tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87728122072071962222024-02-18T22:38:48.364-05:00Northwest Connecticut PoliticsRegister Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.comBlogger406125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-43943744816551495902012-03-09T10:02:00.001-05:002012-03-09T10:04:45.755-05:00Lieberman, Blumenthal, Courtney announce USDA Development Grants for Sprague, ConnecticutWASHINGTON, DC – Senators Joseph Lieberman (I-CT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Representative Joe Courtney (D-CT) announced the awarding of two USDA Rural Development grants to the town of Sprague.<br /> <br />Sprague will receive a grant of $28,700 from the Community Facilities Program to update and repair critical facilities at the Town Hall. These essential repairs will aid in meeting full ADA accessibility requirements.<br /> <br />The Water Supply Plan will also receive a grant of $25,000 from the Water and Environmental Pre-development Planning Program. This grant will be used to assess and increase current system efficiencies as mandated by the Connecticut Department of Health regulations.<br /> <br />The Community Facility Program was established to provide grants for vital community facilities in rural areas, while the Water and Environmental Pre-development Planning Program seeks to offer assistance for drinking water and sewage systems in areas with a population of 10,000 or less.<br /> <br />“It is important that the needs of our rural population are not overlooked in these hard economic times,” Lieberman said. “The Rural Development Fund ensures that these critical systems and facilities do not go overlooked. These grants are investments in the future of Sprague.”<br /> <br />“Enhancing safe water supply and increasing public access to town facilities is a positive step forward toward fulfilling our commitment to Connecticut’s small towns. I congratulate First Selectman Catherine Osten for demonstrating the need for these funds and working diligently to secure them, " said Senator Blumenthal.<br /> <br />“This funding will help the Town of Sprague ensure the safety of its water supply and make overdue updates at Town Hall,” said Congressman Courtney. “ADA compliance at Town Hall and other public spaces is beneficial and safer for everyone. First Selectman Cathy Osten and the Town of Sprague did a tremendous job in a tough funding environment demonstrating need for this competitive funding.”Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-4180157212846996802012-02-01T14:05:00.000-05:002012-02-01T14:06:23.800-05:00Lieberman Statement on CBO January 2012 Budget and Economic OutlookWASHINGTON, DC - Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) released the following statement today regarding the Congressional Budget Office’s biannual Budget and Economic Outlook:<br /> <br />“The sky may not be falling but our nation’s fiscal house will be collapsing unless we take dramatic and urgent action to reduce the deficit. Today’s CBO report detailing the fourth straight year of trillion dollar deficits is a call to action for a bipartisan plan to bring our deficits under control, even though some would say it is too difficult to act in an election year. Our failure to act in the next few months would trigger a sequester, irresponsibly slashing critical domestic and defense programs. Nothing we do this year in Congress will be more important to promoting an economic recovery than dramatically and responsibly reducing the deficit, and nothing could be more irresponsible than kicking that can down the road.”Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-89575251722061646972012-01-27T09:42:00.001-05:002012-01-27T09:44:38.719-05:00Goshen Democratic Committee endorses Esty in race for CT-5GOSHEN, CT – The Goshen Democratic Town Committee has endorsed former State Representative Elizabeth Esty in the race for the Democratic nomination to represent Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District. <br />“We want a pragmatic, hardworking candidate who won’t be beholden to special interests and who can win in a tough swing district,” Democratic Town Committee Chairman Ned Bixler said. “We like the way Elizabeth pays attention to details, follows up on issues, and makes educated decisions.” <br /><br />“I’m so pleased to be endorsed by my friends at the Goshen Democratic Town Committee,” Elizabeth Esty said. “This is a clear sign of the strength we're building with Democrats across the 5th District." <br /><br />The Goshen Democratic Town Committee joins the Cheshire Democratic Town Committee, Emily's List, the National Women's Political Caucus, Women's Action for New Directions, and the Women's Campaign Fund in endorsing Elizabeth Esty.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-14607902712542851622011-12-13T14:59:00.000-05:002011-12-13T15:00:39.147-05:00Introduction of the Deficit Reduction Implementation ActWASHINGTON, DC-Today Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Bob Corker (R-TN), and Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced the Deficit Reduction Implementation Act of 2011.