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CAMPAIGN TAKING SHAPE … TYER, GAETANI TO DECLARE FOR MAYOR, J-LO JOINS CLAIRMONT IN NOT SEEKING RE-ELECTION … plus … MAYOR DISRESPECTS VETERAN AT VIETNAM MEMORIAL … SHAMEFUL ACT SPEAKS VOLUMES

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By DAN VALENTI

PLANET VALENTI News and Commentary

(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015) — Linda Tyer is running for mayor.

Tyer, Pittsfield’s city clerk, is no friend of Pittsfield’s current mayor. He for his part bears her little love. This comes as a relief to the more than half who voted against the mayor in 2009, when he won by a scant 100+ votes. Many others who voted for the mayor in that election have since defected because of the mayor’s disastrous service. In other words, things look bleak for the Current Occupant Of The Corner Office (COOTCO).

Early Announcement May Affect Mayor’s Musings

Tyer’s announcement may enter into the thinking of COOTCO and “his people.” We are hearing from deep with his team that COOTCO will not run for re-election “because he knows he cannot win.” Our source said this with a shaking of the head. Body language, too, channels useful information.

Tyer will make her announcement today at 5:30 p.m. on the steps of city hall. Wonder if the mayor will stick around to see it? He’s busy, you know, what with ribbon cuttings, Global, and all.

THE PLANET, via The Secret Squadron, also can report the announcement of a second candidate for mayor, to take place Friday at Soldier On at its West Housatonic Street location. The location gives you a clue as to how important his service in Vietnam meant, and still means, to Craig Gaetani. With Dr. Lawrence K. Wang, Gaetani designed and built the city’s water treatment facility.

We can also tell you that Barry Clairmont (at large) and Jonathan Lothrop (Ward 5) will not be candidates for re-election in November. Lothrop made his decision yesterday. We commend both for announcing early. Clearing the field is important in encouraging folks to run for office. Already, former Ward 2 councilor Pete White and ex-asst. city solicitor Donna Todd Rivers have announced at-large campaigns.

THE PLANET hopes to see more than just the usual suspects. This city needs as many qualified new names and fresh candidates as possible. Nomination papers will be available on April 2.

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COOTCO Gives Veteran Bum’s Rush

Speaking of Pittsfield’s present mayor, COOTCO attended a ceremony at Park Square Saturday honoring Berkshire County’s Vietnam veterans. Attendees included John Harding, Mike Case, Dick Laflamme, Rob Putnam, Dave Grover, Gaetani, and others.

Witnesses tell us that prior to the ceremony, Gaetani walked up to the mayor, offered to shake hands, and the mayor shoved that good-will offer back in Gaetani’s face. Those who saw it “felt the awkwardness” and expressed surprise the mayor would do this at such a solemn occasion.

THE PLANET asked Gaetani about the incident. He confirmed it as reported.

“Yes, that’s about what happened. I wanted to thank the mayor for coming out on such a cold, snow spring day to honor veterans,” Gaetani said. “I tapped him on the arm to get his attention then stuck out my hand. I wanted to shake his hand and compliment him for his appearance.”

Gaetani said the mayor kept his hands in his pocket and pulled away, with body language showing hostility. After the ceremony, Gaetani said he walked up to the mayor telling him, “You’ll be hearing from me in November. The mayor did not return our request for comment.

Event Speaks to Mayor’s Character

Gaetani, in addition to serving his country with honor, went on to become one of the co-founder’s of Vietnam Veterans, James E. Callahan Chapter 65, whose offices are on First Street in Pittsfield.

The mayor, left, watches at wreath is placed at Vietnam Memorial at Park Square. Prior to ceremony, the mayor disrespected Vietnam veteran Craig Gaetani as Gaetani offered his hand to thank the mayor for attending the event. Gaetani is a founding member of the local Vietenam Vets’ Chapter 65. (PHOTO COURTESY of iBerkshires)

The unfortunate event in Park Square speaks to the character of the mayor. His rude behavior at such a “come-together” event speaks of a man whose decency has been hardened by petty politics. It is, if the reports are accurate, disgusting.

