Champion Award to Bernacki
Mark Bernacki, owner of Sir Speedy Press of New Britain, was presented with the 2009 Small Business Champion Award Thursday at the state capitol by Andy Markowski, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business. Each year, NFIB singles out a small business owner in all 50 states for special recognition and honors him or her with its prestigious Small Business Champion of the Year award.
Markowski said Bernacki, a New Britain alderman and a small business owner for more than 20 years, is a force for the free-enterprise system. Bernacki said because of the economy, regulations and higher taxes, he has had to reduce his own work force.
(The Herald, October 30, 2009).
Saturday, October 31, 2009
MEET THE CANDIDATES: A REVIEW
Candidates Medical history revealed
The Herald that identified a candidate for alderman as having a medical condition that impaired his judgment as reported by James Craven " council candidates arrest forces him to acknowledge illness" Oct. 29th. edition of the paper.
Does The Herald know anything about the current state HIPPA Regulations that may have been violated by all who revealed the information to the Herald?
The Herald knew from whom the letter came from yet the Herald editors chose only to keep the Alderman's name out of this story, who made the information available.
Why hasn’t The Herald reported on Trueworthy’s problems with the West Hartford police?
Favoritism; I suppose.
Does The Herald know anything about the current state HIPPA Regulations that may have been violated by all who revealed the information to the Herald?
The Herald knew from whom the letter came from yet the Herald editors chose only to keep the Alderman's name out of this story, who made the information available.
Why hasn’t The Herald reported on Trueworthy’s problems with the West Hartford police?
Favoritism; I suppose.
SENIOR CENTER BREAKFAST FOR THE LYONS CLUB!
Title: Lion's Club Pancake Breakfast
Location: Senior Center on Pearl Street
Description: This pancake breakfast is to support the Lion's Club of New
Britain. Tickets are only $5.00!
Start Time: 08:00
Date: 2009-11-1-01
End Time: 12:00
Friday, October 30, 2009
Frank:
I tried to put this message on your blog but I screwed up.
Has anybody else noticed that of the mailings being sent out by Democratic candidates for Common Council, not one mentions any connection with Tim O’Brien?
Numerous pieces from Trueworthy, Sherwood, Catanzaro, Heramowski, Lausch, Pina, etc., mention only themselves.
There is no recognition of a “team” approach!
Then again, I wouldn’t mention it either!
Is it because O’Brien really has nothing to offer nor do his running mates?
Maybe they don’t want to be associated with Sherwood, Trueworthy, Catanzaro, Gerratana, Bielinski, Hermanowski or any other hapless Democrat.
Is there a team of any kind here?
Contrast that to the team style approach By THE STEWART TEAM! WAKE UP NEW BRITAIN!
I tried to put this message on your blog but I screwed up.
Has anybody else noticed that of the mailings being sent out by Democratic candidates for Common Council, not one mentions any connection with Tim O’Brien?
Numerous pieces from Trueworthy, Sherwood, Catanzaro, Heramowski, Lausch, Pina, etc., mention only themselves.
There is no recognition of a “team” approach!
Then again, I wouldn’t mention it either!
Is it because O’Brien really has nothing to offer nor do his running mates?
Maybe they don’t want to be associated with Sherwood, Trueworthy, Catanzaro, Gerratana, Bielinski, Hermanowski or any other hapless Democrat.
Is there a team of any kind here?
Contrast that to the team style approach By THE STEWART TEAM! WAKE UP NEW BRITAIN!
ALDERMAN TRUEWORHTY CHARGED WITH DRIVING UNREGISTERED VEHICLE!
Alderman At Large Charged with, driving un-registered vehicle, following too closely, and with distracted driving as one of the charges see below for record: Case to be heard 11-12-09.
Pending Case Detail
Data as of the Previous Business Day Docket Information
Docket No:H15N-MI09-2583673-SProgram: Court:Ticketing Agency:Ticket Date:Bond Amount:Bond Type:
Activity: Infraction Letter Next Court Date: 11/12/2009 2:00 PM
Bail Commisioner's Letter Sent
Miscellaneous: New Britain GA 15 LOCAL POLICE WEST HARTFORD 5/15/2009$0 (This case only)Infraction Case Bond Type (Released From Custody)Companion:
Defendant Information
Last, First:Birth Year:Times on the Docket:Represented By:TRUEWORTHY MICHAEL W 1977
Current Charges
Statute Description Class Type Occ Offense Date Plea Verdict Finding
14-240 FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY- NON Infraction 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
14-12(a)* OPERATE/TOW UNREGISTERED MV Infraction 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
14-296aa(i) DISTRACTED DRIVNG BEH W/MV VIO Violation 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
Do you want an alderman driving around with an unregistered vehicle as the record implies?
