WASHINGTON, 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.

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.

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.

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.

“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.”

“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.

“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.”

WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) released the following statement today regarding the Congressional Budget Office’s biannual Budget and Economic Outlook:

“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.”

GOSHEN, 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.
“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.”

“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."

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.

WASHINGTON, 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.

“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.

An outline of the legislation is below:

· 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.

· 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.

· 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.

Lieberman's statement welcome Panetta to Groton:
“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.”

CT Confidential blogger Rick Green is reporting that Senator Andrew Roraback may jump into the Republican race for the fifth district.

Roraback will make an announcement Thursday at 12:30 at Goshen Town Hall.

Read more here.

State 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.

On Thursday September 15, Simsbury First Selectmen Mary Glassman gave her endorsement of Chris Donovan for Congress.

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.

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^th District.

To read the full article from The Connecticut Mirror click here.

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the developments in Libya:

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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."

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the developments in Libya:

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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."

AVON - Wednesday the Lisa Wilson-Foley for Congress Campaign announced two more State Legislator endorsements from State representatives Al Adinolfi and Whit Betts.

"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.

"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.

Hartford 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.

Click here to read the full article from HartfordBusiness.com.

WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) issued the following statement today about the passing of Dave Solomon:

“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.”

WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) issued the following statement today about the passing of Mark Hatfield:

“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.”

NOTICE OF DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS

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.

FRED WRIGHT, CHAIRMAN

HDTC

JULY 12, 2011

WASHINGTON, 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.

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.

"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."

"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.

"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.

Washington, 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.

Senators Lieberman and Collins are the Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

"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."

Washington, 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.

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.

"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."

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.

"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.

"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."

Washington, 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.

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.

"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."

The Defense Authorization Act will provide funding for the following key Connecticut programs:
- 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.

- The bill will authorize $5.8 billion in funding for our nation's critical submarine programs, to include the acquisition of two Virginia class submarines and the continued development of a next-generation ballistic missile submarine to replace our aging Ohio class ships.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

Simsbury, April 12, 2011. – Today, entrepreneur and Simsbury resident Lisa Wilson-Foley announces her candidacy for Congress in Connecticut’s Fifth District.

“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. You fight to take back what is yours – your rights, your money, your freedom – our future. That is why I have announced my candidacy for Congress in Connecticut’s Fifth District,” said Wilson-Foley.

“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.”

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.”

“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.

Wilson-Foley has been lauded as an entrepreneur and innovator, earning numerous awards and national attention. She has been featured in Time Magazine, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and as INC 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.

WASHINGTON, DC-Today Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) released the following statement in response to the budget plan released by Chairman Paul Ryan:

“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.”

Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) today issued the following statement regarding the new ROTC policy at Harvard University.

“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.”

State Representative Michelle Cook of Torrington (D-65^th 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 An Act Concerning School Bullying Laws (HB 5535).

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.”

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

Washington, 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).

In his remarks, Lieberman said:

"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."

"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."

WASHINGTON, D. C. - Congressman Chris Murphy released the following statement after President Obama's State of the Union address to Congress Tuesday night.

"President Obama came into the House chamber tonight, saw Republicans and Democrats sitting side by side, and chose to play the role of a uniter. In order to win the future, we've got to be hungry for the next great ideas to put people to work. Connecticut workers are leading the way when it comes to innovation, in fuel cell technology and defense innovation."

Murphy said that to make economic progress here we've got to stop sending jobs overseas. He said the best way to do that is close loopholes in our Buy American Laws.

"I would have liked to have heard the President talk more about how to promote American manufacturing in ways other than trade agreements," Murphy said.

"I'm pleasantly surprised that President Obama dedicated so much of his speech to education. The achievement gap in Connecticut's schools is the largest in the nation, and it is crippling our future economic growth - fixing it will be part of the cure our economy so desperately needs."

Congressman John Larson expressed similar statements in his statement released following the State of the Union Address.

"President Obama has called on Congress and our nation to move forward an agenda centered on out-educating, out-building, and out-performing the rest of the world. He said 'this is our time' and I couldn't agree more. We must build upon our successes and prepare our nation for a stronger foundation," said Larson. "It is time for us to create jobs and grow our economy here at home. It's time for us to work together so our concerns are that of the ironworker in East Hartford, the teacher in Bristol, and the small business owner in Torrington."