What has happened to COOTCO since he took office?

Call it bitterness, except only he can know that for sure.

Call it the jaundiced spite that stems from a realization that his time in office is coming to an end knowing he failed miserably to advance the city he professes to love.

Call it the swindler’s time of reckoning. That, too, only he knows for sure.

If At First You Don’t Succeed …

Incidentally, THE PLANET sent the following message to the mayor’s office, c/o Julia Sabourin, on Thursday, March 26:

JULIA
I would like to set up a mutually convenient time for me to meet with the mayor. I am available almost any weekday, and, if needed, will juggle my schedule to accommodate the mayor’s.
I would appreciate your response.
Thanks,
DAN

We heard nothing.

We sent the note, of course, with scant hope of a reply. What do you think the mayor would say, though, if he knew THE PLANET had members of The Secret Squadron inside city hall, a daily basis, with access to the business of the corner office?  Truth is, as long as Hizzoner hides from us, the more we get the news elsewhere.

We shall leave future encounters to chance or forethought, their arm wrestling waging. Should forethought win, there shall be a camera on hand to record for posterity.

PROGRAM NOTE: BE SURE TO TUNE IN TOMORROW. THE SECRET SQUADRON HAS UNCOVERED A BOMBSHELL BURIED WITHIN THE UPCOMING VOTE BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON THE “NEW” TACONIC HIGH SCHOOL. THE BOMB IS LIVE. WE SHALL BE REVEALING ITS LOCATION TOMORROW.

———————————————————————————————–

“Bother me tomorrow. Today I’ll find no sorrow. Doo-doo-doo, looking out my back door.”Creedence Clearwater Revival, “My Back Door,” (1970).

“OPEN THE WINDOW, AUNT MILLIE.”

LOVE TO ALL.

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dust in the wind
dust in the wind
8 years ago

Now that Mr Gaetani has shown up at the council meeting with Dr Wong and said he could save the city money on water treatment Bianchi has to work a lot harder to dance around him. That may mean less spin off money for special interests.

So why would he shake his hand? He probably wishes Gaetani worked for the city so he could fire him.

Linda
Linda
Reply to  dust in the wind
8 years ago

Bianchi should shake Mr. Gaetani’s hand for being a veteran. That was the purpose of the event, instead he turns in into politics. Thats wrong.

spagirl
spagirl
8 years ago

Bianchi’s character is fractured. He is a complete epic fail…morally and otherwise.

Tammy Ives
Tammy Ives
Reply to  spagirl
8 years ago

is tully and yon running

B
B
Reply to  Tammy Ives
8 years ago

I hopeYon runs, she makes a good councilman.

Tammy Ives
Tammy Ives
Reply to  Tammy Ives
8 years ago

Im sorry nana but tully won’t win. Someone will run against her if yon doesn’t

The shadow
The shadow
8 years ago

1st Clairmont, now Lothrop not seeking re-election? All the Rats are starting to jump off the sinking ship.
Councilor’s, don’t let the door hit you in the A$$ on the way out

spagirl
spagirl
Reply to  The shadow
8 years ago

What’s the story with Paul Capitanio? How long does this go on without accountability.

dust in the wind
dust in the wind
Reply to  spagirl
8 years ago

Overheard a person suggest that Tyer is being put up in the hope that it will make Gaetani back off. The special interests are very much afraid of him.

Jimmy Gee
Jimmy Gee
Reply to  dust in the wind
8 years ago

No way can anyone take Mr Gaetani as a viable candidate

joetaxpayer
joetaxpayer
Reply to  Jimmy Gee
8 years ago

Jimmy, I will vote for anyone but Bianchi, and I mean anyone.

Out with Mazzeo
Out with Mazzeo
Reply to  Jimmy Gee
8 years ago

No way Dan Bianchi is a viable candidate.

