David Walker, former comptroller general of the United States, has become treasurer of a political action committee Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport in the cause of financially supporting candidates for public office. Five school board seats are up for grabs this November as well as all 20 seats on the City Council. Walker filed the paperwork with the Connecticut State Elections Enforcement Commission.
After years as a leading voice for federal government financial reform, Walker has stepped up his visibility on the local government and political scene. The Black Rock resident moved into Bridgeport approximately three years ago, purchasing a house from former Congressman Chris Shays.
Last month Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport announced it would “support potential candidates regardless of party affiliation in the current election cycle if they are truly serious about addressing Bridgeport’s serious governance, financial, education and service challenges.”
Walker has pledged he and the organization he co-founded would be visible on the campaign front. “CW4BB is filing as a Political Action Committee in order to support candidates who agree with our good government and government transformation agenda and oppose those who do not,” says Walker in a news release issued by Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport.
“While CW4BB has been effective in bringing together citizens who have worked hard in seeking to improve the governance of our city, the creation of a PAC, at this point, will bring this important initiative to the next level as we will seek to find and support candidates who reflect our core principles,” says Phil Blagys, co-founder of Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport.
The rules and regulations of a political action committee can be found here.
Lennie, was this a press release from Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport or something David Walker forwarded to you? It’s nice Mr. Walker serves as treasurer but who is the President and the others who run this group?
Ron, it was a news release issued by Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport. Walker and Phil Blagys are organizers of the PAC, a committee of two or more individuals, according to the filing listed on the SEEC website.
I must say I find it to promote Walker, one would think that the name of the President would given instead of the treasurer or at lease both names being listed.
Ron, for these types of filings the treasurer assumes most of the state statutory obligations, thus the treasurer’s name is highlighted on the SEEC website.
Lennie, thank you, I do understand that but my concern is if you are putting out a press release CW4BB is filing as a Political Action Committee in order to support candidates who agree with our good government and government transformation agenda and oppose those who do not, that there would be a contact person and how those who want to make a donation or to join that there would be more information. What is posted here is a commentary about CW4BB and not the press release.
Ron,
Thanks for your comments and concerns. CW4BB would appreciate any contribution you and others can afford up to the maximum limit of $750 per person. Thanks again.
Per David Walker, “individual contributions of up to $750 per individual can be made out to CW4BB care of–Hon. David M. Walker, Treasurer, 37 Beacon Street, Bridgeport CT 06605. Thanks for asking.”
Phil Blagys is Chairman and I am the Treasurer. Both names were noted in the filing and the press release. We are just two of many involved in CW4BB.
The Great Oz has spoken.
BRG,
I look forward to receiving your contribution for whatever you can afford given your recurring statements of concern about the need for real change in Bridgeport. Thanks in advance and all the best to you in Arizona.
I wish OIB comments had a “like” button.
Would love to know who Ballsy is since everyone knows who I am …
Great, BRG–and which character do you identify with from that political book?
We all know which one you are, BR Barb … The one the house fell on.
As usual, you do not answer the question, but answer with a nasty comment, you cheeky little flying monkey, you.
Ah, Wizard of Oz!
The wind began to switch, the blog to pitch and suddenly the posters started to unhitch! 🙂
BR Barb, I will consider that a compliment … but I only answer to your sister the Wicked Witch of the West, LOL.
*** WELCOME TO THE CW4BB, THE MORE OPPOSING POLITICAL GROUPS IN BPT THE BETTER! *** GOOD LUCK! ***
Welcome to the PAC Arena, CW4BB! Glad to hear the cmomittee was formed as there were a few people wondering how much the committee had spent in order to file a complaint with SEEC had they been able to prove that CW4BB reached or passed the expenditure threshold required to register a committee. The first thing I would have posted here is the address where folks can send their contributions.
The Connecticut Department of Education has purchased a seat on the Bridgeport BOE for $3.5 million. It sounds illegal when the state gives any amount of money to a school district with the condition of being given a seat on the table when choosing a new Superintendent. And Ron Mackey is worried about David Walker. Don’t be surprised if in the near future, the mayor attaches a similar condition and flat funds the BOE for turning it down.
Paging David Walker: “Walker filed the paperwork with the Connecticut State Elections Enforcement Commission.”
The town clerk is the proper filing repository with respect to the following political committees:
• Political committees formed solely to promote the success or defeat of candidates for town, city, or borough office.
• Political committees formed solely to promote the success or defeat of one or more referenda to be voted upon by the electors of a single municipality. If any such local question appears on the ballot of several municipalities, but not statewide, the committee must file with the town clerk of each municipality that will be voting upon the question.
• Political committees formed solely to promote candidates for municipal office and referenda which will be voted upon within the same municipality.
Joel,
We filed both with the state and the city. Unlike many officials in Bridgeport, CW4BB complies with both the letter and spirit of the law. That is one of the reasons we were formed.
Joel,
Thanks for your question. Individual contributions of up to $750 per individual can be made out to CW4BB care of–Hon. David M. Walker, Treasurer, 37 Beacon Street, Bridgeport CT 06605. Thanks for asking.
Mr. Walker,
I wish I had the means to make a contribution of the full individual amount, but coincidentally that amount is just about how much my taxes went up this year.
I hope CW4BB can effect some change in the area of property taxes. If they can, I will gladly use the savings to support your organization. As for now, I will send what I can.
Captain Hawley,
Whatever you can afford will be appreciated. We care much more about how many people contribute than how much they contribute.
The sad but simple truth is it will take both time and money to create a better future in Bridgeport.
FYI OIBers:
C. Methods of Payment
1. Cash or Check
Monetary receipts from individuals may only be accepted by a political committee in certain forms:
• The first $100 contributed in the aggregate in a calendar year may be made by cash, personal check, bank instrument or credit card.
• Once the individual has contributed $100 in the aggregate in a calendar year, any remaining monetary contributions made in that year may only be made by personal check or credit card.
EXAMPLE: Charles gave a $100 check to a political committee in January. The following month, Charles buys a $10 ticket for a fundraising event for the same committee. This $10 is also considered a contribution to the political committee and is counted toward Charles’ contribution limit for the year. Since Charles has already given $100 to the political committee, however, he must pay the $10 by either check or credit card–he may not use cash.
To CW4BB:
If your committee is planing a fundraising event and plans to hold an auction, I have a couple of nice items I would like to donate. Raise money by all means necessary as your opponents will try winning by all means necessary.
Will this be an attempt to create a third party? Will the Republicans even have a hope? Can they even put together a roster of candidates? I wish the Citizens Working for a Better Bridgeport good luck. I believe the more options the better. I look forward to seeing your endorsements. Is it a requirement to show your contributors? That would be very interesting. I didn’t realize local residents would contribute to a PAC without knowing the candidates. But then again I know there are many who have money to burn.
