OPINION: Que the Theme from Rocky...

Author’s Notes:

• This article is posted under the initials JAM. The writer is Jennifer Mahr.
• Mahr is the Chair of the Westfield Residents Association (WRA), but is writing this opinion piece as a private citizen.
• The author is a registered Republican who currently has a Mary for Mayor sign in her yard.
• No, the author is not going to be Bartolotta’s Chief of Staff if Bartolotta is elected.

Diana Martinez, the Florsheim campaign Treasurer, asked a fabulous question during her disclosures on her Civilian Review Board opinion piece. What happens if another candidate wins? 

I totally appreciate the heartfelt, emotional component of that question, but I’m more interested in the political consequences she mentions. What does the morning after look like when the winner wakes up and looks at the 56-day campaign against the Republican nominee Seb Giuliano?

Or, the better question is, what is Middletown looking at when it wakes up and sees the candidate the Democratic party has chosen to face a sitting Councilman and three term former Middletown mayor? Here’s the synopsis from the Giuliano campaign website:

Nobody is better prepared to lead those endeavors than Seb Giuliano. Whether it is his education (United States Military Academy at West Point, Boston College, law school at the Catholic University of America in Washington DC) his record of community service and involvement or his multiple terms as Mayor and on the Common Council, Seb's qualifications to lead this City are unmatched.

A lifelong resident and the son of lifelong residents, Seb’s commitment and dedication to Middletown are legendary. His civic participation – the Chamber of Commerce, American Legion Post 75, Xavier High School, Macdonough School, the Italian Society of Middletown and the IACO, the Bridge To Brilliance Steering Committee, just to name a few – is only one aspect of a career spent serving this community. In his previous three terms as Mayor, Seb grew the City’s Grand List, doubled its cash reserves, reduced its debt burden (notwithstanding the construction of the new Middletown High School) and strengthened the City’s financial position, which led to progressively higher credit ratings. Under his leadership, the City became a member of the Mattabasset District, which has opened the door to the redevelopment of Middletown’s riverfront.

Normally, when selecting a candidate from a field of possibilities, a party also factors in the candidate’s ability to take on the opposing party’s candidate. The real PARTY priority is getting elected, and the primary is about which candidate can best help the party do that. This is a fairly fluid two part consideration: is the candidate attractive to the party’s voter base, and can this attraction be wielded in an effective manner against the opposing party?

I’m not much of a boxing fan - I can’t imagine why anyone would want to stand up and get punched in the face - but let’s use the analogy anyway. There’s a reason boxers fight in the same weight class, and it also applies to political campaigns.

Town governing is the most basic and practical level of “politics.” Picking a candidate solely because his or her ideology matches yours fails to consider whether the candidate can translate ideology into effective action. In my opinion, at the local level, a candidate’s experience matters as much, if not more, than basic political ideology. 

Middletown’s annual budget is nearly $180 million and it employees over 600 people: this is no sleepy bedroom community. Just consider this one fact about our town: according to the Middletown Public Schools website, there are 4800 children of preschool to high school age who depend on Middletown voters making decisions that will literally shape their lives. 

So, the Democratic primary on September 10th matters far beyond personal attachment to a candidate. When you, the voters, make a choice, be sure you know who you are picking and why. You already know who Seb Giuliano is, what he has done, and what he can do for Middletown. Do not be fooled: the real fight starting September 11th is about experience, political connections, accountability (or lack thereof), and keeping or changing the status quo.

Let’s see how the fight breaks out:

Billy Russo: If you read either of my EYE articles in March about the Fields Use Ordinance, you know exactly what I think personally about Billy Russo being Mayor. His justification, in his own words, for a new fields ordinance was to align the ordinance to match “what we’re already doing.” In other words, the current ordinance wasn’t being followed because Russo as Director of Public Words didn’t feel like it. For the record, Giuliano was on the committee that approved and forwarded this ordinance change. Giuliano voted for it during the Council vote mostly because he liked the cleaner language of the ordinance (or at least that’s how I interpreted his explanation before the vote). I use this example for this reason: it’s not about Russo’s ability to run a department, it’s about what he does with that responsibility when he has it. If being mayor is about representing all of Middletown, and doing what is best for the town as a whole, can Russo do this? In a Billy v. Seb fight, is Billy already a compromised candidate?

Geen Thazhampallath: As former Chief of Staff for Seb Giuliano’s 3 mayoral terms, Thazhampallath is familiar with how our City runs, and he handled himself well at the Candidate Forums according to all accounts. He is a former Republican and has been the city’s Parking Director for the past 8 years. If you like parking downtown, Thazhampallath’s your guy. But when the race is Geen v. Seb, what exactly is the choice the voters get to make? Even when arguing, like I am here, that a party label doesn’t necessarily matter at the local level, does Geen offer voters a different path?

