State Republican Party leader Chris Healy just issued this press release:
Colapietro Is All Double-Talk on Death Penalty
State Sen. Thomas Colapietro, D-Bristol, is trying to fool voters by talking tough on the state death penalty even though he voted to eliminate it this year, according to Republican State Party Chairman Chris Healy Thursday.
“Colapietro is a liar on a life and death issue and now he has been caught red-handed,” said Healy. “He knows the people of Bristol and Plainville understand the death penalty shouldn’t be abolished, but as usual, Colapietro words don’t match his record.”
Healy said Colapietro supported abolishing the death penalty on May 22nd. The bill was approved by the Democratic Legislature and vetoed by Gov. M. Jodi Rell. Neither chamber attempted to override the veto. Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Dan Malloy supports repealing the death penalty while Republican Tom Foley is for such punishment.
“Electing Dan Malloy and Tom Colapietro means no death penalty for those who deserve it,” said Healy. “No one will be safe.”
Colapietro in comments to the Bristol Press claimed the death penalty was “a joke,” and “that it merely made defense lawyers rich.”
“Aside from being a bully, Tom Colapietro has shown himself truly unbalanced,” said Healy. “Colapietro votes to abolish the death penalty, claims he is a tough guy but has never challenged the current laws that allow death row inmates to make endless appeals.”
Colapietro claims his support for being for “three strikes, “ sentencing but it’s not backed up with either statements or legislative proposals to expedite the imposition of the death penalty.
“Colapietro has long shot his mouth off, blaming others for his problems and those of the world,” said Healy. “After 18 years, Tom Colapietro has delivered nothing for victims of violent crimes or supported making violent criminals pay the ultimate price.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 30, 2010
Colapietro clarifies stance on death penalty
State Sen. Tom Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, just issued this press release:
“Let me be absolutely clear: I believe in the death penalty. I believe it provides justice to the families of victims left behind by serial killers and other heinous criminals. I wish that we had a working system of capital punishment in Connecticut today—the sad reality is, we don’t,” said Senator Colapietro.
He continued, “I would like to see a workable death penalty. Today’s system does nothing but fill lawyer’s pockets full of taxpayer money. It’s an endless series of appeals that goes nowhere, and gives justice to nobody. It lets the worst of all criminals sit in their cells and escape execution while taxpayers foot the bill. What a waste! That’s the broken system I voted against.”
“In more than forty years, Connecticut has only executed one criminal sentenced to death: Michael Ross. He deserved to die, but he was only executed because he asked to be. That’s legal suicide, not a functioning system of capital punishment that works properly.”
“We need legislation that will fix Connecticut’s death penalty and make it truly workable. A capital punishment system should convict the guilty, exonerate the innocent, and put the very worst killers to death swiftly. That’s justice, for the state and for victim’s families,” concluded Senator Colapietro.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Colapietro Clarifies His Position on the Death Penalty
“Serial killers deserve death but the system is broken and doesn’t provide justice. We need to fix that.”
Senator Tom Colapietro released a statement clarifying his position on the death penalty, and criticized Connecticut’s current system of capital punishment as broken and unworkable.“Let me be absolutely clear: I believe in the death penalty. I believe it provides justice to the families of victims left behind by serial killers and other heinous criminals. I wish that we had a working system of capital punishment in Connecticut today—the sad reality is, we don’t,” said Senator Colapietro.
He continued, “I would like to see a workable death penalty. Today’s system does nothing but fill lawyer’s pockets full of taxpayer money. It’s an endless series of appeals that goes nowhere, and gives justice to nobody. It lets the worst of all criminals sit in their cells and escape execution while taxpayers foot the bill. What a waste! That’s the broken system I voted against.”
“In more than forty years, Connecticut has only executed one criminal sentenced to death: Michael Ross. He deserved to die, but he was only executed because he asked to be. That’s legal suicide, not a functioning system of capital punishment that works properly.”
“We need legislation that will fix Connecticut’s death penalty and make it truly workable. A capital punishment system should convict the guilty, exonerate the innocent, and put the very worst killers to death swiftly. That’s justice, for the state and for victim’s families,” concluded Senator Colapietro.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Democrats see hope for Election Day
These are dark days for Democrats, but they may seem a lot brighter by Election Day.
With Connecticut’s U.S. Senate seat suddenly in play and a host of Republican challengers across the country leading in the polls, city GOP officials are increasingly giddy about their chances in the November 2 general election.
“People are feeling more connected to us now and they trust us,” said Whit Betts, the GOP candidate for the 78th District state House seat.
But Democrats are counting on voters to remember that Republicans have “sat on the sidelines” for years while their party pushed to improve the lives of America’s hard-pressed middle class.
“I don't believe Democrats will be taken down as harshly as everyone claims. The people will ultimately realize the good we have done,” said Christopher MacNeill, a Bristol Central High School sophomore who’s active in Democratic politics.
City Democratic leader Elliott Nelson said there’s a lot of talk of his party having “a bad year,” but he thinks that local candidates are in good shape.
“When it’s all said and done, we’re going to hold our seats and we’re going to probably pick up” the 78th District, where two veteran politicians are facing off for an open state House seat.
But Republicans say they can win 78th and the 31st District state Senate seat that Democrat Tom Colapietro has held for 18 years. They also hope to snag the 77th District seat that first-term state Rep. Chris Wright is trying to defend.
“We’re going to do something very special here in Bristol,” said T.J. Barnes, who chairs the city’s GOP.
City Councilor Ken Cockayne said that traipsing along with the Republicans' U.S. Senate contender, Linda McMahon, "was like walking with a superstar."
He said that Bristol residents -- who tend to be blue-collar and Democratic -- showed real support for the former wrestling executive as she hoofed it for a few hours Sunday during Bristol's Mum Parade.
Betts said that after watching McMahon at the parade he thinks she has "a legitimate shot at being able to win Bristol" on Election Day.
"She's inspired a lot of people" with her personal story of rising from bankruptcy to riches, he said, while keeping that common touch.
Democrats said that Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, who is trying to fend off McMahon for the Senate seat, also received a warm welcome as he marched in front of the American Legion banner. They said he remains popular.
Barnes said he sees "a new energy" in the party that is going to translate into victories at the polls that would not have seemed possible a few years ago.
A McMahon victory in Bristol would be a big step toward a statewide win for the Senate seat that Democrat Chris Dodd is giving up.
Blumenthal has been steadily sinking in the polls, unable so far to combat McMahon's millions or find the key to secure support from voters who once backed him routinely.
Barnes said that it's even more encouraging that his party has such strong local candidates, running for the state legislature, that they can not only win themselves, they can even help pull in votes for Republicans seeking statewide office.
But Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, said the GOP is offering the same old tired arguments that it has long trotted out – and that voters have consistently rejected. He said he’s not worried.
Wright said he’s been knocking on many doors and working hard to earn another term in Hartford.
But even Nelson concedes the Republicans are doing better than usual.
“For the first time in a long time, they have some viable candidates,” Nelson said.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Bristol, New Britain chambers fight over busway
Don't miss this column by the head of the New Britain Chamber of Commerce, William Millerick, an old newspaper hand.
Millerick said that stopping the busway has become "an obsession" with the Bristol chamber.
"Even people in Bristol shake their heads at the amount of time, energy and now money that is being spent by the Bristol chamber to stop a busway in New Britain," Millerick wrote.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Millerick said that stopping the busway has become "an obsession" with the Bristol chamber.
"Even people in Bristol shake their heads at the amount of time, energy and now money that is being spent by the Bristol chamber to stop a busway in New Britain," Millerick wrote.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Colapietro calls death penalty 'a joke'
In the middle of the trial of Steven Hayes, whose lawyer admits he raped and murdered Jennifer Hawke-Petit in Cheshire three years during one of the most horrible crimes in Connecticut history, it’s tough to speak out against the death penalty.
But state Sen. Tom Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, said he still thinks it’s a bad idea.
“The death penalty is the biggest joke that I ever heard,” Colapietro said. Voting against it, he said, “is just plain old common sense.”
He said that while he could “vote either way” on the death penalty in the abstract, he opposes it because he’s concerned the state might put an innocent person to death someday and because the existing system is merely a way to lawyers employed.
“The only people who are going to make money from it are the lawyers,” said Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat who has represented the 31st District since 1992. He said as long as attorneys can file endless appeals, they’ll keep raking it in from death penalty cases.
Colapietro’s Republican challenger, Jason Welch of Bristol, said the state needs “a viable death penalty.”
He said the Petit case itself shows that society should have the death penalty as “the last resort” for especially heinous crimes.
Colapietro countered that because Welch is a lawyer – who handles claims related to construction cases – he would naturally want to keep the death penalty.
