I'm A Born Lever-Puller

29 October 2007

Choosing the best leaders means transcending party loyalty.

“Can't help it, I'm a born Lever-puller”, Ringo Starr, Yellow Submarine 1968

Thank you to the League of Women Voters and the New Canaan Advertiser for facilitating the election debates last week in the Lapham Center. This is an important process in our local election cycle which affords us an opportunity to meet and engage the candidates that would be accountable for a $100 million+ budget. As voters, we are seeking a team of leaders who can steward our common resources in the best interests of all New Canaan residents. Those leaders need to be able to manage today’s issues while looking and planning ahead. This forum allowed us to hear, without editorial assistance, what the candidates would do to keep New Canaan thriving while protecting its very heritage as a bucolic New England town.

But does this forum serve the intended purpose or are voters’ minds already made up – divided across party lines? As I listened to the Selectman debates I wondered if people really comprehended what the candidates had to say - were they listening with open minds and hearts. While attendees were cordial, I couldn’t help but notice that the room was fairly split by party affiliation – although a table of coffee and sandwiches forced people to rub elbows and smile. I thought of that wonderful pun by Ringo Starr in the 1968 film Yellow Submarine -“Can't help it, I'm a born lever-puller.” Of course he was talking about Liverpool. I am talking about how informed we want to be about our candidates for office in New Canaan. So, are we really looking for the best candidate or are we merely biding time until we can pull the party lever. It was uplifting to hear all of the candidates for selectman put the interests of New Canaan above party politics even if for some it is purely rhetoric. Most political ads sell party affiliation as the headline – not John Smith for office (who happens to be…). I fear that many voters take that as a directive.

The dynamic between all the candidates was eerily agreeable. This may be the most “pleasant” election in many years. During the First Selectman debate, Jeb Walker took time to agree with many of Sally Hines’ positions, as did Richard Stowe. Both gentlemen agreed with her so often that I began to wonder who was running. Mrs. Hines also found occasion to agree with Mr. Walker and Mr. Stowe, although she found an opportunity to challenge both of them on their leadership and accountability records in town politics. Neither opening nor closing statements took opponents to task. In fact the only person to mention the current “issues” in Irwin Park was Mr. Walker, who, to uncomfortable laughter, likened the negative publicity he has received to his days under fire in the service of his country.

Even the Selectman debate between Penny Rashin and Rob Mallozzi was friendly, dare I say “collaborative.” Mr. Mallozzi, taking the position of the assumptive outcome, basically said he looked forward to working with Penny as a team. And, through Rob’s genuine self-deprecating humor, we learned that he is shorter than Penny. Penny quickly countered that being so tall wasn’t nearly as much fun in the 6th grade.

So what we witnessed was actually less debate than position statements. There were no attacks – no “I knew Jack Kennedy and you are no Jack Kennedy” highlights. No visceral excitement as candidates pitched barbs at one another – as in past local elections. At the end of the day it was very civil and I must say that I enjoyed it. Early in the election cycle the candidates agreed to a civil process and they have all adhered. They should be lauded for that even though at times backroom party politics have looked to derail that effort.

So what did I learn from this experience? The forum works. The comments from all of the candidates, including candidates for other offices, helped me make up my mind. The evening reaffirmed my position that even as a strong believer in the basic tenants of my chosen party - those beliefs do not carry the day in a town where our needs and desires are so much alike. We all want better schools, more services, higher property value (admit it – it’s the first thing you read every Thursday – or second after the blotter), and no tax increase – oh, and no airplanes. And we want our families to stay put in New Canaan. My lesson was, that if all the candidates agree, then I am looking for unique qualities of leadership and accountability for my vote (the candidate who has a proven track record of collaboration and finding solutions), a track record of success at the town level (the candidate who has a proven track record of service to our town), and vision for New Canaan’s future.

When I apply those criteria I actually find acceptable candidates for all elected positions with leadership qualities who have different backgrounds, different skills, and even different party affiliations.

Yes, I quite agree with the Selectman candidates - the issues that we face as a town do not fall on either side of a party line. They require leadership, thoughtfulness, and an ability to find solutions through a collaborative process – actual consensus may be too much to hope for. The party politic (all parties) may not like this individual thinking. They would have us think like Ringo. But alas, I have never been to Liverpool.

On November 6th I will vote for the best candidates for office - and that takes individual thought – not party loyalty for its own sake. What will you do?

