The political action group Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport on Thursday issued endorsements for five citywide school board seats and selected City Council districts. The group endorsed for Board of Education Democrats Andre Baker, Howard Gardner and Dave Hennessey and Republicans Joe Larcheveque and Steve Best. Baker’s name will also appear on the Connecticut Working Families Party line.
The community group also endorsed in City Council races Republicans Phil Blagys and Rick Torres in the 130th District; petitioning candidate Ralph Mojica in the 131st District; Democrats Bob Halstead and Trish Swain in the 132nd District; and Democrat Michele Lyons in the 134th District.
News release from CW4BB
The above candidates satisfactorily completed the CW4BB questionnaire and were interviewed by representatives of the group. The endorsement reflects CW4BB’s belief that these individuals are qualified, not conflicted, and are committed to serve the best interests of taxpayers (both BOE and the Council) and our children (BOE). These candidates also support the key governance principles outlined by CW4BB.
CW4BB had previously endorsed candidates from District 137, Maria Valle and Aidee Nieves, who did, in fact, win the voting machine tally for their district in the primary, but were defeated by the challengers Lydia Martinez and Milta Feliciano via absentee ballots and a voting machine malfunction, respectively. Numerous complaints, including one by CW4BB, have been filed regarding various irregularities in the District 137 primary election. If Valle and/or Nieves prevail in their appeal effort and are deemed to be the victors in the primary election, CW4BB will endorse then in the general election.
The list of endorsement choices includes candidates from all over the City, and is nonpartisan in nature. Other candidates were considered as well, but some of them did not meet the deadline date provided by CW4BB for completion of the required questionnaires and/or being subject to an interview. Of particular note is the fact that CW4BB has chosen to endorse five candidates for BOE as there are five Board of Education seats that need to be filled in this election. We will leave it to individual voters to decide which three of the five endorsed candidates to vote for.
CW4BB will provide financial and other support to endorsed candidates consistent with applicable legal limits. We expect to hold a public forum for general election candidates in the very near future.
“We are thrilled with the choices that we have made for the general election. We feel that these candidates not only have the best interests of the taxpayers and children of Bridgeport at heart, but they are qualified candidates who represent the principles that CW4BB stands for as well as the non-partisan structure of our organization” by Gabrielle Parisi, Chair.
“CW4BB’s endorsements are based on the credentials and character of the individuals involved irrespective of their political affiliation. These endorsed candidates have the ability to make Bridgeport a better place for all of us. They deserve our support.” by Dave Walker, Treasurer.
Now that Citizens Working For A Better Bridgeport today issued endorsements for the City Council race of Republican Rick Torres in the 130th District; I would like for CW4BB and Republican Rick Torres to address the issue and the comment from Rick Torres. There is NO way Rick Torres should hold any political office in Bridgeport with the views he has about blacks. It is obvious the CW4BB questionnaire and interviews by representatives of the group is flawed. How can you respect CW4BB if they don’t question a candidate with views like Torres has about blacks and his “ministry” which he’s calling “I am black inside.”
This is from “Only In Bridgeport.” Now you tell me.
Bepo In The Know // Jul 15, 2013 at 11:08 pm
Torres got a little wacky a couple of weeks ago when he announced his new “ministry” which he’s calling “I am black inside” expressing his “solidarity with the black man and belief that black people are held down by Government.” Kind of self-centered and condescending if you ask me.
Rick Torres // Jul 17, 2013 at 9:29 am
Ron, I grew up in the Evergreen Garden Apartments (now Stop n Shop in Black Rock). By the grace of God I have a very good Biology degree from Wash U. in St. Louis. That degree allows me to state unequivocally that Blacks and Whites are for the most part statistically genetically identical on the inside. The outside, our skin and hair, that is different and there are good adaptation reasons for those differences. However, Blacks fail miserably relative to Whites. Example: 5X the number in jail. 20X the dropout rates.
So, if we are genetically identical, then what’s the problem? I wanted to know. My ministry answers that question and I share it with pastors who are interested in hearing my conclusions.
Ron:
Here is a simple suggestion to help you in your personal struggle, which incidentally resulted in a subjective perception regarding the meaning of Rick Torres’ above-referenced statement: Exercise your right NOT to vote for him if you live in Black Rock. If you don’t live in Black Rock, you are all set, right?
To quote BEPO In The Know is not lending enhanced credibility to your pursuit, whatever that may be. Quote below:
In that case, all BEPO was doing was giving a personal opinion. She is entitled to feel that way, and to post that. If you agree with that opinion, fine. But that quote was not, and is not gospel. It’s an opinion, spun by a personal interpretation.
It is my opinion you have interpreted Torres’ words in such a manner that offended you. It also appears you interpreted his explanation of his comment in response to your loudly vocalized objection in a manner that also offended you.
Tell me, what can CW4BB, Rick or anyone else do to affect your interpretations? Not much, is my guess.