The death penalty, he said, “is job security for lawyers.”
Click here for the story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
But state Sen. Tom Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, said he still thinks it’s a bad idea.
“The death penalty is the biggest joke that I ever heard,” Colapietro said. Voting against it, he said, “is just plain old common sense.”
He said that while he could “vote either way” on the death penalty in the abstract, he opposes it because he’s concerned the state might put an innocent person to death someday and because the existing system is merely a way to lawyers employed.
“The only people who are going to make money from it are the lawyers,” said Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat who has represented the 31st District since 1992. He said as long as attorneys can file endless appeals, they’ll keep raking it in from death penalty cases.
Colapietro’s Republican challenger, Jason Welch of Bristol, said the state needs “a viable death penalty.”
He said the Petit case itself shows that society should have the death penalty as “the last resort” for especially heinous crimes.
Colapietro countered that because Welch is a lawyer – who handles claims related to construction cases – he would naturally want to keep the death penalty.
The death penalty, he said, “is job security for lawyers.”
Click here for the story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 29, 2010
Police officer was drunk when he crashed on-duty in June, officials say
When Police Officer Robert Mosback crashed his cruiser into a Riverside Avenue utility pole in June, his blood alcohol level was nearly twice the legal limit, according to city officials.
As word of the discovery percolated through City Hall, Mosback, 39, submitted his resignation from the force Wednesday. He cited personal reasons, according to Police Chief John DiVenere.
An accident report from the city police released last month found that Mosback was traveling as fast as 70 miles an hour when he struck the pole June 26 after trying to catch up with a suspicious car.
Mayor Art Ward said there is an ongoing investigation of the accident.
Edward Krawiecki, Jr, the city attorney, said the city has asked “an outside, public agency” to investigate. He said the city is working on a formal request to get the ball rolling.
“We think an outside investigation is the way to go,” Krawiecki said.
Click here for the story in Wednesday's Bristol Press. A web-only story that broke the news Tuesday can be found here. You can see a Hartford Courant story on Mosback's resignation here.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
As word of the discovery percolated through City Hall, Mosback, 39, submitted his resignation from the force Wednesday. He cited personal reasons, according to Police Chief John DiVenere.
An accident report from the city police released last month found that Mosback was traveling as fast as 70 miles an hour when he struck the pole June 26 after trying to catch up with a suspicious car.
Mayor Art Ward said there is an ongoing investigation of the accident.
Edward Krawiecki, Jr, the city attorney, said the city has asked “an outside, public agency” to investigate. He said the city is working on a formal request to get the ball rolling.
“We think an outside investigation is the way to go,” Krawiecki said.
Click here for the story in Wednesday's Bristol Press. A web-only story that broke the news Tuesday can be found here. You can see a Hartford Courant story on Mosback's resignation here.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Brickley pushes Larson to debate in Bristol and beyond
Republican congressional hopeful Ann Brickley just sent out this press release:
Brickley Still Waiting for Larson to Commit to Debates
Despite hectic fundraising schedule Larson campaign claims he is unavailable for any events prior to October 14th
WETHERSFIELD, CT (September 29, 2010) – On the evening of the August 10th Primary Elections, Congressman John Larson sent out a press release congratulating Ann Brickley on her victory and saying he was looking forward to holding “a debate and joint appearances” with her. In response to Larson’s press release, Brickley sent him a letter suggesting that they hold debates in at least six locations in an effort to allow as many people as possible in the expansive district to see the candidates discuss their views on the issues.
After waiting more than a month for a response to her request, representatives from Larson’s campaign finally sat down with representatives of Brickley’s campaign to discuss potential debates. Larson’s representatives stated that he would not be available Mondays through Thursdays until October 14th because Congress was still in session. Brickley questioned the validity of this claim considering the fact that Larson had participated in several campaign fundraisers both in Connecticut and in Washington, DC over the past few weeks, but her representatives attempted to comply with this schedule and planned the following debates:
· Bristol – at the Eastern Regional Little League Headquarters on Thursday October 21st which would be hosted and moderated by the Bristol Press.
· New Hartford – held at the Antolini School Tuesday, October 26th to be hosted and moderated by the Litchfield County League of Women Voters
· Cromwell - held at the Cromwell Middle School on either October 14th or 28th that could potentially be moderated by the League of Women Voters of Greater Hartford.
· West Hartford - The Greater Hartford League of Women Voters have invited Larson, Brickley and Green Party candidate Ken Krayeske to participate in a debate in West Hartford on October 18th.
With the exception of the West Hartford event, Larson’s campaign has yet to confirm Congressman Larson’s participation in any additional debates.
“Congressman Larson apparently has more than enough time to raise hundreds of thousands of campaign dollars, including participating in an event with Speaker Nancy Pelosi in Hartford that raised $300,000,” Brickley said. “But when it comes to going out into to the district to debate such issues as the federal stimulus incentives, healthcare, and cap and trade, apparently Mr. Larson is just too busy. Congressman Larson and I are miles apart on these issues and I think we owe it to the people of the First Congressional District to provide them with the opportunity to see and hear us explain our differences.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Brickley Still Waiting for Larson to Commit to Debates
Despite hectic fundraising schedule Larson campaign claims he is unavailable for any events prior to October 14th
WETHERSFIELD, CT (September 29, 2010) – On the evening of the August 10th Primary Elections, Congressman John Larson sent out a press release congratulating Ann Brickley on her victory and saying he was looking forward to holding “a debate and joint appearances” with her. In response to Larson’s press release, Brickley sent him a letter suggesting that they hold debates in at least six locations in an effort to allow as many people as possible in the expansive district to see the candidates discuss their views on the issues.
After waiting more than a month for a response to her request, representatives from Larson’s campaign finally sat down with representatives of Brickley’s campaign to discuss potential debates. Larson’s representatives stated that he would not be available Mondays through Thursdays until October 14th because Congress was still in session. Brickley questioned the validity of this claim considering the fact that Larson had participated in several campaign fundraisers both in Connecticut and in Washington, DC over the past few weeks, but her representatives attempted to comply with this schedule and planned the following debates:
· Bristol – at the Eastern Regional Little League Headquarters on Thursday October 21st which would be hosted and moderated by the Bristol Press.
· New Hartford – held at the Antolini School Tuesday, October 26th to be hosted and moderated by the Litchfield County League of Women Voters
· Cromwell - held at the Cromwell Middle School on either October 14th or 28th that could potentially be moderated by the League of Women Voters of Greater Hartford.
· West Hartford - The Greater Hartford League of Women Voters have invited Larson, Brickley and Green Party candidate Ken Krayeske to participate in a debate in West Hartford on October 18th.
With the exception of the West Hartford event, Larson’s campaign has yet to confirm Congressman Larson’s participation in any additional debates.
“Congressman Larson apparently has more than enough time to raise hundreds of thousands of campaign dollars, including participating in an event with Speaker Nancy Pelosi in Hartford that raised $300,000,” Brickley said. “But when it comes to going out into to the district to debate such issues as the federal stimulus incentives, healthcare, and cap and trade, apparently Mr. Larson is just too busy. Congressman Larson and I are miles apart on these issues and I think we owe it to the people of the First Congressional District to provide them with the opportunity to see and hear us explain our differences.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 28, 2010
Did I ever tell you how I almost got locked up?
Twenty years ago in a little Upstate New York city called Auburn, most famous for its massive maximum security prison, I came within a whisker of getting packed off to jail for refusing to obey a court order to hand over a leaked hospital lab slip.
The tiny piece of green and white paper, which had been sent to me, showed that an off-duty state trooper had a blood alcohol level well over the legal limit when he smashed his Corvette into a guardrail late one night.
He was never charged in the crash, which nearly killed him.
I wrote a story about the cover-up, relying on that little slip of paper to prove the trooper had done wrong (and so, too, had the police and emergency personnel who helped hide the fact that he'd been drinking).
It created a stir, as you might expect.
The trooper was livid so he sued - but not me, since he had no case. Instead, he sued the hospital that had saved his life, for failing to protect his medical privacy.
The key to his case was that little slip of paper. Without it, he couldn't prove they'd failed to keep it secure.
I refused to hand it over, worried that it might be possible to trace my source if his lawyers got their hands on it.
One day in court, when the county sheriff showed up with a new uniform and gleaming handcuffs attached to his belt, I realized the judge had reached the breaking point. He planned to put me behind bars for contempt because I wouldn't bend.
Even then, with the TV cameras rolling, I refused to go along with the order.
But I did tell the judge that I had "new evidence" that I could only disclose in chambers. He bought it.
I didn't really have any new evidence. I made up some nonsense about the way the paper had been folded perhaps showcasing a source for it.