You decide when voting!
Pending Case Detail
Data as of the Previous Business Day Docket Information
Docket No:H15N-MI09-2583673-SProgram: Court:Ticketing Agency:Ticket Date:Bond Amount:Bond Type:
Activity: Infraction Letter Next Court Date: 11/12/2009 2:00 PM
Bail Commisioner's Letter Sent
Miscellaneous: New Britain GA 15 LOCAL POLICE WEST HARTFORD 5/15/2009$0 (This case only)Infraction Case Bond Type (Released From Custody)Companion:
Defendant Information
Last, First:Birth Year:Times on the Docket:Represented By:TRUEWORTHY MICHAEL W 1977
Current Charges
Statute Description Class Type Occ Offense Date Plea Verdict Finding
14-240 FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY- NON Infraction 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
14-12(a)* OPERATE/TOW UNREGISTERED MV Infraction 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
14-296aa(i) DISTRACTED DRIVNG BEH W/MV VIO Violation 1 5/15/2009 Not Guilty
Do you want an alderman driving around with an unregistered vehicle as the record implies?
You decide when voting!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Ward Two Candidate--- Hatch Act Does Not Apply!
Ms. Julie Swan a Council Candidate for The Alderman Ward Two is not subject to the Federal Hatch Act and her candidacy is not in jeopardy. Her employment at the senior center as a driver does not have any federal funds involved at all.
We wish her a successful campaign result.
Trueworthy & Catanzaro Theatrical Co. One Final Act of Staged Theater!
At the Council meeting Wednesday night, Alderman Paul Catanzaro made a motion to reappoint William Candelori, Edward Sasso and Louis Amodio, Jr. to the Mattabassett District for new terms beginning on November 1, 2009. These appointments would take effect 2 days before this current Council faces the public in an election and would "stick" the newly elected council with these three Directors for the duration of the new Council member's terms in office.
Alderman Louis Salvio made a motion for these appointments be tabled until the next Council meeting, which would have allowed these appointments to be delayed until the new Council takes office. The majority Democrats voted this motion down, and then Alderman Trueworthy continued with the effort to make these appointments, but the City Attorney kept shooting down Trueworthy's attempts at politcal wrangling. The attorney offered the opinion that the appointments could not be made until after their current terms expired, but Trueworthy was relentless in his efforts--having even suggested at one point that the appointments could be made last night, but post dated to November 1st--but of course the City Attorney found legal problems with that strategy as well.
After being unsuccessful at his several attempts to ram through these appointments, Alderman Trueworthy finally made a motion to table these appointments until the next Council meeting. The motion to table the appointments passed, with only one Alderman voting against it--Alderman Paul Catanzaro.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
The Conflicts of Catanzaro!
In January, the Ethics Commission did find with regard to Catanzaro suggesting to the Council that Parks & Rec employees be used for work, instead of allowing a contractor to perform the work, that Alderman Paul Cantanzaro had indeed violated two provisions of the code of ethics as covered under section 2-449 [A] and 2-449[K]. The ethics violation having to do with his being an employee of the Parks Department while making this recommendation as an Alderman.
The Board’s findings had recommended that the Alderman be reprimanded and forwarded their finding to the Common Council for its action.
At the February Council meeting, Alderman Paul Catanzaro spoke against, and then voted to reject this same Ethics Commission ruling calling for Catanzaro to be reprimanded.
By both speaking on and voting on his own personal reprimand, Catanzaro has apparently violated two separate sections of 4-7 of the city charter which states in part: “No member of the Common Council shall be heard to speak upon, nor shall be allowed to vote upon…any matter in which the member has a pecuniary interest.”
Catanzaro reportedly told reporters from both the New Britain Herald and the Hartford Courant that his reason for voting on the matter was because if he was to recuse himself, then he wouldn’t be allowed to speak on the matter, but that is precisely what the city charter dictates; that he not be allowed to speak on his own matter of interest.
The punishment dictated by the same charter for violation of this section: “expulsion.”
As stated in the charter: “Any violation of this provision shall be grounds for expulsion of any member violating the same…”
But not only did his fellow Democrats fail to enforce this section of the Charter by stopping him from speaking on his own matter of interest, the dirty dozen joined him in voting to reject the unanimous, bi-partisan ruling of the Ethics Commission. The conduct of the Council Democrats at this meeting was so outrageous, that former Democratic Mayor William McNamara subsequently resigned as Chairman of the Ethics Commission citing protest to this vote as his reason for his resignation (Ethics chief’s vote protest: quitting, by: James Craven, February 18, 2009).
Then we have the badly needed funds that were withheld from city programs because of the conflicts of interest of Catanzaro, Trueworthy and others. The main issues were that Trueworthy's wife works for HRA and Catanzaro was the President of HRA.