<br /> <br />“We will fail the American people unless we take responsible action to dramatically reduce the deficit and put our fiscal house in order. The automatic sequestration enacted in the Budget Control Act is nothing but an abdication of our responsibility. This proposal would help facilitate a process whereby Congress could enact a serious bi-partisan blue-print such as Simpson-Bowles, Gang of 6 and the Rivlin/Domenici plans. We are hopeful that this legislation will offer a starting point to provide the environment whereby one or several bipartisan groups can introduce and ultimately get an up or down vote on a deficit reduction proposal early next year. The stakes are too high and we cannot delay the day of reckoning for another year of gridlock,” said Senator Lieberman.<br /> <br />An outline of the legislation is below:<br /> <br />· The Deficit Reduction Implementation Act would simply extend the privileged treatment that would have gone to the Super Committee bill (no amendments, no points of order, filibuster-proof, and expedited consideration) to any deficit reduction legislation that has the support of at least 6 Republican caucus members and 6 Democratic caucus members in the Senate or at least 15 Republican caucus members and 15 Democratic caucus members in the House.<br /> <br />· Qualifying legislation must achieve at least $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction over 10 years to be considered under privileged and expedited procedures, but the goal is to achieve $4 trillion in deficit reduction.<br /> <br />· Should the Deficit Reduction Implementation Act succeed at finding 1.5 trillion in deficit reduction, these measures would replace the sequestration process established by the Budget Control Act.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-67205263106609578182011-11-17T11:51:00.001-05:002011-11-17T11:53:04.735-05:00Lieberman welcomes Secretary of Defense Panetta to GrotonLieberman's statement welcome Panetta to Groton: <br />“I am very pleased that Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta was able to take the time to visit Groton and see first-hand the excellent work being done by Electric Boat at one of our nation’s most important shipyards. I applaud Secretary Panetta’s candor in explaining the dire consequences for our military if the debt committee fails and automatic cuts are implemented. Here in Groton, as Secretary Panetta will see, the development and production of the Virginia-class attack submarine has proven to be a model program in providing a critical, versatile capability on time and at a stable price. If we are to cut budgets, we should be careful to sustain such successful programs and look to them as examples for how to make our military procurement more cost-effective in the future.”Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-27153568137884928872011-10-18T11:44:00.002-04:002011-10-18T11:53:55.575-04:00Is Roraback going to jump into the fifth district race?CT Confidential blogger Rick Green is reporting that Senator Andrew Roraback may jump into the Republican race for the fifth district. <br /><br />Roraback will make an announcement Thursday at 12:30 at Goshen Town Hall.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.courant.com/rick_green/2011/10/october-surprise-is-roraback-a.html">Read more here. </a>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-30771487004149023952011-10-03T09:56:00.000-04:002011-10-03T09:58:52.782-04:00Chapin, Roraback Honored for Commitment to Ending Domestic ViolenceState Senator Andrew Roraback and State Representative Clark Chapin have been named distinguished “First 100” men by the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV).Roraback and Chapin, both members of the Speaker’s Task Force on Domestic Violence, are among the first 100 male leaders – including business, government and community leaders – to make a commitment to ending domestic violence in Connecticut. “There are so many ways to make a positive difference in our communities,” Roraback said. “As legislators, we will continue to move aggressively in deterring and prosecuting domestic violence. No one should have to live their life in fear.”“Domestic violence cuts across all races, all income brackets, all levels of education – and both sexes,” Chapin said. “Our goal is simple: we want Connecticut to be a model for the rest of the country in terms of domestic violence prevention.”At a September 28th ceremony at the Crown Plaza in Cromwell, CT, CCADV officials applauded the legislators’ dedication and said they look forward to a continued relationship.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-53162249204758490282011-09-20T15:07:00.001-04:002011-09-20T15:09:15.129-04:00Mary Glassman endorses Chris Donovan for CongressOn Thursday September 15, Simsbury First Selectmen Mary Glassman gave her endorsement of Chris Donovan for Congress.