The judge took the opportunity to delay the case and then to knock heads in private to get it settled. The hospital finally apologized and that was that. It was over.
But I got a dose of what this job can require.
I've been grateful that for the past 20 years, there's never been a story that threatened to put me in jail. I can live without that happening again since it is sort of scary to contemplate.
I do want people to know, though, that I'll go all the way to protect a source.
So if there's ever another drunken trooper....
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
The tiny piece of green and white paper, which had been sent to me, showed that an off-duty state trooper had a blood alcohol level well over the legal limit when he smashed his Corvette into a guardrail late one night.
He was never charged in the crash, which nearly killed him.
I wrote a story about the cover-up, relying on that little slip of paper to prove the trooper had done wrong (and so, too, had the police and emergency personnel who helped hide the fact that he'd been drinking).
It created a stir, as you might expect.
The trooper was livid so he sued - but not me, since he had no case. Instead, he sued the hospital that had saved his life, for failing to protect his medical privacy.
The key to his case was that little slip of paper. Without it, he couldn't prove they'd failed to keep it secure.
I refused to hand it over, worried that it might be possible to trace my source if his lawyers got their hands on it.
One day in court, when the county sheriff showed up with a new uniform and gleaming handcuffs attached to his belt, I realized the judge had reached the breaking point. He planned to put me behind bars for contempt because I wouldn't bend.
Even then, with the TV cameras rolling, I refused to go along with the order.
But I did tell the judge that I had "new evidence" that I could only disclose in chambers. He bought it.
I didn't really have any new evidence. I made up some nonsense about the way the paper had been folded perhaps showcasing a source for it.
The judge took the opportunity to delay the case and then to knock heads in private to get it settled. The hospital finally apologized and that was that. It was over.
But I got a dose of what this job can require.
I've been grateful that for the past 20 years, there's never been a story that threatened to put me in jail. I can live without that happening again since it is sort of scary to contemplate.
I do want people to know, though, that I'll go all the way to protect a source.
So if there's ever another drunken trooper....
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
'The guy don't scare me at all' - Colapietro
State Sen. Tom Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, said that he's willing to debate Republican challenger Jason Welch as long as a fair, bipartisan sponsor can be found and ground rules worked out.
He said that he's upset that Welch has insinuated he is running a negative campaign -- pointing to a commercial where mud is slung at Welch signs -- when he insists he hasn't so much as mentioned Welch's name.
“He insinuated that I am throwing mud. That’s mudslinging. That’s dirty campaigning. I have nothing to do with mudslinging,” Colapietro said.
He said he's not convinced Welch has his own agenda.
"I think he’s an android. I think they made him,” Colapietro said.
Colapietro said that he doesn't know anything about the source of an anonymous YouTube video lashing Welch. But, he said, he agrees with it 100 percent. He also said it was fair and not an example of mudslinging.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
He said that he's upset that Welch has insinuated he is running a negative campaign -- pointing to a commercial where mud is slung at Welch signs -- when he insists he hasn't so much as mentioned Welch's name.
“He insinuated that I am throwing mud. That’s mudslinging. That’s dirty campaigning. I have nothing to do with mudslinging,” Colapietro said.
He said he's not convinced Welch has his own agenda.
"I think he’s an android. I think they made him,” Colapietro said.
Colapietro said that he doesn't know anything about the source of an anonymous YouTube video lashing Welch. But, he said, he agrees with it 100 percent. He also said it was fair and not an example of mudslinging.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Colapietro says he welcomes 'bipartisan debate'
A few hours after state Sen. Tom Colapietro told me he had no intention of debating his Republican challenger -- “How can I debate him when I don’t even know where he came from?” the senator asked -- he issued this press release:
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Colapietro Welcomes Opportunity for Bipartisan Debate
GOP tries their hand at ‘reverse psychology’ on campaign tactics
Bristol – Today, State Senator Tom Colapietro, representing the 31st District towns of Bristol, Harwinton, Plainville and Plymouth, and a candidate for reelection this November, issued a statement on the subject of bipartisan debates.
“It has been suggested recently by certain Republicans that I have a good handle on the issues in this election, and would be well prepared to debate them,” said Senator Colapietro. “They are absolutely right. I’d like to thank them for that compliment, and I’ll be looking forward to the opportunity to do exactly that in a bipartisan forum in the near future.”
“We have also heard some talk recently accusing me of negative campaigning. I have to say, that’s one of the strangest negative attacks that’s ever been thrown at me, as I’ve yet to release any of my own campaign advertisements. Still, I will give my opponent some points for creativity. Maybe he thinks of himself as a reverse psychologist?”
“As we speak, conversations are moving forward on multiple fronts to organize a nonpartisan, unbiased forum for a discussion between my Republican opponent and myself on a wide range of important issues,” continued Senator Colapietro. “Public discussion of issues is important in a campaign, and I will do all I can to make sure that discussion is fair and open.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Welch calls on Colapietro to debate
Press release from Jason Welch, the GOP state Senate candidate in the 31st District:
The Welch Campaign calls for Senator Tom Colapietro to debate the issues and stop the negative campaign tactics. “Voters are concerned about the economy, jobs, and the ever growing state budget deficit”, Jason Welch said. “They deserve to hear ideas from the people who are running for elected office, not insinuation and innuendo about someone’s personal life.”
Welch went on to challenge Tom Colapietro to a debate on the issues that concern the voters in the 31st district. “Senator Colapietro has been in office 18 years and should have a good handle on the issues and should be well prepared to debate them”, Welch said.
The Welch Campaign has already agreed to the request by the Chamber of Commerce to participate 3 debates in October, but the Colapietro camp has yet to respond. “I would like to think that an 18 year incumbent would not resort to negative attack ads but, instead, stand and defend his voting record.” Welch stated. “I look forward to a civil and vigorous issue based debate in October.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
The Welch Campaign calls for Senator Tom Colapietro to debate the issues and stop the negative campaign tactics. “Voters are concerned about the economy, jobs, and the ever growing state budget deficit”, Jason Welch said. “They deserve to hear ideas from the people who are running for elected office, not insinuation and innuendo about someone’s personal life.”
Welch went on to challenge Tom Colapietro to a debate on the issues that concern the voters in the 31st district. “Senator Colapietro has been in office 18 years and should have a good handle on the issues and should be well prepared to debate them”, Welch said.
The Welch Campaign has already agreed to the request by the Chamber of Commerce to participate 3 debates in October, but the Colapietro camp has yet to respond. “I would like to think that an 18 year incumbent would not resort to negative attack ads but, instead, stand and defend his voting record.” Welch stated. “I look forward to a civil and vigorous issue based debate in October.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Republicans upbeat with a month to go
Linda McMahon at the Mum Parade, via McMahon's Facebook page.
He said that Bristol residents -- who tend to be blue-collar and Democratic -- showed real support for the former wrestling executive as she hoofed it for a few hours Sunday during Bristol's Mum Parade.
Whit Betts, the GOP candidate for the 78th District state House seat, said that after watching McMahon at the parade he thinks she has "a legitimate shot at being able to win Bristol" on Election Day.
"She's inspired a lot of people" with her personal story of rising from bankruptcy to riches, he said, while keeping that common touch.
The GOP's city chair, T.J. Barnes, said he sees "a new energy" in the party that is going to translate into victories at the polls that would not have seemed possible a few years ago.
"We're going to do something very special here in Bristol," Barnes said.
A McMahon victory in Bristol would be a big step toward a statewide win for the Senate seat that Democrat Chris Dodd is giving up.
Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, the Democratic hopeful, has been steadily sinking in the polls, unable so far to combat McMahon's millions or find the key to secure support from voters who once backed him routinely.
Barnes said that it's even more encouraging that his party has such strong local candidates, running for the state legislature, that they can not only win themselves, they can help pull in votes for Republicans seeking statewide office.
These are dark days for Democrats.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 27, 2010
The new Route 72 is open, to a point
When dozens of dignitaries gathered in a light rain Monday morning to cut a purple ribbon stretched between two orange construction barrels to mark the opening of a stretch of the new Route 72 extension, the man most responsible for the road wasn’t there.
Former state Rep. Kosta Diamantis, who brokered the 1993 compromise that allowed the 2.2-mile road to win approval, said he didn’t really mind.
“It’s a beautiful road,” Diamantis said. “It’s everything I expected it to be. They’ve outdone themselves.”
For Susan Halloran, a Plymouth resident, the new byway is “a lot nicer than I thought it would be.”
She was one of the first drivers to head east along the four-lane boulevard-style extension between the end of the expressway in Plainville and Emmett Street.
The road opened, with a 40-mile-an-hour speed limit, about noon Monday after Gov. Jodi Rell and other officials held a short ceremony to mark the event.
