tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-264277382012-01-23T07:34:44.474-05:00ConnecticutBob.Com is a small corner of the interweb since April 2006 where Progressive ideas are nurtured, all politically-minded and reasonable people are welcome, and the countdown to Joe Lieberman's retirement continues.CT Bobnoreply@blogger.comBlogger29111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-7590873520617870272012-01-22T11:51:00.003-05:002012-01-22T12:03:59.398-05:00

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich earned a decisive primary victory yesterday over previous frontrunner and presumed GOP nominee Mitt Romney. The upset throws the entire process into disarray and promises to make the the GOP nominating process a long and bitter battle.So far there have been three caucuses/primaries, and each one has a different winner. This obviously won't be a simple

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-49679046157483601822012-01-18T08:46:00.002-05:002012-01-18T08:48:19.282-05:00

Not really...I just wanted a day off.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-46624919304279595792012-01-17T21:29:00.006-05:002012-01-17T22:24:52.338-05:00

"The most unkindest cut of all!"Ah, literature. It's a most fortunate thing for us that the MPAA wasn't around when the Bard of Avon was penning some of his more notable works.For, it would'st quite sucketh to be fined mightily for quoting ye Bard's hallowed words upon a blogeth, would'st it not? Or something like that. Actually, I'm just back from happy hour, and I'm kind of giddy that I created

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-4158294402854407322012-01-15T09:58:00.003-05:002012-01-15T10:07:51.177-05:00

Seeing as I'm down here in Austin for a few weeks for work, I wanted to drop in to Occupy Austin and chat with the volunteers.Saturday was a perfect day, sunny and around 70 degrees. Downtown Austin is a lovely area, and the Occupy protestors have set up camp on the steps of the Austin City Hall directly in front of Lady Bird Lake. I spoke to a volunteer named John, who said that the cops have

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-34187835396685118002012-01-10T19:43:00.005-05:002012-01-10T20:04:13.619-05:00

Tonight I'm blogging from the Lone Star state, where I'll watch the results trickle in from the New Hampshire Primary. What a difference four years makes! In 2008 I was standing outside a restaurant in the cold and snow, waiting for Dennis Kucinich to make his speech after the results came in. I remember Hilary Clinton won that night, along with John McCain. Cut to four years later, and this what

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-38365217817918028872012-01-08T17:54:00.000-05:002012-01-08T19:24:57.188-05:00

Sad news yesterday, with the passing of Tommy Ardolino, longtime drummer for NRBQ. He was only 56, much too young for someone so full of life. However, he did leave us a lot of great music. I'm currently searching for his soulful (and hilarious) rendition of "You & I & George", one of the occasions he came out from behind his drum set to sing a song. But in the meantime, you can listen to him

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-2268080088042860412012-01-06T16:40:00.003-05:002012-01-06T17:01:11.477-05:00

After a somewhat surprising Iowa caucus, where Mitt Romney (above, campaigning in New Hampshire) literally squeaked by with a win over a strong showing from Rick Santorum, the New Hampshire primary will likely impact the rest of the battle for the GOP nomination. I did predict Romney to win in Iowa, but I stated that he would walk away with it. Seven votes doth not a walk make. It turns out if

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-74784800671917474632012-01-03T20:48:00.005-05:002012-01-03T20:55:17.220-05:00

In a dramatic result from Iowa, President Obama swept the Democratic caucus with 100% of the vote! Obama is most likely thrilled with the results, and will continue to lead the nation as the New Hampshire primary approaches.In other news, we're still waiting to see how the Republican contest goes.(h/t to @ttagaris)

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-15135656843381502922012-01-03T09:56:00.006-05:002012-01-03T10:15:22.773-05:00

For veteran politics junkies such as myself, the beginning of the 2012 primary season is a true winter blessing! Because I know that even though the NY Giants season will have to end eventually, we'll still have the Republican battle for the nomination to keep us entertained until long after my boat goes back in the water.(But damn, wasn't that a great finish by the Giants, knocking the Cowboys

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-57131596195866037322011-12-28T23:41:00.002-05:002011-12-28T23:46:52.813-05:00

This Is The Best Thing I've EVER Seen On The Internet (Today)!Every day I usually find something interesting or noteworthy on the internet, so I decided to post one today. Here's 25 seconds of fairly cool, followed by 5 seconds of sheer awesome!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-40193697102031474122011-12-23T20:32:00.002-05:002011-12-23T20:45:39.979-05:00

Yes, it's my video from a million years ago of me putting on a red suit and jumping out of a perfectly good plane for a bunch of kids.Merry Christmas and all that. I'm working for FedEx for one more week before I start a new job. Doing the delivery thing for the holiday season was fun and challenging; and for the first time during a December I've actually LOST weight! But I'm looking forward to

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-78146886700862767832011-12-19T05:33:00.003-05:002011-12-19T21:58:59.936-05:00

The guy didn't look all that healthy to me anyway, so this is no big surprise.Kim Jong Il died suddenly of a reported heart attack yesterday. His son, Kim Jong Un is the likely successor. Because, in brutal dictatorships, it's often the son of the leader who takes control of the nation upon his leaving office. For example, see Papa Doc/Baby Doc Duvalier, Augustus and Tiberius Caesar, and G.H.W

