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Linares Renews Call to End “Early Release Program”

September 25, 2012 by

Art Linares running for the 33rd district State Senate

Westbrook, CT – - 33rd District Senate Republican candidate Art Linares has renewed his call to end the states early release program.

Linares made his comments in an early morning speech on Saturday after police reported that Joseph Mabery, who had 28 prior convictions and was part of the early release program, was arrested for lewd behavior on a public bus in front of a 14 year old girl in the Middletown area. In a statement later released by his campaign, Linares called upon his opponent Representative Jim Crawford, for the third time, to abandon his support of the program and join his call for Governor Malloy to halt the program. Linares continued by saying that since the program began over 700 early release criminals have committed a crime and have been returned to jail.

“How can Governor Malloy and Jim Crawford still support this program after 700 crimes? What is the number that will make them give up on this failed policy? Will it be 1000, 2000, 5000. How many murders will it take three four five what is the number that will make them start protecting the citizens.”

At the end, Linares said, “The incarceration of prisoners should be left up to Judges and prosecutors and not a bunch of Politicians in Hartford.”

Filed Under: Election, News

Jim Crawford’s Campaign Responds to Partisan Attack

August 27, 2012 by

WESTBROOK — Less than 48 hours after the conclusion of Tuesday’s primary elections, Jim Crawford, the Democratic candidate for State Senate from the 33rd District, was hit with a partisan attack from his Republican opponent. The negative statement attempted to begin the general election campaign by making political hay of a recent tragedy in Meriden, CT.

Crawford’s campaign manager David Steuber responded with the following statement:

“It is very disappointing that Mr. Linares has chosen to begin his general election campaign by choosing a partisan attack fueled by the more extreme members of his party, which attempts to score points on a recent tragedy,” Steuber said.

The messaging on the Risk Reduction Earned Credit program began with State Sen. Len Suzio, who promptly had to apologize for racially insensitive language when first making his case on the issue. Suzio also asked for assistance freeing an inmate under the program who was convicted of embezzlement.

“Had Mr. Linares asked ranking Republican leaders who voted for the bill, he would have learned that it saved taxpayers millions in incarceration costs, and actually increased the length of time served by criminals like the Meriden suspect.”

In the Meriden case which Mr. Linares raises, Rep. Crawford’s vote resulted in the accused individual serving more time than he otherwise would have: 91% of his full sentence, rather than only 85% under preexisting law. Ranking Republicans in the General Assembly voted in both the Appropriations Committee and the Judiciary Committee to create the Risk Reduction Earned Credit program.

Forty five of 50 states, including Texas, already have similar cost-saving legislation on the books.

“It’s a shame to see Mr. Linares begin this general election campaign with such a partisan attack. We just finished a very civil, respectful primary this summer. I hope the Republicans will give some consideration to that example for the fall,” said Steuber.

Filed Under: Election, News

Linares Invites Opponent to Join Call to Suspend Early Release Program

August 24, 2012 by

Art Linares, candidate for State Senate in the 33rd district

Art Linares, candidate for State Senate in the 33rd district, last week urged his opponent to join him in asking Governor Dannel Malloy to suspend the early release program for violent criminals.

“The cold-blooded murder of Ibrahim Ghazal on June 27th was tragic proof that early release is a threat to our community,” said Linares.  “Public safety must be the first priority of government.  I urge Governor Malloy to suspend this misguided program immediately, and I urge Representative Crawford to join me in that demand.”

Under the Risk Reduction Earned Credit program, violent felons—including armed robbers, arsonists, terrorists, rapists, and repeat sex offenders—are eligible for early release from prison if they attend certain classes and meet other bureaucratic criteria.  Frank Resto, accused of the murder of Mr. Ghazal, was released under the program, despite a history of violent behavior in prison.

“I don’t know what Representative Crawford was thinking when he voted to let these criminals out early,” said Linares.  “Not only did he support the bill, but he voted against amendments that would have removed sex offenders and violent criminals from the program.

“Whatever his reasoning, now that we’ve seen the results of this policy, it’s time to do the right thing and suspend the program.  Meanwhile we are all in danger, and I honestly believe it’s only a matter of time until early release results in another horrific attack.

“It’s clear that oversight and review required to make such a program work safely simply aren’t in place.  Until that happens—and until the legislature has a chance to revisit the topic next session—we should keep violent criminals behind bars until their sentences are served.

“I believe that’s what the people of this district want—it’s what I will work for as a State Senator, and what I believe has to happen now.”