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[This OpEd was first published in The New Canaan Advertiser, November 1, 2007]

Rebuttal to Richard Stowe Letter

To the editor - New Canaan Advertiser:

In announcing his bid for the First Selectman position Richard Stowe has come out of the gate leading with misinformation – not a quality that voters hold dear in elected officials. Mr. Stowe is quoted in a recent article (Stowe Qualifies for Line on Ballot - New Canaan Advertiser, September 27, 2007) as saying that both major parties “threw out their respective incumbent first selectman candidates. In fact all selectman were ousted”. The first point of fact is that Johnny Potts decided to step down and not run for the Selectman’s seat for personal reasons. He was not thrown out by his party. Mr. Potts was not even on the ballot at the Democratic Caucus where Sally Hines and Penny Rashin ran unchallenged. Stowe’s characterization is untrue and seeks to create a negative air of intrigue around Mr. Potts’ service to the town in order to help Stowe’s own cause. Not a flattering personality trait.

Stowe seeks to create further intrigue with a veiled comment about the Democratic team being “closely associated with the $13 million asbestos abatement project costs in the high school renovation project”. Well here he may have a point, albeit not the one he was trying to make. Neither Sally Hines nor Penny Rashin is responsible for the asbestos found at NCHS. Sally Hines has served on the Board of Education for over a decade and Penny Rashin has served on the NCHS Building Committee alongside Christine Wagner for several years. Ms. Wagner recently had a room named after her at NCHS to honor her service leading the committee while both Hines and Rashin have been praised for their integrity and service to the Town of New Canaan. Republicans and Democrats alike raised Sally Hines to the position of Board President where she has served on a successful bi-partisan body to improve education for our children.

Mr. Stowe seems to have developed some strong opinions about his opponents for office. With his focus on the environment, Mr. Stowe has JebWalker clearly in his sights; “The felling of 50-75 trees at Irwin Park earlier this year stunned many Town Council members…”. In seeking to paint the Democratic candidates with the same brush he would smear them with innuendo rather than fact. At least he is consistent. He would use innuendo to have us believe that he holds adequate credentials to run a $100 million budget. Stowe will work to do everything he can, according the Advertiser article. But alas, what can he do? The Board of Selectmen are charged with leading our town. That requires skill and experience. Mr. Stowe has demonstrated neither in his credentials or his platform – only an attempt to besmirch the reputation of the other candidates.

To give Mr. Stowe his due, he certainly has a voice and a point of view that should be heard. We do need to consider environmental stewardship as part of our overall town plan for the future, but that idea alone does not a First Selectman make. We need to have responsible stewardship for all of our resources in New Canaan – the environment is one part of the foundation.

I hope that Mr. Stowe will come back to the table with less divisive information and instead focus on concrete plans and a proactive campaign. I also hope that Mr. Stowe will unveil his strengths to us instead of trying to fabricate weaknesses in his opponents if he is to be taken seriously by New Canaan voters. Mr. Stowe – tell us why we should consider voting for you, not why we shouldn’t vote for the Republican or Democratic candidates.

Robert Doran

Breaking the Cycle

BREAKING THE CYCLE - by Robert Doran
(Exerpts from a speech delivered at The Havana Room on November 12,2006 by Nancy Grace)

Domestic violence is abuse between two people in an intimate relationship. And its perpetrators seek to intimidate their victims by fear and terror. This abuse can be physical, psychological, sexual, financial, and all of the above. It affects young people, adults, and the elderly.

Domestic violence is not a crime of the underclass. It occurs among all income groups, all religions, all ethnicities. It transcends generations. It is an equal opportunity crime that leaves its victims in a constant state of terror and anxiety.

In 1993, MICHAEL BOLTON began a personal journey to give back to those less fortunate – He created an organization with a vision to help Children and Women at Risk from the damaging effects of poverty and emotional, physical and sexual abuse. The mission was clear - through intervention and education, THE MICHAEL BOLTON CHARITIES would work to break the cycle of abuse by supporting innovative programs that mitigate the problems, while searching for long-term solutions through the support of programs and unique ideas that might otherwise go unfunded.

And that passion and dedication have been unwavering. In the last year, THE MICHAEL BOLTON CHARITIES has given grants to many vital organizations including:

• $100,000 to the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence - Hurricane Katrina Fund
• The Yale Child Study Center - "Project Homeward Bound" - assisting victims in shelters to transition back into the community.
• And an innovative collaboration with the Community Renewal Team in Hartford Connecticut to create The Michael Bolton Charities / CRT Contemporary Music Program.
  

The work of both organizations provides a foothold for victims of abuse to take control of their lives, gain self esteem, chart a path away from the horrors of abuse, and transition back into communities as productive citizens.

