I didn't realize it until one of my regular readers e-mailed me yesterday, but the hit counter has rolled over 50,000 hits. That is 50,000 times that people have come to the blog.
Not a bad number from the first couple of months when I would get 15 or 20 hits a day. It seems like many people now come to "We the People Hartford" on a regular basis and the number of new hits keeps increasing everyday.
Surprisingly, it's not just Hartford people reading either. A lot of city retirees are e-mailing me letting me know that they regularly check here for the latest "going-on's" in Hartford. Every day more suburban readers are checking in also to see what is going on in Connecticut's capital city.
Keep your info and tips coming and I'll keep writing and exposing the truth.
As a sidenote, it is now easier to get to "we the people hartford". My plan over the next couple months is to also build a website that will provide information as a resource for people interested in Hartford. Meeting schedules, upcoming events, anything and everything that will help educate and foster public interest in Hartford's government.
You can now click on wethepeoplehartford.com and it will redirect you to the blogspot location until the new website is built.
Although we keep hearing that crime is down, the crime stats for this year portray an alarming increase in the first two months of this year. Actually less than 2 months, the latest stats on the HPD website only reflect numbers through February 20th.
Homicides up 33% Aggravated assaults up 4.3% Burglary up 62.2% Larceny up 22.0%
Those numbers also don't reflect the latest two executions on Garfield Street and Cornwall Street or this weekends homicide at Club Charisma on Walnut Street. The Club Charisma homicide happened in front of a police officer working at the club.
Typically this is the "slow" time of the year for violent crime and homicides which usually spike during the heat of the summer. If we keep track at this pace, Hartford's homicides for the year could potentially top 100 or come pretty close.
It might be hard to draw attention away from these numbers by claiming they are driven by Domestic Violence, especially the cold blooded executions with a bullet to the back of the head.
Judge Susan Peck's decision on the 5th District Town Committee lawsuit should be released anytime in the next 16 hours. Take the poll at the right and let me know what you think.
Will Corporation Counsel John Rose abide by the Judge's decision or do you think that in typical "Rosie Style" he will appeal, appeal, appeal, barring no expense to prop up a politically wounded Mayor Perez.
I think sometimes we seem to take things too seriously and get bogged down in details.
But then at other times we don't take things seriously enough. This past week it seems that many people have trivialized (or at least have tried to)Tuesday's Democratic Town Committee elections. I have heard many comments that the 5th District law suit is a waste of time and just petty politics.
Personally, I don't think anything could be further from the truth. It seems to become clearer and clearer every day that the current administration and the Democratic Town Committee "leadership, and I use the word "leadership" loosely in this situation, feel that laws only apply to others.
A few examples, many of which I have already detailed here in the past, but it might be time for a quick refresher course before the polls open Tuesday.
Lets start with the Democratic Town Chairperson and his slate in the Fourth District.Both Sean Arena and his brother Ralph Arena have registered their cars out of town for years to avoid Hartford's taxes. Now after further investigation, it seems that several others on the "Arena" slate are dodging Hartford's taxes by registering their cars in other towns with lower tax rates, and one even registers his car in another state to avoid paying taxes in Hartford.
Is that the leadership example we want set for others in Hartford? Forget about controlling spending or being fiscally responsible.When the next tax increase hits you can just register your vehicles at a friend or relatives home in a more properly run town with lower taxes, and beat Hartford out of its revenue.
Then we can jump to the 5th District, a longtime stronghold of corruption and political crimes. Al you have to do is read the arrest warrant affidavits for Mayor Perez and Abe Giles to see how the system works. Then add the twist of the Democratic Registrar Olga Vazquez into the mix, and you have the ultimate opportunity for political corruption.
Unfortunately for Vazquez, she seems to be prone to memory lapses so she can't lay out her activities for us. Luckily though, other documents and testimony have been able to piece together the details that Vazquez appears to have forgotten. Falsified petitions, purged or "inactive" voters being taken out of the system to penalize districts not favorable to Perez, refusing to accept voter application cards. And I'm fairly confident that this is only the tip of the iceberg, but I think you get the picture. Is this the leadership we are willing to accept?
And lets travel over to the 7th District. The 7th is home to the "political leaders" who are competing with "team Giles" for the gold medal for the dirtiest political activities. Long home to absentee ballot fraud and other illegal activities to violate the rights of voters, the "incumbent " slate wants another term to continue to line their pockets and prosper at the expense of some of the poorest neighborhoods and residents in the City.
And again, the 4th isn't the only district beating the Hartford Tax Collector out of his dues. The leader of the 7th, at least I assume she is the leader because she has the largest picture on the largest easel in the atrium of City Hall as part of her and her daughters popularity contest for Black History month, also has proven to us that the laws don't apply to her. Prenzina Holloway has shown a total lack of respect for the community and the laws as she admitted to absentee ballot fraud. She reinforced that she was above the law when she drove her Hummer for months unregistered after she refused to pay the taxes on the vehicle. She only stopped driving after the police bagged her and took her plates. Is this the leadership by example we are willing to accept?
Many people in the city are becoming more vocal that they are fed up with the level of dysfunctional leadership that has been tolerated for years in Hartford.
People stepped up and registered and voted in record numbers for the last Presidential election. Now it is time to step up and vote in an election that is probably as important, or even more important for the future of Hartford.
If as a City we are willing to see only a few benefit from government, rather than everyone benefiting, then stay home and don't vote in Tuesdays election.If you are willing to have poor candidates, corrupt candidates or puppet candidates selected for political office, then stay home Tuesday and don't vote.
If on the other hand, you would like to see the best candidates selected and put forth for office,get out and vote on Tuesday.If you would like to see a Town Committee that will educate and encourage citizen involvement and return every one's voice to the process,get out and vote on Tuesday.
And I urge you to vote for the challenge slates, not the incumbents.