Filed Under: Election, News

Linares Urges Governor To Suspend Early Release Of Violent Criminals Blasts Crawford For Voting For Dangerous and Irresponsible Program

August 15, 2012 by

Art Linares, R-33, candidate for State Senator, today urged Gov. Dannel Malloy to suspend the Risk Reduction Earned Credit (RREC) program, in light of a recent murder committed by a repeat violent criminal let out of prison early under the program.

“This tragedy has caused serious concern throughout the state about the wisdom of the program and the method of its implementation,” Linares wrote in his letter to the governor. “Because public safety must be our first priority, I urge you to suspend the Risk Reduction Earned Credit program, pending an investigation into its procedures and a thorough review by the legislature next year.”

“What was State Representative Jim Crawford thinking when he voted for this reckless program? He stood with the apologists for violent criminals, and against public safety”, Linares stated.

Linares referenced the cold-blooded murder of 70 year-old Ibrahim Ghazal, a small business owner shot in his store in Meriden on June 27. Inmate Frankie Resto, a violent repeat criminal released under the RREC program, stands accused of the crime.

Resto was sentenced in 2007 for two cases of armed robbery. “Resto qualified for early release even though his behavior in prison showed he had not reformed,” Linares said. “While a prisoner, he was cited for theft and fighting in 2006; for assault and for conspiring to possess contraband in 2007; for fighting and assault in 2008; for disobedience in 2009, at which time he was identified as a gang member and a special security risk; and just last year, for intoxication and for setting fire to his mattress.

“Where is the evidence that this man was ready to reenter society?” Linares asked. “How could this man have been released before his sentence was completed?”

“Michelle Cruz, The Connecticut Victim Advocate, stated that this misguided early release scheme is a “danger” to the citizens of our state. We must heed her warning,” Linares said.

According to the Department of Corrections, 7,589 inmates have been released through the RREC program since it began in September of last year. “I don’t believe we can afford to wait,” Linares wrote to the governor. “The risks of the program have been all too vividly demonstrated, and another such tragedy remains a daily threat.”

Violent criminals belong behind bars, and I will work to keep them there, ”Linares concluded.

 

Contact Art Linares Headquarters at 860 391 8458 for details.

Filed Under: Election, Politics

Sen. Daily to Retire from Legislature upon Completion of Current Term

May 15, 2012 by

Hartford – State Senator Eileen M. Daily (D-Westbrook) today announced her intention to retire from the General Assembly upon completion of her current term. Senator Daily has prepared a letter for political allies, supporters, and delegates to next week’s 33 rd Senatorial District nominating convention explaining she will not stand for re-election this year.

Senator Daily has represented the towns and residents of Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland and Westbrook in the state Senate since 1993. Senator Daily is a former First Selectman of Westbrook and prior to that served on its Board of Education.

“Replacement and renewal are integral to the revitalization of any institution,” Senator Daily said. “In the past year holding office has become more physically demanding for me and it would be difficult to initiate a re-election campaign. I’ve been diagnosed with cancer, endured chemotherapy and associated treatment, and am presently recuperating from a broken ankle.”

“During the last weeks of this session I was challenged to maintain the pace required at the Capitol. As I review my 20-year tenure and consider the future I’ve settled on this plan with complete confidence that it’s time for another voice to speak for this district,” Senator Daily said. “I am also literally blessed with a loving husband and family – Jim and I eagerly look forward to spending more time with our children and grandchildren.”

While in office Senator Daily co-authored breakthrough legislation creating the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), through which grants are available for large-scale public works projects that might be otherwise unaffordable for small towns. Senator Daily also co-authored legislation creating a fund for open space acquisition statewide, and was instrumental in preserving many acres of open space in her district.

Senator Daily identified completion of several short and long-term projects among the many gratifying instances of bringing state resources to bear in her district:

  • Sediment detention and ice control in a federal/state Salmon River Flood Control Project.
  • Inclusion of the beautiful Eight Mile River Watershed within the national Wild and Scenic River program.
  • A comprehensive, federal/state dredging project for the Westbrook harbor, announced earlier this spring, to begin next fall.
  • Acquisition of property in Haddam for new athletic and recreational fields.
  • Grants to 33rd District towns through STEAP for infrastructure improvement.

“Connecticut’s 33rd Senatorial District is home to some of the most beautiful natural treasures our state has to share and its voters have repeatedly given me the distinction and decidedly good fortune to advocate for this area all this time,” Senator Daily said. “Nevertheless the day-to-day opportunity I’ve had to serve and help constituents overshadows successful completion of these public works projects and policy initiatives.”

Senator Daily said her office remains open and available, as always, to help municipal government officials and constituents.