From Domestic Violence, Teen Dating Violence and even Elder Abuse, violence is the cancer that tears at the fabric of our families, our communities, and our businesses. It is terrorism at home

THE MICHAEL BOLTON CHARITIES is on the front lines of the battle to break the cycle of abuse. Unfortunately their services are sorely needed. A woman is never at more risk than when she finally chooses to leave an abusive relationship. The shelters and safe housing, counseling and advocacy supported by the two organizations give victims a lifeline – literally, and the chance to feel safe and to seek counseling free from worry about their own safety or the safety of their children.

There is a myth that abuse happens primarily in poorer communities. It can’t be happening next door. Not in my neighbourhood, not in my family. The truth is that abuse does not respect boundaries. It cannot be escaped by living in a better zip code nor can it be buffered by wealth.

And the statistics are staggering.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that

• 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime
• 13% of teenage girls who have been in a relationship report being physically hurt or hit.
• A Harvard School of Public Health study indicated that female teenagers who experienced dating violence were more likely to engage in substance abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and suicide.
• And still at least 17 States do not have dating violence statutes to protect our children.

And to underscore that point …

• The effect of children living in abusive households is horrific. With those children being 24 x more likely to commit sexual assault crimes; 74% more likely to commit crimes against someone else and 6 times more likely to commit suicide!

These are our children, our sisters, our friends, our family.

For me, the silver lining shines when we support each other. For those overcoming violence, facing their perpetrator in court, and moving forward with life after tragedy, they need and deserve support the most

You are all here today to help women and children affected by domestic violence. It is not a glamorous cause, nor one people are comfortable talking about. We never expect violence to enter our lives, but once you start to pay attention, its impact is perhaps an acquaintance, a friend, a family member – or maybe someone only a chair away from you.

We must strengthen our resolve and together we will break the cycle through the education of youth, supporting the transition of victims and their families back into communities and fruitful lives, and advocacy in the legal system to protect victims. With your support, we can break the cycle of abuse that affects so many women, children, men … our families … and our communities.

Thank you.

America Must Lead With Morality

In Act V Scene 1 of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Lady Macbeth is unable in her mind to wash the blood of her wickedness from her hands. She seems on the brink, if not in the absolute depths of madness when she is overheard by a Doctor and a Lady in Waiting. “Out, damned spot. Out I say” she says wringing her hands to cleanse them of blood. She continues in perhaps a lucid moment, certainly the most frightening, to say “What need we fear who knows it, when none can call our power to account?” Such it seems is our government’s position as they wring their hands over the perverted atrocities of Abu Ghraib prison, and most likely other prisons in Iraq under American control.

Watching the congressional hearings this week I sat in stunned silence interrupted by my own outbursts of shock and shame as I watched Republicans and Democrats question Secretary Donald Rumsfeld and the military hierarchy about what they knew, when they knew it and why they did not share the violent details with congress sooner. I know in my heart that all of the men and women taking part in the hearings were horrified by the actions portrayed in the photos and video from Iraq, but the notion that they had been left out of the loop somehow seemed to eclipse the issues of abhorrent violence. While the technical aspects of what, when and why are important as we move forward to prosecute all of those involved, it would seem to me to be secondary to the “how” of it.

How did this happen? How could we be so irresponsible as to send young men and women into harms way without proper training? A cover story in the New York Times (In Abuse, a Portrayal of Ill-Prepared, Overwhelmed G.I.’s, Sunday May 9) paints a grim picture of these young people who were in menial stateside jobs one-day and guarding prisoners in a war zone the next – without proper training. But training aside, if we are to claim the moral high ground in this world there are even more “hows” that need to be answered. How could some of our own commit such atrocities on the very people they were sent to save? How can they, in letters to parents and friends, pretend that they did not know or feel that this was illegal - that they should not question such extreme barbarism – even against those suspected of the same? How can they be smiling and parading in these pictures that make us unfortunate witnesses to the atrocities?

If we truly want to free the Iraqis and deliver unto them rule by the people for the people, if we want to be able to look the world in the eye and say that we have made Iraq a better place, if we are in fact the example of righteousness in the world then let us also admit our wrongs and punish those of our own who would stain the flag of the United States and the reputation of the men and women who serve in harms way so that others may taste the freedoms we are privileged to take for granted. Secretary Rumsfeld was correct in his testimony to the Senate this week when he said “people are lining up to get into this country.” Let’s make sure we continue to be the flag bearers for the honour and freedom they seek.

We must see the irony in Iran passing a law banning torture in the same week when Rush Limbaugh insists that he doesn’t see the violence in the photos from Iraq. It’s just “MPs blowing off steam” he says, as if the prisoners at Abu Ghraib were merely the subjects of some frat initiation hazing gone overboard. I appreciate free speech but I think Rush needs a new prescription.