HARTFORD - Governor Dannel P. Malloy will activate the Emergency Operation Center to prepare for more snow predicted to hit the state late this afternoon and into the overnight hours. The Emergency Operation Center will open at 4 p.m. at the State Armory and will remain open throughout the storm, expected to last into Thursday.

"I was on call this morning with Connecticut's emergency responders and transportation officials to ensure we are prepared for the weather headed our way," said Governor Malloy. "The answer is: we are. No matter how frequently we've been through this, we want to be certain that we are ready, and citizens know what they need to do to stay safe and secure. I'm urging residents to heed any municipal parking orders, clear snow away from fire hydrants and on top of their roofs, and to take it slow while driving."

People with concerns about their roof loads should contact their local building official, or in case of emergency their fire department.

Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) introduced legislation today to protect the coastal plains region of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil and gas exploration and drilling.

The bill will designate 1.5 million acres of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as wilderness for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Once designated as wilderness the land becomes subject to specific management restrictions: human activities are restricted to non-motorized recreation, scientific research, and other non-invasive activities.

"I have long believed that we have a responsibility to future generations to preserve the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and I have fought to protect it for as long as I have been in the Senate," Lieberman said. "The fact is, we do not have to choose between conservation and exploration when it comes to our energy future; we can do both simultaneously while moving toward a sustainable and diverse national energy policy."

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Bernard Sanders (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Mark Udal (D-CO), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Herb Kohl (D-WI), Tom Udall (D-NM), Benjamin Cardin (D-MD), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Diane Feinstein (D-CA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Kerry (D-MA), Richard Durbin (D-IL), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Today marks the twelfth time since 1989 that Senator Lieberman has introduced or been a co-sponsor of legislation to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

State Representative Roberta Willis (D-64th) has been re-appointed House Chair of the legislature's Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee by House Speaker Christopher Donovan (D-Meriden).

Rep. Willis has been the House Chair of this committee since January 2005.

"I am pleased that Speaker Donovan has re-appointed me to co-chair a committee that is so vital to our students and to Connecticut's economic future," Rep. Willis said. "I have had the honor to head this committee and to serve with hard working colleagues committed to improving both the quality of higher education in our state and to continue to work to make it as affordable as we can for students at all age levels."

The Committee has oversight over all matters relating to public and independent colleges and universities, the Department of Higher Education, the Board of Governors of Higher Education, post-secondary education and job training institutions, apprenticeship and adult job training programs and the Office of Workforce Competitiveness.

The Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee plays an important role in job creation and workforce development which is critical to Connecticut's economic development and recovery, said Willis.

Rep. Willis will also serve on the Environment Committee and will chair the Appropriations Sub-Committee on Higher Education. She was first elected to the General Assembly in 2001 representing the towns of Cornwall, Goshen, Salisbury, Sharon and a portion of Torrington which comprise the 64th District.

Republican Attorney General candidate Martha Dean announced today that she will not pursue a post-election challenge to Democrat Attorney General-elect George Jepsen's credentials.

"Unfortunately, the Supreme Court informed the public and the Attorney General candidates of the eligibility criteria too late in the election cycle for this issue to be brought to voters' attention properly," Dean said. "Mr. Jepsen, the voters, and I all learned of the Court's interpretation of the statutory eligibility criteria full-meaning just days before the election."

Dean said the passage of time and the legislature will likely give greater clarity to the eligibility criteria.

"At this juncture, I believe the best path forward is to allow the Attorney General-elect to focus on trying to run the Attorney General's office in a way that helps pull Connecticut out of its severe crisis," Dean added. "It was a pleasure running against George. We went head to head on the issues, focusing on substance, and we shared humor along the way. That says a lot about both of us as candidates. I acknowledge his victory and I wish him well."

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) will conclude his look at the state of the American child Thursday with a hearing of the Subcommittee on Children and Families. Thursday's hearing, is the fourth of the series, and will focus on what the subcommittee has learned over the past year about how children are faring in today's society and the effectiveness of public policy on their lives.