Carolyn Barry
Carolyn Barry
Reply to  Jimmy Gee
8 years ago

agreed.

Carolyn Barry
Carolyn Barry
Reply to  Jimmy Gee
8 years ago

Agreed, no one can take Gaetani seriously.

Nana
Nana
Reply to  The shadow
8 years ago

Trust e, they have a plan!! Also they knew their numbers were up! I agree, “don’t let the door hit you in theA$$ on the was out”.

Discreet Cat
Discreet Cat
8 years ago

When you have T Shags in your corner, your pretty much invincible. Let someone of little means get caught with a joint and you go to prison.

Cosbiesladies
Cosbiesladies
8 years ago

The last comment from T Law was, we are close. Whose calling the shots?

acheshirecat
acheshirecat
8 years ago

From the picture above it seems the mayor is transforming into “The Invisible Man”. See for yourself, lol.
http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20141124143907/simpsons/images/c/c5/Invisible_man.jpg

Ed McClelland
Ed McClelland
8 years ago

Craig Gaetani is available for questioning usually every morning at the Dunkin Donuts on East St. He is opinionated when there and will loudly discuss his view points.
I thank him for his military service. When someone mentioned that mayor Bianchi was also a veteran, Gaetani took exception stating National Guard, reserve, or state side service do not count and rate less recognition and benefits.
Not sure, but believe Gaetani was a repair technician specialist and was a draftee, not a volunteer.
Regardless, all veterans deserve gratitude.

Bull Durham
Bull Durham
Reply to  Ed McClelland
8 years ago

I agree with you, Ed, all veterans deserve our thanks. Maybe Mr. Gaetani, being a Vietnam Vet, feels the Guard and Reserve are unworthy because back then some people used those routes to avoid wartime service. But today, many of our National Guard troops and Reservists serve actively in war zones, including Afghanistan and Iraq. I salute them all for their service, and so should he.

AMA
AMA
8 years ago

If the set up is Gaetani vs Tyer vs Bianchi..Bianchi will win.

Tammy Ives
Tammy Ives
8 years ago

We need someone like Gaetani in the mayor position.. I will be a huge supporter.

Tammy Ives
Tammy Ives
Reply to  Tammy Ives
8 years ago

careful what you wish for

Out with Mazzeo
Out with Mazzeo
8 years ago

Gaetani for mayor.
Excellent!
At least taxpayers will not be ripped off on their water.

Hopefully he can undue every single thing Bianchi did.
It’d be nice if the high school project can be postponed until Gaetani gets it.

Henry
Henry
8 years ago

Linda Tyer will be the next Mayor because she has what it take’s to be a leader in that position.

Dave
Dave
Reply to  Henry
8 years ago

I will not vote for her because she bailed on her Ward to become City Clerk causing a special election that cost the city money. Regardless of the amount, she put her own self interest ahead of the city’s. She knew that being an incumbent for the following election was a clear advantage in a position like City Clerk. If she had the best interest of the city in mind back then she would have declined the offer by the Mayor and, if interested, asked the Mayor to appoint an acting clerk from the office and ran for the post in the next election. I have no problem with looking out for yourself first, that is natural, but if your ambitions grow it becomes part of your record. Big difference between running for City Clerk and for Mayor when you put your own interests over the city’s. Just one voter’s opinion.

Nana
Nana
Reply to  Henry
8 years ago

REDACTED

Gatos
Gatos
Reply to  Nana
8 years ago

I haven’t seen her hanging out with Bianchi very much.

Ama
Ama
8 years ago

No Tyer and No Gaetani and Definetely no Tes. ….Waiting.”.”…

Nota
Nota
8 years ago

And no Mazzeo, Lothrop,Clairmon,Krol,Caccamo,Tully,Cotton,AmusedSo.

Two Cents
Two Cents
8 years ago

In the end, early candidacies from the likes of Tyer and Gaetani will only help Bianchi’s reelection bid.

amandaWell
amandaWell
8 years ago

Exactly, Tes will win by forfeit. But keep Gaetani in the debates anyway, for entertainment.