“Is it a requirement to show your contributors? That would be very interesting. I didn’t realize local residents would contribute to a PAC without knowing the candidates.”
Yes, anyone who would like to know about the contributions and expenditures by a PAC can view the documents online. Just go to SEEC site and use the eCris system. I’d rather contribute to candidates I don’t know than contribute to those I already know. Just think about how many people will still make contributions to Finch and the City Council persons despite all that is known about them.
Joel, thanks for the information. You really are well Informed. David Walker is lucky to have your support. We are all fortunate to have individuals who care enough to get involved and attempt to improve the status quo. I love buffets. The more choices I have the more interesting the experience. I will observe from the peanut gallery and hope we get some serious, honest, sincere, capable, charismatic and visionary candidates.
Joel, you make some very good points that have not been addressed. This group sounds like the “TEA PARTY.”
Joel and Ron,
I appreciate your thoughts and support Joel. Ron, this group is not a political party and has absolutely nothing to do with the “Tea Party.” We have been very transparent with our principles for candidates and we will continue to do so. We will support and oppose candidates based on such criteria. Our actions will not consider political party affiliation, if any.
Mr. Mackey, I don’t know you, but I can tell you for sure this is NOT the Tea Party (shudders thinking about that group of whack jobs). No hidden agendas. It’s all on their website:
betterbridgeport.org
Ron, it does sound like the Tea Party. I am not a fan of the Tea Party.
Steven,
Since average household income is about $35,000 in Bridgeport versus about $50,000 in the U.S., very few people in our city have money to burn, including me. They do have concern about the current state of affairs in our city and want to support efforts to create a better future. In addition, others in the state are embarrassed by the state of affairs in Bridgeport.
Dave, do you think anyone outside a 25-mile radius is at all interested in the trials and tribulations of our great City? If a solid candidate in this city could not raise funds to fight the Machine, how can a PAC? Unless you are Karl Rove having fundraisers for Republicans where people just write checks for the most ridiculous candidates who have no chance of winning. I hope you have much better luck. I will assume my council people will be running again. Lyons and Paniccia. The Mayor isn’t running so I cannot think of much involvement from the North End. I could be wrong. I don’t think so. However, it would be very interesting to see new and fresh aggressive candidates shake things up.
Steven,
There are people around the state who care about the state senate and Mayoral races. In addition, depending on who the candidate is and what the issues are, that support could extend around the nation. I also have some very good contacts at some national publications and media who could do some very interesting stories on CT and Bridgeport.
Ron: This group is anything BUT the Tea Party. It is comprised of Democratic, Republican, Independent and Unaffiliated voters. It is a Non-Partisan group that has filed as a PAC to help support candidates from all parties who are interested in good government in Bridgeport. It is NOT a party, and it is NOT just David Walker who is driving the car. It’s a collaborative effort and we are thrilled to have someone with the wealth of experience Mr. Walker brings available to our City.
I know you have some kind of a problem with David, I don’t know why. But I am asking you to please try to keep an open mind about this group. I am a Democrat, and active in this group, and I don’t plan on changing my affiliation. We just want to make things better in Bridgeport, and we are doing something about it instead of just bitching and moaning and then caving.
Honestly Ron, you have a solid knowledge base about Bridgeport. We could use your insight. Think about it?
Bond Girl, you said “It is comprised of Democratic, Republican, Independent and Unaffiliated voters. It is a Non-Partisan group that has filed as a PAC to help support candidates from all parties who are interested in good government in Bridgeport.” Well how many blacks and Hispanic are involved and how many are from the East End, East Side and the South End?
We have had some East Enders at meetings. There has also been blacks and Hispanics. This group is OPEN to anyone who wants to help out. I, myself, don’t live in Black Rock. Anyone who wants to step forward is welcome. We don’t, however, go house to house and hogtie folks and cart them off to meetings to demonstrate a geographical cross-section sample of the City. Folks need to step forward.
Why folks think there is any exclusivity to this group is beyond me. If anything, people who are expending energy accusing CW4BB of not including blacks and Hispanics are creating the perception this group is exclusive. Folks need to step forward.
You can send out emails, press releases, create Facebook pages and websites and write to the Post and that still won’t get folks to change perceptions they need to hang on to for one reason or another. There comes a time when you need to be okay with the fact people are going to think what serves THEM.
Folks need to step forward.
Bond Girl, I’m not talking about blacks or Hispanics you talk to at City Council meetings, I’m talking about those who attend your meetings and who are a part of your group. I am one who follows things and to me this group is made of whites with NO contact in the black and Hispanic community, now imagine what those communities think about your group? Nothing, because they don’t know you.
Ron, it takes years for a community group to build up citywide prestige. As an organization Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport is fighting the same voter malaise candidates for public office experience. Correct me if I’m wrong, but you like the community work of City Councilman Andre Baker who’s contemplating a run for Board of Education. Mayor Bill Finch’s political organization will not support Baker for school board. Baker, for one, has attended CW4BB meetings. Don’t you think Baker could use support from CW4BB?
Ron, we have a Hispanic member from the East Side who translates our information into Spanish and distributes the flyers and emails in Spanish to his contacts, as one example. We welcome participation citywide. We have members who, like most of us who are counting pennies, are ready to go door to door, work phone banks for candidates. Have you been to any of the open to the public meetings to see for yourself the people involved?
You have a right to your perception. And that is what it is, a perception that serves you. If you are open to changing it, we would welcome you!
Ron,
Bond Girl was not referring to City Council meetings. CW4BB has had other public meetings where blacks and Hispanics have been in attendance and participated in the dialogue. All are welcome. I do, however, agree we need to do more outreach to these communities.
Originates here:
dianeravitch.net/2013/07/06/george-schmidt-dont-believe-the-vallas-hype/
beware, I just read that complete article on Paul Vallas. I am not certain of Diane Ravich’s credentials, but I must say his resume is questionable and he really does appear to be a scam artist. I wonder if any of his supporters on this blog read her post and how they interpret it? beware, thanks for sharing.
“I am not certain of Diane Ravich’s credentials, but I must say his resume is questionable and he really does appear to be a scam artist.”–Steven Auerbach
Paul Vallas has been in our community for 18 months now. A five-year school plan and current year budgets with bi-monthly are available on-line as are employment statistics and grant budgets. Those documents were not available in past years. To my ears “scam artists” are about the pursuit of money.
With your time you have had the opportunity to attend BOE meetings, to speak at them, to question and then to listen for a response, where have you raised such an accusation? Can you or others locate the outsized consulting fees that take local money outside the City and show little return? That seems to be one ‘habit’ that is criticized by ‘post-reform’ commentators. Where is the ‘privatizing’ activity showing up locally? The Board of Education actually voted unanimously to reject the only Charter School presented this past year to them.