Mary Bartolotta: You already know what I think about her even when I can’t vote for her in the Democratic primary. But Mary v. Seb? That’s a prime time fight, so settle in and get your money’s worth. They are in the same weight class, though they have different strengths. Giuliano is a long-time attorney, 3 term mayor, and a six-year Councilman. He loves to talk, knows what he is talking about, and, thanks to his profession, thrives in public speaking settings. Bartolotta is a former retail manager and an eight-year Councilwoman whose leadership strengths are most visible at the personal level, as is appropriate for a manager traveling between 21 different stores in her district. There is a years long record of how each has voted on all kinds of issues, and so there is a legitimate choice that voters can make. That both are fiscally conservative or share similar views on what Middletown’s top priorities should be does not make them the same candidate. It means that two seasoned Middletown elected officials, based on their experience, have confirmed where Middletown can do better, and each has a different way to get there. For me personally, party affiliation won’t matter if the vote is Mary v. Seb on November 5th. I will have to consider what I think about each candidate’s ability to lead independently, to hold others accountable, and to change the culture in City Hall. Our current Mayor faces two federal lawsuits about how female City employees are paid less than male employees and then treated unfairly or retaliated against when they complain (read the Courant article here). There is much to be done to remedy this problem and many others, and a party label isn’t the simple answer for me. 

Ben Florsheim: There have been plenty of opinions posted on the EYE in favor of Florsheim’s candidacy: he’s nurturing, he cares, he brings the city forward, he brings honesty and integrity and he is engaged. The Florsheim campaign website heavily stresses his ability to listen and “to hear every perspective.” In his own words, “For the last five years, my job has been all about listening - making sure that Senator Murphy is hearing from people all across our state about what’s important to them.” There is no disconnect between Florsheim’s job and how people describe him as a person. In fact, he had that job because of all those personal characteristics. Senator Murphy couldn’t afford to have a community outreach liaison who wasn’t nice, honest and able to report back accurately. But, take a nice junior flyweight and match him against a seasoned heavyweight: Ben v. Seb is a likely disaster for the Democratic Party in Middletown. Even Bartolotta has a hard argument against Giuliano’s experience as a 3 term mayor. She can disagree with his decisions, but she can’t argue he doesn’t know how to do the job. Florsheim has no experience managing people, money or property that he has pointed to as evidence he can do the practical job of being mayor. At least all three other Democratic primary candidates have this experience, and you can review their records to see if you like their performances or not. Is youthful enthusiasm enough to convince you to hand over the keys to a $180 million dollar budget and 600+ employees? Would any other field give this job to someone without demonstrated, relevant experience?

Valeka Clarke: You won’t see this name on the ballot on September 10th. Clarke is a write-in candidate for the November 5th election, not the primary. She is a community activist and recent graduate of the Side Street to Main Street program. The Middletown Press profiled her in May, that article is here. Clarke faces a tough uphill battle starting September 11th as she has no party machine to support her campaign efforts. She will struggle to stay in the limelight as the major party campaigns will outshine her efforts. This doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a valid viewpoint, it means that third party candidates historically don’t do well on their own.

Diana Martinez’s comment brought one other question to my mind. What happens if her preferred primary candidate doesn’t get elected? It has been very clear that some members of the endorsed Democratic Common Council Slate prefer one mayoral candidate over others. Party unity is normally more important than personal candidate preferences, so can the Democratic Party really start working together on September 11th? Will losing mayoral campaigns support the people’s choice or work to undermine this choice out of spite? Will September 11th be the day Seb Giuliano was elected mayor by default because the Democratic Party self-destructed? Should we just get rid of political parties at the local level and let it be a free-for-all?

Your vote is your choice. None of these questions are easy, and none of the decisions simple. What matters most, in my opinion, is having a choice in the first place. Democracy thrives on it, but it also brings a grave responsibility. Whatever you decide, be willing to accept the consequences of your choice or non-choice. On November 6th, we have to be willing as a town to embrace the new mayor and move forward under his or her leadership. Hopefully, cries of “Not My Mayor” won’t be heard here in Middletown. We have too much to do to build a brighter future.