The letter from HUD specifically said: "The fact that Catanzaro has taken no action to remove himself from HRA, forces HUD to deny reconsideration of funding rejections" ("Conflicts of interest stop futher HUD funds" by: Rick Guinness, The Herald, November 21, 2008). Catanzaro did some time later, finally resign from HRA, but not until after badly needed funds were withheld.
Catanzaro has also accepted the endorsement of the radical ACORN front group: Working Families Party. According to the political watchdog web site Discoverthenetworks.org, The Working Families Party is a front group of ACORN, is an outgrowth of the socialist New Party, and acts as a political party in Connecticut and New York to run radical candidates who conceal their extremism beneath a veneer of populist rhetoric, promising bread-and-butter issues designed to appeal to union voters. The site quotes Bertha Lewis, who moonlights as both WFP Co-Chair and New York ACORN Executive Director as saying "Candidates know that when they're on our line, they're committed to certain things."
Here's what Bertha Lewis was quoted as saying about the endorsement: Speaking days before Hillary won her Senate seat in 2000, Lewis noted, “Hillary knows that if she wins, we’re going to be knocking’ on her door. She won’t be able to hide.” (Quoted in the Village Voice, November 1-7, 2000). Do you really want members of your city council beholden to Ms. Lewis when she comes knocking on their doors?
Which leads to the next issue I would like to remind everyone about. In July, Catanzaro joined a host of radicals, including Working Families Party to protest outside the Wal-Mart store in New Britain. Many believe it was similar protests outside this same store that helped to convince Wal-Mart to abandon New Britain, but is this what we want our elected officials doing to local businesses, joining groups of agitators in protests outside their businesses?
When Catanzaro was attending this protest, was he doing so as an Alderman, or was he wearing his ACORN/Working Families hat at the time?
Either way, isn't it time we found Aldermen who will work to bring businesses into New Britain, and Aldermen who will actually obey the law, instead of flaunting their being above it?
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Overzealous Campaigners Destroying Private Property
I have just learned that there have been several locations whereby Mayor Stewart's campaign signs have been knocked over by someone driving up on the homeowner's lawn and running the sign over with a vehicle. It would appear that some radical O'Brien supporters are getting overzealous and destroying private homeowner's lawns in the process.
Anyone witnessing such activities should take note of the license number of the vehicle, if it is possible to do safely, and report such activity to the New Britain Police at 826-3000, or in an emergency, by calling 9-1-1.
This type of destructive activity is a new low in New Britain politics and is really uncalled for. Hopefully now that the public is aware of it, the person or person(s) responsible will knock off the chilish games
Anyone witnessing such activities should take note of the license number of the vehicle, if it is possible to do safely, and report such activity to the New Britain Police at 826-3000, or in an emergency, by calling 9-1-1.
This type of destructive activity is a new low in New Britain politics and is really uncalled for. Hopefully now that the public is aware of it, the person or person(s) responsible will knock off the chilish games
MEET THE CANDIDATES: Cheryl Blogoslawski: Tax Collector
Cheryl Blogoslawski: Tax Collector
Charyl Blogoslawski is running for re-election as Tax Collector.
Cheryl holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Bryant College (now University) and a Master's Degree in Professional Accounting from the University of Hartford. Cheryl has over 15 years of experience working in the private sector--10 most recently in the commercial real estate area.
Cheryl has a strong background in business accounting with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial statement preparation. Her experiences have also included statement reconciliations, capital asset classification, depreciation schedules, and she has worked with mortgage escrow companies, banking institutions, and outside independent auditors with respect to proper year end filings. Cheryl continues to build her already strong core computer skills and other technical competencies.
Cheryl is currently a Board Member for the Salvation Army, and a former Commissioner for both the Parks and Recreation and Conservation Commissions.
Cheryl's family has a commitment to public service spanning several decades. Cheryl's father, Walter Blogoslawski, served on the Redevelopment Commission in the late 60's/early 70's, her mother, Patricia Hoerle, served on the Board of Education for most of the 80's. Cheryl's sister, Linda Blogoslawski Mlynarczyk served on the Common Council and then Mayor in the early 1990's. Cheryl says that each of her family members believed in this city in their own way and that she too believes in our city.
Cheryl says that under the leadership of Mayor Stewart, New Britain has experienced unprecedented growth, and accordingly, the tax collector position has evolved into one that demands the education, financial background and experience to stay on top of complex tax structures as we continue to grown and move forward.
ARE WE TRYING TO HIDE SOMETHING?
Laura Woodie is a Democratic candidate for Alderman-At-Large.