Lest we find, like Lady Macbeth, that our blood stained hands will not come clean we must act in the manner befitting our values of moral and human decency. We must protect the high-ground our founding fathers fought for by admitting our guilt, prosecuting our own, providing broad systemic changes in the training of the military, and most of all – act in the best interests of the Iraqi people even if it is contrary to our own desires. If we are to live and lead in this world, we must be the example we want the world to see – this great power must be accountable to it as well.

Ending The Cycle of Abuse

The recent articles on domestic violence in the New Canaan Advertiser and the charges of abuse in the local police blotter might catch many of us by surprise. It certainly should raise some questions. Is there a rising tide of domestic violence in our town and/or how much of this is a changing dynamic of victims finding the strength to speak out in a more open society? Studies draw differing conclusions on the latter question but there can be no doubt that abuse and domestic violence exists in New Canaan and there can also be no doubt that this violence tears at the fabric of our community. So when the surprise wears off I would rather hear that this news shocks and makes us angry, ashamed, and resolved to change the social dynamics that allow abuse to destroy so many lives.

Many of us grew up in an age of corporal punishment and talk with a smile about the punishment meted out by our parents, coaches and for some, our teachers. Our aging generation did not distinguish between reprimands to address behavioral issues, instilling manners into the children, and vicious punishment at the hands of abusers. It was all part of keeping the family together, making us team players and even to make us tough so we could “get by” in the real world.

In this day and age we know so much more. We know the difference between grounding a child who comes home late and striking that child. We know that children of abusers more often than not become abusers themselves. This is the cycle that escalates violent behavior. So we must open our eyes to the horrors of domestic violence and change the conversation away from nostalgic references to the halcyon days of Parochial school punishment to the current horrors of abuse. Yet it remains almost impossible to create change on a subject that nobody wishes to talk about.

The embarrassment of being a victim keeps too many people locked in the cycle of abuse and all too rarely do we as family or neighbors get involved in somebody’s personal life - that would be meddling.

The dialogue is now open. We must get involved and we must work to break the cycle of abuse through developmental education and the implementation of innovative programs – to broaden horizons and expand opportunities for victims of abuse across socioeconomic and multicultural lines. We must also educate our family and friends to stop whispering about abuse and to cry out about the injustice of it. Although a great deal of money is raised each year to support domestic violence service organizations, the greatest hurdle is in mobilizing the forces required to effect the social and political mores that keep the issues of abuse and domestic violence relegated to back room conversations - that keep so many in denial about the statistics while others just feel helpless.

One of the great myths is that abuse is a problem of inner cities and poorer neighborhoods. To often I hear the phrase “but it doesn’t happen here” and yet here we are staring into the eyes of a stark reality as our local newspaper highlights the horror stories from our own neighborhoods. Violence does not respect socioeconomic lines but it thrives on the anonymity of the perpetrators and the victims. Without a face or a name, abusers continue to hurt. Without a face or a name there is still a sense of disbelief, which we must abandon.

To those who would ask if there aren’t enough programs available to help those in need I would say that there clearly are not. While the admirable efforts of Fairfield County organizations like the Domestic Violence Crisis Center and Kids In Crisis provide beacons of hope for so many they cannot handle the volume, which is increasing. And for those few under funded state programs that have survived budget cuts, availability and access to those resources is limited. There is also a large qualification chasm between the Connecticut Department of Children and Families services and many of those seeking help – so many victims continue to fall through the cracks.
We must dedicate more resources to solving the issues of abuse. The financial equation is easy. It costs so much more to maintain welfare programs and shelters that provide immediate relief from the problems but do not do anything to relieve the need for the services - to stem the abuse that affects so many around us. Abuse and domestic violence, not only shatter lives, but also drain our communities of valuable resources. There is an increasing need for resources that promote values and creativity for victims of abuse by focusing on self-esteem, empowerment and leadership skills. Programs that provide education and facilitate personal growth allowing people to take control of their future and compelling them to make a difference in the lives of others. Programs to raise awareness of the issues and what can be done to eradicate abuse from our lives.

We can each look to ourselves to see if the moral equation adds up. Can we can stand by and let the cycle continue. The statistics are staggering. According to the Department of Children and Families over 10,000 children in Connecticut were victims of abuse in 2002. The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence provided services to over 40,000 victims in the last twelve months and that is just one of many organizations servicing victim’s needs. FBI statistics show that a woman is battered every 15 seconds in the United States and that it is likely to be by somebody well known or intimate with her. And in our local papers we see the disturbing increase in reports of Domestic Violence.