Grinders for Grace

Submitted by Eye Reader Rochelle Hughes

In 2006, Mayor Sebastian Giuliano and the Common Council of the City of Middletown voted to appropriate a matching grant for the Amazing Grace Food Pantry, a program of St. Vincent DePaul, Middletown

For every dollar that the food pantry raised, the city would match fifty cents, up to $25,000.
The first event was the Amazing Challenge Soup Supper, which was a combination thank you to friends of Amazing Grace and a delicious supper of soup and bread all donated by area restaurants, churches and friends. Scores of people attended the no charge event and brought along their checkbooks. Thanks to the generosity of so many, a substantial amount of money was raised to begin the match.
In the meantime, Claudia DeFrance was thinking of a way to raise more money for the food pantry. She knew that the parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown would be ready to help.
Giannelli’s Early Learning Center on Round Hill Road, devotedly and lovingly operated by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden, had always hosted a meatball grinder day as a major fund raiser for their facility. Mrs. DeFrance had heard that they were not doing the fundraiser anymore and approached Sister Donna and Sister Consulata about having a meatball grinder day for the Amazing Grace Food Pantry. The Sisters were happy to turn the day over to Amazing Grace and the first “GRINDERS FOR GRACE” was established.
Help was needed to organize this huge task. Fred Terrasi was the President of the Italian American Civic Order at the time. The IACO has a reputation in Middletown for having some of the best cooks in town. So they were asked, they said YES and with them came the now famous, secret (Vinnie Munno) meatball recipe.
Together the members of the IACO and the parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown rallied to organize and perform the herculean task of making and delivering the grinders. One was Rochelle Hughes, a parishioner and member of the Finance Committee, who came forward to be the official bean counter – organizing orders, collecting money, keeping track of the totals. A daunting, crucial job to the success of the event and she shines each year as a true community organizer. One by one, members of every church in Middletown came forward to chop fresh parsley and garlic, roll thousands of meatballs, make gallons of homemade sauce, and of course make, wrap and deliver the grinders to Middletown and many, many surrounding towns and at the end of a very long day wash pans and clean the kitchen!
The first year, 600 grinders were purchased by area businesses, schools and friends. In 2011, 1,197 grinders were sold, resulting in over $6,000.00 donated to Amazing Grace.
This year, “GRINDERS FOR GRACE” will take place on April 19th at the Monsignor M. Davitt Fox Parish Center at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 10 Elm Street, Middletown.
Help is needed and if you have the energy to do “God’s work,” please join a remarkable group of individuals and work to help your neighbors in need.
Please email grindersforgrace@gmail.com and you will be sent a schedule of work times. If you do not have an email, please send a self addressed stamped envelope to:
GRINDERS FOR GRACE
PO Box 182
Middletown, CT 06457

“Like” Grinders for Grace on Facebook and follow the events leading up to April 19th…or call 860-930-3447.
During these difficult times for so many, please consider donating your time to help. If you cannot donate time, we would gladly accept your cash or check donations to defray expenses. Last year, over 600 pounds of ground beef, 36 dozen eggs, 40 gallons of sauce and all the ingredients to make our meatballs and sauce from homemade recipes were purchased, as were the packaging to wrap the grinders, labels to mark each one, napkins, paper towels and the list goes on. Please send any donation you can afford to:
Grinders for Grace, PO BOX 182, Middletown, CT 06457. Please make checks payable to Grinders for Grace.
Grinders for Grace would not be the huge success it is without the volunteers who do all the work. But most importantly YOU, the customers who buy the grinders, are the BEST! Without you, there would be no money to give to the food pantry; money that now is crucial because so many need the food pantry. Times are difficult for all of us. Therefore, a challenge is in place to donate at least $10,000 this year. Challenge a fellow business or another office within your building. Challenge at local hospitals, police departments, fire departments to place the largest order. Aetna thus far has the distinction of the largest order ever with 300 grinders going to their facility in Hartford last year!!!! (Their hearts never left Middletown). Can your business, office or group of friends top that? You can bet you’ll have a delicious time trying!
Thank you for supporting Amazing Grace. And thank you for helping your neighbors.

Wesleyan Democrat President/ DTC Member Admits to Some False Allegations by Fellow Wes Dem