Are the challenge slates perfect? Absolutely not. But the risk of sounding like urging you to vote for the lesser of two evils, please consider the history. The current Democratic Town Committee consists of people that in many instances have benefited from corruption and self serving activities for many years, much of which may play out for public view over the next few months in Hartford Superior Court as corruption trials begin for Perez, Giles and Republican Councilperson Veronica Airey-Wilson.
The simple message for Hartford is clear, the same message that swept President Obama into office, it is time for "CHANGE".
Like I said before, I don't believe any of the slates are perfect. But what we have hasn't worked and Hartford is sliding backward fast. The challenge slates need to realize that we are willing to give them two years to work for change. After those two years we will make a decision if they deserve another two years to continue their work or vote them out for more change. To continue to return inept or corrupt individuals to political positions year after year after year because that is the way it has always been is borderline insanity.
I don't know much about the 7th District challenge slate, other than the fact that the incumbent slate headed by Prenzina Holloway has already proven themselves, and not for the betterment of our city or neighborhoods. Prenzina Holloway has been lining her pockets with political dirty tricks for years, it is time to send a clear message that "CHANGE" is needed. In the 7th District, please vote for the challenge candidates and help make a change.
The 4th District Challenge slate is something I am proud of the way it has turned out. In late November or early December, there were at least 3 challenge slates planning to run, all being organized by people with very strong personalities. I think they all had something to bring to the table, but running three slates would only dilute the pool of voters.
The most likely result of running three challenge slates is that they would almost certainly guarantee a win for the incumbent slate as they split the voters into three different directions. I asked the leaders of the challenge slates to sit down and we met at a small restaurant and over lunch discussed the situation. The end result is that only one challenge slate was put forward and has done a good job working the neighborhoods, registering voters and encouraging voter involvement.
The 5th District challenge slate is also a slate that I would encourage those in the fifth district to cast their votes for. Is the slate perfect? Again the answer is no. But there are several people that have proven that they care about Hartford and work hard for the city, and not to line their own pockets. There are a few people on the slate that I have only had the opportunity to get to know recently, but others that I have known for years.
One is Jean Holloway. And if you ask what is in a name, in this case nothing if you look at the other Holloway above. Jean is an individual that I have had numerous conversations with regarding her love for Hartford. Many times I have thought she was on the verge of tears as she describes the state of Hartford now as to what it was years ago. It almost seems that she thrives on helping people facing issues in Hartford and that is what gives her the drive to keep pushing forward
Another is Steve Harris. Steve is someone that was born and raised in Hartford, and has such a strong love for the city that most likely when it comes time for his last breath it will be taken proudly on Hartford soil (hopefully many many years from now because we need people like Steve around to fight the good fight). I actually joined the Greater Hartford African American Alliance because of Steve Harris and a couple others. When I first heard Steve speak at a meeting, his passion and love for the City came through when I heard him address issues facing Hartford.
A couple others I have only recently had the opportunity to get to know would definitely add a positive effect to our city. As you know, I sometimes have a tendency to be rather outspoken. At least two of the members of the challenge slate have relatives that have been the subjects of my postings. Surprisingly, these two, unlike our vindictive Mayor, didn't seem to hold a grudge when we met.
One is Rebecca Wareing, wife of Richard Wareing. She did tell me she can't watch our "1Hartford" program while her husband is in the room, something about his blood pressure skyrocketing. After our conversation, I realized that her "no nonsense" demeanor may come from her military background. Rebecca's background and honesty would seem to definitely be an asset to any Town Committee slate.
Another is Marc DiBella. If someone ever took as many shots at my father as I have taken at his father, MDC Chairman William DiBella, I'm not sure how I would react. Marc seems like someone willing to work with anyone for the common good, putting personality and differences aside. Again, not a bad trait for anyone in the political mix. Maybe our Mayor could take note of this.
And Eric Crawford, for anyone who has ever met Eric his personality speaks for itself. I once spoke with Eric several years and he described his upbringing in Buffalo, New York. He told me how he never realized what was outside of the inner city until he took a Boy Scout trip and saw the opportunities outside of the city.
Eric strives to point the youth of Hartford in the right direction and is a role model that everyone can be proud of. Just spend a minute speaking with Eric and you can't help but feel as though honesty and integrity flows from him. I'm usually a pretty tough judge of character, but Eric is one of those people that you can't help but trusting as soon as you meet him.
And if ever there was an example that proves the old adage "don't judge a book by its cover" it is 5th District challenge slate candidate Julio Concepcion. Julio used to work in the office of Mayor Perez. I hope this isn't demeaning, but Julio was an "assistant to the Mayor", essentially functioning as the Mayor's driver and spending many hours in the presence of Eddie Perez. I "judged the book by its cover" and assumed that Julio was formed in the same mold as Perez.
After the few conversations I have had over the last weeks with Julio, I can admit that I was wrong from what I have seen. Julio seems like someone who is eager to immerse himself in Hartford and its neighborhoods to do the right thing for the City.
Getting young people like Julio involved in our city is what leadership is about. Not to overstate this, but I predict that Julio will be someone to watch for future leadership roles as he moves up through the ranks. That is exactly what leadership is about.
It seems like we have too many "leaders"(again using the word loosely, actually extremely loosely) who want to retain their stranglehold on their perceived "power".To me, I see a true leader as someone that nurtures and teaches younger people what being a leader really is about and bringing that young person along.
The 5th District challenge slate seems to get that, from what I have seen, and I look forward to watching them in action rebuilding the political landscape in Hartford.
I would never try to tell someone who to vote for, even as many people have asked me who they should vote for. Usually I give them my thoughts, advise them to find out all they can about the candidates and educate themselves, and then make an educated decision at the polls.
I hope my thoughts can help the education process.
Get out and vote on Tuesday....PLEASE...PLEASE...PLEASE. Hartford's future depends on it and the whole foundation of our Democracy begins on the local level with the Town Committee's.
