Dear Friends,

It's been six years since we started this journey together to ensure quality leadership for District 2. I am truly grateful for all that has been given me. During these six years on the Boston City Council I have demonstrated the ability in building a better Boston for all and have seen to it that our District grows with respect to what was there before.

I am grateful to have been elected four times to a position that gives me an opportunity to help people, especially those who can't help themselves. I am proud to ensure that all my constituents have access to the services they need and deserve. This has always been a major focus of my time in office.

Yes, 2013 is a municipal election year and I am excited about campaigning to receive your vote this fall. I need your vote to continue the work we've begun, creating jobs, building housing, streamlining services and monitoring taxing and spending of the Administration.

I am confident that my first six years in office will stand up in comparison to anyone who has held office both as a State or City elected official from the neighborhoods of South Boston, South End, Chinatown, Bay Village, Downtown and look forward to continuing my efforts and improve on my ability to deliver for the people of District 2.

The political scene in Boston and Massachusetts is in flux. Elected officials are moving on to other walks of life; many leave the public life sooner than their predecessors. The job is more difficult today than in the past, and the electorate often has a negative opinion of government. I believe that good people must stay active in politics and government to ensure a better future for our city. Additionally, I believe that during my tenure I played a role in strengthening the Council as an important body of government and worked with my colleagues to create a culture of inclusiveness and collegiality. Different opinions, foster better outcomes.

On a personal note, I have lived in this District my entire life. My wife Judy and I have raised our four children here and have six beautiful grandchildren. The quality of life in our neighborhoods and the improvement of our schools is a personal one. In times of change within the District and throughout the city we need to search for common ground so as to improve our city while maintaining our neighborhoods for the families and residents who live here.

Please work with me to continue the progress. I need your help to ensure we maintain a stable, reasonable voice, grounded at the center of those who live in District 2.