Bond Girl, this is real simple. What does Rick Torres mean, do you agree with what he is saying and why won’t he come forward and tell us all what he means? I don’t live in the 130th district but I have every right to go into that district and let my family and friends know what Torres’ views of blacks are and let them make a decision.
Bond Girl, for real, you have no problem with Torres’ viewpoint on blacks?
Lennie, can you share any information about Torres’ views on blacks?
Again Ron, I understand you are a big strong fireman, there is no need to fear me. Call me, set up a large meeting with like-minded folks to really tear me up. 203-610-4724.
Rick Torres, being a fireman is something I did, being black is what I am. Rick, you are a politician who has been involved with politics for a long time and who has run for a number of elected positions. As such your comments and views are open to the public just like the comments and views of Mitt Romney, “There are 47 percent of the people who will vote for the president no matter what. All right, there are 47 percent who are with him, who are dependent upon government, who believe that they are victims, who believe the government has a responsibility to care for them, who believe that they are entitled to health care, to food, to housing, to you-name-it. … My job is not to worry about those people. I’ll never convince them they should take personal responsibility and care for their lives.” That comment by the Republican Presidential candidate was heard and a value was placed on his comment. Rick Torres, you are no different, your comment and views about blacks need to be judged by the voters and not you talking to me on the phone.
I find it absolutely fascinating Ron thinks his opinion is all-pervasive.
Loading up the popcorn popper!
Mustang Sally, to the contrary, my opinions are not all-pervasive, but they are my opinions.
Ron, you a coward; you can only exist on forums like this where you can’t look at a person in the eyes. Shame on you and your cohort Madeline Dennis. The two of you could not exist in a real forum. Cowards. If either of you develop a spine, please call me. I want to speak to you man to man, not on the phone!
Here’s something to chew on: Our opinions become fixed at the point where we stop thinking.–Ernest Renan
Ron, I am sure Rick would welcome a face-to-face sit-down with you to discuss any concerns and questions you have. I know he has spoken at one or more black churches about his ministry and was well received and supported by the pastor and the congregation. They too were like you before they heard him speak, what the heck is this crazy talk about? Give him a chance before you judge him by others’ opinions.
Jennifer Buchanan, I have no issue with you. I am a member of Mount Aery Baptist on 73 Frank Street that has the largest number of blacks attending church in Bridgeport, so Jennifer Buchanan, instead of talking with me, Mr. Torres should see if he can speak at Mt. Aery Baptist and talk about his ministry there.
Ron, I have no issue with you either! Always happy to see things from your perspective–helps me understand other points of view. However, in this particular case you seem to have the problem with Rick–and if he cannot get on the speakers list before the election you are doing both yourself and Rick a disservice. In my humble opinion, but I could be wrong. Rick is open to communication, learning, understanding and finding solutions to issues and misunderstandings–hope you are also.
According to anthropologists, mankind originated in Africa. Genetically, I, you and Rick Torres are all the same. Are
you implying some are more evolved than others?
Ron, I’m sorry you wish to characterize me as you do. I guess one option I have is to respond in kind. I will not. If you wish to meet with me to ask and understand my views that would be fine. I am available at a moment’s notice. My phone number is 203-610-4724. Please call me to help get things straight. If you do this then you could speak with real knowledge as to what I believe. This act will help give your opinions on this matter some credibility.
Ron: This is real simple, I did not interpret his comment the same way you did.
You appear to need the comment to mean something it does not mean to me. I took it as Rick trying to build bridges and make a statement the color of our skins, no matter what they are, means nothing. We are all intelligent, worthy and have inalienable rights, as citizens and as human beings. In that light, no, I have no problem with his view on blacks, because in my interpretation he was trying to level the playing field, not divide it.
If you wish to invest time in trying to create a lynch mob with your contacts in Black Rock that will potentially affect Torres favored voting turnout, in a district you don’t even live in, who am I to try to stop you? What I choose not to invest my time in, is trying to figure out why, or change the opinion you apparently need to have regarding Rick.
I just cannot believe “Bond Girl” accused a black man of starting a “lynch mob!” LOL.–Madeline Dennis.
Madeline, you are trying to make a racist of Bond Girl, why? What right do you have to twist words like that? Can you explain your end game?
DO NOT come back with the usual “get a sense of humor” bullshit you hide behind when you don’t know what else to say.
You are out of line, and I for one am sick to death of defending you.
Sally, I did NOT twist words. Bond Girl actually accused Ron of starting a “lynch mob.” It’s right there a few lines up.
By the way, I never asked you to defend me.
Bond Girl, a lynch mob? Really? The 130th district is more than Black Rock, it also consists of those who live in PT Barnum Apartments, an area I’m sure you do not visit or stop by to visit someone.