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-65853007016339394292011-12-13T17:11:00.005-05:002011-12-13T17:21:48.184-05:00

I was wondering about that word. "wackos". I tend to want to spell it "whackos", but I've seen it written the former way a lot, so I'll yield to conventional wisdom in this case. Although personally, I still prefer "whackos". Oh well... Now that we got that out of the way, here's a video of Chris Murphy (CT-05), speaking to Congress about the cowardly decision by Lowes to pull all their

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-90270699266736123442011-12-11T07:11:00.003-05:002011-12-11T07:54:39.458-05:00

Okay, so Joshua Komisarjevsky (yes, I had to copy and paste his name...nobody but his family and his lawyers can possible spell it without looking) has been sentenced to death, same as his home invasion partner Steven Hayes. Now what?Let's put aside the moral implications of the death penalty for now, as many of you already know my position. What about the practical issues?The way the death

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-88139009103523039772011-12-08T21:27:00.004-05:002011-12-08T22:11:25.899-05:00

Fresh off the surprising and disappointing decision by Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius to reject the Food and Drug Administration's conclusion that the Plan B One-Step pill was safe enough to be placed on pharmacy shelves without an age limit, President Obama chimed in with his own opinion.“The reason Kathleen made this decision is that she could not be confident that a

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-62145469072857141492011-11-27T12:49:00.003-05:002011-11-27T13:13:07.636-05:00

Oh, thank you, Manchester (N.H.) Union Leader, thank you for throwing your vast editorial weight behind my favorite 90s-era politician name, Newt Gingrich!This will make it much easier than if they had gone the moderate route and chosen New England favorite Mitt Romney, whom I still perceive as the greatest threat to President Obama's re-election next year. Thankfully, the extreme right will

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-66532972584942510602011-11-24T10:40:00.003-05:002011-11-24T10:46:04.889-05:00

I don't blame the turkey one bit for being angry. The guy in the red suit is always trying to grab ALL the attention. Can't he wait his turn? Please keep in mind that the tryptophan in turkey can make you very drowsy, so don't eat and drive! Another helpful safety tip from CT Bob!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-30348430667036455412011-11-20T07:45:00.000-05:002011-11-20T14:10:28.026-05:00

(UPDATED: November 20, 2011)This is the latest version of the GOP Primary/Caucus Calendar for 2012.The race to decide who will be the Republican challenger to Barack Obama begins immediately after the holiday season. Already candidates are spending plenty of time in places like Iowa.JanuaryJanuary 3, 2012 Iowa (caucus)January 10, 2012 New Hampshire (primary)January 21, 2012 South Carolina (

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-69758996287876971962011-11-18T07:25:00.002-05:002011-11-18T07:28:47.687-05:00

Milford's first Democratic mayor in 20 years will be sworn in on Monday, November 21st at 7PM in Milford's Parsons Complex auditorium, 70 W. River St. (the entrance to the auditorium is actually on West Main St). Also, City Clerk Linda Stock will be sworn in for her 2nd term.Be there for the festivities!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-28132100579375270322011-11-14T19:08:00.000-05:002011-11-14T19:08:00.122-05:00

Michael Moore will speak at the Storrs campus to raise money for The Mark Twain House & Museum. This Friday, November 18th at 7:30 p.m. at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Connecticut, The Mark Twain House & Museum presents "A Pen Warmed Up in Hell Lecture" with Michael Moore! Love him or hate him, one cannot deny that Academy Award-winning documentarian Michael

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-37038811770911884322011-11-13T17:04:00.002-05:002011-11-13T17:18:42.502-05:00

It's the 20th installment of the Sunday Night Music Club!This week I'm featuring the always tasty G. Love and Special Sauce performing "Baby's Got Sauce". This song is on my mp3 player, and for some reason it comes up randomly so often when we're on the boat that now, whenever I hear it, I think of sailing!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-31913676530698964912011-11-09T07:33:00.005-05:002011-11-09T07:53:39.737-05:00

Democrat Ben Blake led the ticket to a nearly clean sweep in Milford last night. Blake won over Republican Bob Joy and Independent Rocco Frank in a fairly heavy turnout for a municipal election. Milford has about 32,000 registered voters, and nearly 13,000 showed up to vote yesterday. Which means the turnout was roughly 40%, which is significantly better than many towns and cities that had

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-5613168573360441502011-11-08T08:58:00.004-05:002011-11-08T09:02:55.438-05:00

8:51AM. CT Joyce and I voted. Guess for who?When we voted there were 224 votes already cast at the West Shore Rec Center in Devon. And a big endorsement from the Police Union!Be sure to vote today!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-58819187959547283382011-11-07T22:23:00.004-05:002011-11-07T22:28:26.634-05:00

...and, at least on this blog, a little cheesecake too! Damn, but do I love voting!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-68267748042183577152011-11-02T18:55:00.002-04:002011-11-02T19:01:51.830-04:00