“Go ahead, pinch yourselves. It is real,” Rell told the crowd of about 60 people who snuggled under several small catering tents set up in the median a few hundred yards past the intersection with Route 372. Click here for the full story.
Here's some video that Press photographer Chris Richie took during the opening ceremony:
For those who have been on it today, what do you think? Better than expected? Worse?
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Former state Rep. Kosta Diamantis, who brokered the 1993 compromise that allowed the 2.2-mile road to win approval, said he didn’t really mind.
“It’s a beautiful road,” Diamantis said. “It’s everything I expected it to be. They’ve outdone themselves.”
For Susan Halloran, a Plymouth resident, the new byway is “a lot nicer than I thought it would be.”
She was one of the first drivers to head east along the four-lane boulevard-style extension between the end of the expressway in Plainville and Emmett Street.
The road opened, with a 40-mile-an-hour speed limit, about noon Monday after Gov. Jodi Rell and other officials held a short ceremony to mark the event.
“Go ahead, pinch yourselves. It is real,” Rell told the crowd of about 60 people who snuggled under several small catering tents set up in the median a few hundred yards past the intersection with Route 372. Click here for the full story.
Here's some video that Press photographer Chris Richie took during the opening ceremony:
For those who have been on it today, what do you think? Better than expected? Worse?
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Congressional race debate on October 18
The League of Women Voters is sponsoring a 1st District congressional debate at 6:30 p.m. at West Hartford's town hall. Participants include Democratic incumbent John Larson, Republican Ann Brickley and Green Party standard bearer Ken Krayeske.
I have not heard any firm dates or times for other congressional debates but anticipate that there may be some more.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
I have not heard any firm dates or times for other congressional debates but anticipate that there may be some more.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 26, 2010
Don't forget the Mum Parade today!
It's one of the grand traditions in Bristol.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 24, 2010
YouTube video blasts Jason Welch
I have no idea who created this video, but it sure does take aim at Republican state Senate contender Jason Welch. See it for yourself:
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Politicians on parade
Wyman, the state comptroller, is on the ticket with Dan Malloy, who is taking on Republican Tom Foley for the state's top job.
McMahon is battling with Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for the open Senate seat that Chris Dodd has held for years. Dodd is retiring after this term.
The Malloy campaign is gathering at 12:30 p.m. at 430 North Main St. to get ready for the parade. Those interested in joining Wyman have been asked to check in with Zackery Hyde, 1st congressional district staffer with Malloy campaign by emailing zackhyde@danmalloy.com.
Democrats who are interested can also check this site on Facebook.
Republicans can check in on this Facebook page.
I haven't heard which other statewide or congressional candidates will show up. I'll update this as I learn more.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Route 72 section will open on Monday
Following the opening ceremony, the road will open from the end of the existing expressway in Plainville to Emmett Street.
The section from Emmett Street to Riverside Avenue won’t open until next spring, though Pine Street will remain available for use during construction.
Among the officials who are expected to attend is Gov. Jodi Rell, according to Mayor Art Ward.
Here's a recent story with some of the background.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Downtown vendors remain an issue for downtown eateries
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Six months after the city’s downtown restaurants begged City Hall to oust a growing number of food vending carts and trucks downtown, nothing much has changed.
“I feel like I’m along without anybody’s support,” said John Spaniotis, owner of Center Restaurant and Pizza on North Main Street.
Spaniotis was one of a handful of owners of brick-and-mortar eateries who asked the city to crack down on vendors who are gobbling up business without adding to the city’s tax base or employment rolls.
City councilors initially expressed tentative support for the idea, but backed off when hundreds of people who buy fast food from the vendors rallied in their defense. The Ordinance Committee is still reviewing legal options, however, and may proposed changes to city statutes. Click here for the full story.
*****Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 23, 2010
Frank Nicastro talking tonight at Maxine Road rally against group home
Here's some video that Bristol Press photographer Mike Orazzi shot during a little rally last night on Maxine Road to oppose a group home:
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Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Another Welch advertisement
Republican state Senate hopeful Jason Welch prepared a couple of advertisements that are running on cable in Bristol and Plainville through Election Day. I posted one yesterday. Here is another:
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Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Busway foes launch campaign to block $573 million road
Critics of the proposed $573 million busway between Hartford and New Britain have launched a media campaign to derail the plan.
The campaign, which includes advertising and a social networking effort, is sponsored by the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce along with National Corridors, the Sierra Club of Connecticut and Rails*Trains*Ecology*Cycling,
“What better time than election season?” said Mike Nicastro, who heads the chamber.
The group is urging state leaders to hit the brakes on plans to construct a dedicated 9-mile road that would serve only buses. It says the scheme is too costly and the route would strangle commuter rail in the region by snatching the old rail right of way from New Britain to Newington.
The state Department of Transportation backs the busway, it says, because it is the best way to reduce growing congestion in Interstate 84. The busway also offers development opportunities along its route, supporters say. Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
The campaign, which includes advertising and a social networking effort, is sponsored by the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce along with National Corridors, the Sierra Club of Connecticut and Rails*Trains*Ecology*Cycling,
“What better time than election season?” said Mike Nicastro, who heads the chamber.
The group is urging state leaders to hit the brakes on plans to construct a dedicated 9-mile road that would serve only buses. It says the scheme is too costly and the route would strangle commuter rail in the region by snatching the old rail right of way from New Britain to Newington.
The state Department of Transportation backs the busway, it says, because it is the best way to reduce growing congestion in Interstate 84. The busway also offers development opportunities along its route, supporters say. Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
City cracking whip on Boulevard tree-cutting
A business owner’s bid to clear away some trees and brush along the back of his lot beside the Pequabuck River has landed him in the hot seat.
*****
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The problem that American Auto Sales’ Bob Vitale faces is that by clearing greenery beside the river may have violated wetlands regulations and some of it may have been on city land – and not just any municipal property either.
Some of what got chopped down may have been part of the Veterans Memorial Park running alongside Memorial Boulevard.
“For the veterans of this city that is hallowed ground and this guy has desecrated that ground,” said Tim Gamache, who chairs the Bristol Veterans Council.
“We won’t be satisfied until that guy has replaced every tree that he cut down with a 6-foot evergreen,” Gamache said. Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 22, 2010
Ward says no reason to call Vonella any longer
Mayor Art Ward said there was no reason for him to phone downtown property owner Philip Vonella.
He said they spoke at a public meeting.
"I don't know what else he wants me to do," Ward said.
He said that after Vonella complained, the city's public works crew was sent out to address some of the issues raised. The mayor said public works had North Main Street on its schedule last week anyway.
Even so, he said, he told public works to come up with a plan soon to make sure downtown gets the attention it needs.
Budget constraints have made it tough on everyone, the mayor said, but North Main Street needs to be a priority.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
New commercial for Jason Welch in 31st District
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Hamzy: Rate hikes inevitable following health care changes
Column by state Rep. Bill Hamzy, a Plymouth Republican whose 78th District includes northwestern Bristol:
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Connecticut’s Health Care Reform Balancing Act
I was somewhat amused to read that our federal delegation, including Congressman Chris Murphy, instructed our state Insurance Commissioner to be “vigilant” in reviewing proposed rate increases being requested by health insurance companies as a result of his vote in favor of the healthcare “reform” bill.
Let’s say you run a household with a spouse and two kids. Children are expensive enough, but now imagine the government mandates that you pay not only their college tuition, but also all their expenses well into their adulthood. Your likely response? After the shock and indignation, you start worrying about where the money is going to come from.
That’s analogous to what’s going on with Connecticut health insurers.
Insurers are sizing up so-called healthcare “reform” and its sweeping legal requirement to provide medical care to millions of under-insured people, and actuaries are concluding that – surprise – they will need more money to cover the expected expense surge in the individual health plan market. They cast around for ways to raise those funds and – surprise again– they decide that at least a portion of those new expenses will be paid by the mechanism through which they typically cover expenses: the rates that are charged for individual health plans.
The hue and cry over the proposed increase in rates for individual insurance plans by our Democratic federal delegation, while more than a tad disingenuous, is reminiscent of Capt. Renault’s famous line from Casablanca; “I'm shocked, shocked to find that gambling is going on in here,’’ Renault says, knowing full well gambling is commonplace at the bar.
Insurance companies are responding to the increased costs imposed by the healthcare “reform” law as businesses do – and as you would in your own household. Unlike the federal government, these companies function in the real world where costs must be covered, where bills must be paid, and where the law must be followed. As our government is learning, the real world is sometimes an uncomfortable place where Connecticut citizens have the legal right to expect that insurance companies will keep themselves on sound financial footing as they balance the new federal obligations while providing for the medical needs of millions of Americans.