Isn’t it enough to struggle with the forces of status quo to make changes and efficiencies that will focus on the quality and quantity of teaching time, without being ambushed along the way with incomplete or inaccurate statements about one’s record? Steve, you have had to fight hard against negative comments on this blog during the past year. Think about ‘scam artist.’ What’s Diane’s evidence about that in Bridgeport? What Bridgeport facts lead you to repeat her statement and guide people to read more? What ‘endgame’ are you pursuing for yourself and for the thousands of children in the school system? What do you have to say about Mulligan’s 18 points? Time will tell.
And more here:
(7) Laptops have been promised to students for the last 5 years. If Vallas provides laptops, will he also provide internet service subscriptions? Will students own the laptops? Will they be able to take them home? A laptop is a tool. How will laptops fit into the curriculum? If you think a laptop takes the place of a teacher, I wonder how you can remain on the board of education.
(8) I don’t know what an “old board” is but a smart board needs to be secured to a wall, have an LCD connected to it and mounted in the ceiling and again it is just a tool that requires a teacher to use it.
(9) Pryor and Vallas are playing the same scam. You have long ago lost sight of the pea.
(10) Do you really believe $900,000 will be saved in one year by making the elementary schools start 15 min. earlier? The logistics make absolutely no sense. By the end of September more drivers and busses will have to be added and school will not have started on time yet.
(11) Park City Alternative and Make the Grade and Hilltop Academy all existed before Vallas came to town.
(12) the new text books have been a colossal failure. The online programs never worked and the teachers NEVER got PD on the so-called curriculum, scope and sequence or so-called “back teaching.”
(13) Whatever shrinking occurred at the central office eliminated important directors and literacy and math coaches among other support personnel but it was made up for in salaries by friends of Vallas consultants.
(14) There have been professional teams visiting classrooms since long before Sonya Salcedo spent hundred of thousands of dollars on another failed initiative, The Institute for Teaching and Learning. There have been various groups of consultants, administrators and Rudy Crew types filing in and out of Bridgeport classrooms for years.
(15) The state had to do that.
(16) This is just plain insulting.
(17) The secret hedge fund people who refused to be identified because of their deep financial connections to the privatization of public schools and Connecticut politicos who need their campaign contributions
and number finally (18) Are you referring to “Safe Corridors?” That never even went as far as a second story in the CT Post. And Mr. Willingham (sp?) the head of security who Vallas brought from out of state, consider this: He was making a presentation at a high school and was asked what should teachers and students do if there is need for a lockdown esp if there is a shooter in the school. His response was essentially … “I really don’t know what you could do but you better make a plan.” And then he left.
Mr. Mulligan, please try to stay awake at BOE meetings and get out into the schools. And try to remember you are Vallas’ boss.
JML, so you don’t believe the different articles about Vallas and do you think the court made the wrong decision about Vallas?
I think the experience Vallas has under his belt and the concern he has for student results and the efficient employment of resources makes his understanding of, his plan for and his execution of same during the past 18 months a positive change.
When jakedog reports “There is a large deficit and a phoney budget” I have to ask if he is looking at the same Excel spreadsheet on the Public Schools site that I am. If jake goes to the City Charter he can see it talks about Revenues, Appropriations and Variances. Vallas understands that language and Marlene Siegel, the chief financial officer, does as well. When planned revenues and planned expenses change during a fiscal year, the CFO looks at the “negative variances” and shows where the funds will come from to bring about balance. The BOE budget was reportedly at a $12 Million deficit when Vallas arrived, was it not? How did he get it to balance? Does anyone care? Were any schools immediately closed or more than 100 teachers the victims of layoffs? Vallas is not a “miracle worker.” He seems to me to be an experienced professional in poorly performing school districts with a holistic approach to applying sufficient resources to the long-term task of providing quality educations to the youth of Bridgeport. It is a personal opinion based on regular observations since February 2012. I am human, too. I bleed. I make errors. I try to learn from these experiences. The judge’s decision is supportable in the manner she approached the law and the facts, I sense. However, it was about “certification” according to CT law. Is it really about qualification to make things positive in our school system? Time will tell.
John Marshall Lee, so a court decision has no standing unless it goes the way you want it to go?
JML, I said I was not certain of her credentials. You were supposed to say she didn’t have any. Instead, you were concerned others might read her blog. I was reacting to beware’s link. Good bad or otherwise, I like to gather information from many sources. I respect many people, but do not digest everything they say as gospel. I know many people on this blog who believe in the mysteries of faith. I am not one of them. You cannot go by faith when it comes to the school system. I have been in every school and have seen little improvement. Substitutes are treated like minimum-wage babysitters and I believe the teachers union needs to disappear. That being said, I am not going to fight for Paul Vallas. He is not Jesus Christ incarnate. I am not going to fight so he can maintain a $250,000 a year job knowing his political connections and aspirations. I think all of Vallas’ supporters need to commend Finch and stand with him on this issue. I stand with Finch on other issues. I am totally neutral on the Vallas issue. I do believe education is the most key piece in the future of the City. I believe some of our teachers are very capable. If they do not support Vallas, can any of his plans get implemented whether they are a great or not? When there is a vote of no confidence why continue to fight? I do respect others’ opinions and I will not take a side in this debate. I will continue to extract information from many sources. I have a friend who knows Rahm Emanuel. Maybe I can get yet another opinion on Vallas.
The teachers overwhelmingly do not support Vallas and it has nothing to do with the union. He doesn’t understand, and he never has, the profession of teaching and learning or child development. He also doesn’t respect the front-line workers who he believes can be easily replaced every two to four years with new interns from a missionary organization.
As for Rahm, he and Arne and Paul are all from the same Chicago cabal … they sleep, eat and drink privatization, destruction of the unions, deprofessionalizing teaching and free-market principles.
Their children will always attend well-resourced private schools or public schools in affluent communities. Their kids will never be test prepped, standardized and bubbled to death. This is a social experiment and it’s their hobby to experiment on other people’s children while funneling the taxpayers’ money to their educronies.
You should subscribe to dianeravitch.net
She is an educational historian, an NYU professor and an author.
Thanks for reading.
I’ve met Diane Ravitch but I know her husband Dick much better. Dick is the former Lieutenant Governor of NY and current officemate of Paul Volcker who is on CAI’s, the non-profit I founded and head, Advisory Council. I am working with Dick and Paul on the current State Budget Task Force effort.
Working to screw over rank and file state employees, no doubt.