Ron, chill out! I do not think Rick Torres has a mean bone in his body. I would be more concerned about his political views regarding Bridgeport and his district. The president of the United States is black. He is the most powerful leader in the world. Do you really need to dwell on Rick’s strange ideology? It is not like he is trying to get votes by implying black people are an inferior race. I think Rick in his own way is attempting to elevate black people although I do agree with you it is hard to understand why he even has an interest in this. It is strange. I’d focus on his platform. When I first heard about this ministry, I too thought it was disturbing. Ron, to be honest I am certain most people find it disturbing. You are not alone. It is the kind of gaffe the opposition can only dream about. I do not think his belief is harmful.
Anyone who makes cookies that taste like love cannot be all bad, right? I think it’s about time you wandered down here so we can catch up–unless you have cookies worth stealing where you live!
🙂
Steven Auerbach, I agree with a lot of what you wrote but as a black man this bothers me and I’m sure you can understand that. To me it’s important. I don’t expect everyone to agree with me but respect my concern, those who seek people to vote for them must be able to answer questions concerning things they say.
*** The possibility of a small-sized “dangerous” high-caliber shooting range in a busy commercial, industry/residential zoning area that has heavy children, citizens and motor vehicle traffic is a perfect issue for all the new challenge-slate candidates to get behind in opposing this “accident waiting to happen” foolish waste of money on a P/D leased building! *** NEED LOTS MORE INFO. ***
*** Also if Rick Torres feels black on the inside and is looking to build some political personal bridges along the way, “why not?” *** TO BUILD IS BETTER THAN TO DESTROY, NO? ***
Like button, Mojo!
*** THANK YOU FOR THE POLITICAL ENDORSEMENT, CW4BB. I HOPE TO MAKE THEM SWEAT EVEN THOUGH I REALLY DON’T HAVE A PUNCHER’S CHANCE AGAINST THE DEM T/C MACHINE. HOWEVER IF THIS CAMPAIGN CAN BRING BETTER TRUTHFUL CITY GOVERNMENT AWARENESS TO THE VOTERS OF BPT AND MAKE THEM SEE THE CITY ILLS AND BETTER UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REALITY AND THE PIPE DREAMS OR SMOKE & MIRRORS THIS ADMIN LIKES TO MAKE UP TO JUSTIFY OUR HIGH TAXES; IT WILL BE WELL WORTH IT! *** EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT & VOTE! ***
Mojo, considering the September 10 Dem primary results when that so-called machine got croaked, would it have been better for you to have run on the challenge line? Do you doubt you would have won?
*** If I would have run in the primary, the chances of winning from what we know “now” (after the fact) would probably have been better if I had a partner runningmate! However, by myself I feel my chances still would have been an uphill battle, no doubt. Why? The West Side A/B jester, A. Santiago! ***
I too have tried to do this myself … as an R …b ut honestly knowing how hard a worker you are, better to be out there yourself than have a “running mate” who is not really running. Raise that $ … that makes them sweat. I liked driving behind the Robles gang as they tore up signs, etc.
Ron, I am so glad you have spoken out about Torres’ strange reasoning about blacks in America. He even has a nutty Facebook page called “Black Still in Chains.” He also has a problem with Muslim Americans and was severely chastised by the Council on American Islamic Relations for his prejudicial remarks in 2010.
His selfish Ayn Rand objectivism and his belief the government should not help the poor and disenfranchised is abhorrent to me and many in Black Rock. Steven, this is not just some “strange ideology” you can dismiss by saying his remarks are “gaffes.” His opinion on blacks, Muslims and the poor, as well as his stance against gun control and abortion are anathema to many East of Ellsworth Street in the 130th district. Hopefully Torres will be asked some serious questions at the candidates’ debate on Oct. 23.
You know, it’s kind of sad to be prosecuted without a trial. The people leaving negative comments about my belief system about blacks and others have concluded what you want to conclude, reality does not seem necessary. It takes much time contemplating good answers to really horrid realities. It takes no time or thought to slander someone you can know, but prefer not to know. Again: my number is 203-610-4724. Please call me to sit down and get into my head so you can really know me. Don’t be afraid, I’m non-violent in debate and arguments.
Take it from me, being prosecuted by a blog is unlike being prosecuted without a trial.
If posters are commenting on you, you’re the artist trying to create change, cause a reaction, explain dissent and stir discussion. This is a great place to gather votes–its owner is dedicated to fairness.
Come election day, every voter is a potential prosecutor. To be found innocent is to win and isn’t that what Ayn Rand wants us to do?
Local Eyes, I do not think Rick nor Phil know how to utilize social media much less the web to get their platform before the public.
RT and PB are looking for voters, not social media expertise. They’re both members of the Harborview Market Coalition, which means their overlords will make sure they have adequate media coverage.