The local paper for Milford has endorsed city alderman Ben Blake for mayor. This is a significant indication about the level of support Blake has here in Milford. The four-term alderman and former chair has filled in as acting mayor when needed.Here is the endorsement from the Milford Mirror:Written by Editorial StaffWednesday, 02 November 2011 13:43Milford’s mayoral candidates are to be

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-64442784412934028492011-11-01T15:45:00.003-04:002011-11-01T16:07:30.284-04:00

The Occupy Wall Street movement is demonstrating that it is possible to fight giant corporations and their incessant nickel-and-diming consumers to death. In September, bailed-out banking giant Bank of America announced they would soon begin charging a $5 a month fee for their customers who use debit cards. In the past, this would have been grudgingly accepted by their customers because there

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-33357097223814393822011-10-30T18:32:00.005-04:002011-10-30T19:25:55.353-04:00

From John Lustig's excellent "Last Kiss" webcomic.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-63291352781453649502011-10-29T15:18:00.002-04:002011-10-29T15:24:25.264-04:00

Red and green lawn signs in the snow are more reminiscent of Christmas than Halloween; but then again, there's nothing spooky about Ben Blake for Mayor of Milford!(Photo via Alex Armstrong. Follow Alex on Twitter!)

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-80632394797632147182011-10-28T06:50:00.001-04:002011-10-28T06:50:00.130-04:00

This is some great video from Wednesday night's march from Zuccotti Park to Union Square Park in solidarity with the #OccupyOakland protesters who were attacked by police during a peaceful march the night before in Oakland. The movement is growing. And the continued non-violent actions of the protesters will only strengthen their position. America is waking up. Finally.Footage via

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-86519671575965708572011-10-27T11:43:00.002-04:002011-10-27T12:02:43.508-04:00

In a refreshing display of what a unified legislature can accomplish, the General Assembly passed the Jobs bill by a nearly unanimous vote of 147-1 and the Senate similarly passed the bill 34-1. The only two legislators to vote against the bill are, of course, Republican. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has announced he will sign the bill later today. The $626 million economic package will provide many

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-19773965998743841672011-10-25T11:16:00.002-04:002011-10-25T11:24:18.478-04:00

Sunday I was in the city on business, but I had my camera with me and my appointment was only a block away from Zuccotti Park, so I thought it would be interesting to stop by the Occupy Wall Street protest and see what's happening.The drum circle was relentless during the time I was there, and it was nearly impossible to do any interviews because of the noise. Plus, it was starting to give me a

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-54579538651588963212011-10-24T15:23:00.004-04:002011-10-24T15:34:57.512-04:00

I was in Manhattan yesterday for a video project in the Wall St. area, and I got there early to check out the Occupy Wall Street protest at Zuccotti Park. Here's some photos:People and stuff.More people and stuff."Last Generation Retiree?" great sign.My very favorite sign of the entire day!And, of course, I have to get my mug in the picture!I'll post some video in a day or two.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-38368280416627263872011-10-23T07:30:00.003-04:002011-10-23T08:05:56.694-04:00

Yesterday Sen. Joe Lieberman delivered a scathing critique of President Obama's decision to withdraw all U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of this year.Lieberman said he is "profoundly disappointed" that we don't keep at least 10,000 soldiers in the nation for "a while longer" to complete "the mission". Much like our previous president, Lieberman didn't give details on how much longer they would

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-7781881838447938962011-10-19T06:47:00.003-04:002011-10-19T10:17:02.319-04:00

Last night's debate was way more fun to watch than I anticipated. And when I say "fun", I mean fun in a sort of horrified fascination at how extreme most of the candidates were. But I love to watch Republicans attacking Republicans, especially thinking of how the hallowed Saint Ronnie is spinning in his grave.Herbert Cain ("Herbert"? Maybe I mean "Herman"?...I don't really know or care) was

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-48961797595483809952011-10-15T17:40:00.002-04:002011-10-15T18:00:47.512-04:00

Well, I guess the Obama administration has grudgingly agreed to live up to its promise that all US combat troops will be withdrawn from Iraq by Dec. 31st.From the Associated Press:The U.S. is abandoning plans to keep U.S. troops in Iraq past a year-end withdrawal deadline, The Associated Press has learned. The decision to pull out fully by January will effectively end more than eight years of U.S

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-88554651959801065342011-10-13T06:28:00.000-04:002011-10-13T06:28:00.101-04:00

The movement is spreading. It is generating numbers that the Tea Party dicks can only dream about!Saturday, October 15th. Noon.New Haven Green (College Street side).(...if the weather is really nice I may be sailing, otherwise I'll try to be there...)