Former husband, I think (minor detail). You should read her book:
The death and life of the great American school system: How testing and choice are undermining education:
www .amazon.com/Death-Great-American-School-System/dp/0465025579/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373309551&sr=8-1&keywords=Diane+ravitch
And her new one coming out in the fall will rock the “reformers'” world:
Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America’s Public Schools
David Walker, given you have met Diane Ravitch and know and respect her husband, one might assume you believe she was a incredible source of information. JML, you may cross examine the witness.
I am not attempting to speak for Ron Mackey but I too am concerned about the politics of this group and even more so when the group attempts to avoid any type of political labels or leanings.
Your character values are impressive but what happens when you have multiple candidates seeking your financial support? Surely at some point you will need to look at other factors or else you will be financing candidates to run against each other.
And if it is not political leanings what other factors will you be assessing?
Potential to win? If you use that then you will either be polling or using some other popularity measure OR their political affiliation OR their stance on key issues. Which will it be? Who or how will these candidates be selected?
I am not inclined to give money to an unknown political group that seems afraid of telling the public where it stands on key issues.
It seems you are in favor of open transparent government but maybe not so much PAC’s.
Bob,
We are not a typical PAC. We are for good government and government transformation. We will decide which candidates to support based on their qualifications and their commitment to our published principles and values irrespective of their party label, if any. We will also consider their willingness to campaign hard and the relative ability to win. We will also target our efforts. Our support will take the form of both time and money. In addition, this year is just the beginning. For example, next year involves state legislative elections and the following year is the Mayoral election.
Sounds like the “Tea Party,” just read what they stand for and you will see a lot of what you just wrote.
Ron, how is this PAC getting to sound like the “Tea Party” to you? And how does the current party in power, the “status quo” party sound to you? Where do they indicate what they stand for?
I wonder what “master political mind” Adam Wood is thinking, saying and doing along these lines today? (For instance, how does he blog on OIB? Not under his own name certainly.) The Mayor offered Walker a position on the Charter Review group and then “forgot about it.” I guess there are some people you keep close and others you hold away? But when you shut the door, that does not mean they go away, does it? And when local governance generates stories like “Accessgate” in Stratford and provides three years of inept budget formation and monitoring by City Council procedures, just expect newcomers to respond. Finding some other dissatisfied souls who have been on the inside and then found themselves outside is an easy bonus in Bridgeport.
But Ron you are correct about how citizens think. They are not political wonks. Too much information is of no use. People who vote are concerned with how their “community group” from which they draw reference is looking at another group or candidate. So reaching out, becoming known by word and action, and staying in the open is vital. There will still be a chorus of community “judges” out to identify the newest entry on the governance scene. This PAC may not be perfect, but that is OK, because this is Bridgeport, home of the imperfect, but all the better for this gritty diversity. Speak up, talk it up and also do some listening. Couldn’t hurt, could it? Time will tell.
Ron,
If that is what you think then you are not very knowledgeable about the “Tea Party” or CW4BB.
Bob, to a certain extent you made some good points. Have you considered forming a PAC and conduct its business the way you feel appropriate or correct? If you did have a PAC wouldn’t you accept money or other support from a PAC or members of a PAC like CW4BB if permissible by SEEC rules?
I’m of the opinion what is needed is a PAC that aims to make changes on the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee. Will CW4BB support Democrats endorsed by the current Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee? The DTC is where the change must be made first. Once endorsed by the BDTC an endorsed candidate is halfway to victory and this is why most people don’t challenge the endorsed candidates. You read the response of Hector A. Diaz when he stated if he doesn’t get the party endorsement for a BOE seat, he would reach out to CW4BB.
We all should welcome any group, individual or PAC interested in turning around the direction we have been forced to travel.
Joel,
I am not wishing the PAC ill will nor am I against their stated goals but in a political arena you need to take sides. You need to have a political leaning. You’re liberal, conservative, moderate and tend to associate with the same. To Ron Mackey’s point, from everything I have seen Dave Walker post I would agree he is extremely conservative. I believe he supports a form of voluntary bankruptcy for the city in order to void “onerous” union contracts. He has stated the pensions and retiree benefits will bankrupt the city so I have to guess he would also like to void these deals. He has not told us where he stands on Vallas and the BOE but based on everything else I have to believe he supports privatization. And he will not tell us how BB2CW will select candidates for endorsement.
If BB2CW wants to be more OAT driven them please fill in the blanks.
Bob,
You obviously have not done your homework. Several of the assertions you make regarding my views are factually wrong and inconsistent with what I have said on this blog and in many other published forums. I am a political independent who is fiscally conservative and a social moderate. I promote progress over partisanship and results over rhetoric. I do not have time to debate people on this blog who don’t do their homework and just want to cause trouble and preserve the status quo. Please do your homework next time. I am widely published and quoted.
Questioning you is equated to causing trouble? The status quo?
Are you the sole decider of who does and doesn’t do their homework? Because you are “widely published and quoted” you are the expert?
Wow! Sounds a bit pompous and bloviating to me.
David,
jakedog, another barker who likes to jump in to a fight he creates, follows. It is pretty clear he and Bob Walsh have missed your comments on “restructuring” of City obligations … and that can take many forms.
Happy to see Bob supporting OATs. Perhaps you might suggest to him when certain decisions are reached, they will be communicated.
Maybe jakedog would like to tell us if there is anyone in Bridgeport at this time who may have similar expertise to you on budgetary and balance sheet issues. Maybe jakedog is part of the City effort to maintain the status quo by character assassination. Time will tell.
YOU ARE the Great Oz.
Bob Walsh, I am in total agreement with your comments about David Walker and Bob Walsh. Bob, tell who this sounds like:
OUR MISSION
The mission is to restore America’s founding principles of Fiscal Responsibility, Constitutionally Limited Government and Free Markets.
OUR CORE PRINCIPLES
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY means not overspending, and not burdening our children and grandchildren with our bills. In the words of Thomas Jefferson: “the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity [is] swindling futurity on a large scale.” A more fiscally responsible government will take fewer taxes from our paychecks.
Those are the views of The Tea Party Patriots, now doesn’t that sound like Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport?
Ron,
Compare your Tea Party excerpt above to the full set of principles and values of CW4BB. There is little overlap. In addition, the Tea Party is highly ideological, anti-government and dominated by one political party. Such is not the case with CW4BB or me personally. I’ll let my record speak for itself.
I support the ‘No Labels’ direction of this new group. If you want to run for elective office, the first threshold should be your ethical backbone. Then the electorate will be able to decide on the specific stance on issues, be it education, taxes, economic development et al. Bridgeport is in dire need of strong ethical representation. My check is already in the mail.