Rick has called Ron and I cowards for posting our opinion of him here and said we should be ashamed for speaking out. He says in order for us to learn what he is all about, we have to telephone him. Rick, why not explain here your thoughts and platform, your philosophy behind “I am black inside,” your opinion of American Muslims, gun control, abortion, government programs for the poor. You could reach thousands right here.–Madeline.
This from your husband–very provocative and who hides behind fake names?
Phineas T Barnum Oh, the blog thread just gets better and better. Torres calling people cowards and cohorts and referring to himself as being “convicted without a trial” by people afraid to “get inside his head and know him” in private “man to man” chats, a white lady (really white as in a Brooklawn blonde from CWBB who is afraid to use her own name on the blog) telling a black blog commentor that he’s “starting a lynch mob” against Torres, and another really white lady (as in CWBB Black Rock dyed-blond who also posts as her own name, but also uses a stage name to agree with her own comments and call people names without fear of exposing her identity) accusing another commentor of accusing said Brooklawn blond of being a racist for making an LOL on the irony of a post by a white person accusing a black man of starting a lych mob when he expressed his disgust at Rick Torres comments on blacks as government slaves. It gets a bit convoluted, but well worth a read for the meltdown value and the inherent paranoia and conspiracy mentality.
And the afternoon is young. As soon as Torres finishes the lunch shift, I’m sure he’ll be back with more of his usual screaming. I’ve got him calling someone a socialist or fascist by 5pm in the Torres meltdown pool. That’s his usual approach when cornered by his own words.
Mark the date: 10/04/2013: The date when Rick Torres began the meltdown he has on every campaign.
Mr. Barnum states his name on all his social media outlets. Everyone knows who he is. I guess no one else here likes to use made-up names on Lennie’s blog … LOL
Who is everyone? I have NO IDEA who he is. What is his name then? And more importantly, was he a bully or was he bullied as a child?
Well gee, “hope I sell my house.” Who are YOU?
Never answer an question with a question. Communications 101.
Like, and I so wish I has thought of your handle since my house is on the market for sale–never answer a question with a question!
A very wise woman once said if you see something in someone else you cannot stand, before you say something take a hard look in the mirror to make sure that which you cannot stand in the other is not being reflected back from you. Or something like that. Makes me really take a hard look at myself when I want to lash out.
Rick Torres, stop your badinage with Ron and Bepo. You are going to lose because your ministry is offensive to them. You can sugarcoat it but it is a typical Republican gaffe. I am not sure what the issues you have with Muslims as Bepo stated but I’d find that offensive. I would stick to your platform that is focused on Bridgeport’s future and what your plans to improve it are. You should probably not cozy up to any local ministers in black churches for a number of reasons but most importantly, these ministers no longer dictate how their flocks vote. The old days of kissing these ministers’ asses to get the black vote ended with the election of Obama. If you do not think your ministry sounds offensive than maybe you are dumber than a box of rocks like so many Republicans who sound pretty ignorant. I choose to believe you are smarter. I think you need to move on from the Mackey argument and Bepo. They are right and your ideology is not going to get you any votes. Mackey and Bepo, to paint Rick Torres as a racist is also very cruel and wrong. You are character assassinating someone who can help this city. Give him a chance to run his campaign and get his ideas on Bridgeport out there before you discredit him and lose a chance for checks and balances. Oh BTW, Rick being assassinated on this blog is a good thing. Wear it like a badge of courage. YOU ARE A Republican on a Democratic-centric blog. Enjoy the ride and do not lose any sleep over it. Jennifer, he needs a cookie and a hug! Ron, be a man and take a ride to Harborview Market. It is a very nice cozy place and it wouldn’t be a bad idea to meet the man you are assaulting. Face to face will give you so much satisfaction. He does some of the best breakfasts around–seriously. 🙂
Steven Auerbach, come on now, just as we were starting to agree on something you have turn the other way. I am not trying to paint Rick Torres as a racist, Rick needs to come forward and make it clear to the voters of Bridgeport his views and comments about blacks are not racist and the best way for Rick to accomplish this would be to go to a few black churches to explain his “ministry” about blacks and allow the membership of those churches to hear Rick and let them make up their own minds instead of what Ron Mackey might say or any black pastor.
The Republican Party claims they are now going to reach out to blacks, Hispanics and women and have a big tent and are inclusive, well Rick can take the lead and show the Republican Party how it’s done.
Ron, Torres angered many Bridgeport Muslims and was severely chastised by the Council on American Islamic Relations for his prejudicial remarks in 2010. Just Google Torres and Muslim and you will see numerous links. Here is one.
stamford.dailyvoice.com/news/muslim-group-criticizes-torres-0
Why is everyone so distracted with this discussion? If you bother to read me with any attention, you would be aware Anne Kelly-Lenz has not yet filed a monthly financial report for July or August and you, the taxpaying public are no wiser about how our taxes are spent. Where is your shock about this material situation? Where are the questions from Sue Brannelly and the rest of the B&A Committee? Why not tell us why the BOE can file using the same system in two weeks while the City is taking two months or more?