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-28835916396456603592011-10-12T07:11:00.004-04:002011-10-14T00:39:40.140-04:00

CORRECTION: OK, I guess I fucked up. I saw an article online that had Joe Lieberman and Jim Webb voting against cloture, but I just found out I was wrong. While my distaste for Lieberman remains as solid as the granite upon which the faces of Mount Rushmore were carved, I did indeed get this one wrong. And for that, I apologize most sincerely. This apology technically ain't flowers I'm sending

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-7574547992740422292011-10-11T16:56:00.001-04:002011-10-11T16:56:53.969-04:00

This video says it all.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-36974944614632838242011-10-09T20:05:00.003-04:002011-10-09T20:05:00.794-04:00

I never heard of this band, and I'm not a huge fan of this music (catchy though it is), but the video is absolutely enthralling. "Have You Seen My Sister Evelyn?" by Evelyn Evelyn.I just did some Wiki research on this duo. Really interesting and weird. The gal is married to Neil Gaiman.(h/t to The Best Roof Talk Ever)

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-17670880705082112082011-10-05T18:00:00.006-04:002011-10-05T21:09:45.247-04:00

(Cute coffee-themed protest sign in NYC photo by our own native daughter "Caffeinated Geek Girl". Follow her on Twitter)Today was the first organized "Occupy Hartford" protest in Bushnell Park, a local spin-off of the "Occupy Wall Street" phenomenon.Finally, the movement is making enough noise that even the corporate-owned media can no longer ignore it. From Yahoo News:"More and more people are

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-85594290932251021512011-10-02T16:17:00.002-04:002011-10-03T08:49:06.958-04:00

I wish I'd never started with that stupid roman numeral scheme. It actually requires conscious effort to come up with the roman equivalent to "18". I should of just stuck with plain ol' decimal. Or even binary, which is easier for me since I'm a bit of a computer geek. 10010 Piece o' cake.Although, in two more installments I'll be able to use "XX", which is cool. I'll have to come up with

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-65838466750560219612011-09-28T13:08:00.006-04:002011-09-28T13:44:18.969-04:00

I always thought Texas was the de facto owner of the "Wackiest State in the Union" crown, but once again Florida has shown why it's the only state to have it's own tag on Fark.com.The Floridian Republican Party has "gone rogue" on the RNC and will likely decide they're going to hold their primary on January 31st, and screw them if they don't like it!This will likely have the effect of once again

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-68772100944070465922011-09-26T14:57:00.004-04:002011-09-26T15:21:13.301-04:00

Sometimes a revolution bursts into existence in the proverbial blink of an eye, often the result of a cataclysmic event or a dramatic incident. This ain't one of those revolutions. The Occupy Wall Street movement began just over a week ago. The concept being that a diverse crowd gather together in a nearby park and peacefully protest the way our government is in bed with Wall Street concerns. The

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-73264980877822002812011-09-25T17:20:00.002-04:002011-09-25T17:20:00.137-04:00

Punk movie classic "Repo Man" is currently viewable on Youtube, although I doubt that it will remain there for long. The 1984 sci-fi punk masterpiece, written and directed by Alan Cox, holds up remarkably well over 25 years later. I haven't seen the low-rated 2009 reboot "Repo Chick" by Cox but, much like I forced myself to watch the similarly poorly reviewed ripoff sequel to "Donnie Darko"

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-80760106039358175302011-09-25T10:18:00.003-04:002011-09-25T10:27:50.271-04:00

Last Tuesday the three candidates for Milford mayor faced off in a debate sponsored by the Plymouth Men's Club. Ben Blake (Democrat), Bob Joy (Republican) and Rocco Frank (Independent) spoke from prepared statements and answered questions.The video is in two parts, and the entire debate is over 102 minutes long. Maybe next time they can eliminate some of the rebuttal opportunities to speed the

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-67774002020995272252011-09-21T08:46:00.002-04:002011-09-21T09:12:11.108-04:00

Has it been two years since she previously announced? Predictable, yet nauseating. World wrestling billionaire Linda McMahon has thrown her hat into the political ring once again, in what it likely to be another well-funded attempt to become the junior senator from Connecticut.There are, however, several positives to this silly development. First, she'll spend another $50-75 million dollars in

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-73029583813433410712011-09-19T07:57:00.004-04:002011-09-19T08:50:09.448-04:00

Reporters were lining up outside the New Haven Superior Courthouse before dawn today to cover the launch of the Joshua Komisarjevsky trial. JK (as I'll call him, because typing "Komisarjevsky" is even harder than pronouncing it) is to be tried for the deadly 2007 Cheshire home invasion.I don't have any doubt that JK is as guilty as hell, but I do believe in the necessity of the judicial process,

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-91316002341445245072011-09-17T14:45:00.006-04:002011-09-28T21:48:14.328-04:00

We had the wrap party for our movie "Isn't It Delicious?" last night, and while there we also celebrated the 80th birthday of the inimitable Malachy McCourt (who plays "Father Bob" in the movie).L-R: Keir Dullea (foreground), Director Michael Kelly, Malachy McCourt, Producer/Actor Suzanne Hayes KellyMalachy led the crowd in a rousing Irish sing-a-long, then gave what is probably the best advice

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-74285561092284263392011-08-29T09:56:00.002-04:002011-08-29T09:59:25.410-04:00

Here's my boat, post-storm. Other than some water in the bilge, it rode out the storm nicely. And we got some tree debris in our yard, but no damage to our house or cars. Our thoughts are with those who suffered damage in the storm. My dad and CT Joyce's mom still don't have power. Inconvenient, but not a major problem. All things considered, we're pretty lucky.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-27614421368914922132011-08-28T00:35:00.001-04:002011-08-28T00:36:56.501-04:00