In a Hartford Courant article referencing her candidacy, the Courant reported that "she did not specify where she works" (New Britain Dems Hope To Hold Power On Council; GOP Hopes To Gain Some, Hartford Courant, October 22, 2009).
Then in a similar article in The Herald, Woodie reportedly identified her occupation as: "advocate for low-income families, and families with disabilities in various communities" but again failed to mention where she works (New Britain Common Council Democratic Candidates, The Herald, October 24, 2009).
It raised red flags with me to read that a candidate for public office was being so evasive about identifying her employer, but could there be a reason for this?
An internet search for Laura Woodie revealed that as late as March of this year, she was identified in a U.S. District Court case as being a representative of the Housing Authority of the City of New Haven and in October 2008, she was also identified in a City of New Haven document as being the Housing Authority's ADA Coordinator with responsibility for assisting persons with disabilities who hold vouchers under HUD's Section 8 program. A call to the Housing Authority of New Haven today confirmed that she still works there, so why could she apparently be afraid that we, as voters, might learn that?
Could it be the Hatch Act?
According to a publication issued by the U.S. Office of Special Counsel in December 2005, "The Hatch Act restricts the political activity of individuals principally employed by state or local executive agencies who work in connection with programs financed in whole or in part by federal loans or grants."
One of the specific activities prohibited for covered employees:
May not be a candidate for public office in a partisan election.
Perhaps the U.S. Office of Special Counsel could review this candidacy before the election, so that the people of New Britain can avoid another potential situation whereby badly needed federal funds could be withheld from more vital programs?
In a Hartford Courant article referencing her candidacy, the Courant reported that "she did not specify where she works" (New Britain Dems Hope To Hold Power On Council; GOP Hopes To Gain Some, Hartford Courant, October 22, 2009).
Then in a similar article in The Herald, Woodie reportedly identified her occupation as: "advocate for low-income families, and families with disabilities in various communities" but again failed to mention where she works (New Britain Common Council Democratic Candidates, The Herald, October 24, 2009).
It raised red flags with me to read that a candidate for public office was being so evasive about identifying her employer, but could there be a reason for this?
An internet search for Laura Woodie revealed that as late as March of this year, she was identified in a U.S. District Court case as being a representative of the Housing Authority of the City of New Haven and in October 2008, she was also identified in a City of New Haven document as being the Housing Authority's ADA Coordinator with responsibility for assisting persons with disabilities who hold vouchers under HUD's Section 8 program. A call to the Housing Authority of New Haven today confirmed that she still works there, so why could she apparently be afraid that we, as voters, might learn that?
Could it be the Hatch Act?
According to a publication issued by the U.S. Office of Special Counsel in December 2005, "The Hatch Act restricts the political activity of individuals principally employed by state or local executive agencies who work in connection with programs financed in whole or in part by federal loans or grants."
One of the specific activities prohibited for covered employees:
Perhaps the U.S. Office of Special Counsel could review this candidacy before the election, so that the people of New Britain can avoid another potential situation whereby badly needed federal funds could be withheld from more vital programs?
MEET THE CANDIDATES: Mark Bernacki: Alderman-At-Large
Mark Bernacki: Alderman-At-Large
Mark Bernacki is running for re-election as Alderman-At-Large.
Mark has been a member of the Common Council for 16 years, currently serving as Assistant Minority Leader, Mark also served in the past as Mayor Pro Tempore (for 8 years), a position he was elected to by his peers on the council.
Mark has been married for 31 years. His wife Maria Gallo Bernacki, and their two children, son Mark and daughter Marybeth, are shown in the photo above.
Mark has a MBA from University of Hartford, a BS in Computer Science from CCSU, and is a graduate of New Britain High School.
For the past 20 years, Mark has owned and operated the Sir Speedy Printing Center in downtown New Britain. As the owner of a small business, it gives him a special understanding for the problems confronted by other businesses in the city.
Mark says that he is greatly concerned with the tone and ethical lapses of this City Council, and that critical federal grants have been withheld due to conflicts of interest with some council members. Mark also said that proposals by the Mayor and other Republicans have been delayed or defeated simply because of party affiliation and not for lack of merit.
Mark says he is looking forward to continuing to work with Mayor Stewart to attract large developers to New Britain, and to make downtown and Pinnacle Heights both vibrant and attractively developed sites.
A Remider of The Fund Raiser For Mayor Timothy Stewart and His Slate!---TODAY!
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Fund Raiser For Mayor Timothy Stewart and His Slate!
TIME 5-8 pm at SAINT JEANS HALL ON SMALLY ST.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 27 SPAGHETTI DINNER $15.00 PER PERSON
$25.00 PER COUPLE
CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE!
A RAFFLE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE RTC.
ALL ARE INVITED TO ATTEND!