And to show that we need some levity at times to bring us back to reality, the video below shows that one person can make a difference and motivate others to join in on the process. That one person can be you.
No guests this week on the program, just myself, Stan McCauley John Selders and the late Gerry Pleasent. I mean Gerry got there late, not "the late Gerry Pleasent".
We were all over the place in our topics, but it was a pretty spirited discussion of the upcoming Town Committee Primary, the law suits filed related to the primary, the importance of the Town Committee's and why all politics starts with the Town Committee's. We discussed the recent streak of homicides, taxes, the budget, a little bit of everything.
Any suggestions for guests or topics, let us know.
That's Rosie the Riveter in the picture, not Hartford Corporation John "Rosie" Rose.
It has been a bad week for Hartford Corporation Counsel John Rose, and it can still get worse. Sorry Rosie.
Earlier this week the FOI Commission issued a proposed final decision regarding a complaint I had made against Rose. In their sharply worded decision the Commission found against John Rose and in my favor. They also proposed a $1000.00 fine against Rosie personally.
Then the decision looming on the horizon that may likely go against Rose and the city for the 5th District Town Committee petitions. That would potentially curtail the power of the Town Committee and Eddie Perez if the Giles slate is taken off ther ballot.
And finally, another major hit for Rosie. "Rosie the Litigator" that is, not "Rosie the Riveter".
Today the decision was handed down in the Officer Robert Murtha case. Under the leadership of John Rose and his legal skills, the City of Hartford lost and will have to pay out at least half a million dollars to Murtha. In defense of Rose, yes you read that right, last fall when he realized he had started a stinker of a case, he recommended to the City Council that they settle with Murtha. Under the leadership of Council President Torres, the Council dug in their heels and voted NO! to any settlement.
Since I started this blog, I have had a lot of people come to me with information. Some of it I use, some of it I don't. Some I pass on to other media sources who have better resources to do something with the information. Some I pass on to the proper authorities for further scrutiny.
I have to weigh the importance and the value of all the information, and try to verify its authenticity. And then there is some that just gets filed away for use when I think it becomes appropriate.
This post is just such a case.
I woke this morning to someone calling to tell me to read Steve Goode's article in the Hartford Courant. According to the article, Hartford Democratic Town Chairperson Sean Arena has filed four complaints with the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC).
Essentially, in one complaint,Arena is claiming that Bruce Rubenstein is "making unreported corporate donations to the 4th District challenge slate". Although Arena makes the claim, there is virtually no evidence submitted to substantiate the claim, other than Rubenstein's own complaint to the SEEC where he names four individuals he is representing.
Rubenstein claims that the rights of the people he is representing had been violated, as well as possible violations of state and federal laws.
This is where it comes to the point I mentioned earlier about getting information that sometimes I just save for future use .In November I was given documents by a source. I chose not to do anything with the documents because although they were credible, I felt that they were just more mud slinging and more of Hartford's gutter politics.
After reading the Courant this morning, I felt that it was time for Mr. Arena to maybe get a refresher course that the rules also applied to him, not just Rubenstein. Although a source at the SEEC that I spoke with today, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that there didn't appear to be much validity to the above allegation against Rubenstein. The source also stated that private practice attorneys are often encouraged to provide "pro-bono" services to individuals that may not have the resources to pay for such services.
On the other hand, a clear cut example of someone making "unreported corporate donations" is Sean Arena himself.
In a mailing sent out in advance of the November Board of Education election, Arena used his employers resources for political purposes. The mailing, attached below, is on Prudential Real Estate stationery, using a Prudential Real Estate mailing permit. The postcard clearly identifies both Prudential Real Estate and bears photographs of Sean Arena on the front and back.
Arena goes on to mention the election and urges people to get out to vote. But when he mentioned the Democratic Slate "Row B" and identified himself as the Democratic Town Committee Chairperson he crossed the line and apparently broke the law.
Urging people to vote can be percieved as a public service, no matter how self serving. Identifying candidates and a specific party makes it a political mailer and is where Arena crossed the line.
Another time both Sean Arena and Hartford Democratic Town Committee Secretary Kathy Evans crossed the line when they used the e-mail resources from Evans' employer, a 501(c)3 nonprofit for political purposes. The e-mail, sent from "kathy.evans@opmad.org" was purely used for political purposes announcing a special convention of the Hartford Democratic Town Committee. The email was purported to be sent by "Sean Arena, Chair, Hartford Democratic Town Committee"
The e-mail using OPMAD's resources is below. OPMAD is an acronym for Organized Parents Make A Difference. A major portion of OPMAD's funding comes from the City of Hartford.As a non-profit 501c-3 organization, OPMAD is prohibited from endorsing or advocating for political purposes. Using their resources for Democratic Town Committee purposes could potentially result in their non-profit status being revoked.
At the risk of being accused of falling to Mr. Arena's level of gutter politics, I think it is fair to say that a look in the mirror might be the first step before slinging accusations. Based upon the facts and evidence, I feel confident that if someone filed these complaints against Sean Arena, they would stand a much better chance of prevailing in their SEEC complaints than Arena stands in his against Rubenstein.
Neither Sean Arena or the President or CEO of Prudential Connecticut Realty have responded to my requests for comment on the matter.
What does a Snicker's bar have to do with a courtcase? Read on, you won't believe it.
Hartford's Theater of the bizarre played out another act this morning in Hartford Superior Court before Judge Peck.
In what many had thought would be a session for Judge Peck to announce her ruling, it was instead an opportunity for both sides to respond to more motions filed by Hartford Corporation Counsel John Rose. The motions were apparently additional acts by Rose (aka Rosie) to get the suit thrown out.
One of the issues is Rose's claim that the Court doesn't have jurisdiction over the matter. Judge Peck responded to Rose from the bench that she was not sure a "what your claim of lack of jurisdiction is" and further stated to Rose that "the plaintiff sufficiently established jurisdiction".