I hate Irene. I really do. It's very inconvenient. Irene sucks.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-37292736305584353362011-08-25T23:58:00.002-04:002011-08-25T23:59:13.487-04:00

I do. And it looks like we'll see more of the same in a couple days. Be smart and be safe.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-22459192842804788152011-08-22T10:15:00.002-04:002011-08-22T10:18:57.893-04:00

The only time I've been able to get on the water this month was on the chase boat to help film our friends' yacht "Shameles" for the movie. I'm going through an intense case of sailing withdrawal. When this film wraps on the 31st, I'm leaving for a week of sailing with Joyce.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-88142379633121966902011-08-15T08:02:00.003-04:002011-08-15T08:24:24.580-04:00

God bless Michele Bachmann. No, really. I mean it. She is God's true gift to the Democrats. Just when I was beginning to get worried that the Republicans might come up with a frontrunner who is just far enough center to sway moderate voters, up pops Michele with her special brand of wingnut crazy to win the Iowa straw poll. Thank you God! Some quotes from Michele can give you a clue about

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-27137574760882105602011-08-10T07:27:00.004-04:002011-08-10T07:37:07.179-04:00

Yup, that's what I wish I had time to write to mark the five-year anniversary of Ned Lamont's historic primary victory over Joe Lieberman. But I don't. So all I'll say is, once again... Thanks, Ned!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-59260768075590173882011-08-05T14:17:00.005-04:002011-08-06T04:32:44.123-04:00

I'm tired, but not THAT tired!I'm currently working on a feature film all month, which basically means 12 to 16 hour days that will leave little or no time for blogging. Or at least, blogging when I'm not so tired that I can't even make even the tiniest bit of sense. (In fact, I'm not even 100% sure about the grammatical integrity of that last sentence!)Anyway, the film is called "Isn't It

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-19050651214226051372011-07-28T08:43:00.004-04:002011-07-28T09:40:32.653-04:00

Connecticut's Film Industry Training Program (FITP) is currently being threatened by budget cuts. This program is essential to creating a workforce for the many feature films that are being produced here in Connecticut. Right now there are quite a few major features scheduled here during the next several months, with high profile stars such as Robert De Niro (above), Meryl Streep, Robin Williams,

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-69092424196567816612011-07-25T09:17:00.005-04:002011-07-25T09:30:16.190-04:00

Yes, we now have bobcats in Milford! This photo was taken in a backyard about 2 miles from my house. More in the Milford Mirror.What's next? Bears? Wolves? Angry Birds? Ill-tempered Mooses? Sheesh! I'd head for the hills, but it looked like the hills have already headed here!But wait!!!There IS a solution coming this way...Well, I feel safer already!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-85927853226612508722011-07-21T07:50:00.002-04:002011-07-21T08:11:29.694-04:00

Last night, life-long Milford resident Ben Blake was unanimously nominated for mayor at the Milford Democratic convention. Blake, an attorney, has been on the Board of Aldermen for eight years, and served as Chairman for several years. He has experience in running the city as Acting Mayor, and he presided over the Board during the only time in city history that there was a tax reduction!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-25166368156405186212011-07-19T07:31:00.002-04:002011-07-19T07:45:20.963-04:00

Yesterday leaders of the fifteen state unions voted to change the by-laws to allow a simple majority of unions and members to approve the concession deal currently on the table. Previously the unions required approval of a super majority (or even a super-duper majority) of 14 out of 15 unions to vote in favor of the deal, which represents 80% of the membership. Roughly 57% voted in favor of the

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-57987291125252315832011-07-15T07:01:00.003-04:002011-07-15T07:11:20.861-04:00

No Vet Left Behind, Inc. and the City of WaterburyNo Vet Left Behind, Inc. will join City of Waterbury– on July 22, 23, 24 2011. In Hosting a three day Stand Down to be held at Waterville Park, 1522 Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury CT. We are asking for all service organizations to volunteer to participate in this event.Briefly I will explain what Stand Down is; the original Stand Down for homeless

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-55113889625877302802011-07-13T13:17:00.003-04:002011-07-13T13:25:31.792-04:00

The first layoff notices went out today to over 300 state workers, as Gov. Malloy works to balance the budget after the state unions voted against a concession package that would have guaranteed them absolutely NO layoffs for the next four years.Here's a detail from the press release:Grand Total - 328Recap by bargaining unit:Managerial 9Service/Maintenance 10Administrative Clerical 16Correctional

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-76710870427314772432011-07-12T17:17:00.002-04:002011-07-12T17:35:33.938-04:00

Tea Party favorite Ron Paul announced today that he'll retire from Congress at the end of his current term. Paul ran for president in 2008 as a proto-Tea Party candidate before the Tea Party actually became known, only to get severely thumped in the primaries. This, despite his fancy blimp that he floated around the nation during his brief run.The Congressional redistricting will change his

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-87906468628377724912011-07-10T12:46:00.003-04:002011-07-10T13:08:10.558-04:00

Some pics from our vacation!Joyce kayaking by Salt City Island in Northport Bay, Long Island. An awesome sunset featuring our friends' Tim and Lori's boat "Ebb Tide" in Port Jefferson.The sunset tinted everything reddish, including me.Joyce relaxing the way she enjoys the most: reading a book and drinking a glass of wine (hidden by the chair).It was Joyce's birthday last Saturday, and our friends