The calculus is fairly simple: Congress and the President mandate that insurers expand services and provide new services to millions of additional people; insurers know that will cost money and they go out and raise it. Unlike the government, businesses can’t survive with a perpetual deficit.
Some Connecticut insurers are raising their rates for individual plans by single digits, others by more. Either way, our Democratic federal legislators don’t seem to understand that insurance companies have a legally binding financial responsibility to ensure that the cost of claims incurred is offset by the premiums collected.
On Sept. 23, health insurers in the state will be required to comply with the health care “reform” law passed six months ago that dramatically expanded benefits. These are wonderful new benefits for Connecticut citizens, but they are not free. Unfortunately, the healthcare “reform” package approved by Congress and signed into law by President Obama, did nothing to address the real drivers of healthcare prices: the surging costs of medical care, frivolous lawsuits, and the lack of competition in the healthcare industry.
Instead of supporting a government takeover of the healthcare industry, our Democratic federal delegation could have provided these benefits by voting for a system which introduced more competition into the system such as expanding Health Savings Accounts and allowing for the purchase of health insurance across state lines and by reforming our legal system to weed out frivolous lawsuits. But they chose not to do this and now they are reaping what they sowed.
So their instructions to the state Insurance Commissioner to be “vigilant” is akin to setting fire to a building and then criticizing the fire department for not putting it out in the manner they deemed to be appropriate.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Vonella: City Hall still hasn't phone him back
More than a week after downtown property owner Philip Vonella complained at a City Council meeting that Mayor Art Ward failed to return phone calls, he has yet to hear from the mayor.
Vonella said this morning he hasn't heard from Ward, any of the city councilors, the public works director, the police chief or anyone else at City Hall.
"When these guys don't call back, that tells you something," Vonella said.
Vonella is frustrated by rising crime, vandalism and a failure by city government to maintain municipal property downtown.
Vonella said the city spruced up a bit after his complaints -- particularly when Channel 3 followed up on a Press story last week -- but hasn't done anything serious to address the long-term need for "a firm plan" to make sure the problems are addressed.
He said he's heard from many other business owners and residents who are encouraging him to keep speaking out.
"This thing is going to mushroom and grow bigger," Vonella said.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Vonella said this morning he hasn't heard from Ward, any of the city councilors, the public works director, the police chief or anyone else at City Hall.
"When these guys don't call back, that tells you something," Vonella said.
Vonella is frustrated by rising crime, vandalism and a failure by city government to maintain municipal property downtown.
Vonella said the city spruced up a bit after his complaints -- particularly when Channel 3 followed up on a Press story last week -- but hasn't done anything serious to address the long-term need for "a firm plan" to make sure the problems are addressed.
He said he's heard from many other business owners and residents who are encouraging him to keep speaking out.
"This thing is going to mushroom and grow bigger," Vonella said.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Realtors back candidates in Bristol
The Realtors Political Action Committee has endorsed a handful of candidates in this year’s General Assembly races.
Michael Casey, a Realtor, said the PAC endorsed Republican state Senate hopeful Jason Welch in the 31st District.
In the 22nd state House race, it backed Democratic incumbent Betty Boukus and in the 79th state House district, incumbent Democrat Frank Nicastro got the nod.
Two Republicans angling to capture state House seats got the nod in the 77th and 78th districts. In the 77th, the Realtors supported Jill Fitzgerald and in the 78th, they backed Whit Betts.
*****
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Ward takes steps to bolster downtown
Mayor Art Ward ordered public works officials Friday to come up with a plan to make sure that downtown receives the maintenance it needs.
Ward said that he told Public Works Director Walter Veselka that he wants a solid plan in place before October’s Public Works Board meeting.
One possibility, he said, is to have local nurseries adopt areas in the median to showcase their work and beautify downtown.
The mayor said he wants the plan to include both North Main and Main streets.
The move follows complaints by downtown property owners that the city is not doing enough to take care of the area’s appearance and safety.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Portion of Route 72 may open soon
Work on the Route 72 extension is reaching the point where much of the new road will soon be able to open.
The state Department of Transportation has tentatively scheduled a September 27 grand opening for the stretch of road between the expressway and Emmett Street.
The opening date isn’t yet certain, said Dayton Schroeter, the project engineer, but the section of road will be ready for traffic soon – easing commutes for many.
Click here for the story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 17, 2010
Mayor blasted for downtown neglect
Frustrated by rising crime, vandalism and neglect from City Hall, a downtown property owner this week lashed out at Mayor Art Ward.
Philip Vonella, who owns two North Main Street properties, said he’s witnessing ever more drug dealing, “questionable characters,” drunks, vandalism and other unsavory activities happening downtown.
“I will not accept what is going on,” Vonella said, adding that he would hold Ward responsible for failing to take action. “People are afraid.”
Vonella said that he tried three times to get Ward on the phone in the past month but the mayor “never afforded me the respect of a phone call” in return.
Ward said he would talk with top city leaders soon to see what can be done to crack down on problems along North Main Street.
The mayor said he tried to return one of Vonella’s calls but couldn’t reach him. He said, though, that he made sure that department heads called the businessman each time to address specific complaints.
Police Chief John DiVenere backed up the mayor’s version.
He said in an email that Vonella “was completely out of line” in blasting the mayor. He said he called Vonella a few weeks ago at the mayor’s direction.
Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Philip Vonella, who owns two North Main Street properties, said he’s witnessing ever more drug dealing, “questionable characters,” drunks, vandalism and other unsavory activities happening downtown.
“I will not accept what is going on,” Vonella said, adding that he would hold Ward responsible for failing to take action. “People are afraid.”
Vonella said that he tried three times to get Ward on the phone in the past month but the mayor “never afforded me the respect of a phone call” in return.
Ward said he would talk with top city leaders soon to see what can be done to crack down on problems along North Main Street.
The mayor said he tried to return one of Vonella’s calls but couldn’t reach him. He said, though, that he made sure that department heads called the businessman each time to address specific complaints.
Police Chief John DiVenere backed up the mayor’s version.
He said in an email that Vonella “was completely out of line” in blasting the mayor. He said he called Vonella a few weeks ago at the mayor’s direction.
Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 16, 2010
Welch: Colapietro should be rattled
Jason Welch, the Republican nominee for State Senate from the 31st District, assured voters that in today’s day and age when candidates for office, both Republicans and Democrats, are often fighting and bickering over the issues he has found common ground with his Democratic opponent, Tom Colapietro. Welch said, “I agree with Senator Colapietro, he has been there too long.”
Welch made his remarks following a recent news story in The Bristol Press where Senator Colapietro stated that “I’ve been there so long that nothing rattles me anymore." While the Republican nominee agrees with Colapietro on the length of his tenure, he is baffled by the Senator’s comments.
“Nothing rattles him anymore?” Welch continued, “Unemployment is nearing 10% in Connecticut and that doesn’t rattle the Senator? We had to borrow almost $1 billion to pay current expenses. Homes are being foreclosed at a dramatic rate not only in Connecticut but in Bristol. Businesses are closing their doors or moving down south and these things do not rattle the Senator?”
As the next State Senator, Welch pledged to not only get “rattled” by the above mentioned problems in Connecticut but to roll up his sleeves and work with all parties to find a solution to Connecticut’s fiscal crisis and work to increase jobs here in Connecticut.
“If the time comes when people are losing their homes and jobs and our state is in financial crisis and that doesn’t rattle me, then it will be the time for me to leave the Senate and allow new blood and new ideas to pave the way for Connecticut’s future,” Welch concluded.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 15, 2010
Parking ticket scofflaws face the boot, too
City councilors unanimously agreed Tuesday to give VioAlert Systems the power to put boots on the vehicles of anyone who has three or more unpaid parking tickets.
To get the boots off, the scofflaws have to pay the tickets and a $175 fee to remove the device from their wheels.
Police Chief John DiVenere said there are $123,000 in unpaid tickets piled up, but officials can only hope to collect about $50,000 of that amount.
He said that going off the worst scofflaws, some of whom owe as much as $300, will quickly send a message to everyone that they better pay off their old parking tickets.
City officials said they’re sure it will mean more revenue for the city at a time when every dollar counts.
In just the last few months, they’ve racked up about $200,000 by booting the vehicles of those who owe back property taxes.
Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Ban on heavy truck parking passed by council
Without a hint of dissent, city councilors Tuesday unanimously approved a new law that will bar heavy trucks, buses and other large vehicles from parking regularly on residential streets.
The move drew praise from the resident who proposed it last spring.
Rick Kriscenski, who pleaded with councilors to take action on the issue, said Tuesday he’s glad the statute passed unanimously..
Kriscenski called it “a significant ordinance that will greatly improve our city in terms of safety and keeping our neighborhoods nice.”