The series, "State of the American Child," launched by Dodd earlier this year, examines all aspects of children's lives: their health from birth to adulthood; their educational experience- in and out of the classroom; and their life at home with their families in their communities. The focus of the hearings is on the inter-connectedness of all these aspects and how they shape and define the lives of our children.

The final hearing boasts a distinguished panel, that will be testifying: Jennifer Garner, Artist Ambassador, Save the Children; David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D., Director, The Satcher Health Leadership Institute and Center of Excellence on Health Disparities, Morehouse School of Medicine; Helen Blank, Director, Leadership and Public Policy, National Women's Law Center; Peter Edelman, Professor of Law, Georgetown Law Center and Faculty Co-Director, Georgetown Center on Poverty, Inequality, and Public Policy; Michael Casserly, Ph.D., Executive Director, Council on Great City Schools.

Senator Dodd began this series on the state of the American child earlier this year with a hearing that looked at the challenges facing our children and families and the tools they need to succeed in today's society. The second hearing, held in Connecticut, examined Connecticut social service, educational and health programs that are providing central services and assistance to children and families in the state. The third hearing, which included senior Obama Administration officials, focused on the impact of federal policies on our children.

Put some color on a map of Connecticut to show which towns Democrat Dan Malloy won (blue) and which towns Republican Tom Foley won, and a few things stand out.

The vast majority of physical geography in Connecticut voted "Republican" in last week's gubernatorial election.

Foley won 126 of Connecticut's towns and cities, and Malloy won 43.

Exclude just three of those communities that Malloy won, and Tom Foley led by a 51 to 47 percent margin.

Those three communities, of course, were the much-talked-about Bridgeport, Hartford and New Haven, where Dan Malloy beat Foley by a combined vote of 56,545 to 9,827.

The map exposes what has played out in the Legislature for years ... the agenda, priorities and needs of Connecticut's big cities are far different than its suburban and rural communities.

Malloy, the former mayor of Stamford, has some reassuring to do, perhaps, that he'll be a governor for the entire state, not just an advocate of the cities.

TORRINGTON - Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz will honor more than 40 Korean War veterans Thursday during a 3:00 p.m. awards ceremony at Torrington High School.

"Our Korean War veterans fought courageously on the battlefield in some of the harshest conditions, suffering heavy casualties to protect Democracy and stop tyrannical Communist aggression," said Bysiewicz in a press release. "We want the thousands of Korean War veterans living in Connecticut to know we will never forget their bravery and sacrifice. We honor their service to our country during and after the war, when they came home and continued to do public service in our communities."

Bysiewicz will present each veteran with an award in recognition of their service during the war and invite the veterans to share their stories with friends and families in attendance.

Congressman Chris Murphy will join other local and state officials and candidates at a Get Out The Vote Rally scheduled for this Saturday, October 30th at 12 p.m. noon at Torrington Democratic Headquarters, 40 East Main Street, Torrington.
The public is invited to attend.
For further information contact Torrington Democratic Town Committee Chairman Glenn McLeod at 860-482-2271.

****Event has been cancelled due to rain.****
LITCHFIELD - Republican Senate candidate Linda McMahon will be in Litchfield today.

She will be touring Main St. Litchfield businesses, starting at Kitchen Works at 4:15 p.m.

U.S. Congressman Chris Murphy and his Republican challenger, Sam Caligiuri, will both appear at the Litchfield-Morris Rotary Club meeting tomorrow, and CT-N will be there to tape it.

Register Citizen Managing Editor Emily M. Olson will be introducing the candidates.

The meeting will start at noon at La Cupola, 637 Bantam Road, Litchfield. Tickets are $20, which includes lunch. Rotarians and the general public are welcome.

A press release from the Sam Caligiuri campaign:

The Hartford Courant reports today that Democratic incumbent in the Fifth Congressional District race, Chris Murphy, has pulled his disgraceful ad tying Sam Caligiuri to former Waterbury Mayor Phil Giordano off the air.

“Pulling the Giordano ad off the air is proof that it has backfired on Murphy because it is deceitful. As reported at the time, Sam was an opponent of Giordano and not his “number two.” Furthermore, the agreement approved by the Board of Aldermen stripped Giordano of his power and was the only way the city could ensure that Giordano could never come back to office, which the City Charter at the time would have allowed had Giordano been released from prison. That’s why the agreement was hailed as a success by the residents at the time,” said Tiffany Romero Grossman, spokesman for the Caligiuri Campaign.