Countdown,
Thanks for you kind comment and support. As you may know, I am one of the national co-founders of No Labels and one the three co-chairs for CT.
I think it is great some bloggers are able to change their handle on a regular basis and I made a request and it was denied. Very very curious. I am just saying.
Change your e-mail first and you should have no problem. The problem may be you used the same e-mail address you used when registering under Steven Auerbach. I’m sure Lennie understands sometimes people would like to post without their true identity being revealed.
I was going to change my handle to Leoj Zelaznog to express the direction the city is going.
Steve, bloggers are not able to change their handle on a regular basis. We are encouraging folks to post under their given name and not a handle. It enhances the conversation. Only under rare circumstances do we allow multiple handles. Steve, we appreciate your insights on OIB and hope you will continue to do so.
Lennie,
Why should anyone be able to have multiple handles? I agree people should be encouraged to use their real name while some may not be able to if they are City or BOE employees. In my view, others should be required to use their own name.
That’s a crock, Lennie. You know it and so do I. Lennie doesn’t like to be in the middle of a pissing contest with inductive politicians and their constituents. So rather than growing bigger balls, Lennie goes weak kneed and gives in.
Troll, did you take your meds today? You’re upset because I deleted a handle of yours you used recklessly. If you want to make an offer to purchase OIB and become publisher and owner of this site, I’m all ears. Or you can start your own site, if you’d like.
Lennie, what monetary value would you say OIB is worth? It’s priceless to me!
Of course I will continue to do so. Ray has already responded and I only wanted the handle to play devil’s advocate. I stand behind everything I say and most people know my style as I know theirs, which is why I made the comment. Joel, I have three screen names but in the end, MY RANTINGS ARE EASY TO DISTINGUISH. I AM ACTUALLY HAPPY ABOUT THAT AND HAVE NEVER USED AN ALIAS. I THOUGHT I’D TRY BUT ALAS RAY SAID NAY AND I SAID OK. LOL.
It’s a horse, not a zebra.
Jakedog,
My comment about Ron needing to do his homework related to his assertions regarding my views. Yes, I am the expert on my views. I assume you are the expert on yours as well.
I am, why thank you!
Rumor Mill:
After conquering the blogosphere in Bridgeport, Lennie aims to overpower the “pizzasphere” starting with the aptly named Grimaldi’s Pizzeria located under the Brooklyn Bridge.
www .grimaldis.com
Bridgeport is full of people who love to snipe at those who are brave enough to actually do something to effect some change here. I applaud any group of residents who get together and develop a set of guiding principles that benefit all, not just their niche. We must get the right people elected to make the hard choices to put Bridgeport back on track.
There was talk about potential problems with the CW4BB group choosing between multiple party candidates who come forward willing to embrace the core values. As with any PAC (or political party in the primary stage), you start with the basic pledge and then vet the candidates until the majority of the group can put their support behind the candidate who BEST represents them and has the BEST chance to win. Why is that so bad, as it has worked that way in almost every facet of society?
We need ethical, smart people who can make the tough choices to get into office. Black, brown, white, purple, I don’t care. Progressive, conservative, I don’t care. I do care they put the city and the residents first. I am sure we can ALL agree many in the past have not done that.
Joe Larcheveque,
Very well said. Thanks.
For those concerned about whether Paul Vallas will be able to put food on his table. He can run for Mayor. The Republicans will finally have a candidate they can believe in. Finch cannot talk against him as he is one of his most staunch supporters. He could even run for Governor. Everyone knows Vallas has political aspirations in Illinois and more specifically Chicago. I am certain Mitt Romney could come to town and speak on his behalf as a favor to David Walker, not as though that could help. It is just a thought. Paul Vallas could not only be Mayor Finch’s knight on a white horse, he could be the savior of the Republican party. OMG CAN YOU STAND IT! I can’t. Lolol
Steven,
Wake up. You’re dreaming again.
Lol … snap out of it! Thanks David, I needed that … it’s the heat.
That will depend whether or not Walker will support him before he was against him.
Ha ha ha … I got that Romnyism.
So how do you propose to lower the national debt, Mr. Walker? Would it involve cutting worker wages, Social Security and Medicare?
www .youtube.com/watch?v=ASOJ81vGHUY
Sue,
We don’t need to lower the national debt but we do need to reduce debt/GDP to a reasonable and sustainable level over about a 10-15 year period. Read my book Comeback America, which was on the national Best Seller list. It has lots of ideas how to get there in an effective, equitable, compassionate and sustainable manner.
Is your book in the local libraries? Can you give us a sneak peek? Does it involve breaking the unions, taking away collective bargaining and screwing the middle class even more?
jakedog,
The updated paperback version came out in 10/10. It should be in the library and you can buy it online at a very reasonable and discounted price. Finally, the answer to all of your other specific questions is “No.”
Somebody else will feel the pain. You can bet it won’t be Walker or Pete Peterson who funds him.
Dave, you should not let people know you supported Mitt Romney, like a badge of courage. The fact you believed he was a credible candidate gives those of us who saw him as a cartoon character a skewed picture of your intentions and belief system.
Steven,
What do you mean? I haven’t made a big deal about it and I’m not the one who raised it. I did endorse Romney late for his leadership abilities. I also endorsed Jim Himes for Congress.
Dave, if I had your impressive credentials, I would not write on Wikipedia that you supported Romney. It’s like a lead weight around your head. I would leave that out of my dossier. It had to be important enough to put on your biography. I still can not believe that out of a moment of insanity I had the complete stupidity to vote for McCain and Palin. All because Hillary lost. We all make mistakes. I thank G-d everyday a dinosaur and an ignorant woman lost.
Steve,
For those of us who saw Mitt as the only credible candidate and the only one of the two who could LEAD us out of the financial mess we are in, you have clarified your intentions and belief system, which appears to be one that does not willingly take in all views and opinions.
As for the cartoon character in the White House, how’s that hope and change working out so far?
Joe Larcheveque. I am proud of Obama. You have three more miserable years since your man with the magic underwear lost. If I watched Fox News for its newsworthy content I might agree with you. Hope and Change? I do not vote based on campaign slogans. Better you look at the Republicans. I believe their ratings make Obama look like a Rock Star. Thank G-d for the youth of America. That should keep the Republicans away from the White House. Sorry, Joe Larcheveque. The more Republicans talk the deeper they bury themselves. Good luck, though. Rick Perry just might run again as well as Rick Santorum. That fills my heart with joy, you?
Wow! Read this … people get it.