Mansoor Alam, Wesleyan student who was the sole protester in Hartford Tuesday at a demonstration to object to the appointment of Sebastian Giuliano to the SEEC, in a letter by Ben Florsheim says Alam accused Giuliano of various acts of voter suppression in statements he made to media at the event. In a letter to Gregory B. Hladky of the news website Ct.com Wesleyan Democrat President and new member of the local Middletown Democratic Town Committee student Ben Florsheim dismisses some of Alam's statement's but still maintains his original accusations of Giuliano of violations of CT statutes and suggests voter intimidation and suppression. Florsheim maintains others spoke about ramifications of the voter registration process that in his opinion constitute wrong doing and were solely responsible for below anticipated student voter turn out. Also in the complaint letter to the SEEC, Florsheim alludes to his subsequent accusation of Officer Tom Sebold and then candidate Molly Salafia of voter intimidation ( a felony) based on their statements of the possible enforcement of local car tax as a result of changing of student's permanent address thru the process of voter registration; a contradiction to Florsheim's original letter published in the Patch, Argus, and Eye where he states:"Additionally, car taxes only apply to that small minority of Connecticut-registered vehicles at Wesleyan that are in the name of the student (as opposed to their parents). " This tax could be enforced by following thru with the state statute's stipulation (C.G.S. 14-36(b)(2) that the car's registration is changed to be consistent with the domicile Middletown address as listed on the voter registration form. Registering to vote is one step in changing a person's permanent address. It appears that Florsheim originally agreed with Sebold and Salafia in his statement; but contradicts this statement and suggests their statements as fraudulent in his complaint regarding Giuliano's appointment to the SEEC. The Wesleying.org blog applauds Florsheim's and the Wesleyan Democrats efforts to delay Giuliano's appointment. Florsheim wrote the following letter to the web author:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Mr. Hladky,

As someone who has been involved in the filing of a complaint with the SEEC over Sebastian

Giuliano's appointment, I wanted to offer a clarification due to some things that Mansoor Alam apparently said at today's sparsely-attended protest at the offices of that organization. According to your article, Mr. Alam said or implied that Mr. Giuliano falsely claimed students would be subject to new taxes for registering to vote; that Wesleyan mailboxes were not acceptable for use on a voter registration form; and that voter registrations were thrown out. He misspoke on these counts.

First of all, Mr. Giuliano did not claim that students would be subject to new taxes, though this claim was made by other individuals. The implication that he did is not an accurate reflection of the complaint that was submitted today to the SEEC by Paulina Jones, nor of the position of Wesleyan University or the Wesleyan Democrats.

Second, Mr. Giuliano did indeed make the alleged claim about Wesleyan mailboxes-- and the claim was correct. The issue, as detailed in the complaint which will be subject to review and scrutiny shortly, had nothing to do with the state policy that these mailboxes are not sufficient for voting purposes and everything to do with how this matter was communicated to students who erroneously used them on their forms. Again, this is made entirely clear in the complaint itself, and Mr. Alam's statement does not accurately reflect its content.

Finally, voter registration forms were not thrown out, though it appeared briefly that they would be. The Office of the Registrars of Voters implied as such to the Middletown Press in late October, but later reversed its decision.

The complaint clearly alleges violations only of Connecticut General Statutes 9-363 and 9-364, which deal with misleading and influencing statements regarding voting. Any implication made today that it went beyond that, including by alleging threats of punitive taxes or rejection or registration forms, was an unfortunate misstatement, nothing more. I regret that it has become a complicating factor in our attempt to appropriately address this serious matter.

Please accept my apologies for any confusion that this may have caused, and my appreciation for your coverage of this important issue.

Sincerely,
Ben Florsheim, President
Wesleyan Democrats

Wesleyan Democrats President Protests Giuliano Selection For Elections Commission

In the last municipal election, some Wesleyan students charged that there was an attempt to disenfranchise them by making it difficult to vote. The students placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of the Republican incumbent mayor, Sebastian Giuliano. The student paper, The Argus, reported that a student was considering filing a complaint with the State Elections Enforcement Commission (the SEEC).
Last week, the SEEC selected Giuliano as its new executive director.

Ben Florscheim, president of the Wesleyan Democrats, co-wrote the following letter to the SEEC, protesting Giuliano's appointment.
-------------------------
Friday, January 13, 2012

To Whom It May Concern:

We, as Wesleyan students and residents of the State of Connecticut who possess a legal right to vote in this jurisdiction, are extremely concerned by the Connecticut State Elections Enforcement Commission’s pending appointment of Sebastian N. Giuliano as its executive director and general counsel. This concern stems from, but is not limited to, actions during his time as mayor of Middletown, which include the following:

•For decades prior to the November 2011 election, Wesleyan students registered to vote in Middletown using a campus PO box as their residency address. During his time as mayor, Mr. Giuliano did not question or object to this practice until faced with a close re-election campaign in 2011.
•This registration practice, which had been followed for decades, was suddenly questioned only after a large number of Wesleyan students registered to vote for the November 2011 election and had received confirmation of their registration from the registrar. Students had registered to vote in good faith following the practices that had been enforced by the registrar of voters for decades, including during Mr. Giuliano’s time in office.
•Less than two weeks before the election, there was a near rejection of almost 250 students’ voter registration applications. This happened despite the fact that the registrar had already accepted hundreds of other recent applications that included campus PO boxes as residency addresses.
•As a result of this sudden change in policy and practice, Wesleyan students witnessed the fracturing of their campus into five different voting districts in the last days before the elections.
•Hundreds of students whose voting location altered as a result of changes made by the registrars to their residential information were only notified the Friday before Election Day. This notification was limited to a misleading letter that had to be clarified by the Secretary of the State’s Office.
•During the supposed “suspension” of his campaign a few days before the election due to the October snowstorm, the former mayor was at the Wesleyan student center propagating misleading information to students about their eligibility to vote. He incorrectly stated that students who registered with a campus PO box and did not confirm their actual residency address in-person with the registrar could “come up empty” on Election Day.
•Perhaps most disturbing in light of his impending appointment, he squarely placed the blame of faulty registration practices on the students who registered in good faith and who followed the then applicable registration rules. This was done as opposed to holding registration and election officials responsible and accountable for doing their jobs properly.
•Mr. Giuliano repeatedly failed to demonstrate the type of leadership needed to ensure his constituents were provided accurate and information essential to their ability to exercise their right to vote. He also failed to publicly address the intimidating and misleading statements of Middletown police officer Tom Sebold and now-member of the Planning and Zoning Board, Molly Salafia. Both these individuals falsely claimed that Wesleyan students who registered to vote in Middletown would be subject to new taxes. Tom Sebold also seemed to threaten students with unwarranted legal consequences if they exercised their right to vote.
•As a result of the forgoing, a large number of students who registered in good faith and in accordance with historic registration and voting practices were led to believe they would be unable to vote in the November 2011 election.

Due to all of the above, it is extremely concerning to many students of Wesleyan University and arguably the entire State of Connecticut that Sebastian Giuliano has been selected for this position. If the SEEC’s mission is indeed to “ensure the integrity of the state’s electoral process,” we find it troublesome that it chose Mr. Giuliano as its senior official. He is a politician who stood for untimely changes in registration practices, lack of accountability towards officials who failed to properly do their job and inform voter applicants in a timely manner of errors in their registration forms, and the last minute fracturing of a group of his constituents.

Immediately after the November 2011 elections, numerous Wesleyan students had considered filing an official complaint with the SEEC against the mayor and other Middletown officials for their actions. Ultimately, they had decided not to do so in order to avoid any further conflicts. However, this recent appointment has caused many students to reconsider this decision, and a formal complaint is now being prepared.

The above concerns and complaints put forth are being raised not only for the benefit of Wesleyan students. They are being addressed for the benefit of all students in the state of Connecticut, who by law are eligible to vote in this state and should be able to do so without impediments, intimidation, or tolerance for misinformation from public servants and elected officials. Also, it goes without saying that this appointment is especially concerning when done on the eve of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the national holiday that celebrates civil rights – including voting rights.

If the SEEC truly stands by its mission, we strongly ask that its appointment of Sebastian N. Giuliano be reconsidered.

Sincerely,

Gabriela De Golia and Benjamin Florsheim,
Concerned students of Wesleyan University and residents of Middletown, CT

Letter to the Editor: Candidate Dan Drew's Credentials

Disclaimer: Opinion piece: The following is a letter to the Middletown Eye from a Middletown citizen. It does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the writers of the Eye and is a courtesy posting. All responsibility lies solely on the author of the letter and should be read as an opinion piece.

Dear Editors of Middletown Eye & Patch,

My name is Juan Montalvo and I am a member of several City of Middletown Commissions as well as a member of the Middletown Republican Town Committee. First and foremost, I am litigation advisor. As a litigation advisor I took an oath to uphold the law and justly serve my community. It is that dedication that leads me to write this letter. While I am sure critics will claim that this is an attempt to smear the opponent, and sling mud, I believe Middletown citizens deserve to know the true nature of Democratic candidate for mayor Dan Drew.

The facts speak for themselves and the inconsistencies in Mr. Drew’s resume should be brought to light. Although not forthright, it is not uncommon for one to show their best face when writing his or her resume and highlight his accomplishments, however; it is despicable for a person to dramatize those accomplishments to almost the point of fiction to make one seem more qualified for a particular position than is remotely plausible based on facts presented. This over dramatization of achievement to the point of false portrayal of facts is even more despicable when that person is seeking to hold such a highly esteemed public office as that of mayor of a City. Dan Drew presents awards on his resume both published on independent sites and his own website, as individual awards given only to him based on his sole merit without giving credit as those received by an entire organization. In one particular case, Drew credits himself with an award that the organization he was employed by received, but he had nothing to do with. Investigating Mr. Drew’s credentials the information below was found:

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From: Ginger Stanley [mailto:GingerS@vpa.net] 
Sent: Tuesday, October 25, 2011 9:30 AM
 
Subject: RE: Virginia Press Association Awards

I can confirm that Daniel Drew was among a team of reporters that won a first place award in 2004 for a multi-story series on the armed siege of a middle school. This was a team effort at the newspaper (Potomac News). Second place award in 2003, football stars dies in shooting, sports news coverage was also a team project at the Potomac News. Our search did not turn up anything with his name on it for 2005, although Potomac News won a first place for 'staff' for sports pages but I have no way of confirming that Daniel was a part of this staff award. We do not have any records on the Media General awards, Donna Reed at 804-649-6000 may be able to help you. Hope this helps.

Ginger Stanley, Executive Director

Virginia Press Association

11529 Nuckols Road

Glen Allen, VA 23059

804-521-7575 Phone

804-521-7586 Fax

gingers@vpa.net E-Mail

www.vpa.net www.HeadlineVA.com www.VAPublicNotice.com

And more:

From: Donna Reed, Media General Communications Holdings, LLC,

Sent: October 28, 2011 2:10 PM

Subject: RE: Media General Awards

"These were in-house recognitions that were handed out on a monthly basis at one of the small northern Virginia community newspapers owned by Media General. Mr. Drew was given honorable mention in October 2003 for a local sports story."

Donna Reed

Media General, Inc

Richmond, VA 23219

-----Original Message-----


Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 2:45 PM
To: Ginger Stanley
Cc: Kim Woodward; Caroline Cardwell
Subject: Virginia Press Association Awards

Good afternoon,

I am hoping that you could assist me in some research. A gentleman by the name of Daniel (Dan) T. Drew is running for mayor of our City of Middletown, Connecticut; he is a relative newcomer to our fair city, residing in town less than 5 years, and there is a lot of curiosity about him.

In his bio, he stated that he is the recipient of 3 separate journalistic awards from your organization, and I was hoping that you could confirm information. Since an exhaustive search via the internet has failed to reveal any articles published under his name, I hope you could please shed some light on our search. These are the award years and honors he claims:

Awards and Honors:

* Virginia Press Association, 2005, 1st Place award

* Virginia Press Association, 2004, 2nd Place award

* Virginia Press Association, 2003, 1st Place award

Won several writing awards for reporting on the Washington sniper murders, serial killer John Allen Muhammad's life in jail, the armed siege of a middle school by a teenaged boy, and dozens of murders. Wrote an award winning investigative series about corruption in a county sheriff's office that lead to that official's election loss and indictment.

Additionally, these other honors are listed as well; however an internet search has not even resulted in any information about the awarding entity. Is this anything that you are familiar with?

* Media General Mega Award Honorable Mention, 2003

* Media General Mega Award Honorable Mention, 2003

* Ellen Knowles Harcourt Foundation, 1998 Harcourt Scholar

Would you please help....? Thank you.

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Dan Drew appeared on the Bill O’Reiley tv show in 2002 claiming to stand for the First Amendment. However, where was Dan Drew when BOE Chair Ted Radzka pulled the plug literally on the microphone when Ed McKeon was speaking at a public session several months ago? Where was Dan Drew when Councilmen Santangelo, Serra, and Councilwoman Kasper walked out on a member of the public who was addressing the Public Safety Committee during a public session only weeks ago? How is it that such an esteemed award winning investigative journalist, and self-proclaimed free speech advocate, Drew failed Middletown in not doing what he himself has professed as his crowning achievements- finding & exposing the the truth in government and standing up for free speech? How is it that Mr. Drew expects Middletown citizens to believe he was such a fantastical investigative reporter when he in fact was primarily a SPORTS writer & provided occasional coverage of the police blotter at the time that some of these awards were given? Middletown should not want a bystander for a mayor.

It is of my opinion, as they say in the courtroom, that the preponderance of the evidence shows that Dan Drew is not a champion of the truth if he cannot be truthful on his own resume. Dan Drew cannot be a team player in the political arena and bring “transparency & communication” back between the BOE and the City & and the City and the citizens if he cannot be honest about being on a team that received journalistic awards rather than trying stretch the facts to boost his ego and pad his resume. Failure to recognize reality and be honest with one’s self-let alone the public is not a quality Middletown should want in a mayor.

Dan Drew’s Resume: http://www.linkedin.com/in/danieldrew

Sincerely Juan Montalvo, Litigation Advisor & Middletown Republican Town Committee member.