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/E1a-0fK_SJE?rel=0" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" width="640"></iframe>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-53147314849777016392011-09-13T13:48:00.002-04:002011-09-13T13:52:56.117-04:00Chris Donovan embarks on 4 day long kick-off tour<p>Over four days and in five cities, Chris Donovan eagerly showed off the advantages a former organizer and current speaker of the Connecticut House enjoys in the crowded race for an open congressional seat.</p> <p>Donovan was endorsed at every stop of a campaign kickoff tour last week by legislators and others, many with organizations and contacts that can fuel a campaign for the Democratic nomination to succeed U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy, D-5<sup>th</sup> District.</p><p>To read the full article from The Connecticut Mirror <a href="http://www.ctmirror.org/story/13875/kickoff-tour-donovan-displays-advantages">click here.</a><br /></p>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-54373600234494407702011-08-22T11:14:00.003-04:002011-08-22T11:14:40.573-04:00Lieberman Statement on Developments in Libya<span lang="en-US"><div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">WASHINGTON, DC – Senator <b>Joseph Lieberman</b> (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the developments in Libya:</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Tripoli that is at last happening now marks a historic turning point in the Arab Spring and a victory for the advance of freedom globally. For the first time, a Middle Eastern dictator who tried to hang onto power by unleashing the most brutal possible violence is being deposed by his own people. The collapse of the Qaddafi regime thus sends a clear message to other autocratic regimes throughout the region -- from Damascus to Teheran -- that their day of reckoning too shall come.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Libya is an achievement that belongs first and foremost to the Libyan people, whose bravery and determination has forever changed the course of their history, and ours. This is also a victory for the United States and our NATO allies, whose use of military force stopped Qaddafi when he was on the brink of slaughtering his own people and empowered them to secure their destiny for themselves. America should be proud of the role we have played. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"While we join the Libyan people in celebrating this moment, we also know from history that the fall of a dictator does not guarantee the emergence of a successful, stable democracy in its wake. We also know that decisions and actions made in the immediate days and weeks ahead will carry consequences for years to come. For this reason, it is critical for the U.S. to redouble our assistance to and coordination with the Transitional National Council. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"In particular, we must support the new Libyan authorities to ensure they are able to prevent acts of retribution, initiate a credible process of national reconciliation, secure weapons depots and critical infrastructure, protect vulnerable populations, establish security and rule of law in Tripoli and throughout Libya, and begin the broadest possible outreach across Libyan society for an inclusive and transparent political transition. I am encouraged by the statements of Council leaders in recent days, instructing their forces to treat captured Qaddafi forces in accordance with the Geneva Conventions and pledging to protect the rights of all people in a post-Qaddafi Libya. These are precisely the right messages and reinforce the confidence of the international community in the TNC. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"Although I am optimistic that the Libyans will be able to shoulder the bulk of the transition to democracy on their own, I also hope that the U.S. and its allies will make available any and all assistance they request, including a civilian international monitoring mission.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"Qaddafi and his remaining loyalists also have a choice now. Rather than inflicting further pointless bloodshed and suffering, it is time for them to accept the will of the Libyan people and give up peacefully, before it is too late. There should be no doubt, anyone who persists in pursuing violence will be defeated. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Tripoli is a great step forward on the long and difficult path of the Libyan people to freedom. We recognize that journey is still far from complete, and that there are still many perils and pitfalls ahead. But as long as the Libyan people continue on this path, they should know that America will stay by their side as a friend and ally."</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-10275845087145571722011-08-22T11:14:00.001-04:002011-08-22T11:14:38.025-04:00Lieberman Statement on Developments in Libya<span lang="en-US"><div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">WASHINGTON, DC – Senator <b>Joseph Lieberman</b> (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the developments in Libya:</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Tripoli that is at last happening now marks a historic turning point in the Arab Spring and a victory for the advance of freedom globally. For the first time, a Middle Eastern dictator who tried to hang onto power by unleashing the most brutal possible violence is being deposed by his own people. The collapse of the Qaddafi regime thus sends a clear message to other autocratic regimes throughout the region -- from Damascus to Teheran -- that their day of reckoning too shall come.