Time to move on from Vallas term
www .ctpost.com/news/article/Time-to-move-on-from-Vallas-term-4652828.php
Hi Steven,
Regarding your comment about Mitt Romney, just let me say the following: He had my full support, I saw a man who built companies (Staples), actually turned the Olympics around to produce a profit, was governor of one of the most liberal states and reached across the aisle to get things done. In my previous career, I did work with his company Bain, they were a very good organization, did great work and made profits (I know many of you think profits are evil, but try saying that after you stop complaining and make some). In the White House I see a supposed Community Organizer, who walked into office via the liberal media pumping him up, he had no business experience (that is obvious), and his health care plan is falling apart (thank God). The only thing he had going for him was he had a really good teleprompter.
Marc Delmonico, the name of game is to get ONE more vote than your opponent. Your guy ran a terrible campaign so get over it, your guy lost and my guy won. But then again there is always 2016 for “Mister 40% of the people” Mitt.
Ron, yes … your guy won, we all lost.
Marc Delmonico, like I said, there is always 2016 for “Mister 40% of the people” Mitt.
I will now wait by my mailbox for my letter from the IRS requesting an audit.
Yes, an audit … Just another pathetic Republican Fox news story that proved to be a lie as both Republicans and Democrats have been audited. It is so nice to see Republicans standing up for each other. I supported the first woman mayor in this city. My friend Mary Chapar Moran. That was pretty much the last time I supported a Republican. I even gave up on Chris Shays simply because he was a Republican. Sad? No … we all have an agenda in the end. But keep on keeping on. The Democrats do not get my vote by default. Put forward a candidate I respect, I listen. The Republican platform is pathetic and that is not changing anytime soon. So there you have it, Marc Delmonico, when you realize the youth, Hispanic and African American communities need to be embraced as well as those homosexuals, you know, them! Even the bible belt is changing. It will take the Republicans at least 3 presidential cycles to change. As long as you celebrate RUSH LIMBAUGH, RICK SANTORUM AND FOX NEWS I THINK IT’S CLEAR ANY MONEY CONTRIBUTED TO THE REPUBLICAN PARTY IS JUST A WASTE. THANK YOU FOR ASKING FOR MY TAKE.
It’s hot as Hades out there, Marc. Bring beer. It does a body good. 🙂
Steven,
A bit defensive, are we? Obviously you are painting all Republicans with your narrow-minded brush. Did I say anything about minorities or homosexuals? We are talking about two men and their capabilities. I guess you did not have any comeback on Obama’s resume, so you resorted to bringing up your saving graces of racism and discrimination when you cannot win with ideas. You fall back on the usual screams of the liberals, if initiative, freedom, success and hard work are something you are against, then keep voting as you do.
Marc, a comeback on Obama’s Resume … are you kidding me? The man is the President of these United States. I am not part of the party that had attempted to make him a one-term president. The Republican party and its leadership has made us a laughing stock. I do not need to detail Obama’s accomplishments except to say that at 55 I am no longer part of the youth who support the ideals of the Democrats. Healthcare, military, bailouts, auto industry, DOMA etc. Obama may be an ignorant sharecropper in the eyes of the Republican party, but will most likely go down in history as one of the most progressive presidents this country has ever seen and I’m thinking you ain’t seen nothing yet. Innately not defensive. My man won. I can spend the next 3 years criticizing him and agree with you. I will not play into the hands of the disgruntled especially when they receive an autopsy report and still have no desire to change. Yes Marc, until I hear local Republicans speaking out for change in their party, you are all the same.
Steve,
You complain about Fox but it sounds like you get a nice paycheck from (P)MSNBC!
You claim you would listen to a Republican you liked but in the very next breath deem the entire platform pathetic. Sounds like you dove into the Kool-Aid.
I hope I would be that rare Republican you might tolerate! I actually agree with many of your points and believe it or not, so do many Conservatives when it comes to social matters.
When it comes to my wealth, my health, and the future of my kids, I don’t want the party that thinks every day is April 15th around to continue to steal from my pockets.
Next time you’re getting indoctrinated by Reverend Al or Chris Matthews, take a break and look around. I don’t like slogans either, but there’s a president out there who’s come up with a whole slew of them, and we ain’t exactly moving FORWARD. I just HOPE I have some CHANGE by the time the youth and minorities realize they aren’t better off with the handouts, just growing dependent on someone else’s dime.
Joe Larcheveque, what makes you think I hate Republicans? I look forward to meeting my Republican friends every week for spirited conversation. I watch Fox, BBC, MSNBC, CNN and CNBC. I LOVE POLITICS. I can tolerate my redneck religious friends. Why not you? I was almost a fan of Chris Christie, but …
These guys are spouting the usual tea party crap and I am sure Mr. Delmonico thinks minimum wage laws are stealing. Bet these guys like debtors’ prisons … we know Mr. Walker has waxed nostalgic about them.
But what? Christie has done good things and he leans quite left for an evil Republican. You claim to be open but like a true lib, you attack by calling me intolerant instead of debating the issues. I love rednecks and never gave any indication to my religious leanings (I have lots of ecumenical pals).
I commend everyone who takes the time to post on OIB, even if I don’t agree.
I am a life-long Bridgeport resident. Grew up on the East Side and now live in Black Rock. I am glad to see others express the frustration of seeing this city falter under machine politics and leaderless politicians.
I actually like Christie. He has done well in a very blue state. His personality and chutzpah is my attraction. Unfortunately, He would fare better as an independent as the mainstream Republicans would not support him. Where did he lose me? Follow very carefully. The house and Senate passed marriage equality in a state that supports it by an overwhelming 65 percent. He opted to veto. When DOMA was struck down he could have kept silent but had to make his disgust well documented. He stated he was a Roman Catholic and his personal belief. I respect his personal belief but I do not support the Roman Catholic church and when given the opportunity to sign a bill he opted for a veto and stated he would do that again. Now so we understand each other, it is not difficult for New York, CT, Rhode Island, Maryland etc. to perform the marriage. It is clear New Jersey will be passing it within the next 90 days but it will not be with his leadership. That being said, I am not listening to him and hope Clinton decides to run. I refuse to support any candidates whose basic ideology goes against my belief system of equality for all. He wants a referendum. It will definitely pass. Why would anyone put that on a referendum where it becomes a religious issue at the expense of equal rights? That would be as ridiculous as you asking me about prayer in school. I am a Jew and I believe in the separation of church and state. I am repulsed when religion becomes part of the dialogue.
Ron Mackey,
Sorry I haven’t posted in a while. I’ve been busy doing my homework.
I looked up BB4CW’s website; both their .org and Facebook page.
Nowhere does it lay out the process to seek their endorsement and monetary support.
Nowhere does it provide a deadline for filing.
Nowhere does it explain how the endorsement process works.
Nowhere does it say who actually will be involved in determining the endorsement or the monetary support.
Nowhere does it say if this will be the result of its general membership. And of course,
Nowhere does it talk about how to become a member.