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-79841652927620075932011-06-29T05:22:00.003-04:002011-06-29T05:50:16.478-04:00

Plan B for Gov. Malloy includes layoff notices for 6,000 state workers and additional cuts in services of over $700 million. That is, should the state union leaders fail in their attempts to get a re-vote on the budget deal that was struck down last week.In response to the concession defeat, union leaders for SEBAC and SEIU said they may consider changing union bylaws. The rules as they stand

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-46206067759242997162011-06-27T05:52:00.000-04:002011-06-27T05:52:00.126-04:00

In what some are calling an unusual move, Connecticut State Police members were used to hand-deliver notices to all 187 state legislators informing them of the special session scheduled for Thursday, June 30th.Stephen Krauchick from DoingItLocal.com has more:State Senators and State Representatives across Connecticut were surprised even startled Saturday morning to find Connecticut State Police

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-75101190078276205052011-06-26T09:28:00.001-04:002011-06-26T09:28:00.304-04:00

So, maybe Connecticut DID beat New York in making same-sex marriage legal first.But you gotta admit, Connecticut didn't do anything NEAR as cool as this to celebrate:

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-20864284679433169122011-06-25T08:03:00.004-04:002011-06-25T09:18:45.528-04:00

By rejecting a savings and concession deal orchestrated by Gov. Malloy, the voting members of several state unions have effectively fired at least 7,500 of their own people.So much for the concept of "union brotherhood" that has served them so well for so long!Despite being in the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, a lot of union members with extensive seniority (over 10 years'

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-51630226223048979812011-06-17T20:24:00.003-04:002011-06-17T20:29:57.342-04:00

Via Melisa Ryan's Twitter at the #NN11 Pub Quiz. The "Connecticut For Lieberman" Team rides again!How great is it that Joe Lieberman will be remembered only as a joke by so many people after he's finally gone?

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-80344404215082379912011-06-13T19:24:00.002-04:002011-06-13T19:36:04.486-04:00

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced today he was successful in raising $800,000 towards a one million dollar goal for the state tourism industry.I've always thought that Connecticut has lots to offer vacationers, from our state's many fine beaches and state parks to attractions like Mystic Seaport, Lime Rock Park, the Casinos, and more. Gov. Rell's short-sighted decision to cut tourism spending to

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-1729319557776615512011-06-12T09:37:00.001-04:002011-06-12T09:37:00.448-04:00

When it's convenient, that is.Another Republican blowing off the important work of overseeing the business of Milford. I guess the warm beaches of Mexico were too difficult to resist.And this guy wants to be our mayor!Excerpted from the CT Post:Republican mayoral candidate Bernard “Bob” Joy Jr. wasn’t at his usual seat on the Board of Aldermen on Monday night, but he had a good excuse.Joy said in

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-14554750739325529832011-06-11T07:57:00.000-04:002011-06-11T07:57:00.280-04:00

("frowny-face" logo 'shopped by CT Bob)I doubt there's a single person in the entire nation who isn't aware that buying stuff online without paying sales tax is taking advantage of a legal loophole that would in all likelihood eventually be closed.Well, apparently the top management of Amazon.com are being deliberately obtuse when it came to the sales tax issue, because they reacted quite rashly

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-18111455604604314932011-06-08T23:11:00.004-04:002011-06-08T23:25:56.036-04:00

So...we have a Democratic rep behaving like a horse's ass. Not much different from when a Republican rep does the same thing. Whatever, it happens.But you knew I couldn't keep quiet about it now, did you?Some of my Tweets from the last few days:Monday June 7th 7:20PM@Connecticut Bob: I've been offline all day. I wonder if there are any weiner tweets? #whatadumbassMonday June 7th 10:05PM@

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-35021366357839247222011-06-07T20:28:00.004-04:002011-06-07T20:36:46.652-04:00

Wait, WHAT?!? No no no, that's not what I mean at all!Great. Now it's out on the internet forever. I'm sure it'll come back to haunt me someday, like when I apply for a job with the DEA or something. They'll be all like, "Bob, we'd love to give you the job, but there's this blog post of yours from 2011..."So probably when I'm done writing all this, I shouldn't hit "Publish Post".Because that

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-877182574827980162011-06-06T21:16:00.004-04:002011-06-06T21:21:48.307-04:00

Comedian Jim Norton discusses Rep. Anthony Weiner's weiner.On frickin' CNN, of all places!Ignore the stupid commercial. It is CNN after all. Just mute it for 15 or 30 seconds and check your mail while you wait for it to end.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-69839304865820307612011-06-05T07:43:00.008-04:002011-06-06T05:18:18.192-04:00

(Why the heck is Milford spotlighted in this image?Is there something going on here that I don't know about?image *of course* via The Weed Blog)In just the last couple of days, Connecticut's legislature have passed some very important bills.On Saturday, Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman cast the tie-breaking vote in the Senate that decriminalizes small amounts of marijuana. The bill will move to the House