The new law, which will take effect about October 1, bans heavy commercial trucks, buses and recreational vehicles from parking on most city streets except for loading and unloading.
Click here for the full story.
Click here for the full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 13, 2010
Campaign trail getting hotter
The campaign trail is getting hotter.
In recent days, Republican challengers have turned up the heat on Democratic incumbents they said are out of touch and big spenders.
One searing website established to try to singe U.S. Rep. John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat whose 1st District includes Bristol, lays out the argument succinctly.
A sign saying “Hey Big Spender” points to Larson’s face atop a pile of cash with the advice that he “spend a little less time spending money, And a little more time with the people you represent.”
The ctbigspender.com website is sponsored by Ann Brickley, a Wethersfield businesswoman who’s angling to take down Larson in the November 2 general election.
“Vote against reckless government spending,” Brickley’s site insists as it urges voters to turn to her instead of handing Larson a seventh term.
Larson’s campaign, not surprisingly, is cool to the idea. Click here for full story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Welch takes aim at Colapietro
One of State Senate hopeful Jason Welch's billboards in Bristol.
Republican State Senate hopeful Jason Welch released some campaign posters over the weekend detailing his differences with the incumbent Democrat, longtime state Sen. Tom Colapietro of Bristol. You can see PDFs of them by clicking here and here.
It looks like the race is heating up.
*****Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 12, 2010
Brickley slams Larson on spending
This is as much heat as Larson has felt on the campaign trail in years.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 10, 2010
Rare Christian relics in Bristol today
Rare Exhibition of Relics of Christ's Passion in Bristol, Connecticut on Sept. 10
Hundreds of pilgrims expected to attend historic event
BRISTOL, Conn., Sept. 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- Some of Christianity's most sacred relics will make a rare appearance in Connecticut on Friday, Sept. 10. Several relics of Christ's passion, including relics of his cross, the nails, the column where he was scourged, and others will come to St. Ann's Church at 180 Laurel St. in Bristol, CT beginning at 7 pm.
The visit is being organized by the Apostolate for Holy Relics -- a group overseen by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. More than a million people have come to view these relics in events organized by the AHR throughout the continental United States, and as far away as Hawaii, Guam and the Philippines.
"Not everyone can go to Rome or the Holy Land to see such relics," said AHR President Thomas J. Serafin, "but events such as this can serve as an important link to their faith for those people who might otherwise never get the chance."
Serafin continued: "People are facing difficult times today, but events like this can help us all remember how much Christ loved us, and the lengths to which he took that love. That is a major reason why the message of Christianity has continued to be relevant for two thousand years: because it is a religion based on love."
More information is available at the AHR's website: www.relictour.org.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 9, 2010
Larson: Don't burn Muslim holy books
Press release from U.S. Rep. John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat whose 1st District includes Bristol:
LARSON CONDEMNS THREATENED BURNING OF THE KORAN
Washington, DC -- Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, released the following statement in response to threats from a minister in Florida to burn copies of the Koran, the Islamic holy book, on September 11th.
“The character of this country is built on mutual respect for people of all races, religions and genders. That is why it saddens me to hear my fellow Americans acting in hatred and intolerance towards Muslims and the entire Islamic faith.
“Instead of inciting distrust and magnifying the differences between us, religious leaders should be working to bring together people of all religions to work towards peace and the common good. I was heartened to hear about a church in Tennessee that opened its doors to its Muslim neighbors for their celebration of Ramadan while their Mosque was under construction. It is gestures like that that will make this country a better place and help heal wounds around the world.
“Every member of Congress should condemn any attempt to defame the Islamic faith or incite hostilities between religions. These actions are counter to our American values and have the potential to put our troops abroad in harm’s way and help terrorist groups recruit new members.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
LARSON CONDEMNS THREATENED BURNING OF THE KORAN
Washington, DC -- Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, released the following statement in response to threats from a minister in Florida to burn copies of the Koran, the Islamic holy book, on September 11th.
“The character of this country is built on mutual respect for people of all races, religions and genders. That is why it saddens me to hear my fellow Americans acting in hatred and intolerance towards Muslims and the entire Islamic faith.
“Instead of inciting distrust and magnifying the differences between us, religious leaders should be working to bring together people of all religions to work towards peace and the common good. I was heartened to hear about a church in Tennessee that opened its doors to its Muslim neighbors for their celebration of Ramadan while their Mosque was under construction. It is gestures like that that will make this country a better place and help heal wounds around the world.
“Every member of Congress should condemn any attempt to defame the Islamic faith or incite hostilities between religions. These actions are counter to our American values and have the potential to put our troops abroad in harm’s way and help terrorist groups recruit new members.”
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Lots of politicians slated to appear at city GOP HQ opening on Saturday
Press release from the city's GOP:
ANNOUNCEMENT
The Bristol Republican Town Committee
T.J. Barnes – Chairman
Invites you to the Grand Opening of its Headquarters
Date: Saturday, September 11th, 2010
Place: 255 North Main Street, Bristol, CT
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
The following candidates will be in attendance:
Linda McMahon Candidate -U.S. Senate
Mark Boughton Candidate - Lieutenant Governor
Martha Dean Candidate - Attorney General
Jerry Farrell Candidate - Secretary of State
Ann Brickley Candidate -1st. Congressional District
And
Jason Welch Candidate – 31st State Senatorial
Jill Fitzgerald Candidate – 77th State Representative
Whit Betts Candidate – 78th State Representative
Peter DelMastro Candidate – 79th State Representative
Please join us and meet and greet the candidates.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
ANNOUNCEMENT
The Bristol Republican Town Committee
T.J. Barnes – Chairman
Invites you to the Grand Opening of its Headquarters
Date: Saturday, September 11th, 2010
Place: 255 North Main Street, Bristol, CT
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
The following candidates will be in attendance:
Linda McMahon Candidate -U.S. Senate
Mark Boughton Candidate - Lieutenant Governor
Martha Dean Candidate - Attorney General
Jerry Farrell Candidate - Secretary of State
Ann Brickley Candidate -1st. Congressional District
And
Jason Welch Candidate – 31st State Senatorial
Jill Fitzgerald Candidate – 77th State Representative
Whit Betts Candidate – 78th State Representative
Peter DelMastro Candidate – 79th State Representative
Please join us and meet and greet the candidates.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Union deal OK'd be a split City Council
Without shouting or even much posturing, city councilors Wednesday approved a new union contract for many City Hall workers that increases their pay slightly but opens the door to major cost-cutting down the road.
Only the two Republican councilors, Ken Cockayne and David Mills, voted against the pact with Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which generally includes most of City Hall’s “inside” workers.
They said with the economy in the dumps, state and federal aid likely to sink and more financial troubles ahead, the city should have taken a harder line. Click here for the full story.
******
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Only the two Republican councilors, Ken Cockayne and David Mills, voted against the pact with Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which generally includes most of City Hall’s “inside” workers.
They said with the economy in the dumps, state and federal aid likely to sink and more financial troubles ahead, the city should have taken a harder line. Click here for the full story.
******
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 8, 2010
McCauley explains his position on proposed union pact
Statement read by city Councilor Kevin McCauley at tonight's City Council session about the proposed deal with Local 233:
As many know, I took considerable heat on my position last week to postpone the vote on this Tentative Agreement for one week. After having a week to review the documents that contain some major changes in the contract, I am more than happy to state that I believe we made the right decision.
Last week, we were given the Comparison Document two days before the special meeting. Upon reviewing it, I knew, in my experience as both a union member and a City Council member, that this document would require more than 48 hours of consideration and analysis before I felt comfortable to render a decision on the ratification of it.
The two-page Comparison Document is extremely complex. It includes highly technical and specialized legal and tax language, the implications of which would take time to fully consider.
This is a very difficult contract and tough to comprehend, both from a management standpoint and I am sure from a member’s standpoint. I think that Local 233's membership, along with the skillful negotiating of their leadership, should be commended for the fact that they are willing to take a reduction in pay, give back vacation days when it comes to doing their retirement calculation, not demand any code increases, nor take any step increases. But most of all, the major change with regard to the pension policy in agreeing to pay for a portion of their own post-employment healthcare benefits deserves our gratitude.
In fact, this pension policy change gives the City of Bristol the precedent and ability to negotiate with all other City unions and secure the same concessions. Essentially, Local 233 has now provided the City with the key to open the door to fully implementing a GASB 45 plan.
The Tentative Agreement also establishes a City pension “prerogative” that is not subject to grievance or arbitration procedure, and may set precedents that will give the City an upper hand in securing similar concessions in future negotiations with other City unions.