Folks, do you really care where your dollars are spent? How they are monitored? What info do you have access to? Who wants to raise a legal action for Charter violations? Time will tell.
like.
What a bunch of race-baiting cowards! This is disgusting. And to make fun of a man because he works???
Or the color of their skin and hair? Sickening–good thing you hide behind a pseudonym.
I guess you’re not hiding behind a pseudonym “hope I can sell my house.” LOL.
Breaking News: Currently posted in the Black Rock Bitc**s Facebook page
“•Madeline Dennis
People are calling me names & telling me to shut up on Lennie Grimaldi’s Only In Bridgeport blog See the arguments here: http://bit.ly/GAXIlo It seems some of the conservative Republicans there object to my criticism of Black Rock city council candidate Rick Torres. His strange reasoning about blacks in America, his nutty Facebook page called ‘Black Still in Chains,” his damaging criticism of Bridgeport Muslims, his selfish Ayn Rand objectivism, his belief that the government should not help the poor and disenfranchised, his anti-gun control and anti-abortion views–all these positions are abhorrent to me and many in Black Rock.”
Searched through every comment, yet I can’t find one single instance where anyone told Madeline to “shut up” rr where anyone called her a name. Can you?
Stafstrom and Brannelly must be so proud to have someone of this caliber supporting them.
Rick himself called me a couple of names here in this thread for posting my opinion of his politics here and said I should be ashamed for speaking out. “hope I can sell my house” also called me a name just a couple of hours ago.
Cowgirl Sally, please define what you mean by “someone of my caliber?”
Someone who calls people names on this blog.
I NEVER called anyone a name. I am criticizing policies and opinions. It’s called an “argument,”–debating ideas–something I believe in wholeheartedly.
Really? Seriously? Did you not, just one comment ago, call Mustang Sally, “Cowgirl Sally?” That is not name-calling?
Not to mention a very nasty little James Bond Girl pseudonym you called me a few posts ago, but I rolled with it in the spirit of sharing a laugh.
What I find most intriguing is the fact you just called someone a name in one breath and deny it in the next in PRINT and Published. Fascinating. Case-study worthy.
Oh no! Not the “C” word! As in coward? Come on Bepo, you have a thicker skin than that.
The spin you put on the Facebook post looks designed to lead people to believe you are being called four-letter names, being bullied, and told to ‘Shut Up” which is simply not the case.
You are not a victim here, Madeline. You jumped in with teeth bared.
Mustang Sally (whoever you are)–I was called three names here, a couple not very nice. I am not thin skinned, you can call me whatever you want. I only brought it up because you said no one called me any names. Heck no, I am not a victim … LOL
Today must be Troll day.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troll_(Internet)
*** Way I read it, sounds like the “black wolf” cry syndrome by a few OIB bloggers looking for anything from the past, present or possible future to discredit an old GOP candidate they basically don’t care for, “regardless!” And on the other side, you have someone who once again (with blinders on) continues to think he knows the way but ventures into unknown territory anyway and then steps in it knee high; with a tuxedo and sandals on, to boot! And last but not least, there are the sideline OIB cheerleaders with their pom poms, shaking and singing their political fight songs while picking which player to cheer for, win or lose! *** I CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THIS FUNKY STUFF! ***
I love this blog too, Mojo.
Yawn.
OK. Ron, you assume the 47% Mitt was talking about were black. Not true, they are just poor. There are about the same number of whites on welfare as blacks.
www .statisticbrain.com/welfare-statistics/
I hope your belief if you are criticizing people on welfare you are criticizing blacks is not a sign of your own racism. After all, it would be racist, as well as untrue, to think if you are on welfare you are black.
For the rest of this thread–it is just a sleight of hand trick to make Rick’s campaign about anything but the issues. This is one of the standard strategies the Dems use to keep the Republican candidate on the ropes defending himself against unfounded charges that come from reading into innocuous statements. Rick said ‘I am building a ministry.’ Apparently, that is a knock against blacks. Especially those with low reading comprehension. Next they will say he doesn’t represent you because he is rich. The Democrat candidates are also rich. The only difference is we know how Rick got rich. The Democrat candidates got rich working for the government but it is not clear how.
Which one of these definitions is a knock against blacks?
min•is•try
n. pl. min•is•tries
1.
a. The act of serving; ministration.
b. One that serves as a means; an instrumentality.
2.
a. The profession, duties, and services of a minister.
b. The Christian clergy.
c. The period of service of a minister.
3.
a. A governmental department presided over by a minister.
b. The building in which such a department is housed.
c. The duties, functions, or term of a governmental minister.
d. often Ministry Governmental ministers considered as a group.