Monday, October 26, 2009
MEET THE CANDIDATES: Dennis Bryant: Alderman--Ward Three
Dennis Bryant: Alderman--Ward Three
Dennis Bryant is a candidate for Alderman in Ward Three.
Dennis attended New Britain High School, various industrial schools, and Bucknell University. Dennis is a veteran, having been honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy.
Dennis works for Hospital for Special Care, and is a member of the Elks Club.
Dennis says he is running because he feels it is time to give something back to the community instead of watching from the sidelines. Dennis said that in the past six years under Mayor Stewart, he has seen more positive things happen for everybody--not for just certain groups or individuals--and that he would like to be part of that.
Letters To The Editor:
A letter to The Herald editor (10/23/09) by Peter Kochol, “ Stewart disingenuous ...” as well as incorrect assertions by Democrats, Sherwood and O’Brien at the LOWV/HERALD Candidates’ debate on Tuesday, 10/20/09 prompts this editorial.
First. At the “debate”, Democrats asserted over and over (especially Sherwood & O’Brien) that NB schools are overcrowded. This despite a direct challenge to that assertion by Stewart Team Aldermanic Candidate, Marco Villa (BOE employee) that the assertion was false. An administrator at the BOE central office was called to ask him about school population numbers. This administrator said that in fact, our schools are NOT overcrowded. He explained further that there are approximately 500 students enrolled in out of town magnet schools. This means that fewer teachers were needed resulting in higher enrollments in some classes. Enrollment at NBHS is also lower.
Second. Kochol’s use of the term “disingenuous” when referring to Mayor Stewart is way off base. He asserts that Stewart did not wish to receive proposals for magnet schools - this assertion is what is really disingenuous. The DiLoreto School is a type of district magnet school (K - 8 Dual Language School). The Stewart Administration has supported this concept. The Stewart Administration held discussions about inter district magnet schools years ago. At that time, both city and school administrations did not wish to commit to the inter district magnet school proposal. It turns out, that was a good decision; in the past couple of months a serious problem has arisen especially in the Hartford magnet schools with regard to lower than expected per pupil funding for the schools from the State. There has been much discussion of this problem in the media. Why did the city/BOE decide not to commit to a inter district magnet concept years ago? The reasons are/were many faceted: where to put inter district magnet schools; increased funding necessary for staffing, etc.; no firm commitment from surrounding towns to participate - suppose towns committed at first, then, after getting things in place decided to back off a commitment? ; NB would be held “holding the bag.” Etc., etc.
Democrats are desperate to find issues they feel might serve them well in the upcoming election so they try to paint the Stewart Team as anti education. In light of the fact that there is a global recession and that the city underwent a revaluation (mandated by the State) the City and School Administrations had to be prudent financially to keep property taxes from skyrocketing.
Education progress in has been advancing in New Britain the past six years in spite of the fact that the state's share of the education budget has actually diminished during Tim O'Brien's time in the state legislature, from 62.2% in 2001-2002 to 59.3% in 2007-2008. This has increased the burden the city must carry. This is in conflict with the claim by Mr. O'Brien that he has increased state aid to schools during his time in office.
A few things that have been completed/accomplished during the Stewart Administration: reroofing of elementary schools; new playscapes at schools, 16 room addition for the Freshman Academy at NBHS; reroofing of NBHS with Solar electricity generating panels installed; Alternate School built at NBHS; sports improvements to Veteran’s Stadium; DiLoreto School has revamped building and curriculum concept (See the lead story in The Herald, 10/24/09). The list could go on and the facts show that the Stewart Administration has been only pro education for New Britain.
Alderman Lou Salvio, 225-9992, New Britain
Alderman Mark Bernacki, 223-8995, New Britain
Anthony Kane, BOE Candidate 229-8757, Stewart Team New Britain
First. At the “debate”, Democrats asserted over and over (especially Sherwood & O’Brien) that NB schools are overcrowded. This despite a direct challenge to that assertion by Stewart Team Aldermanic Candidate, Marco Villa (BOE employee) that the assertion was false. An administrator at the BOE central office was called to ask him about school population numbers. This administrator said that in fact, our schools are NOT overcrowded. He explained further that there are approximately 500 students enrolled in out of town magnet schools. This means that fewer teachers were needed resulting in higher enrollments in some classes. Enrollment at NBHS is also lower.
