Top Reasons to Vote Republican in Connecticut (State Races 2022)

In no particular order.  

• A rise in violent crime, spurred on by Democrat-supported "reforms". 

Thanks to Democrats' 2020 passage of the "Police Accountability Act", law enforcement in this state is handcuffed, so to speak (1).  They can no longer pursue fleeing suspects, nor can they use any reasonable and necessary force to end dangerous situations.  

It's almost like the late 1980s; every day, the news features a new shooting, break-in, or theft.  Yet Democrats have said that "we've done what we can" regarding violent crime (2). 

• Taxes, taxes, taxes!

Taxes are sky high, and seemingly on everything under the sun.  Not only do you have sales and income taxes, you also have property tax, corporate tax....and alcohol tax? You can't even get drunk without paying up the wazoo!

Also note that on Kiplinger's ranking of the states that are the least friendly regarding taxes, Connecticut comes in at number two (3).  Thank big government Democrats in Hartford for this; they've never seen a tax they didn't like.  

• Democrats don't care about the "little guy", only themselves.

Case in point.  

On March 10 2020, Governor Lamont declared that, concerning the COVID-19 virus, a Civil Preparedness and Public Health Emergency existed in Connecticut (4).

  
Schools were closed, businesses and homes put on lockdown, and draconian restrictions put on assemblies, even at houses of worship.  

Yet even as they were confronted with widespread public dissent and opposition, Democrats voted in lockstep to extend the "emergency" to the present day; not once, not twice, but SEVEN TIMES (5, 6).

Do you still think that Democrats in Hartford care about you, even just one little bit?

• "Free speech for me, but not for thee".  

Democrats in Connecticut have said vile and reprehensible things about their opponents, even comparing them to "Nazis" in some cases.  All this while they have launched an unprecedented assault on the free speech rights of anyone who dares dissent.  

Call former governor Dan Malloy a "snake"? You're banned from college campuses.  And if you question Governor Lamont concerning COVID-19? Your Twitter account gets reported and banned (no doubt on request of the governor's office itself), on charges of "harassment" (7).  

• It's embarrassing to admit you're from Connecticut.  

Democrats have controlled the governor's mansion for ten years now.  In that time, Connecticut has gone from being one of the most prosperous states in the country, to the butt of a bad joke ("which state is worst; California, New York, or Connecticut?")

"Connecticut? Why would anyone want to live in that state?"

• Democratic "Leadership"

Let's talk for a moment about the Democratic so-called "leaders" in this state.  

• Governor "King Ned" Lamont: A pathological liar and "benevolent dictator", who obviously fancies himself as being superior to everyone else.  


• US Senator Richard Blumenthal: "Da Nang Dick" is one of the biggest grandstanders and drama kings in the Senate.  Time after time, his antics (like walking out of a hearing on then-judge Brett Kavanaugh) have been embarrassing to the people of Connecticut (8).  And when it's time to vote, Blumenthal totally ignores the opinions of his constituents. 


• US Senator Chris Murphy: A complete and utter joke.  The senator lives in the District of Columbia, not Connecticut (as defined by state statute; see note) (9).  Nevertheless, and for some strange reason, he is allowed to "represent" the Nutmeg State.  As if this wasn't enough, Senator Murphy has admitted to committing an act of  treason against the United States (an unauthorized meeting with top Iranian officials in 2020) (10).  

Are these the type of "leaders" that you want to be making major decisions?

Connecticut needs a change.  The best way to effect that change is to vote Republican in 2021, across the board.  

"November is coming".  

Note: "Each citizen of the United States...who is a bona fide resident of the town to which the citizen applies for admission as an elector shall...be an elector.  For purposes of this section a person shall be deemed to be a bona fide resident...if such person's dwelling unit is located within the geographic boundaries of such town (to which the citizen applies for admission as an elector)" 

- General Statutes of the State of Connecticut, Title 9, Chapter 143, Section 9-12a (11)

Venting

Just because I have to vent on some things.

Over the past year or so, I have (on more than one occasion) attempted to address free speech issues, specifically as they pertain to the Fairfield school system.  

I have tried to speak at Board of Education meetings regarding the subject, only to be shut down when it was evident I wasn't speaking to the agenda.  I have submitted letters to newspapers questioning certain practices, only to have those letters remain unpublished.  I have attempted to discuss the matter with the superintendent of schools, only to have my e-mails on the subject disregarded.  