The lawyer for the plaintiff's, Attorney Sweeney, stated during his arguments that the testimony by Democratic Registrar of Voters Olga Vazquez was "incredulous". Sweeney further stated that Vazquez's actions and testimony raised "very large questions of conflict of interest by Vazquez" and also "raises issues of credibility".
The Democratic Registrar of Voters and her Deputy almost seemed unaware that they were in a courtroom. Vazquez sat in the front row, appearing to be texting for a large part of the proceedings oblivious to the testimony. Vazquez's Deputy Registrar Garry Coleman, who also sat in the front row, seemed so bored by the whole process of questioning "Garry's Law". So bored that at one point he pulled a Snickers bar out of his pocket and proceeded to unwrap the candy bar and sit there and eat it, constantly playing with and crackling the wrapper as he ate his mid-morning snack.
Judge Peck assured everyone that her written decision would be rendered by Monday at noon, if not sooner. I hate to see the entertainment end.
For those that want to watch both corruption and incompetence at its best, tomorrow's hearing and expected decision on the Democratic Town Committee 5th District petition issue has been moved from 2:00PM to 10:00AM at 95 Washington Street in Hartford.
THE HEARING WILL BE AT 10:00AM FRIDAY.....NOT 2:00PM AS PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED
After watching Hartford Corporation Counsel John Rose's performance, I have to seriously ask if we are getting our money's worth out of him. From what I have seen so far I have to answer a definite no. At some points he seemed to be making the case for the other side, rather than defending his side. Although I'm not sure if he knows who "his side" really is. Is he representing the city or the Democratic Town Committee Chairman in his effort to retain control.
I do have to say though, it is a tough job considering what he has to work with.
A Democratic Deputy Registrar who apparently thinks he knows more about the law than the legal staff at the Secretary of the State's office. A deputy Registrar that apparently thinks that "Gary's Law" super cedes state statutes.
And lets not forget the Democratic Registrar who is a candidate for a position in the same election she is over-seeing. Did she handle the documents in question and advise her Deputy how to proceed? Well.... yes, I mean no, well maybe I did your honor, no, I meant no, definitely not, but now that you mention it, I don't recall.
Oh, and that 2004 Elections Enforcement Complaint for the same behavior in question, did you learn from that ? What 2004 complaint, I don't recall any complaint. Oh , that paper, yes that is my signature on there, but I don't recall the complaint or any fine. Oh yes your honor,now that you ask, it is starting to come back to me, now.
I do think it might be time for an FOI request for John Rose's law license, I'm wondering if he really is an attorney. I'm starting to think he may have just played one on TV at some point.
Reminiscent of President Bush after Katrina with his FEMA director, I just want to walk up to John Rose tomorrow in court, pat him on the back and just say "You are doing a heck of a job Rosie"
I usually only focus on Hartford issues, but this one intrigues me as to how it will eventually play out.
The issue of whether Susan Bysiewicz is qualified to run as a candidate for Attorney General will soon be playing out in court and decided by a Superior Court judge, at least to start. Who know how far the appeals will go depending which side wins on the ruling.
It seems that the Republican's have now jumped into the fray and hired their own attorney to make sure their interests are represented.
In the meantime, the Hartford Democratic squabble over primary petition's should conclude tomorrow as Judge Peck is expected to rule on the matter.
In the meantime, feel free to read why Susan Bysiewicz,as an individual, is suing her own party and her own party's chairperson.
Maybe John Rose will be available to "second chair" with the Bysiewicz legal team, he could use the extra money to pay his proposed FOI fines.
In response to an FOIA complaint that I filed against Hartford Corporation Counsel John Rose, the hearing officer has ruled in my favor and has proposed a $1,000 fine against John Rose.
The proposed Final Decision will be presented to the full Freedom of Information Commission for their adoption on April 14, 2010 at 2:00PM at their regularly scheduled meeting.
The complaint was submitted after Rose refused to release documents to me regarding the investigation and termination of Hartford Police Officer Matthew Secore. The documents I was able to obtain through another source can be viewed here on a previous post.
The full decision can be read below. The decision pretty much speaks for itself but it seems clear that the hearing officer and the FOI Commission may have finally reached their boiling point for Mr.Rose and his disregard for the release of public documents. The report also mentions Mr. Rose's disregard for the commission's orders and his refusal to co-operate with them.
The decision even goes so far as to say that Rose "is the individual who is the official who is directly responsible for the denial of the complainant's rights to a fair hearing in this matter. It is further found that the denial of such right was without reasonable grounds." In this matter I am the complainant.
As far as FOI decisions go, this one is quite clear and uses rather strong language detailing Rose's improper and unlawful actions. The assessment of a $1000.00 fine is a huge matter for the Commission. I can't recall a fine that large from FOI. They usually prefer to educate individuals rather than fine them.
I guess educating only goes so far and when you have someone that remains ignorant to the law, getting their attention with hefty fines may be the only recourse. The fines assessed against Rose are paid by him, not the City's taxpayers. It's bad enough we have to pay his salary.
Unfortunately in true John Rose fashion, he will most likely appeal any decision to the Superior Court. If he runs true to fashion, he'll have no trouble spending $100,000 of our money to appeal rather than pay a $1,000 fine.
And if you haven't watched the video clip following the document below, it will tell you everything you need to know about John Rose and his disregard for the public.
Today it became official, someone that I respect and have learned much from has been appointed as the first Hartford Bureau Chief for WFSB Channel 3.
After Channel 3 left Hartford (or was driven out, depending on the version of the story) many people commented that 3's commitment to Hartford stories seemed to change and more focus was placed on the suburban news. That may be true, but all of that may be changing soon.