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Libya is an achievement that belongs first and foremost to the Libyan people, whose bravery and determination has forever changed the course of their history, and ours. This is also a victory for the United States and our NATO allies, whose use of military force stopped Qaddafi when he was on the brink of slaughtering his own people and empowered them to secure their destiny for themselves. America should be proud of the role we have played. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"While we join the Libyan people in celebrating this moment, we also know from history that the fall of a dictator does not guarantee the emergence of a successful, stable democracy in its wake. We also know that decisions and actions made in the immediate days and weeks ahead will carry consequences for years to come. For this reason, it is critical for the U.S. to redouble our assistance to and coordination with the Transitional National Council. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"In particular, we must support the new Libyan authorities to ensure they are able to prevent acts of retribution, initiate a credible process of national reconciliation, secure weapons depots and critical infrastructure, protect vulnerable populations, establish security and rule of law in Tripoli and throughout Libya, and begin the broadest possible outreach across Libyan society for an inclusive and transparent political transition. I am encouraged by the statements of Council leaders in recent days, instructing their forces to treat captured Qaddafi forces in accordance with the Geneva Conventions and pledging to protect the rights of all people in a post-Qaddafi Libya. These are precisely the right messages and reinforce the confidence of the international community in the TNC. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"Although I am optimistic that the Libyans will be able to shoulder the bulk of the transition to democracy on their own, I also hope that the U.S. and its allies will make available any and all assistance they request, including a civilian international monitoring mission.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"Qaddafi and his remaining loyalists also have a choice now. Rather than inflicting further pointless bloodshed and suffering, it is time for them to accept the will of the Libyan people and give up peacefully, before it is too late. There should be no doubt, anyone who persists in pursuing violence will be defeated. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Consolas;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">"The liberation of Tripoli is a great step forward on the long and difficult path of the Libyan people to freedom. We recognize that journey is still far from complete, and that there are still many perils and pitfalls ahead. But as long as the Libyan people continue on this path, they should know that America will stay by their side as a friend and ally."</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-63328061574830882362011-08-19T12:54:00.002-04:002011-08-19T13:02:08.480-04:00Six state legislators now endorsing Lisa Wilson-FoleyAVON - Wednesday the Lisa Wilson-Foley for Congress Campaign announced two more State Legislator endorsements from State representatives Al Adinolfi and Whit Betts.
<br />
<br />"Having know Lisa for over 10 years, I know she is someone we all would be proud to have representing us. She is not a career politician. Instead, she is a successful small business owner, devoted mother, and a leader committed to achieving fiscal discipline in our federal budget, to helping unemployed people get jobs, and to fighting for affordable health care reform that makes sense for everyone," said first-term State Representative Whit Betts, who represents Plymouth, Terryville, and Bristol.
<br />
<br />"As a party, we have to nominate the Republican who can win this seat back for us. That Republican is Lisa Wilson-Foley. Not only does she have the right message, but she will do the ahrd work necessary to spread that message to voters across our District," said State Representative Al Adinolfi, who represents Cheshire.
<br />
<br />
<br />Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-50953264666571408152011-08-10T14:36:00.002-04:002011-08-10T14:48:33.777-04:00China decimating Connecticut manufacturingHartford Business.com is reporting that a recent survey released by Congressman Chris Murphy, D-5th District and Senator Blumenthal said 89% of respondents planned to increase or maintain their workforce this year but it is difficult due to a lack of skilled workers.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://www.hartfordbusiness.com/news19889.html">Click here to read the full article</a> from HartfordBusiness.com.