In addition, rather than address the matter, Superintendent Mike Cummings appears more than happy to run from such (see his recent resignation announcement).  What is he afraid of? (1)

Oh, and here's a part of the story that I almost left out.  

The other day, I became aware that Connecticut Public Television was set to air a PBS "Frontline" episode entitled "Plot To Overturn The Election".  By now you know the usual liberal talking points regarding the 2020 presidential vote ("there's no evidence, attacks on democracy, yada yada yada") (2).  

I contacted CPTV prior to the airing of this show, expressing my concern that only one side of the story was being told.  

Wouldn't you know it, the network's response was....

(...wait for it....WAIT FOR IT!!)

....complete and utter SILENCE.  

It seems that "serving the public interest" is not in CPTV's interest.  

Now, considering all of this, I have to ask an important question.  Why is it so wrong for someone to have a dissenting opinion, or to exercise their God-given right to free speech and free expression? Are we so far removed from the principals of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" that any such expression is now punished?

What will it take for Connecticut's "powers that be" to not smackdown free speech, but encourage and protect it (see definition) ?

And I'm tired of being ignored!

Definition - "Smackdown", adjective.  To knock down, bring down, or confront an opponent (3). 

Video Game Review: "WWE 2K22"

I'm happy to report that "finally, the WWE has come back to consoles".  Having just picked up a copy of the game, let me give you the lowdown on "WWE 2K22".  

Upon starting the game, the first thing I noticed is that gameplay is much improved over previous editions.  It's smoother, and a lot less complicated.  The game also advances in the area of presentation; the hits, attacks, and graphics look and feel more real than ever.  

As for the soundtrack, music buffs will like the jams in this game.  WWE 2K22's playlist features major artists like The Weeknd and Wu-Tang Clan, as well as lesser known groups like Asking Alexandria.  

And if you've ever wanted to yourself take the reins of a WWE show, now you can, with "MyGM mode".  Using one of five characters (or a self-made custom character), your goal is to do whatever it takes to get your show to the top of the ratings.  It's a challenge, but one that seasoned players will no doubt enjoy.  

Now, some issues and drawbacks.  

As with any title, this game is not perfect; even after a year of redevelopment, there are still some issues which need to be addressed.  The first of these concerns is regarding control of a wrestler during a match.  It seems to be quite easy to swing for your opponent and miss, or to botch a big move.  I don't know about you, but I find that it's difficult to win a match when I keep missing my intended target.  

Also, the ability to hit someone with the steel steps is gone.  Personally, that has been one of my favorite things to do while in the ring.  So you think you're hardcore? WHAM...not anymore!

Other issues of note:

• While in MyGM mode, it's tough to figure out whether a certain talent is wrestling as a "face" or a "heel".  Are they a hero, or an evil villain? A good booker needs to have this information within easy reach.  

• Previous versions of the game let you go toe-to-toe with an opponent on the microphone.  That functionality apparently no longer exists.  

With all that said, here's "the bottom line" on this year's game, as I see it.  

After the unmitigated disaster that was WWE 2K20, producers at 2K decided that the game needed a refresh and reboot.  It appears that the series has gotten that, and more. WWE 2K22 hits harder, looks better, and overall is much more playable than its immediate predecessor.  There's a lot to like here; it's worthy of a buy, and a prominent place in your gaming lineup. 

 
Note: "WWE 2K22" can be purchased for about sixty dollars at your local game retailer (1).  

"Spring Has Sprung" And Other Random Thoughts

Just writing down some random thoughts.  I may publish them, but I may not; we'll see.  

I'm feeling good this morning.  The sun is out, and the weather appears to be warming up.  Hopefully, we've seen the last gasps of winter until about late October or so.  

I hate cold weather.  And no, I don't mean that I strongly dislike the cold; I HATE it.  

Together with the waning hours of sunlight in winter, cold weather can make me pretty darn miserable.  So the first big signs of spring are quite welcome to me.  Pretty soon, the birds will be chirping, the dogwood trees will be out, and baseball will be back full-time (thank you owners and players).  

Nevertheless, with my aversion to Connecticut's cold weather, one might wonder why I don't leave this God-forsaken state, and take up permanent residence in Florida.  