Channel 3 has promoted Len to the position of Bureau Chief and has re-enforced their commitment to covering Hartford. In the announcement today by WFSB News Director Dana Neves she pointed to Len's "many sources in Hartford and the surrounding towns". Neves further stated that Channel 3 hopes that "he will utilize those contacts and build many more that will allow he and the station to continue to break news and have exclusive angles. He will also continue to be a strong part of the I-Team".
I have personally known Len for several years now and he played a key role in me actually starting this blog. I have found Len to be one of the most ethical and truthful people I have met. Although the subjects of his reports may not always appreciate his digging, the one thing that has always impressed me about his style is that he digs as hard to verify information as he does to uncover both sides of a story. That may not make some in Hartford comfortable knowing he is focusing on Hartford full time, but it should definitely make for many more interesting stories and I-Team investigations.
Before arriving in Hartford, Len worked for WRAL in Raleigh, North Carolina. That might explain a lot as far as his mannerisms and anecdotes. My favorite is " even a blind squirrel occasionally finds a nut" when he tries to explain someone getting lucky.
According to Neves "Len will be based out of the Connecticut Science Center, his new assignment begins in mid-March."
Congratulations Len, well deserved. You are a huge asset to Channel 3 and to the people of Hartford bringing out the information you do.
For those not familiar with Len, here's a classic clip of him in action:
Today was the first day of testimony in the complaint brought to Superior Court by the 5th District Democratic Town Committee challenge slate aka the "Kirkley-Bey" slate.
Contrary to what many believe, I actually do work for a living and I was unable to attend the morning session. But from sources that were there, it started off slow. In typical John Rose style, he filed a "Motion to Strike". This was Rose's attempt to end everything before it started. No dice with the Judge, she denied the motion.
For anyone not familiar with Rose's style, when he has no defense he attempts to bury the proceedings in ridiculous motions. I'm sure there will be something submitted when court reconvenes on Tuesday.
A couple of sources in the courtroom were concerned that the plaintiff's attorney was not being aggressive enough in the AM session and the Judge appeared to be somewhat confused by the subject matter.
As a side note, William Beckerman, the alleged arsonist currently on trial for, umm, allegedly torching his home has been the talk of many for his "hairpiece". Beckerman has apparently started a trend in the Hartford courts by sporting his jet black toupee atop his head. Lovely wigs were being sported by some of those who turned out today to put their best foot forward as they sat and watched the proceedings. An almost festive air seeped through the courtroom as the two passed around their zip-lock bag of penny candy to the Giles slate supporters. Grandma, you didn't share with me?
I arrived in time for the start of the afternoon session, prepared to witness a depressing scene of John Rose winning his arguments. Well, those that thought the plaintiff's attorney was sluggish in the morning were able to witness his caffeine kick into overdrive in the afternoon. And the Judge who seemed confused became a quick learner I guess and appeared on point throughout the afternoon.
The afternoon started out with John Rose arguing that this suit shouldn't be heard because only the 5th District was complaining. Rose argued that the petition problem was far greater and wasn't just in the 5th District, it was citywide. HUH? Did I just hear that right. It almost sounds like a defense attorney arguing that his client should not have been arrested yet because he only robbed one bank and there are banks citywide he hasn't robbed yet.
The cross examination of Marc DiBella continued for a while longer with Attorney Sweeney making several objections against Rose's questioning, most of which the Judge, Judge Peck, agreed with and sustained.
After another "comfort break" which lasted longer than expected, testimony resumed with City Clerk John Bazzano taking the stand. Bazzano's testimony was precise as to his actions in handling the primary petitions when they were delivered to his office as required by law. He testified that the petitions were turned over to him and stored in the vault. Bazzano testified that on January 27, 2010, he was approached in the early afternoon by Marc DiBella and was advised that Dibella had found a potential problem with the "Giles" slates primary petitions.
When questioned as to what he did, Bazzano testified that he called the Secretary of the State's office and spoke with a staff attorney, Ted Bromley. Bazzano explained the situation to Bromley and Bromley responded to Bazzano by e-mail. Bazzano then outlined a timeline that appeared to torpedo the defense by Vazquez and Rose. Bazzano stated that Bromley responded to his request almost immediately, but that it wasn't until 3:30PM that he got back to his office and read the e-mail.
After reading the e-mail, Bazzano testified that at 3:45PM to 3:50PM he went downstairs to the Registrar's Office and advised the Democratic Registrar that she "had a problem". He stated that he "didn't recall" having a further conversation other than outlining the problem and then returning to his office.
Bazzano then was asked what happened next and he testified that at approximately 4:00PM Democratic Deputy Registrar Gary Coleman came to his office and told Bazzano that he needed "all" of the petitions back. Bazzano gave him the petitions and Coleman left the Clerks Office. Bazzano also testified that he had looked at the petitions before they left his office, and many were incomplete.
This was in line with the testimony offered earlier by DiBella and substantiated by his copies, that many of the petitions were incomplete.
The 4:00PM time frame is important because in Bromley's e-mail to Bazzano he stated that any changes or corrections made to the petitions after the 4:00PM deadline would not be valid and the petitions should be rejected.
Judge Peck seemed to make a point of Bazzano's timeline as though she clearly understands the 4:00PM deadline. So much for that confusion people thought earlier. The Judge even went so far as to ask Bazzano to repeat his timeline testimony so that she "had it clear" in her head.
Next up was cross examination by Rose. More objections, and more ridiculous by Rose. He even went so far at one point to ask Bazzano if he knew the boundaries of the 5th District. I don't think anyone in the court understood that line of questioning, but then again, it is John Rose. During the cross examination, Judge Peck even stopped Rose at one point and read the section in question, Section C, word for word.
It seemed as if she was trying to advise Rose to stop wasting her and the courts time because his argument was not at all in line with the wording of the form. With the typical arrogance that is John Rose, he stood with his arms folded across his chest as if to beckon the question to the Judge "do you know who I am?". I would say she clearly does and has him figured out.