Second. Kochol’s use of the term “disingenuous” when referring to Mayor Stewart is way off base. He asserts that Stewart did not wish to receive proposals for magnet schools - this assertion is what is really disingenuous. The DiLoreto School is a type of district magnet school (K - 8 Dual Language School). The Stewart Administration has supported this concept. The Stewart Administration held discussions about inter district magnet schools years ago. At that time, both city and school administrations did not wish to commit to the inter district magnet school proposal. It turns out, that was a good decision; in the past couple of months a serious problem has arisen especially in the Hartford magnet schools with regard to lower than expected per pupil funding for the schools from the State. There has been much discussion of this problem in the media. Why did the city/BOE decide not to commit to a inter district magnet concept years ago? The reasons are/were many faceted: where to put inter district magnet schools; increased funding necessary for staffing, etc.; no firm commitment from surrounding towns to participate - suppose towns committed at first, then, after getting things in place decided to back off a commitment? ; NB would be held “holding the bag.” Etc., etc.
Democrats are desperate to find issues they feel might serve them well in the upcoming election so they try to paint the Stewart Team as anti education. In light of the fact that there is a global recession and that the city underwent a revaluation (mandated by the State) the City and School Administrations had to be prudent financially to keep property taxes from skyrocketing.
Education progress in has been advancing in New Britain the past six years in spite of the fact that the state's share of the education budget has actually diminished during Tim O'Brien's time in the state legislature, from 62.2% in 2001-2002 to 59.3% in 2007-2008. This has increased the burden the city must carry. This is in conflict with the claim by Mr. O'Brien that he has increased state aid to schools during his time in office.
A few things that have been completed/accomplished during the Stewart Administration: reroofing of elementary schools; new playscapes at schools, 16 room addition for the Freshman Academy at NBHS; reroofing of NBHS with Solar electricity generating panels installed; Alternate School built at NBHS; sports improvements to Veteran’s Stadium; DiLoreto School has revamped building and curriculum concept (See the lead story in The Herald, 10/24/09). The list could go on and the facts show that the Stewart Administration has been only pro education for New Britain.
Alderman Lou Salvio, 225-9992, New Britain
Alderman Mark Bernacki, 223-8995, New Britain
Anthony Kane, BOE Candidate 229-8757, Stewart Team New Britain
MEET THE CANDIDATES: Louis Salvio: Alderman-At-Large
Louis Salvio: Alderman-At-Large
Lou Salvio is a candidate for Alderman-At-Large. Lou is currently the Minority Leader of the council. Lou and his wife Dorothy are both life long residents of Britain. They have two children, and three grandchildren, all of whom are also New Britain residents.
Lou graduated from NBHS in 1953 and has four additional degrees beyond high school:
Lou is retired after 36 years as a public school teacher and administrator, having worked at schools in Old Saybrook, Bloomfield, and West Hartford. Lou also has 25 years of experience as an Instructor at CCSU Extension College and from 1996 to present has been a Student Teacher College Instructor.
Lou has a long history of public service in New Britain, including Chairman of the New Britain City Plan Commission, Commission on Community and Neighborhood Development, two Charter Revision Commissions, City of New Britain Ethics Commission, Republican Town Committee, 3 terms on the Common Council, Chairman of New Britain Board of Finance & Taxation, and has served in the following Common Council Liaison positions: Parks and Recreation Commission, Finance Commission, and Board of Fire Commissioners.
Lou is also a member of a number of community organizations, including: St. Maurice Church, Associate Member of New Britain C.P.O.A., Family Member of New Britain Museum of Art, Greater New Britain Arts Alliance, Art League of New Britain, Trinity-on-Main Performance Center, Angelo Tomasso Sr. Lodge 2165, Order Sons of Italy in America, Retired Member of National Education Association, Connecticut Education Association, West Hartford Education Association, West Hartford Retired Teachers Association, Association of Retired Teachers of Connecticut, and from 1988 to 1990, served as the Chairperson of New England Science Teachers--Based at MIT.
Michael Trueworthy--Leader of the Rat Pack!
FRANKSMITHSAYSNB EDITORIAL:
If you are tired of the constant bickering, childish games, and sleazy partisan politics that plague the city council, there is no better place to lay most of the blame, than on the Majority Leader of the council, Michael Trueworthy.
As the leader of the gang of 13, they spend more time trying to block the mayor from accomplishing anything that might make the Mayor look good, and in the process, destroying progress for the city.
I could offer examples all day, but let's start with just a few:
The most recent that I recall is the childish attacks launched by the Council Democrats against the proposed developer of the Pinnacle Heights property. The most bizarre` conduct over this matter was when they scheduled and then continued with a meeting to supposedly discuss the development with the proposed developers long after they were made aware of the fact that the developer was out of the country on vacation. The meeting amounted to what one could describe as "staged theater" led by Trueworthy and his minions criticizing the developer for not attending a meeting they knew in advance he was unavailable to attend. At a subsequent meeting that the developer was able to attend, the Council Democrats criticized the developer for not being able to tell them exactly what tenants he would secure for a property he didn't even have control of, and a Herald article even quoted one of Trueworthy's cohorts, Alderman Phil Sherwood, as asking the developer "Where's the beef?" (Pinnacle Heights sale moves ahead; by James Craven, August 4, 2009. The only surprise about this proposed development, is that the developer didn't pick up his $5 million and look for another city to invest it in.