I have a lot of friends in the South Florida area, including one who happens to be the mayor of a city called Longwood.  Maybe I'd be better off down there; after all, why wouldn't I want to live somewhere I can wear shorts over the majority of the year? I guess it's a family thing, as well as a personal one.  My roots are here, and I know the community well.  

Anywho, I'm just rambling.  

Did you see the "Top Play of the Day" on ESPN's "SportsCenter" Monday night? Fairfield Prep hit a three-pointer, AT THE BUZZER, to knock off Norwich Free Academy, and advance to the CIAC Division I Boys Basketball Semi-Finals.  

 (1)

Unbelievable! As Bill Raftery would say, "ONIONS"!! 

What makes this even better is that my broadcasting friend Rob Adams was on the call.  There are but a few moments in local sports that are no-doubt thrillers; this appears to be one of them.  

Although I never played basketball in high school, I kind of know what hitting a game-winning shot feels like.

Let me set the stage for you.  It's March of 1998, and the Fairfield High School Mustangs are taking on Bristol Eastern in a girls basketball Class LL state tournament game.  Of course, I'm on the sidelines, doing my usual thing.  

Well, crunch time arrives, and my Mustangs find themselves needing a few buckets.  Enter our juniors and seniors, who manage to make the game very close.  Down by two, it looks as if time will run out on us, though.  

That's when senior point guard Jamie Janda takes the ball, and dishes it to junior Kelly Nash, who has an open look beyond the arc.  She sets, shoots...and....

....MAKES THE SHOT, at the buzzer! 

Nothing but net, if I recall correctly.  

As you might imagine, bedlam ensues; the call of "it's insanity in here" would have been quite appropriate for that moment.  Fans storm the court, and everybody's celebrating; everyone, that is, except the players for Bristol Eastern (see note).   

Boom.  Just like that, one team advances, and the other's season is over.  Trust me, you will never experience a bigger feeling of euphoria (if you're on the winning side) in your life.  

That's the reason they call this time of year "March Madness"; anything can happen, and it often does.  Even a number one seed is not safe from a "perfect storm" of a game.  

I'm anxious to see what kind of thrills this edition of the NCAA Basketball Tournament will bring.  Ladies and gentlemen...let the "Madness" begin.  

Note: In a somewhat unhappy ending to this story, the Mustangs would make an appearance in the Class LL State Championship Game that year, but lose to New Britain.  

Ideas For The End Of The World

In no particular order.  

• 1.  Throw the party to end all parties.      

• If it's really the end, then why not enjoy it while you still can?

•  2.  Have yourself a great meal, with all the trimmings. 

• Make mine a Porterhouse steak, with A-1 sauce, mashed potatoes (don't forget the butter!), and all the Coca-Cola I care to drink. 


•  3.  Go visit your parents.  

•  4.  Take a road trip.  

• Alternatively, make it a trip by train; but go somewhere, and do something.  

•  5.  Enjoy some time to yourself. 

• Everybody needs a little "me time".  Why not take that time now?

•  6.  Apologize and make peace with those who you know to have wronged.  

• When I get to St. Peter, I'd rather not have any big strikes on my record.

•  7.  Tell those you love exactly how you feel about them.  

• It's so important to let the people you love know that you love them.  Do it now, because you might not be here tomorrow.  Lives can end "in a New York minute" (1). 

The Drumbeats of War?

In recent days, I've become quite concerned over the potential for conflict, and an all-encompassing war.  I don't usually worry about such things, figuring that I probably couldn't prevent them anyway.  Yet the current geo-political situation has, of late, been giving me pause.  

Just in case you missed it, here's a quick summary of what's been going on.  

• The European country Ukraine has publicly stated that it wishes to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which is a defensive alliance comprised of the United States, Canada, and many European nations (see Note 1) (1).   

• Neighboring country Russia sees potential NATO expansion as a violation of terms agreed to in 1990, when the alliance (allegedly) agreed not to expand "an inch to the east" of its then-boundaries.  They have demanded that Ukraine  its aspirations of joining the group (2).    

• NATO has responded that it has an "open-door policy", and that they cannot rule out Ukraine possibly joining the alliance at some future date.   

• In addition to expansion concerns, Russia has alleged that NATO has committed several violations of the "Minsk Protocol", a treaty originally agreed to in 2014 (3).  

• In December of 2021, Russia began to move ground forces to its border with Ukraine, giving as pretext that they were conducting military "exercises".  

