Drapes, shoes and Connecticut’s future

Governor Rell delivered her annual spoof Holiday Poem yesterday to the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce and it in she poked fun at the state's political leaders.  It's all in good fun and we all understand that the Governor is putting her own particular humorous spin on the politics of the day.  As the outgoing chief elected official of Connecticut, she certainly has earned the right to tell a joke or two. 

Governor Rell joked about those candidates with exploratory committees, and singled out "Lt. Governor Mike Fedele and Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz". She said she had a couple of her husband's tape measures since we've both been sizing up the drapes in her office. And, she continued, "for the rest of the gubernatorial candidates - whether they are declared, undeclared, exploring, spelunking - whatever - a boxful of my old high heels ...good luck filling them."  As for the drapes, I'm sure whatever the Governor has already will do just fine. I've never been one for interior decorating, but I do take my footwear seriously.  And I must admit I got a good laugh thinking about Dan Malloy, Ned Lamont, and Tom Foley in high heels.

But let's be clear.  Times are tough in Connecticut and, while a little levity never hurts, we must remain focused on the task at hand.  Fixing the state budget, retaining and creating new jobs, creating educational opportunities and lowering utility costs are areas of vital need for the state's economic recovery.  Working together in 2010, we can make this happen. It won't be easy, but I've experienced the enduring spirit of Connecticut's people time and time again and I know better times are ahead.

My wish for 2010?  That everyone who seeks work will find a job that pays a living wage. That our children will be able to pursue their dreams. That quality health care is affordable and available to everyone when they need it. That the elderly and our state's most vulnerable citizens are cared for in a way that is compassionate and just. And that we can move past the partisan politics that has prevailed the last few years in favor of a collaborative model where we channel our energies toward one common goal - making Connecticut a better place to live, learn, work and play.