<br />Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-58873092433923065712011-08-08T14:54:00.000-04:002011-08-08T14:55:36.336-04:00Lieberman mourns Dave Solomon<span lang="en-US"><div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>WASHINGTON, DC</b>—Senator <b>Joe Lieberman</b> (I-CT) issued the following statement today about the passing of Dave Solomon:</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">“I am saddened by the tragic death of Dave Solomon, who was a Connecticut journalistic institution. Dave will be deeply missed by all of us who enjoyed his sports reporting and insights into the athletics and people he covered for so many years. Hadassah's and my prayers and thoughts are with his wife, Judy, and daughters, Abby and Lisa.”</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-27849933196029163192011-08-08T14:50:00.000-04:002011-08-08T14:51:33.971-04:00Lieberman mourns Mark Hatfield<span lang="en-US"><div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>WASHINGTON, DC</b>—Senator <b>Joe Lieberman</b> (I-CT) issued the following statement today about the passing of Mark Hatfield:</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">“I mourn the passing of my former colleague and friend Mark Hatfield who was the embodiment of principled, independent-minded leadership. At a time when we lament the coarsening of our political dialog, we would all do well to follow the example of Senator Hatfield who was always a gentleman and his disagreements with his colleagues were never disagreeable. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”</span></span></div></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-80490617472875572532011-07-15T09:42:00.002-04:002011-07-15T09:42:42.016-04:00Notice of Democratic Caucus - Hartland<p class="Normal" style="text-align: center;">NOTICE OF DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS</p> <p class="Normal">TO THE ENROLLED MEMBERS OF THE HARTLAND DEMOCRATIC PARTY. A CAUCUS WILL BE HELD ON JULY 21, 2011, AT 7:00P.M., IN THE HARTLAND CONFERENCE ROOM AT HARTLAND TOWN HALL, 22 SOUTH ROAD, EAST HARTLAND, CT. CANDIDATES FOR MUNICIPAL OFFICE WILL BE ENDORSED. ANY OTHER PROPER BUSINESS WILL BE HANDLED.</p> <p class="Normal">FRED WRIGHT, CHAIRMAN</p> <p class="Normal">HDTC</p> <p class="Normal">JULY 12, 2011</p>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-73969861006307375342011-07-08T13:18:00.003-04:002011-07-08T13:34:46.475-04:00Lieberman, Blumenthal, DeLauro introduce Teachers Professional Development Institutes ActWASHINGTON, DC - Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), along with Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) introduced the Teachers Professional Development Institutes Act, a bill that would help K-12 teachers improve their subject matter expertise and their instructional skills.<br /><br />The Act would provide for the establishment of eight new Teachers Professional Development Institutes each year over the next five years. These institutes would be modeled after the very successful Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute, which has been in operation since 1978. Every Teachers Institute would consist of a partnership between an institution of higher education and the local public school system in which a significant proportion of the students come from low-income households.<br /><br />"High quality teacher professional development programs that focus on subject and pedagogy are proven methods for enhancing the effectiveness of a teacher in the classroom. The Yale-New Haven program has been incredibly successful. If this model is working let's give other teachers the same opportunity," said Senator Lieberman. "The need for effective teachers with deep content knowledge is most apparent and urgent in schools that enroll a high proportion of students from low income families, exactly the schools that Teachers Institutes serve."<br /><br />"In order for students in every neighborhood to receive an education that will prepare them for the future, we must have teachers who are experts in their field and equipped with the best tools and strategies to educate our children," said Blumenthal.<br /><br />"Nothing we do in Congress is more important than ensuring our children have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. For over 30 years, the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute has demonstrated that partnerships between teachers and institutes of higher education are beneficial to the educators' professional development and, most importantly, lead to improved student achievement," said Congresswoman DeLauro. "I am very proud of the Yale-New Haven model and look forward to expanding its success to schools across the country.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-81632122163207794162011-06-21T16:01:00.003-04:002011-06-21T16:15:16.611-04:00Senators Lieberman and Collins' letter seeks to improve treatment for wounded warriorsWashington, D.C. - In a letter to Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Senators Joe Lieberman and Susan Collins state their concern for the care, support, treatment, and rehabilitation for our service members returning from battle with injury and illness.<br /><br />Senators Lieberman and Collins are the Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.<br /><br />Warrior Transition Units are designed to provide care, support, treatment and rehabilitation for the men and women returning from battle with injuries and illnesses. Media reports suggest that there is a backlog in care and provider shortages.