• Presently, there are approximately one hundred fifty thousand Russian troops stationed in the border area (4).  

• American and NATO leaders believe that, based on the above pretenses, these Russian forces are preparing to invade Ukraine.

As US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said this past Friday, it indeed does seem that the world is in "a moment of peril" (5).    

In the thirty-something years since the Cold War ended, we have never been so close to world war as we are right now.  

And it doesn't take much of a spark in a powder keg to set off a huge explosion.  History has repeatedly proven this to be true.  For example:

• The 1914 assassination of Austrian-Hungarian Archduke Franz Ferdinand touched off World War I.  

• Austria-Hungary blamed the killing on forces loyal to Serbia, and declared war.  Serbia was allied with the Central Powers (Russia, Germany, and the Ottoman Empire); when Russia came to Serbia's defense, the regional conflict quickly became a clash between world powers (6).  

• Adolf Hitler used anger over German losses from World War I as a pretext for his initial "putsch" (see Note 2).  Through encouraging a general climate of outrage, he was able to overthrow the sitting German government.  This resulted in the Nazi Party's rise to power, and ultimately, World War II (7).  

Also:

• During the Cold War, we came close to the outbreak of World War III several times.  The most notable of these occasions took place in 1962, when the United States demanded that the Soviet Union remove multiple nuclear missile bases that nation had installed in Cuba (just ninety miles away from the tip of Florida) (see: Cuban Missile Crisis) (8).  

It has occurred to me that perhaps I am getting worried over nothing.  There's a distinct possibility that all this talk of war could simply be a "wag the dog" scenario; that is, a hastily-planned scheme designed to distract the public from other more domestic problems (not to be confused with a "false flag operation") (see Note 3).  

However, it certainly appears to me like Russia is getting ready to do something.  So here's how things might shake out.  

My opinion is that if an invasion happens, it probably won't occur until sometime after the Winter Olympics.  Russian president Vladimir Putin knows that military action during the Games would likely outrage other main powers, and provide a valid reason for a counter-attack.  

That being said, if Russia does indeed cross into Ukraine, the United States will have no choice but to become militarily involved (honoring an alliance we have with that country).  

After that, the dominos will fall quite quickly; enter the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (among many others), stage right.  

All of this alarms me to no end.  When you consider that Russian forces may already be on the move (a bombing of a school in Ukraine is being regarded as a possible Russian attack), and then add this to the formula...

...well, let's just say that I may or may not be looking at locations of nearby fallout shelters (9, 10).  

This is big, people.  This is BIG, and it is (seemingly enough) REAL.  Pray for peace, and for cooler heads to prevail (if you are religiously inclined).  

Note 1: See the "Warsaw Pact", a Soviet-backed counter-organization to NATO that operated during the Cold War era (11).  

Note 2: "Putsch", noun.  Definition: A secretly plotted and suddenly executed attempt to overthrow a government (12).  

Note 3: "False flag", noun.  Definition: A hostile or harmful action (such as an attack) that is designed to look like it was perpetrated by someone other than the person or group responsible for it (13).

    Used in a sentence: The Vietnam War's "Gulf of Tonkin Incident" may have been a "false flag" (14).  

A Few Words In French

To my French-Canadian trucker friends, and those of like mind.  

À mes amis camionneurs franco-canadiens, et à ceux qui sont dans le même état d'esprit.

"Cette lutte peut être morale, ou elle peut être physique, et elle peut être à la fois morale et physique, mais elle doit être une lutte.  Le pouvoir ne concède rien sans une demande.  Ca n'a jamais été fait et ca ne le sera jamais.  Découvrez ce à quoi les gens se soumettront tranquillement et vous aurez découvert la mesure exacte de l'injustice et du tort qui leur sera imposé, et ceux-ci continueront jusqu'à ce qu'ils soient combattus par des mots ou des coups, ou par les deux.  Les limites des tyrans sont prescrites par l'endurance de ceux qu'ils oppriment." 

"This struggle may be a moral one, or it may be a physical one, and it may be both moral and physical, but it must be a struggle.  Power concedes nothing without a demand.  It never did and it never will.  Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have found out the exact measure of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them, and these will continue till they are resisted with either words or blows, or with both.  The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress." (1)

-- Frederick Douglass, 1857

Stand strong! HOLD THE LINE!!