BOE SPY, you are off base because YOU made the assumption I was saying Mitt was JUST talking about blacks and why are you saying I’m criticizing people on welfare. I was only posting what Mitt said and the voters made a value decision based on his 47% comment. Next, all Rick has to do is to hold a press conference, or sit down with a reporter from the Post or sit down with the editor of the Post or with OIB and tell them his position about his ministry, this should be no big deal because Rick is a public person running for a public position and according to you a great guy, so Rick, we are waiting.
Sorry, this sentence “I hope your belief if you are criticizing people on welfare you are criticizing blacks is not a sign of your own racism. After all, it would be racist, as well as untrue, to think if you are on welfare you are black.”
would have been clearer if it read “I hope your belief if a person is criticizing people on welfare that person is criticizing blacks is not a sign of your own racism. After all, it would be racist, as well as untrue, to think if you are on welfare you are black.” I was using the word ‘you’ as the royal ‘you’ meaning any person. Not a pronoun referring to you.
(Looking at my watch) I’m busy waiting for the Ron Mackey press conference. Why would RT talk to strangers when he’s shown a willingness to debate here and offered you his phone number?
Local Eyes, I have no need to call Rick Torres or to visit his business because this issue is he has a view point about ALL blacks not just Ron Mackey who is black. Torres needs to let the black community know what his views are of them so they can make an educated decision on why they should vote for Torres or why they shouldn’t vote for Torres. I guess Rick feels it’s NOT important enough for black voters of Bridgeport to know what he thinks about them and some of the things he has said about blacks.
Local Eyes, Rick Torres has not “shown a willingness to debate here.” He has posted two or three short posts on this thread criticizing the posters but offering no insight into his policies.
Steven, Mackey never insinuated or intimated Rick was a racist. He said his comments about blacks can be viewed as offensive from a black perspective. Neither you nor Rick could possibly put yourself in a black’s skin so you will can never know or understand where brother Mackey is coming from without the benefit empathy, which both of you seem to be lacking. Mackey is offering Rick a unique perspective from the black viewpoint, which if he were truly a smart politician he would embrace his perspective rather than scoff at and try to justify himself. Mackey shouldn’t not call him so they can talk to better understand what he meant, as those concerns of Mr. Mackey should be addressed with the blacks who would be his constituents.
Let me explain this to all of you who would try to disparage what Mackey said and what he really meant, remember when people would say in defense of some asinine statement they made about blacks, ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS IS BLACK. Need any more be said?
Donald Day. It has been awhile since you have commented and usually it is wrong. First Mr. Day, Ron Mackey does not need you to come to his defense from me. That is number one and let me be very clear. I THINK THERE WAS NO MISTAKING MY DISGUST ON RICK TORRES’ ILL-ADVISED PLATFORM ON BLACK AMERICA. I SUGGESTED RON SPEAK WITH HIM FACE TO FACE. I TOTALLY KNOW IF I WERE BLACK I’D BE APPALLED. MAYBE YOU TOOK AFFRONT WITH THE FACT I TOOK THE POWER AWAY FROM PASTORS IN THIS CITY AS THE DECIDING FACTOR ON WHO THEY WOULD VOTE FOR. I believe Black Americans can decide for themselves and not need political pastors guaranteeing politicians votes. Those days are over. Going after me? Really? I guess I am the only responder you focused on. For that I thank you. I do agree with Mackey and only asked they give Rick a chance to develop a platform. I have no use for the Republican party and it was Rick who shot himself in the foot. He might as well hang with Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachmann and Ted Cruz. I was not the one endorsing Rick Torres and this is so not my fight. So Mr. Day, I hope I clarified my position and support of what Mackey is trying to say.
*** BLACKS OR WHITES “ASSUMING” TO KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE EITHER RACE IN THE EYES OF SOCIETY, NEED TO KNOW “THEMSELVES FIRST,” NO? *** MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL ***
Let’s go back to the beginning, this was the topic that started everything:
I questioned this by saying, “It is obvious the CW4BB questionnaire and interviews by representatives of the group is flawed. How can you respect CW4BB if they don’t question a candidate with views like Torres has about blacks and his “ministry” which he’s calling “I am black inside.”
CW4BB, in an effort to get out front and to try be a player in Bridgeport politic did a poor job in vetting candidates. Questions were being asked on July 15th and July 17th right here on Only In Bridgeport concerning Rick Torres’ views and comments about blacks and his black ministry and it seems those comment didn’t bother CW4BB. Why, I had questioned CWB44 on their membership and asked did they have anyone who was black in their group.
Ron you were right to ask. Dave Walker’s group has egg on their face. They do not have Olivia Pope on their team to fix this. Marc Delmonico and Walker as well as Rick Torres are probably banging their heads against the wall. If they aren’t they should. The whole concept of this ministry is absurd and embarrassing. I do not believe Rick Torres had mean intentions with this ministry. BUT stupid is stupid is stupid. That is where I stand and I am not black inside or out. I still think Ron should sit down and talk to Rick. Jennifer Buchanan, you are a real loyalist to Rick, but sometimes you just can’t save people from themselves. LUCKILY, TORRES’ MINISTRY IS ON A LOCAL LEVEL. I COULD NOT IMAGINE WHAT IMPLICATIONS IT WOULD HAVE ON A NATIONAL LEVEL. Rick may want to revisit his ideology and vary this. It is bad for him, bad for the party and bad for building relations.