Homework is a lot of work.
Now obviously I am stupid. I do not know anything about politics and endorsements.
Oh, wait a minute. I have probably filled out more endorsement questionnaires than Mr. Walker has for myself or other candidates I have worked for.
I’d better go do more homework …
Bob,
Don’t fret, Bob. We reach out to candidates and they reach out to us. We have published our criteria and advised people of how to contact us. We are not a political party and don’t operate like one. By the way, major political parties don’t typically publish their multi-page candidate evaluation questionnaires. You are making much ado about nothing. I respectfully suggest you engage in something positive, constructive and results-oriented with your time.
Walker, you got put in your place by someone who has forgotten more about politics and public affairs in B’port than you will ever know. You are a legend in you own mind.
Bob: Here is the link to contact: The name of the group is CW4BB (btw) not BB4CW.
betterbridgeport.org/contact-us/
Here is the link to what we hope to find in candidates and what we would like to see happen:
betterbridgeport.org/2013/06/24/citizens-action-group-cw4bb-is-looking-to-identify-and-support-candidates-for-city-council/
There is no “membership process.” If you want to be involved, contact David or Phil:
betterbridgeport.org/contact-us/
The group just formed a PAC last week. It’s going to take a minute to iron out kinks and form formal processes. If you want to help with that we would be glad to accept your help and recognize your expertise in Bridgeport. Please use the link to contact the group.
You used the word endorsement, we did not. Support is the operative verb we are using and that means time resources and money. Hence, the decision to form a PAC to raise money.
We are just trying to make a difference in Bridgeport and I for one find it odd and a little perplexing we are running up against resistance from those who also want to see change.
Bond Girl, why would anyone want to join, because of David Walker’s name? Tell me why and what kind of record does anyone who is a member has?
Ron,
People join because they are fed up with the status quo in Bridgeport and they agree with CW4BB’s mission. My name is irrelevant and I’m not the Chairman of the PAC in any event. We don’t have any people with criminal records. That is more than you can say for many other organizations in Bridgeport. We also have people with varying political affiliations and with professional, political and community experience. Feel free to become involved if you want. You do, however, need to be more constructive and results-oriented if you want to make a difference.
Ron:
What if the members are just a bunch of hairdressers from Bridgeport, or a bunch of students from UB or Housatonic? Does that diminish the fact there are people willing to stand up for change? What if involved folks have a record of raising children who have integrity and taking care of elderly parents because it’s the right thing to do? That is not good enough?
Bond Girl, so as long as they don’t have a criminal record?
Bob Walsh, I agree with you totally, all one has to do is to look at their website. This group is like the other committee Walker help co-found, No Labels. No Labels is a group of Republicans, Democrats and Independents who want our country to work again. Our dozen proposals to Make Congress Work! mostly don’t require new laws or new spending, and they don’t favor any party or particular cause. These are simple, straightforward proposals to break gridlock, promote constructive discussion and reduce polarization in Congress.–See more at: www .nolabels.org/work
CW4BB is just another launching pad for a draft David Walker for whatever.
Considering US presidents appoint Walker to “whatever” I doubt he needs anything or anyone in Bridgeport to launch him into anything–so do you not know anyone who simply wants to do the right thing because it feels good to help others?
Black Rock Barb, “US presidents appoint Walker to “whatever,” that’s my point, he was given something, he has never been tested and elected by the voters. It doesn’t make him a bad person but he is a “self-serving person.” Remember Jim Jones, the public loved him and he got a number of appointments, Walker is NOT trying to kill anyone but check the “kool-aid.”
Earned should not be confused with given. Vetted, endorsed, voted on by congress based on his experience does not equal given. Multiple appointments by different presidents of different political affiliations–and that makes him self-serving in your opinion? Geeze …
So because he is famous Bridgeport should feel lucky to have him? People like Walker don’t do things to help people unless they are of his socio-economic class … like well-off. This guy is anti-union … wants to increase the social security age and wants to get rid of pensions for public employees just like has been done in the private sector. You know who benefits from that … people who want to keep wages down. That may be helping others … others with 7 or more figure incomes.
And I can think of all sorts of people who were appointed by Presidents who I wouldn’t trust to walk my dog if I had one.
Black Rock Barb, let’s try this once again. Walker wants to be a player in Bridgeport politics but he has NO record of being a candidate for any elected office. Trust me, Walker DOES want to run for political office here but he needs you and others from CW4BB to say please Dave run and save us. Don’t drink the KOOL-AID.
Way to go, Troll. I can’t believe Walker had the gall to make that comment. Even for him that was beyond common decency.
BRG,
Said by someone who will never be asked by any President to do anything. You are truly a sad and bitter person based on your comments and attitude on this blog. I feel sorry for you.
Dang, there is some sh*t going down on this blog. I went through three jiffy pops over the last two days reading it. Beats the hell out of watching the Jaws marathon I originally had planned to do. Lennie, it appears “We are gonna need a bigger blog!”
Wow Ron. Really?
Bond Girl, what are you referring to?
It just seemed kind of funny when I asked about “common folk” in the group, you responded with a remark about criminal records.
I am sure you did not mean to imply hairdressers or students are more likely to have criminal records, but it struck me as such, at first.
BRG, I will not come between you and your minimum wage of $7.80 in Arizona. I have a suggestion for you. Instead of always criticizing people’s efforts, I have not seen one idea or thought come from you on this blog. First, put your real name on the blog, try using your brain once, and post an idea, then defend it. I am sure we will be waiting a long time. Your jealousy of people who have accomplished something is so apparent. I guess that’s why you are so worried about the minimum wage.
Actually, my name has been posted. The only thing you have advocated is you don’t think you should have to pay taxes and you hate the govt. I have no jealousy of you, Delmonico. How is supporting a higher minimum wage being jealous of people “who have accomplished something.” All you have done on this thread is bash liberals.
Until yesterday never saw YOUR name on this blog. Are you posting under another name? If you are a member of CW4BB then myself and others have been correct, Walker is using this to make B’port a guinea pig for privatization of local services. Because so far what I have seen from many of the people in this organization is they hold anyone who isn’t supporting them or worshiping Dave Walker aka the Incredible Ego.
Bond Girl, the State of Connecticut has a law about hiring those with criminal records, US military allow those with criminal records to fight and serve America but not for CW44B. No second chances with CW4BB, hey, that’s way you flow.
Ron: What do you know about the way this group flows? You have never even asked to be involved. How funny you would not want to obtain first-hand facts, when you demand it of everyone else who states a position on this blog.
We are here with open arms if you want to be involved. Just use the contact information.
Bond Girl, come on now, just read my last post, you are selective on who can be a part of your group.