Filed Under: News

Giuliano to Host Office Hours at Acton Library

January 20, 2012 by

State Representative Marilyn Giuliano (R-23) will hold office hours throughout her legislative district on Saturday, February 4.
“With the Legislative Session starting shortly, it is of the utmost importance to get feedback from my constituents on what matters to them,” Giuliano said.

On Saturday February 4, the Office Hours will be held at Acton Library (60 Old Boston Post Road,  Old Saybrook) in the 2nd floor conference room from 9:00 am -10:30 am  and at the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library (2 Library Lane, Old Lyme) in the community room from 11:00 am -12:30 pm .

Rep. Giuliano encourages residents to stop by if they have any questions or concerns regarding state government and the services it provides.

“I am looking forward to hearing from and sharing with area residents,” Giuliano said.  “These questions and ideas help me be a better representative for our communities.”

Giuliano represents Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and Westbrook in the General Assembly.

Filed Under: News, Politics

Driving Safely in CT Winter Weather, from the Old Saybrook Fire Department

January 20, 2012 by


Old Saybrook, CT – As snow, sleet and below-freezing temperatures continue into this week, the Old Saybrook Fire Department (OSFD) reminds all motorists to be prepared as they travel local roads and highways.

One of the best ways to be ready as temperatures go below freezing is to ensure that your car is winterized and in top operating condition. Keep the gas tank full and check the windshield wiper blades (top off windshield washer fluid), tires and all lights to make sure they are in working order.

Clean snow & ice from all car windows, hood and roof before starting to drive, (state law). A snow brush, ice scraper and gloves are a wise investment.

Visibility is not only a good safety idea but also state law. Clean snow from headlamps, brake and taillights (remember to use your headlights with wipers, again state law)

Travel on main routes. The most traveled roadways are usually cleared and sanded first. A short-cut down a back road might not save any time if the road hasn’t been plowed. Also, if help is required, main roads are usually the best patrolled.

Always assume road conditions are worse than they are and allow additional travel time. Drive cautiously and courteously.

Motorists should always check the latest local forecasts (at home, tune to your local TV News and Weather Channel, and in the car to radio stations that provide regular weather bulletins and reports on road conditions before starting a journey).

During a snow, sleet or freezing rain event, reducing speed and expanding distances between vehicles is an absolute necessity for safe driving.

Most important, slow down and keep a much greater distance from the vehicle in front of you

Always carry a fully-charged cell phone to use in case of an emergency. A cell phone is a vital component of any winter safety kit, along with a warm blanket, extra clothes, shovel, flares and first aid kit. Also, non-perishable food such as canned nuts, dried fruit and hard candy and a box of tissues should be kept on hand. Drivers and their passengers should dress for outdoor conditions in layers.

“We strongly recommend that motorists stay prepared as they take to the highways this winter. As the temperatures stay below freezing, it is more important than ever that all drivers plan for every trip they make – whether a 10-minute drive to the mall or a 60-mile drive to visit a relative,” says Max Sabrin, Fire Policeman / OSFD.

If you should become stranded in your vehicle in winter weather, stay with your vehicle and do not try to walk to safety. Call 911 from your cell phone for help. Run the motor for about 10 minutes each hour for heat. Open a window slightly for fresh air and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

Filed Under: News

Courtney Approves Iraq Withdrawal Plans by President

October 27, 2011 by

A message from Congressman Joe Courtney.

Rep. Courtney and Connecticut's Captain Frank R. DuVerger III in Afghanistan this month

Last week, President Obama announced that all U.S. military personnel will be out of Iraq by the end of the year. Many of our servicemen and women who have been away from their families for too many birthdays, milestones and celebrations during the war will be home this holiday season.

President Obama’s decision to protect U.S. military personnel from unacceptable exposure to prosecution in Iraqi courts and instead execute the final removal of American troops from Iraq is the right decision for both countries. This milestone was achieved through negotiations between our two countries that provided a clear path for the transition of responsibility to the Iraqi government. After eight long years, our brave volunteers have given that country the opportunity to create its own future with a sizable security force and the rudiments of democratic institutions.

With the Fifth Fleet nearby in Bahrain and U.S. bases in Kuwait and Qatar, our ability to respond to any threat to American national security in the region is more than adequate. As the President said, our two nations will continue to have a special relationship for many years to come, built on the sacrifice and effort of our troops. Now is the time to pay particular homage to all who served in Iraq and their families – the “one percent” who have stepped up and volunteered to wear our nation’s uniform through a difficult time in our history.

