Knuuttila ... In

The Brian Knuuttila for Senate campaign sent out a press release this afternoon saying not only is Knuuttila in the race for Senate, but he's taking a leave of absence from his job in the Worcester Sheriff's Office "to prove his dedication and commitment to winning the Worcester and Middlesex State Senate seat."

In the release, Knuuttila also calls on his opponent, Rep. Jennifer Flanagan (D-Leominster) to forego her salary during the campaign.

"During these tough economic times, I believe candidates should not be campaigning on the backs of the taxpayers," Knuuttila said in the release. "I understand that both candidates wil be spending a lot of time campaigning during the day, and since the Legislature will be in summer recess, my opponent should hold herself the same standard."

So, there you go. Knuuttila is in the race. On we go.

Dean Tran Better Get a Move On

If City Councilor Dean Tran -- or anyone else for that matter -- wants to run for state Senate out of Fitchburg, they better get moving, pronto.

Former Gardner Rep. Brian Knuuttila announced today he's running, and at Fitchburg City Hall for the announcement were five city councilors and a former state rep who are backing Knuuttila, with another councilor and a former mayor leaning his way (to find out here, click here).

Knuuttila was born and raised in Fitchburg, so he has deep roots in the city. An open Fitchburg is a good Fitchburg for Knuuttila. He appears to be quickly gathering support in the city, so if Tran or someone else wants to battle him for Fitchburg supremacy, they'd better step in soon, or there won't be much left to fight over -- at least in term of endorsements and support.