Two years ago we entered a new era of compassion and caring for our families and friends, and for many people we never knew. This time of greater caring has brought us in touch with the full value of life, and given us a greater respect for others. While the White House and the media have focused our attention on global terrorism the statistics belie a social terrorism being allowed to go unfettered in our neighborhoods. We need to raise our collective voices to stem the rising tide of abuse.

In raising our voices the most overlooked chorus in ending domestic violence is the men. Men need to speak out openly and show that they care. Women’s voices have been loud and clear but now it is time for men to join the charge and to take a critical stand by telling spouses, sons, daughters, family and friends that abuse is intolerable, that it puts an undue burden on our communities and it is morally reprehensible. Caring is contagious. It has an amazing exponential impact that reaches many, many people in need. Continue to care and we can break the cycle of abuse. We cannot afford to stand idly by. It is our business to be proactively involved in an issue that destroys the fabric of our lives and of those around us. For those who wish to help or those who require help there are many places to seek guidance including religious organizations, the DVCC and the Department of Human Services. Start someplace - but start to make the change.
Robert Doran, a New Canaan resident, is the President of the Michael Bolton Charities for Children and Women at Risk - http://www.michaelboltoncharities.com/.

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FIRST PUBLISHED IN THE NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER OP-ED SECTION
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2003

Welcome to the Casino State

The Casino State is the slogan that will replace The Constitution State on Connecticut’s license plates if the Golden Hill Paugusetts get their way.

Connecticut is currently home to the two largest casinos in the world that take in a combined $2 billion per year in non-taxable income. As we speak, groups seeking federal recognition and tribal status are considering four additional casinos for Connecticut. These groups of American citizens are looking to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for a nod that will allow them to form sovereign nations only a few miles from New Canaan. The Golden Hill Paugusetts in Bridgeport have said they will lay claim to property in Fairfield County if they are not given approval to build a casino there. The Schaghticoke in Kent have already filed a land claim which is pending against that town and private landowners. The Nipmuc, backed by Lakes Gaming, Inc. want to build a casino in Union, and the Historic Eastern Pequots, backed by Donald Trump want to build a casino in New London County. With help from the Federal Government and a corrupt BIA, each group is seeking to enrich itself at our expense by threatening to lay claim to private property throughout the state if their demands are not met.

In December and January the BIA could in fact recognize the claim of some or all of these groups, which would pave the way for casino construction in the spring. Each group has land deals in place for property that would become sovereign territory and home to 24/7 gambling.

These groups are using extortion, in the form of bogus land claims, to get what they really want – 4 more casinos in Connecticut. Backed by heavy funding from outside developers, they would have us believe that casinos are good for our economy and a beleaguered Bridgeport. The strain on Connecticut’s infrastructure to support additional casinos might cost us 3$ for every 1$ gained including schools and low income housing for casino employees who receive substandard benefits and low wages.

Casinos have a negative effect on surrounding communities, especially in urban areas. Crime rates in communities with casinos are 84% higher than the national average including drug abuse, prostitution, and assault. Bridgeport is an urban city very different from the “remote” locations of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. One-third of Atlantic City's retail businesses closed within four years of the arrival of casinos. Casinos also take money away from other area attractions effecting tourism revenues.

From Stonington to Danbury and Union to Kent residents are organizing against additional casinos by saying enough is enough. They have seen the effects on other communities like Atlantic City. They know that a casino is not the only answer to Bridgeport’s problems and have witnessed the resurgence of Providence Rhode Island after it rebuffed casinos and rebuilt itself into a thriving costal city. The residents in Connecticut who are signing petitions by the hundreds wish only to protect quality of life for all and that includes seeing Bridgeport thrive as a successful business and residential city. The Indian groups fronting for developers like Donald Trump cannot say the same. They charge that if they do not get the casino then they will sue for land.

Politicians like Governor Rowland, Attorney General Blumenthal, and Congressman Shays along with Chambers of Commerce and other civic groups in Connecticut are coming out against casino expansion. A grassroots organization, The Alliance, led by author Jeff Benedict is gaining momentum throughout the state with a web site dedicated to the issue at www.connecticutalliance.org.

It is not too late to stop this negative impact on our state. We need to communicate to all of our elected officials that we do not want any more casinos in Connecticut.

Chief Quiet Hawk of the Golden Hill Paugusetts was quoted in the New York Times recently as saying “I don’t like Gambling”. Well neither do I. Not when it comes at the expense of quality of life!