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-19490643534842858492011-06-03T10:35:00.003-04:002011-06-05T05:27:05.638-04:00

The 281-foot mega-yacht "Cakewalk" was built by Derecktor Shipyards in Bridgeport. The yacht is currently for sale by it's owner for a very reasonable $215 million (but I'd be willing to bet you can talk him down to an even deuce.)It's really good to see the shipyard emerge successfully from bankruptcy and continue to build innovative yachts right here at home in the ol' Nutmeg state!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-36205431191256944742011-06-02T08:30:00.003-04:002011-06-02T09:20:48.486-04:00

Yesterday the House passed a bill that would allow tolls to be placed somewhere on Route 11 to help finance the highway's completion. CT News Junkie has more:Shortly after midnight the House passed a bill 76 to 60 that allows the Department of Transportation to temporarily resurrect and collect highway tolls on Route 11 in the southeastern part of the state.The temporary tolls will be used to pay

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-63793166696245020022011-06-01T09:09:00.002-04:002011-06-01T09:15:40.091-04:00

You only have hours left to apply for the Film Industry Training Program. There are STILL some slots open but you have to apply online by 5PM today (Wednesday). Here's the deets:Four week course at Quinnipiac University, Monday-Friday 9-5, June 6th first day.Apply online HERE with a credit card ($10 application fee). When you receive the acceptance email by Friday, you'll need to bring a check

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-14651924358870489992011-05-30T10:48:00.006-04:002011-06-03T10:11:33.214-04:00

There's a new political blog in Connecticut, direct from the mind of Tessa Marquis.CT Free Radicals (CTFreeRadicals.com - link fixed) is a welcome addition to the local blogosphere. From the opening banner ("I wake up screaming!") you know you're in for something a bit different than the other offerings around here. Tessa also has the blog listed under the New Haven Register's online Community

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-27674077191464507972011-05-22T19:54:00.002-04:002011-05-22T19:56:56.826-04:00

Finally! It was a long, long winter. Now it's sailing season, and life is gonna be good once again.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-49430323079474389012011-05-21T12:06:00.003-04:002011-05-22T19:57:37.116-04:00

I'm a big fan of bike trails. Connecticut has a wonderful assortment of hiking and bike trails, such as the Air Line Rail Trail or the Farmington Canal Greenway. So I was pleased to read Christine Stuart's recent article in CT News Junkie:A bill limiting recreational liability for municipalities overwhelmingly passed the House Tuesday by a vote of 142-1.Rep. Andrew Fleischmann, D-West Hartford,

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-57063441520460776872011-05-20T19:52:00.004-04:002011-05-21T09:26:55.186-04:00

...then I'm gonna be in some seriously deep shit come tomorrow!But, I'm fairly certain I'm not in error here, so I'm gonna officially proclaim Sunday May 22nd to be "National LOL Day!"A day of celebration, filled with laughter and awkward, uncomfortable excuses. I can't wait! What could possibly be more rapturous?UPDATE: Still here! [whew!]Then again, even if the Rapture did occur today, I'd

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-88849898787786934502011-05-19T10:32:00.002-04:002011-05-19T10:32:00.161-04:00

Connecticut Bob exclusive: I officially endorse Ben Blake for mayor of Milford. This wasn't a difficult decision. I've known Ben for years, and I know he has the experience, sense of fairness, and temperament to be a great mayor. Ben has been an Alderman for eight years. When he was the Chairman he displayed true leadership by guiding the Board to actually cut taxes for the only time in Milford's

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-29560339891949427352011-05-19T06:07:00.000-04:002011-05-19T06:07:00.108-04:00

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy delivered the keynote speech at Monday's Jefferson Jackson Bailey Dinner. Here is his speech in it's entirety:

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-13773779989446714882011-05-17T11:02:00.007-04:002011-05-19T10:21:38.947-04:00

Here's some photos and commentary about last night's JJB Dinner:Outside, a look at the sign while a group of Chris Murphy volunteers put on a show of support in the drizzly weather.View of my video gear while Wendy Gerbier sings the National Anthem beautifully.Christine Stuart of CT News Junkie is looking entirely too happy to be covering this event. It's definitely not as much fun as that!Gov.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-6841216137942544772011-05-15T17:27:00.005-04:002011-05-15T19:11:19.103-04:00

Tonight's feature would easily classify under the "Sunday Night Music Club" heading, since it's a documentary about the legendary punk band Black Flag during their last tour in 1986, called "Reality 86'd".The movie, shot on Super8 film by David Markey, chronicles the cross country tour of the band, along with supporting acts Gone and Painted Willie. Markey also sings and plays drums in Painted

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-90048595762654252642011-05-13T15:05:00.002-04:002011-05-13T15:11:52.681-04:00

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced today that he's reached an agreement with state union leaders to cut nearly $1.6 billion over the next two years, which will go a long way towards resolving the nearly $2 billion needed to balance the budget. Here's his entire announcement from the press release:(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy made the following remarks at a news conference this

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-51566177732903354052011-05-11T19:00:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:43:13.796-04:00