“The Democrats attacked Sam the same way in 2006 during his first run for the State Senate. That attack was rejected then and it is being rejected now because it distorts what really happened. The real story here is that Murphy crossed the line and attacked Sam personally because he is desperate to avoid talking about his record of voting with Nancy Pelosi 98% of the time, including on spending trillions of dollars for disastrous legislation such as Cap and Trade, public option health care, and the failed stimulus package,” said Grossman.

The four candidates running for Connecticut's 1st District U.S. Congressional seat will meat for a debate at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 25, at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main st., Hartford.

It will be moderated by WFSB Channel 3 TV anchor Dennis House.

The following night, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, at the Ann Antolini School in New Hartford, The Register Citizen and Litchfield County Times will be sponsoring a 1st District debate.

So far, Republican Ann Brickley, Green Party candidate Ken Krayeske and Socialist Party candidate Christopher Hutchinson have all confirmed their participation. We are waiting to hear back from Larson's campaign.

Democratic attorney general candidate George Jepsen issued a press release today touting a big edge in the number of total donors contributing to his campaign.

Republican candidate Martha Dean’s report to the State Elections Enforcement Commission listed 163 contributors to her campaign through September, with the average contribution of nearly $400.

In comparison, more than 1,200 Connecticut residents gave contributions of $100 or less to Jepsen’s campaign between January and July when he qualified for public financing. Also, Jepsen did not accept money came from political action committees, industry or public-interest groups.

“My grassroots support is much deeper and more widespread than my opponent’s. The numbers tell the story. My message appeals to a broader range of Connecticut voters,” Jepsen said. In contrast, Dean has failed to garner much financial support, even from members of her own party.

Jepsen said participating in the Clean Elections Program has allowed him to focus on meeting Connecticut voters and talking about issues that matter, not raising money. It has also kept special interest money out of his race.

1st District Congressional candidate Ann Brickley has donated $200,000 to her campaign. Incumbent John Larson still has 10 times as much in his campaign warchest.

Republican Attorney General candidate Martha Dean is applauding Thursday’s U.S. District Court ruling in Florida that allows a lawsuit challenging a key provision of the federal health care reform legislation to move forward. The current suit – brought by twenty states – challenges the constitutionality of a mandate forcing citizens to buy health insurance.

Dean said, “I am pleased that Judge Roger Vinson decided that it is appropriate to move this important case forward. I look forward to closely following further proceedings in the coming weeks.”

Twenty states say that Congress is exceeding its constitutional authority by penalizing people for not doing something -- buying health insurance. The bill also fails to refer to any penalties it contains as taxes, even though the Obama administration recently argued that the penalties should be considered a tax levied by Congress, thereby giving it the constitutional power to regulate interstate commerce.

Dean added, “Connecticut deserves a strong Attorney General who will advocate vigorously for Connecticut’s citizens’ constitutional rights. My Democratic opponent is too accepting of federal power that goes far beyond what we have authorized constitutionally.”

She continued, “As Connecticut’s next Attorney General, I promise to join the twenty states already challenging the new federal requirement to purchase health insurance.”

Congressman Chris Murphy (CT-5) announced today that Congress will move ahead with legislation to provide Social Security recipients with a one-time $250 payment. The Social Security Administration is expected to announce on Friday there will be no automatic Cost-of-Living-Adjustment for 2011. That means that for the first time ever, 2011 will be the second consecutive year that Social Security retirees, veterans, and people with disabilities will see no increase in their monthly Social Security, SSI, VA Pension and Compensation, and Railroad Retirement benefits. This unprecedented situation is a result of economic conditions, not the result of Congressional or Presidential action or inaction.

“In this economy, seniors living on a fixed income are in a tough position,” said Murphy. “While the formula for calculating Social Security increases doesn’t recognize it, I listen to seniors every day who are hurting. That’s why we’re going to move quickly to pass this bill.

“Seniors who have worked hard all their lives shouldn't have to worry about their Social Security benefits. At a time when private retirement funds have taken a big hit, protecting Social Security is paramount. This measure was included in the budget, is fiscally responsible, and for Connecticut’s seniors, it’s absolutely essential.”

