Senate Majority Leader Fred Berry, D-Peabody, made a rare early-morning appearance today, speaking to a joint meeting of The Salem Partnership and the North Shore Alliance for Economic Development.
Berry had remained a key inside player on Beacon Hill even while dealing with some serious health issues. But now he’s feeling better and making an effort to get out in the district more.
And throughout he never lost that famous wit. This morning, as TSP executive director Patricia Zaido struggled to feed his microphone through the arm of his wheelchair to his lapel, Berry joked, “With my luck, I’ll get electrocuted.”
Friday’s agenda included a pitch for his big food drive being held in Danvers Sunday and a review of recent state investments in the region that include a new library for Salem State College, garages at the Salem and Beverly train stations and a new regional vocational school to be built in Danvers.
In response to a question, Berry predicted quick passage of a gambling bill that would authorize a casino or two, as well as slot
Sen. Fred Berry
His comments echo those of Rep. Brian Dempsey, D-Haverhill, whose committee will hold a hearing on the issue next week. At a meeting with editors Wednesday, Dempsey said there appears to be considerable sentiment now for allowing “racinos” at places like Suffolk Downs and Wonderland.