Citizen Endorses GOP Candidates

With Election Day rapidly approaching, I've been meaning to write about some of theGOP candidates that I have come to know best for some time now. I just never thought I'd be doing so with my thumbs on my cell sitting in my car in the Metro Square parking lot (the only place I can get somewhat reliable cell service.) Funny as it sounds, I've had a country song rattling around in my head for a solid month now. Its refrain goes something like, "Who are you when no one's looking?" It's really a lovely song by Blake Shelton and, believe it or not, while listening to it I had an epiphany - I am uniquely poised through my volunteering with the Middletown GOP to tell all and sundry about the following candidates' characters, something that always matters to me when I am casting a vote.

Let me start at the top. Mayor Sebastian Giuliano - he is what I call a "Mr. Middletown." What I mean by that is someone who knows everything there is to know about the city...and then some. And besides that, he loves this city. I don't think we could have another Mayor who cares for this city so viscerally as does Mayor Giuliano. I really don't. I have knocked on doors in various neighborhoods with Mayor Giuliano and have seen firsthand how much its citizens mean to him and how connected he is to his constituents. Their problems are his problems. He strives to do the right thing, even when it isn't the popular or easy thing to do. That tells me all I need to know about his character.
A footnote on the Mayor - he was at the city's emergency shelter for days. Doing the right thing (yet again) without any self-aggrandizement whatsoever.

Candidate Profile: Debra Kleckowski Common Council (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

I am seeking my second term on the Common Council to continue to grow Middletown and to put the focus on solving problems as a community rather than based upon partisan politics, I am focused on what needs to be done and how to get it done efficiently and effectively.

During my first term on the Common Council I pushed for an audit of the Board of Education finances, worked to improve employee relations, helped to create an Emergency Operations Center, and facilitated the construction of an emergency access road at Middletown High School.

I am a native of Middletown and a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. My parents are Beverly Talbot (Dionne) and Daniel Kleckowski. I have two younger siblings Gailyn and Brenda. I am a proud mother of twin boys. I am currently an Adjunct Instructor at Middlesex Community College. I am seeking a second term as a member of the Common Council and it will be an honor to serve on the Council and represent the citizens of Middletown for a second term.

My professional career has been dedicated to advocacy and to the betterment of communities. I have also been a member of service organizations. I am committed to the taxpayers of the City of Middletown to pursue ideas and to implement policies that are beneficial to the community today and tomorrow. Long-term planning is the key to sustainable economic success and to ensure an exceptional quality of life in Middletown and for its residents.

I serve on the following Council committees:

Citizen’s Advisory Committee

Public Safety

Personnel Review

Insurance and Claims

Issues: It is a priority to ensure the safety of the residents of Middletown, especially our children. I initiated an emergency access road, which is currently under construction, at Middletown High School. I work to ensure a fair labor environment and the heath safety, and general well-being of the community.

Taxes and the economy are in the forefront of issues of urgency. It is essential that the City develop long range plans to address attrition and how to continue to incorporate technology into the application of services. Incorporating technology will improve services; provide residents the opportunity to conduct business outside the traditional business hours and save the taxpayers money. I also want to continue to grow the business community and to ensure Middletown is a business friendly community.

Previous Experience: I served on the Planning and Zoning Commission. I made the recommendation to hold a planning meeting and a zoning meeting to provide better service to the public and to more efficiently address both planning and zoning issues.

I have worked on mayoral, gubernatorial, state representative and Secretary of the State campaigns. I was appointed to serve on commissions including the New Britain Youth Services Commission and the New Britain Health Commission and served as Chairman.

Education: Eastern Connecticut State University-Bachelor of Sociology and Applied Social Relations. Central Connecticut State University-Advanced Certificate in Business Management. Wesleyan University-Master of Arts in Liberal Science.

Please contact me if you have any questions or if I can be of assistance.

Kleckoski's statement's were featured in this previous Eye article : Councilwoman Seeks Termination of BOE Business Manager Nancy Haynes featured one year ago this November.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Candidate Profile: Frederick Terrasi for Planning & Zoning (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

Fred Terrasi brings solid experience to the Planning and Zoning Commission. He has spent many years giving back to the City of Middletown in official capacities and as a volunteer.

“I will work to bring the right kind of development to Middletown, said Terrasi, “Working together in a proactive fashion will lead to the best results for Middletown in the future.”

Terrasi is serving his fifth year as a member of the Inland Wetlands Commission, a key panel towards understanding rules and the demands development places on a community.

He had held numerous positions helping the community- former President of the Italian American Civic Order, President of the Holy Name Society and a President and Commissioner of the Middletown Youth League.

Terrasi has also served as co-chair of an annual fundraiser which benefits “Amazing Grace Food Pantry.”