The Connecticut Mirror ran a story today saying that, after a visit from Dr. William Petit, State Senator Edith Prague went on the record saying she wanted to delay the repeal vote until next year.Prague's rationale was that since the trial for the remaining defendant in the the Cheshire home invasion hasn't occurred yet, a repeal of the death penalty statute may have an impact on the sentencing,

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-64414082154053080712011-05-10T10:38:00.005-04:002011-05-10T10:38:00.797-04:00

In what seems to be an odd bit of legislation that slipped through almost unnoticed, the state legislature's Planning and Development Committee narrowly (11-10) passed along a bill to the Senate that will ban new hookah lounges from opening as a significant health risk. Hookah lounges represent a relatively small portion of the remaining venues where smoking is currently permitted in the state.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-87031550441946060442011-05-09T20:41:00.007-04:002011-05-10T10:11:50.298-04:00

BREAKING NEWS: Milford Mayor Jim Richetelli just announced that he won't seek a sixth term in office. Sources close to the mayor report that he will accept a position within the Milford school system described as "Director of Operations" for a salary estimated to be $130,000. Some members of the Milford Democratic Town Committee question the news, as several say they've never heard of a "Director

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-84814327335085548812011-05-06T15:00:00.002-04:002011-05-06T15:06:29.926-04:00

If you've ever wanted to get a job in the film business, or get an education in the nuts and bolts work of film production, this is a golden opportunity. Connecticut's film industry is growing every month, and we need a workforce of CT residents who can become productive taxpayers by filling those jobs. The film industry is one of our state's fastest growing specialties. There currently are

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-1510376299987827862011-05-04T06:48:00.003-04:002011-05-04T10:44:34.076-04:00

Late last night the House approved the two-year, $40.11 billion budget. The new budget resolves the estimated $3.3 billion deficit that threatened to disrupt government services at some point. The vote wasn't strictly along party lines, with 15 Democrats voting against the budget along with 52 Republicans, but it still passed 83-67. Democratic Reps. Linda Schofield, Paul Davis, Kim Fawcett, Mary

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-83550552348242761742011-05-02T07:35:00.003-04:002011-05-02T20:25:42.067-04:00

(Upcoming Time Magazine cover, unless it's a hoax)You can run but you can't hide...well, you can hide, but only for about ten years or so.Then we'll getcha!But he was found only about 30 miles from Pakistan's capital of Islamabad. Meaning he got a considerable amount of assistance from Pakistani nationals. Let's hope they get their house in order. I don't want to see a fourth war started!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-70657826801849690902011-05-01T17:24:00.000-04:002011-05-01T17:24:00.945-04:00

Make sure the windows are closed and your neighbors aren't home......because you need to turn this shit up loud!The Cramps is gonna blow the roof off the joint with their song "Bikini Girls With Machine Guns"!The Cramps pioneered the elusive genre now known as "psychobilly", a combination of 50's rockabilly and punk rock.The band, primarily composed of lead singer and glam aficionado Lux Interior

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-31811950751247235152011-05-01T11:35:00.004-04:002011-05-01T11:43:43.797-04:00

Usually a curious mixture of awkward applause and nervous laughter, this year's event was better than previous years.And a bonus...Seth Meyers:

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-9835882055274107822011-04-29T10:42:00.004-04:002011-04-29T10:58:09.313-04:00

...he'd certainly have my vote!While I still think the guy is a complete asshole, I have to admit that I hate him slightly less after hearing him drop the "F-bomb" during a speech before Las Vegas Republicans. Of course Trump talks that way...he's been hanging around with Rahm Emanuel too much!BTW, I really miss @MayorEmanuel. Those were about 1,900 of the funniest goddamn tweets I ever seen!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-79615043234218949072011-04-27T15:42:00.002-04:002011-04-27T15:46:10.129-04:00

Today Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) spoke in favor of paid sick leave at a local Friendly's restaurant. Friendly's currently doesn't offer its employees any sick pay.Introducing Rosa was John Green from Working Families of Connecticut, and Tessa Marquis, a small business owner who voluntarily provides sick pay to her employees.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-25328671304079970852011-04-27T10:06:00.003-04:002011-04-27T10:12:15.618-04:00

Are you happy now, Stupid?Now how's about a little quid pro quo, Donnie? Let's see your federal income tax returns for the last ten years. Because, as you've said, you have "nothing to hide".Enough with the distractions, you twice-bankrupted reality-show hack!(Que the cries from the Right: "Fake, fake, totally fake", etc. ad nauseum)

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-58090901611907921342011-04-26T09:56:00.003-04:002011-04-26T10:15:18.776-04:00

Today Gov. Dannel Malloy announced a new state-run website tasked with spreading the word about local tourism. CTVisit.com is a resource for both vacationers visiting the state, and "stay-cationers" who will avoid high gas prices and spend their vacation in-state. Visit CTVisit.com to see more.

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26427738.post-23521908814839625322011-04-24T13:57:00.003-04:002011-04-24T23:09:35.947-04:00

JPShannonJr. plays guitar professionally, often performing at hospitals and senior centers. His choices of music are both soothing and inspirational. You can contact him at JohnPShannonJr@gmail.com.Happy Easter!

CT Bobnoreply@blogger.com2