<br /><br />Injured service members must also deal with a confusing bureaucracy that appears to be threatening the proper treatment for the wounded. The Senators have asked for data from the Defense Department about who qualifies for treatment in the Warrior Transition Units, among other information, in order to conduct Congressional oversight.<br /><br />The Warrior Transition Unit program was created to provide both quality medical and mental care and counseling to soldiers who have endured mid-level battlefield injures or wounds, said Senator Lieberman.<br /><br />Lieberman said he agrees with Senator Collins that we must ensure that the WTU program is meeting the needs of our wounded soldiers and carrying out the goals and missions that it was designed to.<br /><br />"I am concerned about media reports that this program has not been properly managed and administered and I am looking forward to a formal response to our letter on the matter," Lieberman stated.<br /><br />"All service members deserve the best health care we can provide," said Senator Collins. "But a special level of care is required for 'him who shall have borne the battle.' We are concerned that those who were injured on the front lines are possibly being pushed to the back of the line. We can begin to provide better oversight and make a determination with the information we have requested from the Department of Defense about the program and process."Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-89839774173776233122011-06-21T15:28:00.002-04:002011-06-21T15:40:43.690-04:00Lieberman, Blumenthal, DeLauro, and Murphy work to declare Naugatuck River Valley as a National Heritage AreaWashington, DC - Senators Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) and Chris Murphy (CT-5) introduced the Naugatuck River Valley National Heritage Area Study Act today, which is the first step towards designating the area as a National Heritage Area.<br /><br />The legislation directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study to determine if the area is suitable or not. Designating this area as a National Heritage Area will help to create more coordinated regional preservation and planning efforts aided by technical and planning assistance from the National Park Service.<br /><br />"The Naugatuck Valley exemplifies the cultural strength of our country. The valley has a rich history with much to be proud of, from the legacy of a patchwork community of immigrants providing the industrial strength to get us through all of our nations wars, to the unique industrial-era and art-deco style buildings," said Lieberman. "I am pleased to introduce this legislation because our national heritage is embodied not just in our natural treasures, but on the cultural uniqueness of each part of our great nation."<br /><br />Blumenthal said this region of Connecticut is a shining example of American history and deserves recognition as a National Heritage Area. Designation as a National Heritage Area will enable towns along the river to attract visitors who are eager to learn about this unique region.<br /><br />"The fourteen communities that stretch along the Naugatuck River are steeped in agricultural, trade, architectural, and industrial history. A National Heritage Area designation would not only recognize its unique and historical significance, but would boost the local economy through cultural and historic tourism, and help Connecticut to preserve its history for generations to come," said DeLauro.<br /><br />"The Naugatuck River corridor's rich history is equaled only by its natural beauty," Murphy said. "With some help from the National Park Service, we can help preserve both, while hopefully bringing much needed new tourism dollars to the region."Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-50007778626843404722011-06-21T14:03:00.002-04:002011-06-21T14:32:56.358-04:00Lieberman and Blumenthal announce highlights from FY2012 Defense AuthorizationWashington, D.C. - Senator Joe Lieberman (ID-CT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, strongly supported the committee's approval on Thursday of its draft of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2012.<br /><br />The National Defense Authorization Act will authorize a 1.6 percent across-the-board pay raise for all members of the uniformed services, consistent with the President's request. This would be the 12th year in a row that military pay increases would exceed those of the private sector. The act would authorize service secretaries to carry out one or more programs to provide service members with job training and employment skills training to help prepare them for employment in the civilian sector. It would encourage the Department of Defense to expand efforts aimed at preventing foreclosures on service members' home mortgages.<br /><br />"This bill will provide our troops and their families the support they need, and I hope that the full Senate will take it up soon," Lieberman said. "The support this bill gives to Connecticut manufacturers shows just how important a role the state plays. I believe that Connecticut workers can not only feel more secure in their own jobs, but I expect that there will be new jobs in Connecticut's defense industry in the future."<br /><br />The Defense Authorization Act will provide funding for the following key Connecticut programs:<br />- The bill will authorize $8.6 billion in total funding for the continued development of the Joint Strike Fighter program and acquistion of 22 JSF aircraft, powered by Pratt and Whitney engines. The bill includes $3.3 billion for 19 F-35As for the Air Force; $1.1 billion for six F-35Bs for the Marine Corps; and $1.5 billion for seven Navy F-35Cs.