
which is good for us all. He is an effective speaker not because of
style but because of content. |
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MELANY
MEEKER-JONES: The diminutive Ms. Jones is one of Kingston’s
best kept secrets. She has been at the helm of our Finance Committee
for many years. She is among the most fluent of its membership and
writes the most prosaic accounts of our fiscal forecasts ever heard
at Town Meeting. She is a firebrand with no fear of telling it like
it is. She exhibits a trait often lacking in our leadership, she
listens. Her responses are based on what she heard, not what she
thought or hoped was said. She plays no favorites and can be tough,
but fair with all who come before her Committee. |
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MARY
LOU MURZYN: Many years ago Mary Lou Murzyn did something
many thought was impossible, she defeated a legend to become Town
Clerk. "Mr. Kingston”, George Cushman held the position for
about 60 years. She is today what she was in winning the seat;
quiet, calm, well spoken, informed, educated, professional and
likeable. Her presence in her office and on the stage at Town
Meeting is more significant than is apparent. Her record keeping is
the gateway to Kingston’s history; deaths, births, marriages, Town
Meeting action and all we are each day. |
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