Remember, only ~13% of the people in the country are black. If CW4BB only has 20-30 members on average it would only have 2-3 black members. If the group is one that would not necessarily attract black members, i.e. viewed as a Republican group, having 0 black members by coincidence rather than design would not be uncommon.
BOE SPY, we are talking about Bridgeport, right? White voters are the minority in Bridgeport but they are the majority in the 130th district.
The better question that should be asked is for those who support, like and respect Rick Torres is to go over to his business and ask him what the hell are you doing? Remember, if Rick gets elected he is just one councilman out of twenty in which a number of them will be black and Hispanic and how does he pull this off when he will need to talk to them and ask for their support on an issue? Let’s see, he will say I was just joking or some of my best friends are black.
I was talking about Black Rock. Let me ask you. Why don’t you join CW4BB? That would give CW4BB at least one black member. You are also assuming they do not have any black members at the moment. Any group’s ‘policies’ are constructed by its members. Standing on the outside criticizing a group’s policies is not a valid tactic. If you joined the group your beliefs would become part of the group’s beliefs and part of the group’s policies.
Wow, CW4BB is a Republican group!?
No, I did not say that. I said ‘If the group is one that would not necessarily attract black members, i.e. viewed as a Republican group.’ I guess I should have added ‘could be viewed.’ That is just an example. Folks who do not believe true independent parties exist may conclude if they do not endorse the Democrats in town, then they are Republicans.
BOE SPY, this is from CW4BB website, those sound like Republican issues to me. We all have no problem with those issues no matter if you are a Democrat or Republican but these are core Republican.
The group’s initial areas of interest are:
. Support the passage of HR 5724 in order to align the City of Bridgeport’s governance structure with best practices and eliminate clear conflicts of interest on the City Council.
. Provide input on the City of Bridgeport’s proposed budget and OPPOSE any increase in total property taxes.
. Encourage and support the development and adoption of a comprehensive City Charter revision that includes governance, education, financial, and other reforms that will help to create a better future in the City.
I wonder how many OIB bloggers agree with the ideas expressed here:
www .BLACKROCKCTUSA.com
“New research shows the dramatic gap in household wealth that now exists along racial lines in the United States cannot be attributed to personal ambition and behavioral choices, but rather reflects policies and institutional practices that create different opportunities for whites and African Americans.”
www .brandeis.edu/now/2013/february/wealthgap.html
This was the first item Rick posted on his Blacks Still in Chains Facebook Page. I humbly suggest you read the report. I would guess the people who would benefit the most from reading and understanding the research and findings of how government policy has shaped, promoted and added to the inequity in earnings for African Americans are too busy working two or three jobs to even be aware of this study. Rick decided to do whatever he could to spread the word and search for solutions.
The most recent known origins of humans are from Africa,
www .irinnews.org/report/44271/ethiopia-world-s-oldest-human-remains-unearthed
and further, genetically, race does not exist
www .scienceagogo.com/news/19980909040042data_trunc_sys.shtml
So we are all the same on the inside, yes? Would calling the page and ministry we are all the same on the inside have opened this group to any type of conversation about race inequality?
“The scientific justification for slavery … was advanced by Northern scientists in the 1800s. Various pseudo-scientific arguments were put forth to imply the inferiority of blacks and rationalize their use as slaves. The authors include a famous quote from Abraham Lincoln arguing for the superiority of the white race.” From the book review of Complicity.
www .lewrockwell.com/2006/04/gail-jarvis/the-complicity-of-the-north/
American colonization and European/American slave trade is guilty of changing the world view of African Americans and in my opinion, that view is still too prevalent in America and needs to be examined and changed. We’d like to believe most of what we know is accurate and if presented with facts to prove we’re wrong, we would sheepishly accept the truth and change our views accordingly. A new body of research out of the University of Michigan suggests that’s not what happens, we base our opinions on beliefs and when presented with contradictory facts, we adhere to our original belief even more strongly.
news.firedoglake.com/2010/07/12/exposed-to-facts-the-misinformed-believe-lies-more-strongly/
Is Rick passionate about racial inequality? Absolutely. Does he walk the talk? Ask the many former employees, now adults who are college graduates who never would have known there was a way for them to go to college and succeed without his giving them a chance (oh, did you know many of them lived in PT?) by always paying them far more than the minimum wage and constantly pushing them in words and actions of finding them scholarships, making their class schedules the priority and to fit into their much-needed jobs at his store. Rick will give most people more than one chance, but he does not suffer fools and he certainly does not mince words. And that trait is something very lacking in our current elected officials. Rick believes the poor know what they need; jobs and dignity, opportunity from and by successful people with money investing in programs (micro loans, on-the-job training and education) for real advancement opportunities for the poor and minorities. Eliminating government programs that are failing and redirecting those dollars into programs that promote personal achievement, jobs and opportunity for advancement.