Another recent obstructionist move was proposed by Aldermen Trueworthy and Hermanowski. A measure that would require purchase and sale agreements for city property that have been approved by the council to be completed within 90 days of the approval. (Hot topics on council's agenda this week; by James Craven, Sepetember 7, 2009). What legitimate purpose could such a measure have, other than to obstruct the Mayor from being able to sell city property to developers and to prevent progress? How many people are able to complete their house purchase in 90 days from the date they sign the purchase agreement? How can anyone possibly expect the developer of multi-million dollar projects to secure the needed financing and complete the sale within 90 days?
Even more bazaar is the wild conspiracy accusations that Trueworthy and his faithful gang have launched against the Mayor and the city audit firm, BlumShapiro. Two Herald Articles on August 5 and August 6 report some amazing statements from Trueworthy and some of his followers. Trueworthy reportedly questioned the legality of some actions by BlumShapiro and the city. Trueworthy also reportedly said he had been trying to get questions answered for a year and a half and still didn't have any answers. In response to Trueworthy's claims, Mayor Stewart reportedly responded by saying "Alderman Trueworthy is a liar" and that Trueworthy is questioning the very things that he authorized as a council member. Mayor Stewart also reportedly said "He seems to have conveniently forgotten that" and "That's not uncommon these days." Alderman Bernacki was also quoted as saying that it was time for some members of the council to "take their ACORN agitator hat off and become a community leader" (Aldermen claim possible auditing conspiracy; Wednesday, August 5, 2009, and Dems charge mayor with conspiracy over auditor; August 6, 2009, both by: James Craven).
There has been other talk of bazaar behavior by Alderman Trueworthy. Here is what some of his fellow Aldermen have been quoted as saying:
Democratic Alderwoman Shirley Black said Trueworthy has changed in the last year, going from a very eloquent and clear speaker to someone who rambles disjointedly. "I think it's something we've all noticed" and "He was very focused and punctual, but seems more confused now. He's late to meetings now when he was always on time in the past" (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Alderman Larry Hermanowski reportedly also noticed changes that have left him concerned with the party leadership on the Common Council. "He is not the Mike Trueworthy that I knew four or five years ago" Hermanowski said. Hermanowski said his major concern was Trueworthy's inability to finish a complete thought while addressing the council or any other group. Hermanowski said he dismissed any rumors of drug or alcohol abuse by Trueworthy, but referred any questions on that matter to Alderman Phil Sherwood, because of their friendship (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Alderman Phil Sherwood was quoted as saying: "I categorically deny that Mike Trueworthy is doing any kind of drugs" (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Even Herald reported James Craven has been critical of Trueworthy: "In a long and at times erratic diatribe against Stewart in a telephone interview,...(Trueworthy fires first in budget war; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Trueworthy has also accepted the endorsement of the radical ACORN front group: Working Families Party. According to the political watchdog web site Discoverthenetworks.org, The Working Families Party is a front group of ACORN, is an outgrowth of the socialist New Party, and acts as a political party in Connecticut and New York to run radical candidates who conceal their extremism beneath a veneer of populist rhetoric, promising bread-and-butter issues designed to appeal to union voters. The site quotes Bertha Lewis, who moonlights as both WFP Co-Chair and New York ACORN Executive Director as saying "Candidates know that when they're on our line, they're committed to certain things."
Here's what Bertha Lewis was quoted as saying about the endorsement: Speaking days before Hillary won her Senate seat in 2000, Lewis noted, “Hillary knows that if she wins, we’re going to be knocking’ on her door. She won’t be able to hide.” (Quoted in the Village Voice, November 1-7, 2000). Do you really want the leader of your city council beholden to Ms. Lewis when she comes knocking on his door?
In closing, if you think that the city council has been performing the way it should, then vote to re-elect the Majority Leader who controls much of the activities of the council. If you are tired of the divisiveness, and childish partisan games, then consider voting for change.
I believe a change is long overdue.
If you are tired of the constant bickering, childish games, and sleazy partisan politics that plague the city council, there is no better place to lay most of the blame, than on the Majority Leader of the council, Michael Trueworthy.
As the leader of the gang of 13, they spend more time trying to block the mayor from accomplishing anything that might make the Mayor look good, and in the process, destroying progress for the city.