On the ground in Afghanistan

 Of course, even as American troops leave Iraq, our servicemen and women remain on the ground in Afghanistan. Earlier this month, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I visited the country, where I was briefed on operations, met with Connecticut troops and top commanders, and learned more about the training of Afghan police and military personnel. Most importantly, General John Allen, commander of U.S./NATO troops, gave an encouraging brief on the planned draw down of U.S. troops: 10,000 this year and 23,000 by the fall of 2012. 48% of the Afghan nation will be under the control of the Afghanis in the near future, and the transition will continue until full control of Afghanistan’s future is in the hands of the Afghan people.

This was my third trip to Afghanistan since coming to Congress, and the progress was plain to see. More girls and young women are traveling to and from school, the education system has improved, and security forces are better trained and better equipped to keep the peace. While there are substantial hurdles left to clear, these are encouraging milestones that demonstrate movement in the right direction.

But to have gotten to this point – a place where real progress is clear – is a testament to the strength, bravery and resolve our military. As the war in Iraq winds down, their hard work has brought us to a place where, after 10 long years, Afghans are on the brink of reclaiming their country and their future.

Filed Under: Politics

Camp Hazen YMCA Summer Camp Open House , February 27

February 15, 2011 by

On Sunday, February 27, Camp Hazen YMCA will host an Open House from 2-4 PM.   Families are encouraged to attend to learn more about summer opportunities for their children.  Camp Hazen YMCA, located at 204 West Main Street on Cedar Lake in Chester, offers one and two week session of both day and resident camp. 

Some sessions already have waitlists so it is imperative for families to plan their summer now.  Camp Director, Danita Ballantyne, states “Attending an Open House provides a valuable opportunity for families to meet the Camp Directors and see the facilities to determine if Camp Hazen is the right choice for their family.” 

Camp Hazen YMCA is committed to helping youth develop valuable life skills through camping experiences that build healthy bodies, open minds and awakened spirits.    Traditional camp activities like swimming, arts and crafts and campfires – along with more unique programs including a Skate Park, Alpine Tower, Mountain Biking and Windsurfing are available for campers.  All activities are designed to ensure that campers are having fun, making friends and learning valuable life lessons such as independence and leadership which are the core ingredients of the camp experience.

Camp Hazen YMCA believes the summer camp experience is a vital part of a child’s development and offers a tier pricing program to make camp affordable for all.  For more information, contact Danita Ballantyne at 860-526-9529 or visit www.camphazenymca.org

Filed Under: Local News, Outdoors

Old Saybrook Resident Elected to Middlesex United Way Board of Directors

February 15, 2011 by

At Middlesex United Way’s Annual Meeting on Jan. 25, Old Saybrook resident and Attorney Carl P. Fortuna, Jr. was elected to serve a two-year term on the organization’s Board of Directors. Fortuna has been a Principal at the law firm of Fortuna & Cartelli, PC since 1994.

Fortuna has served as Chairman of the Old Saybrook Board of Finance since 2000. He is also a member of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, Middlesex County Bar Association, and the Connecticut Bar Association.

“United Way addresses the most important needs in our society,” says Fortuna. “United Way helps those among us who are unable to help themselves, and seeks to transition those most in need from dependent to independent.”

Fortuna earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston College and his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law.

Middlesex United Way is advancing the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Our focus is on education, income, health and housing – the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done. You are invited to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. That’s what it means to Live United.

Middlesex United Way is a locally-based organization serving the towns of Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

Filed Under: Community, Old Saybrook

The Big Quiz Thing – Ivoryton Playhouse, Mar. 5

February 14, 2011 by

Library trustee Karen Burzin checks out the multimedia quiz show pamphlet. Committee members not shown are Ellen Wexler, Louisa Ketron, Pam Murphy, and trustees Julian Evans and Chris Pagliuco.

The Ivoryton Library Association is hosting THE BIG QUIZ THING, a new and exciting interactive quiz show.  THE BIG QUIZ THING is a multimedia live game show hosted by Noah Tarnow.  Throughout New York, Boston, and soon, Ivoryton, CT, Noah creates an evening that will test your knowledge of trivia in music, business, sports, and beyond.  As a team of four to eight players, groups will collaborate to answer these questions.  The library can place you on a team or you may form your own group.  Participation in the trivia show is optional, as interested ticket holders may prefer to simply observe the show.

The Ivoryton Library Association is excited to bring this cultural event to the historic Ivoryton Playhouse on Saturday March 5.  The event begins at 7pm.  A cash bar is available along with hors d’oeuvres, prizes, and silent auction items.  All proceeds will benefit the Ivoryton Library Association.  This event is being funded in part by Merrill Lynch Financial Services Corporation.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.  Tickets may be purchased at the library located on Main Street in Ivoryton.  For more information please visit

http://www.ivoryton.com, or contact the library directly at (860) 767-1252.

Filed Under: Community, Old Saybrook