So Ron, you have been invited to join, but you hesitate. Groucho Marx syndrome? You do not want to join a club that would welcome you as a member? It was simply stated no members have criminal records–saw nothing about excluding anyone. Even those who run for office and never manage to win an election …
Seems like Mr. Delmonico is quite active with the local tea party. Interesting that he had a major role in a tea party event downtown whose main speaker was Ann Coulter who is well known for making offensive remarks. I am not a fan of John Slater but I can’t picture him at an event featuring the likes of Ann Coulter.
For your reading pleasure:
www .newstimes.com/local/article/Bridgeport-tea-party-protest-draws-crowd-despite-34405.php
and here is a video of citizens being threatened by attendees of Delmonico’s rally:
www .youtube.com/watch?v=1UKIeLfOYiA
BlackRockGuy … Ann Coulter is an annoying piece of crap. A regular news contributor and a self-loathing closet lesbian. She is reviled by Democrats and Libertarians. I SAY LET HER KEEP TALKING. SHE MAKES THE KU KLUX KLAN SEEM LIKE A DELIGHTFUL GROUP TO JOIN. FOX NEWS AND SEAN HANNITY HAVE MADE HER RICH SELLING HER RIDICULOUS IDEAS TO MORONS BUT SHE IS NOT ONE TO FEAR. ONLY THE TEA PARTY AND OTHER IDIOTS FOLLOW HER.
I agree with you completely, Steve. In fact having seen old footage of Uncle Miltie in drag, she makes him look like Miss American. But the problem is the tea party runs on ignorance and she fuels it. People like Bob Dole are conservatives but people you can disagree with and at some level still respect and sometimes even have common ground with. The tea party agenda is something else, something irrational and in a perfect world not even worth paying attention to.
BRG, I cannot agree with you there. I believe everything I said about Ann Coulter, but comparing her to Uncle Miltie? Ann Coulter is a Fox as well as being a poster child for Fox news.
Uncle Miltie certainly was more feminine than her when in character. And Steve, you know as one of your fellow landsmen I respect you but unless you are referring to the four-legged kind of fox, you may need to see a good ophthalmologist. 🙂
Didn’t see the part after “a fox” though I stand by my remarks even though they are not entirely relevant. She certainly is the poster child for Fox news and much as you and I may laugh at the absurd misinformation, many people believe that garbage. And my apology to the late Uncle Miltie. It was insulting to mention him in the same paragraph as the hideous Ms., well you know who I am talking about.
Hey Ron,
I will go steal a cookie at Harborview, and then I will attend the next meeting. If they let me in, I will let you know. Stay tuned!
Marc, that won’t do, you must get arrested, then go to court and be found guilty, after you have done that then you will have a “criminal record.”
Are the cookies at Harborview that good?
YES!
I’ve heard everything at Harborview is very good.
KBM: you have no idea. 🙂
Black Rock Barb, of the thing I have read about CW4BB, there is nothing about them that would make me want to join and to take an unknown pledge to a group I know nothing about.
Ron,
Not for nothing but having sat through more meetings of one kind or another here in the City during the past five years, I have not had a chance to meet you and shake your hand so I can place a face with the numerous ideas you have written.
City Council, sub-committee meetings especially B&A, budget hearings, Fire Commission, Pension Plan A, BOE, Charter Review, CONNECT and even some meetings where I have spoken at Library events on Budget Oversight or Fiscal state of City … I even attended some CW4BB events. They did not ask me to take a pledge (known or unknown) and I got to know people by hearing them talk, asking questions, and relating it to my past knowledge and experience. To my mind that is what is going on.
Several years ago Fardy and I started writing on the state of our financial process. This morning Brian Lockhart of the CT Post wrote an article with the B&A studying the situation they find themselves in: They do not always get the info from the City in complete form; it is not timely; CC are not full time nor are they trained to provide oversight of budgets … and they have not; they have not proactively looked for best practices on their junkets; (and they do not tell you how their stipends are spent;) and it may be they are doing some pre-election damage control with Brian Lockhart to duck the red face they showed when asked why they approved $3 Million of Capital authorized for the City at the Airport? last fall with no details. My goodness, how could that have happened? It happens because that is the way it runs in the City. No difference month to month … But appearances are important, so let’s see what action happens right away. Time will tell.
John Marshall Lee, not for nothing I have sat through some of the same meetings of one kind or another here in the City during the early 1990s when I was on the DTC from the 131st District. I would sit and watch City Council meetings to the very end and saw first hand how nothing was discussed. The DTC Chairman was Brian Williams and then Mario Testa and it was there I saw how people were controlled. Two people pulled my coat to what was going on, Mary Bruce and Chris Caruso. JML, I said all of that to say CW4BB will not change a thing.
Ron,
The truth is that bad things will happen if good people continue to do nothing. Ignorance and apathy are a toxic mix. CW4BB is trying to change things and will make a difference over time. Blogging by itself does little to change things. It takes boots on the ground and people to get in the face of the key players. It also takes time, money and effort. You need to exhibit patience, persistence, perseverance and endure some pain before you can prevail in connection with achieving tough transformational changes. I know first hand based on my 40 years of public, private and non-profit sector experience.
David Walker, on this point I agree.
Steven,
Come to Harborview, I will steal you a cookie even though you voted for Obama.
Thank you, Marc.
Steve,
Since you based your response solely on Christie’s actions on social issues, I see that is where your passion lies, and I appreciate your position. I am passionate too, about the fiscal and ethical decline of our city.
The principles set forth by CW4BB do not take any sides on the social agenda. The CW4BB is simply looking for people of any background, party affiliation, etc. who vow to take the office in good faith and put the welfare of the city and their constituents first, understand the charter and abide by the basic principles of good governance, and speak out against the sweetheart deals and flagrant ethical violations that take place on an almost daily basis here. I am not sure exactly where you are reading between the lines to come up with anything other than that.
I am sure as the group progresses, the website and other social media outlets will populate with the information you will need to make a fair-minded decision on the group’s value.
In the meantime, stop assuming since you can’t find the info you want at this time, the group’s agenda must be wrong.
Joe Larcheveque, did I give the impression I did not support the efforts of David Walker? I have fought my agenda and succeeded. I have always been sensitive to social issues way before Marriage equality. I am also a fiscal conservative but not at the expense of other human beings. I want to meet and support a moderate conservative who understands woman’s rights, religion and gay marriage are a losing battle.
To that, we agree. Well said.
*** CW4BB, please be sure your group covers all races, ethic backgrounds, gay or straight, religious or atheist, all political parties and citizens or illegals so you won’t be labeled a racist group, etc. by those who either oppose change or have nothing better to do! *** LORD HELP US ***