Testimony will resume on Tuesday at 10:00AM barring a snow day.
Next up: Attorney Ted Bromley from the Secretary of the State's Office
Just to bring you up to speed on the latest at Hartford Public Access Television and the Sasha Hunter saga, if you aren't aware of the controversy, read about it here in a previous posting "BILLIE SCRUSE PUTS THE SCREWS TO THE SASHA HUNTER SHOW"
Ok, now that you read that, here's the latest. Earlier this evening, February 17, 2010, the Hartford Area Cable Television Advisory Council (HACTAC)met for their regular monthly meeting.Myself and other HAPTV producers, including Sasha Hunter, attended the meeting and were allowed to speak to the Board.
Prior to the meeting HACTAC members advised us that they were more than willing to allow anyone to speak, but that they would like a written complaint detailing the issues of concern. After listening to our complaints and the details of the issues, we were urged to submit our issues promptly and that HACTAC would call a special meeting to address the complaints. They committed to calling a special meeting as quickly as legally possible, most likely within a week after the complaint was received.
The HACTAC board seemed concerned regarding the status of the operation and lack of transparency at HPATV. I detailed the issue that HPATV Board meetings are not open to the public, and in fact, myself and other producers had the police called on us to be removed when we tried to attend a Board meeting. Several jaws on the HACTAC board dropped open at that statement, especially from an organization whose middle name is "Public".
I also spoke about the numerous producers who have requested representation on the Board of Directors, only to fall on deaf ears. I don't ever recall a member of the HPATV Board attending a producers meeting.
Sasha then spoke and outlined her suspension from HPATV's lineup and the way her situation has been handled. Then another producer spoke about her many years as a volunteer at HPATV and how she has volunteered as a camera person at Hartford City Council meetings. Apparently because she is a supporter of Sasha Hunter, Trish has been told that her volunteer services are no longer needed at Council meetings.
HACTAC seemed to take these allegations very seriously and outlined the steps that they may potentially take to correct the situation if they agree with the complaint. Apparently, they have the authority to take several steps, up to ordering Comcast to remove HPATV's authority to broadcast on the 3 channels allocated to them for the public access usages. HACTAC also stated that they have the authority to withhold Comcast funding to HPATV and appoint a different non-profit as the new operator of the franchise.
They stated that every attempt to rectify the situation would be taken first, but if the Board and Executive Director chose not to communicate or address the issues, worst case they could exercise the above scenarios.
More to come on this I'm sure. I guess sometimes it is just not a good idea to poke a hornets nest without giving it some long hard thought first. You may think the hornets aren't going to fight back and protect themselves, but that first sting will let you know you made a mistake.
Apparently Hartford's high taxes aren't the only thing Sean and Ralph Arena have figured out how to beat. As I first posted here, Hartford's Democratic Town Chairperson Sean Arena and his brother, 4th District Town Committee member Ralph Arena have apparently been registering and having their cars taxed in New Canaan. New Canaan has a mil rate of 13, compared to Hartford's much higher mil rate of almost 74 mils. Read the previous posting and view the Arena's New Canaan tax bills here.
Now, after obtaining the Arena's vehicle registrations from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicle's, it appears that the Arena's have found another way to beat the high cost of living in Hartford.
As you can see on the registrations, both brothers share an insurance policy from AIG, using the false New Canaan address. This apparently serves a dual purpose in beating Hartford's high cost of living. Insurance rates in New Canaan are much lower than in Hartford, and by claiming to live together, the brothers are only using one policy rather than the 2 separate policies they should have.
Only in Hartford I guess. Leadership by example.
And as you may or may not recall, our current Mayor Eddie A. Perez pulled the same scam during his first term as Mayor. Perez registered his cars and had them taxed in Bloomfield until the Hartford Courant picked up on it and exposed his activity.
In their registrations below, I redacted out their date of births and operator license number Arena Registration Redacted
Apparently the ugliness known as Hartford politics continues. The original allegations of tampering with Democratic Town Committee petitions was first detailed here, click here to read the original posting.
Democratic Registrar of Voters Olga Vazquez chose not to take the advice of the Secretary of the State and her legal staff. Attorney Ted Bromley from the Secretary of the State's office outlined the steps that needed to be taken in an e-mail from himself to Hartford City Clerk John Bazzano. That e-mail is below. In the e-mail, Bromley states that if the petitions were not completed and submitted in accordance with Connecticut law "the petition pages would have to be rejected"
Since Vazquez wouldn't take the proper steps, the 5th District Democratic challenge slate, the "Kirkley-Bey" slate, is hoping that a superior court Judge will take the correct steps to rectify the situation. A hearing in Superior Court on Washington Street has been scheduled for Friday morning at 10:00am
Apparently the post from a couple weeks ago regarding Democratic Registrar of Voters Olga Vazquez and her alleged altering of primary petitions wasn't the first time she was accused of such activity.
It seems that Vazquez was the subject of a State Elections Enforcement Complaint filed in 2004 alleging essentially the same behavior in falsifying signatures on petitions. Vazquez admitted her wrongdoing, according to the stipulated agreement, and paid a $500.00 fine.
On this weeks program, February 13, 2010, we spoke with Hartford Attorney Bruce Rubenstein. We questioned him regarding his challenge for the Hartford Democratic Town Committee Chairpersonship and his vision for Hartford.
The current Democratic Town Committee Chairperson was also invited but did not attend.
After making Time's top 12 mugshots of 2009 featuring our Mayor Eddie A. Perez, I had hoped that would hold us over for a while as far as notoriety.
Nope, once again we are able to show our pride as a city as we place number 68 on a top 100 list. Just a hint, it is not for the most increased corrupt municipal government.
Apparently the actions of the "Giles/ Vazquez" 5th District Democratic Town Committee in altering a federal Census brochure is drawing attention from at least three government agencies. Two of those agencies could potentially bring criminal charges against those involved.