I want to thank the membership of 233 and their leadership for their efforts during the negotiations, and the efforts by the City negotiating team. By working together, the City and 233 clearly did a good job in saving taxpayer dollars in the future by giving unprecedented concessions and not demanding anything in return from the City.
The Tentative Agreement was approved by Local 233 membership and represents the will of the majority of Local 233’s members, and I will vote to ratify it because of their vote, and because of the benefits it provides to the City.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
As many know, I took considerable heat on my position last week to postpone the vote on this Tentative Agreement for one week. After having a week to review the documents that contain some major changes in the contract, I am more than happy to state that I believe we made the right decision.
Last week, we were given the Comparison Document two days before the special meeting. Upon reviewing it, I knew, in my experience as both a union member and a City Council member, that this document would require more than 48 hours of consideration and analysis before I felt comfortable to render a decision on the ratification of it.
The two-page Comparison Document is extremely complex. It includes highly technical and specialized legal and tax language, the implications of which would take time to fully consider.
This is a very difficult contract and tough to comprehend, both from a management standpoint and I am sure from a member’s standpoint. I think that Local 233's membership, along with the skillful negotiating of their leadership, should be commended for the fact that they are willing to take a reduction in pay, give back vacation days when it comes to doing their retirement calculation, not demand any code increases, nor take any step increases. But most of all, the major change with regard to the pension policy in agreeing to pay for a portion of their own post-employment healthcare benefits deserves our gratitude.
In fact, this pension policy change gives the City of Bristol the precedent and ability to negotiate with all other City unions and secure the same concessions. Essentially, Local 233 has now provided the City with the key to open the door to fully implementing a GASB 45 plan.
The Tentative Agreement also establishes a City pension “prerogative” that is not subject to grievance or arbitration procedure, and may set precedents that will give the City an upper hand in securing similar concessions in future negotiations with other City unions.
I want to thank the membership of 233 and their leadership for their efforts during the negotiations, and the efforts by the City negotiating team. By working together, the City and 233 clearly did a good job in saving taxpayer dollars in the future by giving unprecedented concessions and not demanding anything in return from the City.
The Tentative Agreement was approved by Local 233 membership and represents the will of the majority of Local 233’s members, and I will vote to ratify it because of their vote, and because of the benefits it provides to the City.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Krayeske seeks lots of debates, including one in Bristol
Press release issued today by Ken Krayeske, the Green Party's 1st District congressional candidate:
Ken Krayeske, the Green Party nominee for the First Congressional District, seeks the support of the League of Women Voters to invite Democratic nominee John Larson, Republican nominee Ann Brickley and Socialist Action nominee Christopher J. Hutchinson to debate on issues of domestic and foreign importance. The proposal was presented formally on Wed., Sept. 8, about 9 a.m..
Mr. Krayeske proposes nine debates commencing the week of September 29, 2010. The debates will be conducted in a question and answer format and will be moderated by individuals selected by the League of Women Voters of Connecticut. The campaign has suggested various media co-hosts for the debates, and it encourages the League of Women Voters to also include TV, radio and web hosts for the events.
"An informed citizenry is a powerful citizenry," Krayeske said. "Let's do our best to develop a functioning democracy in the 1st District. How can we offer our fellow citizens anything less?"
Mr. Krayeske proposes that seven of the debates happen at high schools and colleges within the First Congressional District in order to educate students and reinforce to students the importance of voting in the elections. Mr. Krayeske further proposes that some of the debates feature questions from the students, and have students sitting on the question panels. This 2010 campaign, like all elections, is about the future of our country. What better way to insure the continuance of the republican form of democracy that we enjoy by bringing the election to the students?
One of Mr. Krayeske's goals on this campaign is to generate 99 percent voter participation and turnout on November 2, 2010. The best way to ensure this is to get young people involved, and to have debates as many places as possible.
Ken Krayeske for Congress suggests the following dates, locations and media hosts for the debates:
Wednesday, September 29, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Charter Oak Cultural Center
Media Host -The Hartford Courant
Monday, October 4, 2010 (Evening):
Location - The Warner Theater, Torrington, CT
Media Host - The Torrington Register Citizen or the Waterbury Republican
Thurday, October 7, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Bristol High School
Media Host - Bristol Today and CT-N
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Manchester Community College
Media Host - The Manchester Journal Inquirer
Friday, October 15, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Law & Government Academy, Hartford Public High School
Media Host - The Hartford News or the Hartford Inquirer or CT News Junkie
Tuesday, October 19, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Northwest Community College, Winsted, CT
Media Host - The Winsted Journal, WVIT 30
Thursday, October 21, 2010 (morning):
Location: Hall High School, West Hartford, CT
Media Host: The West Hartford News, Channel 8, WTNH
Monday, October 25, 2010 (morning)
Newington High School, Newington, CT
Media Host: The Glastonbury Citizen, Channel 3 WFSB
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Berlin High School
Media Host - Berlin Citizen, Fox 61 WTIC
Ken Krayeske for Congress has met or plans to meet all of the debate criteria requirements set forth by the League of Women Voters of Connecticut.
Mr. Krayeske invites the League of Women Voters to join the ACLU, along with the eminent Justices Stevens, Ginsburg and Souter in dissenting against the anti-democratic precedent set forth Arkansas Educational Television Commission v. Forbes, 523 U.S. 666 (1998). This Supreme Court decision allows television stations to discriminate and exclude candidates from televised debates who do not fit arbitrary criteria. As we have seen, the attempt to gain inclusion after being excluded from these debates in a post-9/11 world has serious civil rights consequences. It is the position of Ken Krayeske for Congress that the League of Women Voters needs to be on the correct side of this issue. It is hard to imagine that Susan B. Anthony would stand behind Arkanses Educational Television Commission v. Forbes, thus, Ken Krayeske for Congress asks the Connecticut League of Women Voters, and its Greater Hartford chapter, to work towards inclusive debates that comply with the spirit of the First Amendment.
FOOTNOTE
[included in submission to LWV]
Mr. Krayeske's long history as a journalist in Connecticut have made him a public figure in the state. There is public awareness of who he is and what his stances are.
In 2006, Steven Fournier, running as a write-in for the Connecticut Green Party in the First Congressional District received 43 votes. In 2008, Mr. Fournier petitioned his way onto the ballot as a Green, and received 7,123 votes, or 2.46 percent of the total. This year, it can be hoped that Mr. Krayeske's campaign will take a larger share of the vote total. The Green Party has continued to build itself as a statewide presence, and an in-district presence, and this year's nomination of Mr. Krayeske to the ballot represents continued growth for the Green Party.
In 2006, Mr. Krayeske ran Cliff Thornton's Green Party campaign for governor. A variety of factors conspired to prevent Mr. Thornton from entering into the televised debates. As part of the gubernatorial campaign, Mr. Krayeske organized active, vociferous protests, including one of almost 75 people in New London, against the exclusion of Mr. Thornton.
The Connecticut State Police Central Criminal Intelligence Unit took note of this protest, and even called Mr. Krayeske during the course of the campaign to discuss it. After the campaign was over, and Mr. Krayeske intimated that Gov. M. Jodi Rell's inaugural was worthy of protest, the state police placed Mr. Krayeske on a "persons of interest" watch list.
When he arrived at the parade on January 3, 2007 to photograph the governor, he was arrested by the Hartford police on spurious charges. After these charges were dropped by the prosecutor, Mr. Krayeske filed a civil rights lawsuit against various law enforcement agencies seeking redress for this false arrest. In the course of the litigation, it has become clear that Mr. Krayeske's protest and application of political pressure on Governor Rell during the campaign was a significant factor in the police monitoring him and the Green Party and the ultimate suppression of his civil rights on January 3, 2007 at the inaugural.
Mr. Krayeske considers himself aware of the ultimate consequences of exclusion from the debates, and hopes that the League of Women Voters has taken consideration of how debate exclusion can impact the civil rights of those affected by this speech suppression. This is an issue that impacts us all, and Mr. Krayeske hopes that the League of Women Voters will work with him to expand the amount of debate in this election.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Ken Krayeske, the Green Party nominee for the First Congressional District, seeks the support of the League of Women Voters to invite Democratic nominee John Larson, Republican nominee Ann Brickley and Socialist Action nominee Christopher J. Hutchinson to debate on issues of domestic and foreign importance. The proposal was presented formally on Wed., Sept. 8, about 9 a.m..
Mr. Krayeske proposes nine debates commencing the week of September 29, 2010. The debates will be conducted in a question and answer format and will be moderated by individuals selected by the League of Women Voters of Connecticut. The campaign has suggested various media co-hosts for the debates, and it encourages the League of Women Voters to also include TV, radio and web hosts for the events.