<br /><br />- The bill will authorize $5.8 billion in funding for our nation's critical submarine programs, to include the acquisition of two <span style="font-style: italic;">Virginia</span> class submarines and the continued development of a next-generation ballistic missile submarine to replace our aging <span style="font-style: italic;">Ohio</span> class ships.<br /><br />- The bill will authorize over $3 billion in funding to procure Sikorsky helicopters, to include 71 Black Hawks, 18 Knighthawks, 24 Navy Seahawks, and an additional $677 million to develop the Super Stallion transport helicopter.<br /><br />- The bill will authorized $850 million in development funds for the replacement of KC-46A tanker, an aircraft that will be powered by Pratt and Whitney engines and will recapitalize America's fleet of aerial refueling tankers.<br /><br />- The bill will authorize $480 million for the procurement of nine C-27J Spartan aircraft. The "Flying Yankees" of the Connecticut National Guard's 103 Airlift Wing will soon receive Spartan aircraft, keeping a key flying mission in support of both military and homeland defense missions in the Connecticut for many more years to home.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-3229969400951722722011-04-12T11:23:00.002-04:002011-04-12T11:27:06.501-04:00Lisa Wilson-Foley running for Connecticut's Congressional 5th District seatSimsbury, April 12, 2011. – Today, entrepreneur and Simsbury resident Lisa Wilson-Foley announces her candidacy for Congress in Connecticut’s Fifth District.<br /><br />“What do you do when the government has pushed you to a point where you simply say, ‘I've had enough?’ My answer is this – you fight. <u>You fight to take back what is yours – your rights, your money, your freedom – our future.</u> That is why I have announced my candidacy for Congress in Connecticut’s Fifth District,” said Wilson-Foley.<br /><br />“For way too long, elected officials from both parties have put their needs and those of special interests ahead of all of us. The sad reality is that in doing so, they have ignored the constitution, trampled on the common sense fiscal policies that helped shape our country and created a mindset of ‘government knows best.’ I am ready to go to Washington to restore the common sense fiscal policies that have made us the greatest nation. I will fight to create jobs, to repeal and/or defund the recent health care reform bill, to work to overhaul our federal education system to make our future workforce competitive in the global marketplace, and last but certainly not least, to balance our budget. Government spending is out of control, and we need leaders willing to hold the line on making serious spending cuts.”<br /><br />State Senator Kevin Witkos endorsed Wilson-Foley in her campaign, explaining that, “Lisa is a proven job creator who knows the Fifth District inside and out. She has grown businesses from Meriden to Kent, and numerous communities in between. She has been fighting for the families and small businesses of our District for years, and I know she will be a strong advocate for us in Congress.”<br /><br />“At 18, I decided to become a physical therapist because I enjoyed helping people. I loved working with people and helping them get better. Now I see that our federal government is sick and failing. That drive to help people is as strong within me today as it was at 18, and I feel compelled to turn my energies into working to get our government, our economy, and our communities healthy again,” said Wilson-Foley.<br /><br />Wilson-Foley has been lauded as an entrepreneur and innovator, earning numerous awards and national attention. She has been featured in <i>Time Magazine</i>, the <i>New York Times</i>, the <i>Wall Street Journal</i>, and as <i>INC</i> Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year for Southern New England. Wilson-Foley was raised in Farmington where she attended Farmington High School. She earned a B.S. in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College, a Masters in Public Health from Yale University, and is currently working toward a doctorate degree in health care. She lives in Simsbury with her husband, Brian, and their children.Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-56454830837457554362011-04-05T10:40:00.001-04:002011-04-05T10:41:38.763-04:00Lieberman thanks Chairman for proposing debt reduction program<div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>WASHINGTON, DC</b>-Today Senator <b>Joe Lieberman</b> (I-CT) released the following statement in response to the budget plan released by Chairman Paul Ryan:</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">“I thank Chairman Ryan for having the courage not just to talk frankly about the danger America's national debt poses to the American people but also to propose a comprehensive program to cut the national debt. One does not have to agree with all or most of Chairman Ryan's proposals to be able to applaud his serious commitment to reduce the debt that threatens our nation's future. I look forward to reading and studying Paul’s proposals. I hope it will begin an open and honest national conversation about exactly what we can do together to bring our government's books into balance. More of us in Congress from both sides of the aisle need to step forward to embrace comprehensive solutions to address this problem. Now is not the time for half-measures or politics as usual, and Chairman Ryan has recognized this reality by offering his plan. Let us now work together to forge and pass bi-partisan legislation that puts our country on a course to restore fiscal responsibility and places entitlement programs on a sound financial footing.”