The attached documents are copies of a complaint filed today with the Connecticut State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) by Hartford Attorney Bruce Rubenstein.Rubenstein has publicly voiced his intentions to challenge for the Hartford Democratic Town Committee Chairpersonship in March.
According to Rubenstein's complaint, the altering of the US Census brochure began to draw the attention of both state and federal investigators late last week when the altered brochure was reported. Sources are also confirming that the brochure is under scrutiny by both investigators from the State's Attorneys Office and the US Attorney's Office.
While the intent of altering the brochure by the 5th District "Giles/Vazquez"slate is unclear, it seems to imply that individuals looking for a census job should contact the 5th District slate.
After watching the antics of the incumbent Democratic Town Committee slates and posting the allegations of wrong doing, I guess it is time to post a slate doing things the right way.
After posting Friday about the deceptive means used by the 5th District Democratic Town Committee incumbents, today I received the following in my e-mail. After all of the allegations of corruption in the Democratic Party over the last couple years, it seems as though the 4th District Challenge slate has come upon a novel idea.
Tell the truth, nothing deceptive, and actually get to meet and know the people that you are asking for their vote. The mailing is attached above.
Whatever happens on March 2nd may begin to tell the story of Hartford's political future. Are people willing to accept more of the corruption permeating Hartford's Democratic Party? Are Hartford's Democratic voters willing to settle for leadership comprised of tax cheats and individuals under arrest on corruption charges?
Or, hopefully, will this be the year that Hartford voters realize that our city is on the brink, headed for disaster unless we turn around the leadership vacuum. By the comments that I see posted on here, I think many people have reached the point where they are saying enough is enough.
It may seem like a minor election on March 2nd, but its importance for the future of Hartford can't be more clear.
A simple question might be to ask the current Democratic Town Committee leadership and members , what have you done to make Hartford a better place? Some might have to answer that they got friends and relatives city jobs and city contracts. Others might answer that they were able to avoid paying Hartford's high taxes. And others might answer that they were able to get large amounts of money for their "non-profits" which in turn provided them with very good salaries.
I think that the answer should be clear to most Democratic voters on March 2nd, 2010. Vote for the challengers and make it crystal clear to them that they have two years to prove themselves and clean up politics in our city. If not, they can be sent packing in two years also.
And the same goes for the handful of Republicans left in Hartford. Ask your Republican Town Chairperson and Town Committee members what they have done to make Hartford a better place. What has their position been on the corruption scandal? Why have they been silent when the highest elected Republican official has been arrested on corruption corruption charges along with the Mayor? How do you support Republicans when they abstain on the tough votes at budget time?
And a real tough question for Republican voters in Hartford, can you name more than 3members of the Republican Town Committee, or, can you even name the RTC members representing you in your district?
Town committee elections really do matter this year, vote for change, vote for taking back our city, vote for the challenge slates where there is a challenge slate. Vote for change in Districts 4, 5 and 7 on the Democratic side.
Pictured above, Abe Giles' mugshot after his arrest on corruption charges along with Hartford Mayor Perez. According to the brochure below, he is now handling US Census Bureau jobs.
The attached PDF file below was given to me this morning. Apparently it is a US Census Bureau form that has been altered to appear that the 5th District Democratic Town Committee has some sort of control over providing US Census Bureau jobs.
It even goes so far as to ask prospective applicants to contact members of the "Olga Vazquez/Abe Giles" slate, listing them by name. It goes on to encourage those who want more information to listen to the "Community Affairs Program" on WKND radio Sunday at 11am. The "Community Affairs Program" is Abe Giles' on air ramblings.
Apparently the allegations of Democratic Registrar of Voters Olga Vazquez altering state voter petitions wasn't enough. They must want to also now invite federal scrutiny as they appear to have altered federal documents.
The US Census bureau was extremely interested in seeing the document when I called for their comment. I e-mailed the PDF file to them and as soon as I get their comment I will update it here.
One member of the 5th district challenge slate, the so called "Kirkley-Bey" slate, was very concerned by the use of the brochure for political purposes. Rebecca Wareing commented that "It shows a potential lack of respect for our people". She further stated she was concerned that a federal agency who is non-partisan and a form designed and paid for by taxpayer funds, was being used for political purposes.
According to sources, Democratic Town Committee Chairperson Sean Arena had tried to get the brochure cleared through the US Census Bureau approximately two weeks ago and was told that the usage would be illegal, apparently in true Hartford fashion, they went ahead and did it anyway.
More to come on this, another interesting twist in Hartford's questionable political landscape. The original US Census Bureau brochure, provided by the Bureau is below, as well as the altered form
photo from flickr.com, attributed to urban compass
I was hopefully optimistic that the new year would mark a new beginning for the Hartford City Council under the leadership of its new president, Council President Pedro Segarra. As of today I am convinced the tide is turning.
After spending two years watching the previous Council President seemingly taking enjoyment in shutting down public comment at Council meetings, President Segarra has done a complete 180 degree turn.
Ex-President Torres used to use a ridiculous "stop light" contraption to time members of the public. Once the three minutes on the "stop light" expired and the light turned red, he'd bang the gavel and cut the speaker off.
As I mentioned in a previous post a couple weeks ago, at Council President Segarra's first meeting as President, the light was gone and not one person was gaveled down as they spoke. A very positive sign that things might be changing.
Then in today's mail I received a great letter from Council President Segarra. The letter is below for your viewing. A couple personal comments by President Segarra were made in the letter thanking me for my efforts, but I have also been told that the letters are going to be common practice during Council President Segarra's tenure.
Apparently President Segarra realizes the importance of acknowledging those that take the time to attend council meetings and express their concerns. Segarra also mentioned to me that he intends to keep speakers updated on the issues they raise by sending follow up letters regarding specific issues raised.
Hopefully this will motivate more people to attend council meetings as they realize that as of January 1, 2010 they are actually being listened to and their concerns are being addressed.