"An informed citizenry is a powerful citizenry," Krayeske said. "Let's do our best to develop a functioning democracy in the 1st District. How can we offer our fellow citizens anything less?"
Mr. Krayeske proposes that seven of the debates happen at high schools and colleges within the First Congressional District in order to educate students and reinforce to students the importance of voting in the elections. Mr. Krayeske further proposes that some of the debates feature questions from the students, and have students sitting on the question panels. This 2010 campaign, like all elections, is about the future of our country. What better way to insure the continuance of the republican form of democracy that we enjoy by bringing the election to the students?
One of Mr. Krayeske's goals on this campaign is to generate 99 percent voter participation and turnout on November 2, 2010. The best way to ensure this is to get young people involved, and to have debates as many places as possible.
Ken Krayeske for Congress suggests the following dates, locations and media hosts for the debates:
Wednesday, September 29, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Charter Oak Cultural Center
Media Host -The Hartford Courant
Monday, October 4, 2010 (Evening):
Location - The Warner Theater, Torrington, CT
Media Host - The Torrington Register Citizen or the Waterbury Republican
Thurday, October 7, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Bristol High School
Media Host - Bristol Today and CT-N
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Manchester Community College
Media Host - The Manchester Journal Inquirer
Friday, October 15, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Law & Government Academy, Hartford Public High School
Media Host - The Hartford News or the Hartford Inquirer or CT News Junkie
Tuesday, October 19, 2010 (Evening):
Location - Northwest Community College, Winsted, CT
Media Host - The Winsted Journal, WVIT 30
Thursday, October 21, 2010 (morning):
Location: Hall High School, West Hartford, CT
Media Host: The West Hartford News, Channel 8, WTNH
Monday, October 25, 2010 (morning)
Newington High School, Newington, CT
Media Host: The Glastonbury Citizen, Channel 3 WFSB
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 (Afternoon):
Location - Berlin High School
Media Host - Berlin Citizen, Fox 61 WTIC
Ken Krayeske for Congress has met or plans to meet all of the debate criteria requirements set forth by the League of Women Voters of Connecticut.
Mr. Krayeske invites the League of Women Voters to join the ACLU, along with the eminent Justices Stevens, Ginsburg and Souter in dissenting against the anti-democratic precedent set forth Arkansas Educational Television Commission v. Forbes, 523 U.S. 666 (1998). This Supreme Court decision allows television stations to discriminate and exclude candidates from televised debates who do not fit arbitrary criteria. As we have seen, the attempt to gain inclusion after being excluded from these debates in a post-9/11 world has serious civil rights consequences. It is the position of Ken Krayeske for Congress that the League of Women Voters needs to be on the correct side of this issue. It is hard to imagine that Susan B. Anthony would stand behind Arkanses Educational Television Commission v. Forbes, thus, Ken Krayeske for Congress asks the Connecticut League of Women Voters, and its Greater Hartford chapter, to work towards inclusive debates that comply with the spirit of the First Amendment.
FOOTNOTE
[included in submission to LWV]
Mr. Krayeske's long history as a journalist in Connecticut have made him a public figure in the state. There is public awareness of who he is and what his stances are.
In 2006, Steven Fournier, running as a write-in for the Connecticut Green Party in the First Congressional District received 43 votes. In 2008, Mr. Fournier petitioned his way onto the ballot as a Green, and received 7,123 votes, or 2.46 percent of the total. This year, it can be hoped that Mr. Krayeske's campaign will take a larger share of the vote total. The Green Party has continued to build itself as a statewide presence, and an in-district presence, and this year's nomination of Mr. Krayeske to the ballot represents continued growth for the Green Party.
In 2006, Mr. Krayeske ran Cliff Thornton's Green Party campaign for governor. A variety of factors conspired to prevent Mr. Thornton from entering into the televised debates. As part of the gubernatorial campaign, Mr. Krayeske organized active, vociferous protests, including one of almost 75 people in New London, against the exclusion of Mr. Thornton.
The Connecticut State Police Central Criminal Intelligence Unit took note of this protest, and even called Mr. Krayeske during the course of the campaign to discuss it. After the campaign was over, and Mr. Krayeske intimated that Gov. M. Jodi Rell's inaugural was worthy of protest, the state police placed Mr. Krayeske on a "persons of interest" watch list.
When he arrived at the parade on January 3, 2007 to photograph the governor, he was arrested by the Hartford police on spurious charges. After these charges were dropped by the prosecutor, Mr. Krayeske filed a civil rights lawsuit against various law enforcement agencies seeking redress for this false arrest. In the course of the litigation, it has become clear that Mr. Krayeske's protest and application of political pressure on Governor Rell during the campaign was a significant factor in the police monitoring him and the Green Party and the ultimate suppression of his civil rights on January 3, 2007 at the inaugural.
Mr. Krayeske considers himself aware of the ultimate consequences of exclusion from the debates, and hopes that the League of Women Voters has taken consideration of how debate exclusion can impact the civil rights of those affected by this speech suppression. This is an issue that impacts us all, and Mr. Krayeske hopes that the League of Women Voters will work with him to expand the amount of debate in this election.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 7, 2010
Union pact likely to be approved Wednesday
The proposed union contract at the center of a spat that erupted last week between Mayor Art Ward and the City Council is likely to win approval Wednesday.
In a showdown with the mayor last week, the Democrat-controlled council postponed consideration of the pact in order to have more time to study its details and to give first-term Republican David Mills a chance to participate.
Ward, who is also a Democrat, opposed the delay, calling the agreement a good one for the city and its taxpayers.
It appears that a majority of the council is ready to support the tentative deal with Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which generally includes most of City Hall’s “inside” workers. Click here for the story.
Contract changes health care provisions
A proposed union contract between the city and its biggest union would require for the first time that employees funnel money into a fund to pay for post-retirement health care.
The proposed deal between the city and Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees also includes a provision aimed at lowering the long-term cost of providing health care to retirees. Click here for the story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
In a showdown with the mayor last week, the Democrat-controlled council postponed consideration of the pact in order to have more time to study its details and to give first-term Republican David Mills a chance to participate.
Ward, who is also a Democrat, opposed the delay, calling the agreement a good one for the city and its taxpayers.
It appears that a majority of the council is ready to support the tentative deal with Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which generally includes most of City Hall’s “inside” workers. Click here for the story.
Contract changes health care provisions
A proposed union contract between the city and its biggest union would require for the first time that employees funnel money into a fund to pay for post-retirement health care.
The proposed deal between the city and Local 233 of Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees also includes a provision aimed at lowering the long-term cost of providing health care to retirees. Click here for the story.
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Copy of the city's tentative labor agreement with Local 233
To read a copy of the tentative deal for yourself, here is a PDF of it. Have fun.
******
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
******
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
September 6, 2010
Brickley holds gridiron fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 12
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
Larson to open campaign HQ on Tuesday
Press release from U.S. Rep. John Larson's reelection campaign:
LARSON FOR CONGRESS HEADQUARTERS OPENS, LARSON LOOKS FORWARD TO CAMPAIGN
East Hartford, CT - Tuesday, at 6:30 PM, Congressman John Larson will celebrate the official opening of his campaign headquarters with friends and local Democratic leaders.
John Larson has been fighting to rebuild America's economy and is taking steps to help a revitalize Connecticut's manufacturing base. He has helped provide businesses and individuals with tools and resources to export products, create jobs, and spur economic development.
"We must make every effort so we can see 'Made in America' more often. This campaign is a great opportunity to talk to the people of district about all we have done to dig Connecticut and the nation out of the massive hole caused by 8 years of failed policies. We are moving forward, we have a strong record and a good message. I am looking forward to this campaign."
What: Larson for Congress Headquarters Opening
Where: 109 Pitkin Street, East Hartford CT
When: Tuesday, September 7th 6:30 to 8:30 PM
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
LARSON FOR CONGRESS HEADQUARTERS OPENS, LARSON LOOKS FORWARD TO CAMPAIGN
East Hartford, CT - Tuesday, at 6:30 PM, Congressman John Larson will celebrate the official opening of his campaign headquarters with friends and local Democratic leaders.
John Larson has been fighting to rebuild America's economy and is taking steps to help a revitalize Connecticut's manufacturing base. He has helped provide businesses and individuals with tools and resources to export products, create jobs, and spur economic development.
"We must make every effort so we can see 'Made in America' more often. This campaign is a great opportunity to talk to the people of district about all we have done to dig Connecticut and the nation out of the massive hole caused by 8 years of failed policies. We are moving forward, we have a strong record and a good message. I am looking forward to this campaign."
What: Larson for Congress Headquarters Opening
Where: 109 Pitkin Street, East Hartford CT
When: Tuesday, September 7th 6:30 to 8:30 PM
*****
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
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