On Thursday, Murphy, along with members of the Connecticut House delegation, sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi requesting that H.R. 5987 be scheduled for a vote. Congress will consider H.R. 5987 immediately upon return to Washington in November.

The COLA is automatically calculated using data on inflation published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). October 15 is the day BLS releases the final economic factor that the Social Security Administration uses to calculate the annual COLA. In 2009, Social Security recipients saw a 5.8% increase in their benefits, the largest since 1982, as a result of rising costs; but in 2010, they saw no COLA at all.

Social Security benefit levels are modest – only $14,000 a year for the average retiree. The median income for senior households is just $24,000, reflecting just how much Social Security means to most elderly Americans. Six in ten seniors rely on Social Security for more than half of their income, and about a third of retirees have little other than Social Security on which to live.

U.S. Senate Candidate Richard Blumenthal will appear at a Get Out the Vote Rally in support of his candidacy at the Torrington Democratic Headquarters on Sunday, October 17th, at 1 p.m. The headquarters is located at 40 E. Main Street, Torrington. The public is invited to attend.

The Register Citizen and The Litchfield County Times are teaming up to sponsor a debate to be held Oct. 26, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Ann Antolini School in New Hartford.
Register Citizen Publisher Matt DeRienzo has invited the candidates, incumbent U.S. Rep. John Larson (D-East Hartford), Republican challenger Ann Brickley and Green Party candidate Ken Krayeske.
"We have felt for some time that an event like this was necessary to bring more attention to the race and the candidates in the Litchfield County portion of the 1st District, for voters who live in Torrington, Winsted, Barkhamsted and New Hartford," DeRienzo wrote in extending the invitation to debate.
The debate will be hosted by Scott Benjamin, the political reporter for The Litchfield County Times, who has an excellent reputation for objectivity, and has experience as a debate moderator, including moderation of a Republican primary debate earlier this year in the Fifth Congressional District.
As part of the papers community outreach, questions are being submitted from readers of The Register Citizen and The Litchfield County Times ahead of time.
In the debate, each candidate will get 3-minute opening and closing statements, and will have 2 minutes each to respond to questions, in a rotating order. Each candidate will then have 90 seconds to rebut or expand on their remarks after everyone has responded.
The Ann Antolini School gymnasium seats about 300 people, and the Register will also be livestreaming video from the debate on the Web sites of The Register Citizen, The Litchfield County Times, West Hartford News and Middletown Press.

Congressman Chris Murphy will debate his opponent Sam Caligiuri of Waterbury on Thursday, October 14th, from 7-8 p.m. at Wamogo High School, Litchfield. Thereafter, State Representative Craig Miner-66th District will debate his opponent Bill Zappone of Litchfield from 8:15-9:15 p.m.

The public is invited to attend.

A press release from Connecticut Republican Party ...

NEW BRITAIN - Connecticut Republican Chairman Chris Healy filed an Elections Enforcement complaint Wednesday against 12 year-incumbent Democrat State Treasurer Denise Nappier accusing her of violating state election laws over her promotion of a student loan program within a 60-day window of the election.

The violation concerns promotional activities with the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) program, which allows parents to set aside tax deferred funds until they are needed for college tuition. The Treasurer is responsible for managing the funds.

“Treasurer Nappier consciously violated the law when she allowed her staff to use tax payer resources in the Treasurer’s Office to plan and orchestrate a media event designed to promote her reelection,” said Healy. “Nappier allowed her image and printed quotes on materials distributed by The Hartford to the public. Nappier has been in office long enough to know this is a prohibited activity within 60 days of an election.”

During Nappier’s official October 6th press conference announcing “CHET Advisor” Nappier attempted to compensate for the poor performance of the fund as compared to other states by announcing reforms to the program that had long been advocated by both investors and professional organizations.

“Nappier knows that she has been misleading families about the true performance of the CHET program,” said Healy. “This media event and the involvement and the manipulation of The Hartord are an attempt to use a fresh coat of paint to cover the mismanagement and underperformance of her administration.”

The Treasurer’s office should be made to reimburse The Hartford for all costs associated with the publication and distribution of CHET Advisor materials designed to aid in her reelection.”