I could offer examples all day, but let's start with just a few:
The most recent that I recall is the childish attacks launched by the Council Democrats against the proposed developer of the Pinnacle Heights property. The most bizarre` conduct over this matter was when they scheduled and then continued with a meeting to supposedly discuss the development with the proposed developers long after they were made aware of the fact that the developer was out of the country on vacation. The meeting amounted to what one could describe as "staged theater" led by Trueworthy and his minions criticizing the developer for not attending a meeting they knew in advance he was unavailable to attend. At a subsequent meeting that the developer was able to attend, the Council Democrats criticized the developer for not being able to tell them exactly what tenants he would secure for a property he didn't even have control of, and a Herald article even quoted one of Trueworthy's cohorts, Alderman Phil Sherwood, as asking the developer "Where's the beef?" (Pinnacle Heights sale moves ahead; by James Craven, August 4, 2009. The only surprise about this proposed development, is that the developer didn't pick up his $5 million and look for another city to invest it in.
Another recent obstructionist move was proposed by Aldermen Trueworthy and Hermanowski. A measure that would require purchase and sale agreements for city property that have been approved by the council to be completed within 90 days of the approval. (Hot topics on council's agenda this week; by James Craven, Sepetember 7, 2009). What legitimate purpose could such a measure have, other than to obstruct the Mayor from being able to sell city property to developers and to prevent progress? How many people are able to complete their house purchase in 90 days from the date they sign the purchase agreement? How can anyone possibly expect the developer of multi-million dollar projects to secure the needed financing and complete the sale within 90 days?
Even more bazaar is the wild conspiracy accusations that Trueworthy and his faithful gang have launched against the Mayor and the city audit firm, BlumShapiro. Two Herald Articles on August 5 and August 6 report some amazing statements from Trueworthy and some of his followers. Trueworthy reportedly questioned the legality of some actions by BlumShapiro and the city. Trueworthy also reportedly said he had been trying to get questions answered for a year and a half and still didn't have any answers. In response to Trueworthy's claims, Mayor Stewart reportedly responded by saying "Alderman Trueworthy is a liar" and that Trueworthy is questioning the very things that he authorized as a council member. Mayor Stewart also reportedly said "He seems to have conveniently forgotten that" and "That's not uncommon these days." Alderman Bernacki was also quoted as saying that it was time for some members of the council to "take their ACORN agitator hat off and become a community leader" (Aldermen claim possible auditing conspiracy; Wednesday, August 5, 2009, and Dems charge mayor with conspiracy over auditor; August 6, 2009, both by: James Craven).
There has been other talk of bazaar behavior by Alderman Trueworthy. Here is what some of his fellow Aldermen have been quoted as saying:
Democratic Alderwoman Shirley Black said Trueworthy has changed in the last year, going from a very eloquent and clear speaker to someone who rambles disjointedly. "I think it's something we've all noticed" and "He was very focused and punctual, but seems more confused now. He's late to meetings now when he was always on time in the past" (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Alderman Larry Hermanowski reportedly also noticed changes that have left him concerned with the party leadership on the Common Council. "He is not the Mike Trueworthy that I knew four or five years ago" Hermanowski said. Hermanowski said his major concern was Trueworthy's inability to finish a complete thought while addressing the council or any other group. Hermanowski said he dismissed any rumors of drug or alcohol abuse by Trueworthy, but referred any questions on that matter to Alderman Phil Sherwood, because of their friendship (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Alderman Phil Sherwood was quoted as saying: "I categorically deny that Mike Trueworthy is doing any kind of drugs" (Councillors concerned over Trueworthy's behavior; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Even Herald reported James Craven has been critical of Trueworthy: "In a long and at times erratic diatribe against Stewart in a telephone interview,...(Trueworthy fires first in budget war; by James Craven, May 12, 2009).
Trueworthy has also accepted the endorsement of the radical ACORN front group: Working Families Party. According to the political watchdog web site Discoverthenetworks.org, The Working Families Party is a front group of ACORN, is an outgrowth of the socialist New Party, and acts as a political party in Connecticut and New York to run radical candidates who conceal their extremism beneath a veneer of populist rhetoric, promising bread-and-butter issues designed to appeal to union voters. The site quotes Bertha Lewis, who moonlights as both WFP Co-Chair and New York ACORN Executive Director as saying "Candidates know that when they're on our line, they're committed to certain things."
Here's what Bertha Lewis was quoted as saying about the endorsement: Speaking days before Hillary won her Senate seat in 2000, Lewis noted, “Hillary knows that if she wins, we’re going to be knocking’ on her door. She won’t be able to hide.” (Quoted in the Village Voice, November 1-7, 2000). Do you really want the leader of your city council beholden to Ms. Lewis when she comes knocking on his door?
In closing, if you think that the city council has been performing the way it should, then vote to re-elect the Majority Leader who controls much of the activities of the council. If you are tired of the divisiveness, and childish partisan games, then consider voting for change.
I believe a change is long overdue.
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