</span></span></div>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-77074660444509929902011-03-04T13:02:00.000-05:002011-03-04T13:04:04.608-05:00Lieberman Statement on New Harvard ROTC Policy<span lang="en-US"><div style="margin: 0pt;" align="justify"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>Senator Joe Lieberman</b> (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the new ROTC policy at Harvard University. </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">“I applaud Harvard University for its decision to return the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program to campus after a nearly forty year absence. Our universities have a major role to play in helping to educate and train our military’s officer corps. As the Department of Defense works to implement legislation to allow gay and lesbian Americans to openly serve their country, I urge Harvard not to delay implementation of their new policy and other universities that bar ROTC to follow Harvard’s example in bringing this program back to campus. Our precious freedoms are guarded by our men and women in uniform and it is imperative that universities do their part in supporting our military.”</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color:#1f497d;"> </span></span></span></div></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-40162173292773502142011-03-03T16:02:00.001-05:002011-03-03T16:04:10.763-05:00Representative Michelle Cook honors Girl Scouts at Advocacy Day<span style="font-size: 10pt;" dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">State Representative Michelle Cook of Torrington (D-65</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:-1;color:black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;"> District) discussed school bullying laws during Girl Scout Advocacy day at the State Capitol. Girl Scouts from across the state met with legislators to show their support for </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">An Act Concerning School Bullying Laws (HB 5535).</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">Rep. Cook, a co-sponsor of the bill said, “The girls are very committed to reducing bullying in schools and cyber-bullying on the internet. Some shared personal experiences with bullying which made the meetings powerful and particularly meaningful to legislators.”</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">The Girl Scouts have their own program, Girlz R.U.L.E. which is an outreach curriculum-based program that embraces girl leadership and challenges young women to take steps to reduce conflict, aggression and violence.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">“These young women are learning valuable skills to better manage situations once thought to exist only in high school, such as; put downs, rumors, sexual harassment, bullying and violence,” said Cook. “Too often little conflicts go unnoticed and perpetuate until the situation gets way out of hand. This program builds awareness and empowers them to move from a bystander or victim to a problem-solver.”</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">In 2010, Rep. Cook helped organize a Capitol Girl Scout troop made up of women legislators who are strong, positive role models for every Girl Scout in Connecticut.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"> </span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:black;">According to the Girl Scouts, approximately 44,000, or 15 percent of 5-18 year old girls are enrolled in a Girl Scout program in Connecticut.</span></span></div> <div style="margin: 0pt;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:blue;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b><br /> </b></span></span></span></div></span></span></span>Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8772812207207196222.post-62492424658885086462011-02-18T10:26:00.002-05:002011-02-18T10:43:28.143-05:00Lieberman delivers remarks regarding Middle EastWashington, DC - Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) Monday delivered remarks concerning the developments in Egypt and Iran to the leadership of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).<br /><br />In his remarks, Lieberman said:<br /><br />"We cannot be naive about the obstacles and the uncertainties that lie ahead in Egypt, which is today just at the beginning of its transition to democracy. But we have seen, repeatedly in our lifetimes, democracy take root in places where few predicted it was possible. From Indonesia to Chile, and from East Germany to South Korea, authoritarian regimes have been supplanted by flourishing free societies in every corner of the earth, and the United States and the world are better for it."<br /><br />"A democratic Egypt is definitely achievable, and it is clearly in our national interest to do everything we can to support the Egyptian people as they go to work to bring it into being. Americans and Egyptians are now natural allies in our hopes and aspirations for a new democratic Egypt, and so too may I add, are the people of the one mature democracy in the Middle East today - Israel."Register Citizen Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13174579616139382210noreply@blogger.com1