The 2010 election cycle in Connecticut is dominated by candidates from a small geographic radius in Fairfield County, including three practically next-door neighbor millionaires from the Greenwich area, Senate candidates Linda McMahon and Dick Blumenthal and gubernatorial candidate Tom Foley.

Dan Malloy and George Jepsen, candidates for governor and attorney general, are also from Fairfield County, and have known each other for decades, literally sharing a law office together back in the day.

During her visit with The Register Citizen earlier this week, it was interesting to converse with Denise Merrill, Democratic candidate for secretary of the state.

She is from the sparsely-populated northeast corner of the state - she's represented Storrs in the legislature.

Merrill and her Republican opponent, state Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell Jr., are fighting an uphill battle to get voters to pay any attention at all to them or the secretary of the state race in a year when the U.S. Senate contest is sucking all the oxygen out of the room, and you also have vacancies in both the governor's office and attorney general's office for the first time in more than a decade.

But coming from "the other Connecticut," as we in the Northwest Corner know well, Merrill is used to being in a position of being overlooked.

At the Democratic convention, facing two opponents for the secretary of the state nomination, she said that the fight became a coalition of small towns vs. delegates from the cities.

In the Legislature, the same kind of "city mouse vs. country mouse" fights have also played out many times.

Democratic nominees for Governor and Lt. Governor Dan Malloy and Nancy Wyman receive their second endorsement Monday, this time from the Connecticut State Police Union.

In making their endorsement,. union leadership pointed to Malloy and Wyman's "years of experience and demonstrated commitment to working with local law enforcement."

"The truth is, Connecticut can only have safe communities if people have good jobs, fair wages and benefits that allow them to support their families," said Sgt. Andrew Matthews, Union president. "Dan Malloy and Nancy Wyman have a proven history of understanding that public safety is a priority for the people of Connecticut. You don't have to look any further than Stamford, where during his tenure Dan helped lower crime by 63 percent, making it one of the safest cities in the country."

"As a former prosecutor and mayor of a large city, I have a deep respect and appreciation for hte role of law enforcement," said Malloy. "In Stamford, so many things wouldn't have been possible if we didn't lower crime and make our city safe. I'm honored to have the support of the Connecticut State Police Union and look forward to partnering with them as Governor."

Malloy added that the work and value of Connecticut's State Police was especially evident now, as the state mourns the loss of Tfc. Kenneth Hall, recently killed in the line of duty.

The Connecticut State Police Union is the exclusive collective bargining representative for Connecticut's State Troopers and Sergeants.

Democratic nominees for Governor and Lt. Governor Dan Malloy and Nancy Wyman received the endorsement of the Connecticut Working Families party on Monday.

In making their endorsement, Working Families leadership stressed Malloy's "years of experience creating new jobs, expanding access to health care, and improving local education" as well as Wyman's "demonstrated commitment to issues that matter to hard working people throughout Connecticut."

Julie Kushner, co-chair of the Connecticut Working Families Party said that they are proud to support Malloy because we need a Governor who is committed to the issues and the values of middle class working families.

Working Families is an independent party that focuses on the bread and butter economic issues that matter most to working class and middle class families. Because of the endorsement from Working Families, Dan Malloy will be listed on the November ballot twice: on the Democratic line and on the Working Families line.

"My working class upbringing helped shape my values and my priorties every day as Mayor of Stamford for fourteen years, and they'll shape who I am as Governor," said Malloy. "Good jobs, high-quality public schools, access to affordable health care, a fair system of taxes that doesn't overburden the middle class. These ideals form the backbone of the Connecticut I grew up in, and they're what will make Conencticut great once again. I look forward to partnering with the Working Families Party and with families throughout Connecticut as we work to build a better Connecticut in the years ahead."

"Growing up, I watched my father work three jobs just to make ends meet," Nancy Wyman said. "I understand what Connecticut families are going through during these tough economic times. I'm confident that Dan and Iare well prepared to help turn Connecticut around for those families, and for their children."

Former President Clinton will be in Connecticut on September 26 for an event with Richard Blumenthal, a press release from Blumenthal's communications director announced today.

The schedule of events for the day will be released later.