If justice prevails, I can only hope that Council President Segarra assumes the new title of Mayor in the not too distant future and continues to breathe fresh air into Hartford City Hall. It is definitely good to see some level of respect returning to Hartford City Hall. Please keep it going President Segarra.
Only until January of 2012 though, after that I have another suggestion for Mayor. Besides, after cleaning out that mess you'll probably be ready for a long rest.
I guess some people just aren't buying the "miracle" defense.
In the letter below, Attorney Robert Ludgin lays out his preliminary claims against the authenticity of the actions by the Democratic Registrar of Voters Olga Vazquez.
In the original posting, I referred to the two slates as the "Giles" slate and the "Kirkley-Bey" slate. In Attorney Ludgin's letter he refers to the "Giles" slate as the "Olga Vazquez" slate. I will agree with Attorney Ludgin and in future posts refer to the "Olga Vazquez" slate. It does seem more appropriate , considering her involvement.
Stay tuned, I'm sure this will only be the beginning of legal action that should make this whole matter much clearer.
The level of corruption in Hartford City Hall seems to rise to new heights daily, some would say hourly.
Numerous examples are coming to light on a regular basis. Whether it is apparently fraudulent petitions or tax scams or cash thefts from the Tax Collector's office, most people aren't surprised when the next corrupt activity is documented.
For most people, myself included, we shake our heads and ask if this administration has no shame? Do they not realize that just about everyone is watching their activities?
Of course none of these corrupt activities happen in a vacuum, and what happens to those individuals that finally decide that enough is enough? What happens to the Lee Erdmann's, the Chief Teale's, and others? Is a "retirement" really a retirement, or a way to exit gracefully when you reach your limit?
One such example is Hartford Police Officer Hector Robles. Officer Robles took an interest in politics from an early age, interning at the Connecticut State Capitol, before becoming a police officer, and getting a taste for democracy.
Robles, one of the few Hartford Police officers that actually resides in Hartford, took an interest in local politics and became a member of the Hartford Democratic Town Committee. During that time, several sources told me that he was supportive of the Perez administration and towed the "party line".
In November of 2008, Robles ran for the legislative seat open in the 6th District and won a spot in the Connecticut House of Representatives. He was sworn in as a freshman legislator in January 2009.
Everything seemed to go well and Robles introduced legislation that benefited Hartford and its residents that included a bill to reduce "speed-racers" on Hartford streets. Robles remained in his position as a Community Service Officer (CSO) for the South Meadows area of the city.
According to sources, Robles began to drift away from the influence of the Perez Administration and began to remain more independent. This independence did not come without a price.
With little explanation, Robles was removed from his CSO position in late 2009. The CSO positions are highly coveted positions by many officers. Robles's area was an area heavily populated by commercial and industrial businesses. Several business people I have spoke with had no complaints regarding Robles's performance as their CSO.
After being removed from his CSO position, Robles was assigned back to the patrol division, working days in a marked cruiser.
In early January 2010, apparently it came to light that Robles and other members of the 6th District Democratic Town Committee did not intend to support Democratic Town Chairman Sean Arena for his re-election bid this coming March.
Apparently as a result, Officer Robles was again transferred, unwillingly from what I have been told, to the midnight shift. When Robles was told he was again being transferred, he didn't argue, but instead requested to be assigned to "Teleserv" the name given to the HPD front desk.
Well, I guess aggravating this administration and refusing to be a puppet has its consequences.
No front desk for Robles, instead he was assigned to the "relief" squad on midnights. The relief squad is usually given to officers lowest in seniority, which Officer Robles is far from that level. The relief squad means that the officer has no assigned area or car, but rather fills in for other officers on their days off or vacations, sick days, etc.
If anyone has any questions as to how they can do this to a veteran officer protected by a union, I asked the same question. Apparently, according to sources, Hartford Corporation Counsel John Rose issued an opinion that they could.
HPD Chief Daryl Roberts and HPD Union President Richard Rodriguez did not return my calls for comment.
In the meantime, Officer Robles continues to serve the city, working midnights where he has been assigned. Although he probably does sleep better than others that didn't maintain their independence and lay awake at night waiting for the next shoe to drop in an ever increasingly corrupt operation.
And to other city employees, you have to ask at what price you continue to support corruption, and will it be your job next.
PICTURED ABOVE, HARTFORD PUBLIC ACCESS TELEVISION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILLIE SCRUSE
In the previous post, I laid out the information about Sasha Hunter and her program being removed from Hartford Public Access Television. Since no reason has been given to Sasha Hunter for her removal, many feel it is a clear violation of her free speech rights as guaranteed by the legislation that created public access television.
Hunter's program was removed from the HPATV lineup after she made comments that some say pointed out the apparent incompetence of the management of the Hartford Public Access Television operations.
Since no reason has been given for the programs cancellation, it would appear that the actions by Scruse are most likely retaliation for Sasha's comments.
Ironically, this month's meeting of HACTAC (Hartford Area Cable Television Advisory Council) had already been scheduled to be held at the HPATV offices. The meeting of the Advisory Council will be held on Wednesday, February 17 2010 at 7:00PM at the HPATV office at 20 Sargent Street in Hartford.
Unlike the HPATV Board of Director's meetings, HACTAC's meetings are open to the public and public comment is welcomed during the meetings.
Please try to attend and voice your opinion on the denial of Sasha Hunter's free speech rights.
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED ON THIS BLOG ARE STRICTLY THAT, MY OPINIONS.After getting fed up with the lack of openness in Hartford City Hall, I decided to begin a program on Hartford Public Access Television called "WE THE PEOPLE". Through tips received we have been able to expose numerous issues that the Perez Administration would prefer to keep quiet.
Any information received is kept in strict confidence, feel free to e-mail me at krbrookman@earthlink.net or call me at 860-883-2297 with any information.