This is what I am loyal to, a man who does not have time to sit and blog and talk and defend, but a man who walks the talk. A man who was raised in the projects, fought and found his way out and now helps others who want out. He shouts at those who are deaf to real research and reason and need to be shouted at, and his ongoing efforts to research and share what he has discovered and believes. Could he be a bit more restrained and politically correct? Of course. Real passion and commitment to change sometimes is not easy on the ears or conscious in my experience as someone who at times has found it easier to sit and judge, rather than go and do.
Jennifer Buchanan, I am a member of Mount Aery Baptist Church here in Bridgeport, which for the past ten years has commemorated MAAFA, (MAAFA means the great disaster). The MAAFA Production is historical drama, it brings to the American public a story that places the history of a nation in its truest perspective and offers an opportunity for all people to understand the nature of oppression visited on generation of African Americans in this country.
Jennifer, I would strongly suggest you see this production, it will truly enlighten you.
www .mtaerybaptist.org/maafa.html
Rick Torres is not out there campaigning for people who are poor or for issues that concern blacks because if he did there would be blacks stepping forward and telling us all about Rick’s views.
Just took a look at the program description from your link, it sounds very powerful. All people would no doubt benefit from a program that promotes fact-based knowledge and healing.
Your MAAFA theory fails to explain or address many slavery issues. This theory does not explain why blacks who immigrate to the US start out poorer and tend to do better than poor blacks who were born here. Even if they come from countries with a history of slavery that began before and ended after our history of slavery. It does not account for why other countries with a history of slavery that was longer than ours do not have the same issues. Remember, Africa is a collection of many countries and most made a practice of enslaving people from neighboring countries. Africans do not call themselves Africans just in the same way we do not call ourselves North Americans and hold some kind of national identity with Mexicans and Canadians. Europe has a longer history of slavery than ours. It does not explain why other races who experienced slavery or slavery-like practices do not share the same experience. Irish and Chinese people who came to the US came as slaves or ‘indentured servants,’ basically slaves. The wages they earned were used to pay off the cost of their room and board plus the cost of the trip over. The interest charged on this debt was so high, the longer the indentured person worked, the more they owed. The debt was often passed onto the children of the debtor. The indentured servant was bound to the lender by law until the debt was paid. It does not address why those who never received or stopped receiving government benefits do better than those who depend on them regardless of color.
Some other factor has to be present.
BOE SPY, you don’t know what you are talking about. If you took the time to go and see for yourself you will see how the MAAFA addresses those issues.
Let’s not forget Rick is running for councilman in the 130th District, not just Black Rock. I would estimate that is about 50% white and 50% blacks, Hispanics, Asians, etc.
Bond Girl, I am so sorry I called you Pussy Galore and I called your friend Mustang Sally Cowgirl Sally. All these pseudonyms have gone to my head. I can’t keep them straight. I see you’re sensitive about your online names but I think you took my confused blunders as deliberate attacks on your esteemed appellations, so I sincerely apologize. (I seem to remember your close friend called me a “race-baiting coward,” but I think I am over that now. I forgive her for the disparaging taunt.) What is this, a “cat” fight?
I never directed my comment at any one person. But if the shoe fits …
Jennifer Buchanan, I truly hope you would see it. As you said, “all people would no doubt benefit from a program that promotes fact-based knowledge and healing,” yes, knowledge and healing, Rick Torres’ effort are NOT trying to promote knowledge and healing.
Ron, I have known Rick for many years, and I must disagree with you that Rick does not promote knowledge and healing. He takes it one step beyond to action steps implemented in my firsthand experience with him. I have no firsthand experience with you and your plan and effectiveness, but I have seen the lives Rick has touched and changed in my 16 years in Bridgeport–and because of this, I will respectfully disagree with you.
*** In this day and age just running for, say, “Dog Warden,” some voters may expect you to be politically correct in areas concerning gender, religion, race, abortion or educational issues, etc. or you could get labeled something negative real quick without any real facts to back the rumors. That’s why it’s important to stick to the basic facts concerning the issues that affect the citizens of your district and the city in general. Crime, taxes, lack of economic development, poor education in the public schools, political promises made and never carried through, etc. Bottom line is to be yourself and “never” make promises you’re not sure you can actually deliver on! *** DO YOUR POLITICAL HOMEWORK AND JUST BE YOURSELF! ***
Again, like button Mojo! You rock! (I know, I know I am way too old to say that … but seriously, YOU ROCK! 🙂
Mojo, I agree with you on this one.