Terrasi earned his Associate’s Degree in Business from Middlesex Community College and a Bachelor of Science from Central Connecticut State University. Terrasi, now in semi-retirement is a consultant to Pratt & Whitney. He is also a member of the Middletown Elks. Terrasi and his wife of 40 years have one son.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Candidate Profile: Corinne Dorsey (R) Alt. Planning & Zoning

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

Corrine Dorsey has lived in Middletown all her life, attending grammar and high school locally. She has worked at Pratt & Whitney over 34 years as a machinist and active union member in Local 700. Dorsey is a member of the Republican Town Committee, Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, and the Eastern Stars. Corrine has been very active in the community, she was first elected to the Board of Tax Review (now called the Board of Assessment Appeals) in 1985. In 2000 she served as a commissioner on the Planning & Zoning Board. Her civic activities include her role as an alternate commissioner on the Inland & Wetlands Board as well as service as a member on the Mayor’s Board of Ethics. Dorsey is married and has three daughters, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grand children.

Goals: My vision is for more affordable housing in Middletown. Affordable housing is a building block for a good life, a good income, and as a whole, a good home. Affordable housing helps families acquire decent and safe places to live. Supporting affordable housing is critical because it is far less costly to keep a family in their homes rather than treat the symptoms after they become homeless. As a Commissioner on Planning and Zoning, I will work closely with the Planning, Conservation & Development office to work better with local property owners, developers, and current landlord to include affordable housing on their property. We need support and participation from town government, realtors and area builders that are interested in building affordable housing. This will create jobs in Middletown as well.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Candidate Profile: Kevin Kelly BOE Candidate (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

My name is Kevin Michael Kelly. I'm seeking a seat on the Middletown Board of Education on the Republican ticket.

If chosen to serve, my goal is to restore a sense of accountability to the Board of Education. As a grandfather, I expect Middletown public schools to provide the same quality education and opportunities that I was privileged to receive as a child.

My family moved to Middletown when I was 2 years old. I attended a combination of public and Catholic schools, including three years at Xavier High School. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Connecticut. While attending Western New England School of Law, I began working at Connecticut Valley Hospital as a Psychiatric Aide. This led to a change of career paths and I became a Registered Nurse. I worked over 30 years at Connecticut Valley Hosp and the Whiting Forensic Institute. I held a variety of positions at the hospital, including more than 18 years I was psychiatric nurse supervisor at Whiting. I also served as Director of Nursing and Assistant Director of Whiting as a temporary service assignment.

I retired in 2008 and enjoy spending time with my grandchildren. I also enjoy reading, skiing, scuba diving, motorcycles, hunting and boating. I am a member of the Polish Falcons nest 519 in Middletown and a member of the Meriden Motor Boat Club in Portland. I am an active member of the Middletown Republican Town Committee and currently serve as a Justice of the Peace.

I'm married to Donna Kelly and have 2 sons and 3 grandchildren. My two youngest grandchildren attend school in Middletown.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Candidate Profile: BOE Candidate Cheryl McClellan (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

I was born in New Britain, CT. I went to New Britain catholic and public schools. I graduated from Central CT State University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s degree in Business Administration.

I served in the US Army on active duty for twelve years. I served in various staff positions in New Jersey, Germany, and Washington as Maintenance Officer, Maintenance Branch Manager and Training Officer among other duties. I worked for the Installation Commander during mobilization/demobilization for Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

After I left active duty, my family moved back to CT and adopted Middletown as our hometown. I worked in the Middletown elementary schools as a substitute teacher for ten years. My children attended Middletown public schools. I have been a member of various PTA’s as my children grew older and Booster clubs. I have been a member of Middletown Schools Association.

I am a member of American Legion Post 75 and serve as Finance Officer and Assistant Service Officer. Part of my duties as Service Officer is to be a representative for the Soldiers, Sailors and Marine Fund aiding veterans and their families in need with financial assistance. I also volunteer in the concessions at Palmer Field during the American Legion Baseball season and during high school football season. I also volunteer at my Church, St Pius X in the SHARE ministry.

I am running as a candidate for Board of Education because I want transparency in the Board’s budget process. The budget is tax payer money, and as a taxpayer I want to know how it is spent. There is a need for a change in the membership of the Board and a change in the attitude and priorities of the Board. The Superintendent of Schools should work for the Board of Education, not the other way around, as it stands now. There should be more involvement of the Board in the various PTA’s to get a better sense of what parents in the town want of their schools and how to help parents to help their children succeed in school. We want High School graduates who go to and graduate from college, community college, trade school, and Apprenticeships. We want our children to be successful. We as a community need to give our children the help to become successes.

http://middletownctgop.com/