Guess what
Guess what
Reply to  amandaWell
8 years ago

I would not be so sure. Bianchi and Geatani are looking for the same votes. They are relying on the veterans v

Shelly Liver
Shelly Liver
8 years ago

Why is the Police Blog so selective, there are many incidences unpublished, especially some prominent social climbers.

Craig Gaetani
Craig Gaetani
8 years ago

Dan, I wish to thank you for your coverage of my community involvement and impending mayoral campaign. I also thank all your readers for their interest whether pro or con my positions.
I have recently broken my toes and foot and Will Not be announcing my mayoral candidacy this Friday at Soldier On on W. Housatonic St.
Instead, I will be formally announcing my candidacy during a press conference to be held at my residence at 1098 West St. in Pittsfield at 10:30 am, this Friday, April 3rd.
All are encouraged to attend. Thank you.

Nota
Nota
8 years ago

I will control and decide whom will be on the next Silly Council and Mayor. At this time, am not beholden to anyone.

MrG8811
MrG8811
8 years ago

Speaking of the police blotter…what ever came of the “investigation” into the dog attack at BCC?

Spider
Spider
Reply to  MrG8811
8 years ago

Good question, Mr. G. Is this another case where someone with influence will have his/her criminal act just swept under the rug? My guess is YES!

Does DV have any word of this?

Tom Sakshaug
Tom Sakshaug
Reply to  MrG8811
8 years ago

Assuming that the Animal Control Commission receives the State Police report in time, the hearing will be next Wednesday, April 8, if all parties can attend. Hearings are generally held the second Wednesday of each month and this hearing was requested at the last meeting in March.
The matter was NOT investigated by the Pittsfield Police, but the State Police. It has been difficult for the ACC to get the report, and we don’t think it is fair to anyone to hold a hearing without the official report.

Shelly Liver
Shelly Liver
8 years ago

The Water Wizard could have pulled off his three minutes of speaking for others at last weeks Silly Council meeting had he not talked about himself. With that being said, he did ruffle a few feathers anyways.

knows the truth
knows the truth
8 years ago

@ Dave: Let’s blame Jody Philips for bailing well before her term ended that caused the opening to being with? Nice logic.

Shelly Liver
Shelly Liver
8 years ago

Sorry to hear about Craig’s foot issue. Thank you though for being crude, rude and abrasive, because quite frankly that is something this City has needed for a long time. Let’s see if you can come up with some solutions during the campaign so that we can once again call Pittsfield the greatest little City it once was.

Shelly Liver
Shelly Liver
8 years ago

Always thought the was a competition between Linda and Trisha. Just curious, but was Linda involved with W H E N in the early years?

Silence Dogppd
Silence Dogppd
8 years ago

One thing for sure. I’m not voting for Bianchi….. I don’t know much about the G man…… I think Tyer has done a good job as clerk, but I’m going to wait and hear what the candidates have to say and I’m pretty sure more candidates will emerge.

Giacometti
Giacometti
8 years ago

Linda Tyer…Trish and Maggie Mailer were all members of ” WHEN ” or as the Aging Greek God called them at he time…” WAS ”

( a bigger heap of phoney baloney’s this town hasn’t seen in a very long time.so what happened to all their empowering in the long run ? )

Jonathan Melle
Jonathan Melle
8 years ago

Mayor Dan Bianchi is happy he has competition this year.

NEWS ARTICLE:

“Pittsfield Mayor Bianchi To Seek Third Term, City Clerk Will Challenge”
By Jim Levulis, WAMC, March 31, 2015

Pittsfield Mayor Dan Bianchi will face competition this year in his bid for re-election. Clerk Linda Tyer plans to run for the corner office.

Mayor Bianchi is running for a third term, saying he wants to see projects like the Berkshire Innovation Center, new Taconic High School and the reconstruction of North Street completed. Unlike 2013, Bianchi will face a challenger as fellow Democrat and City Clerk Linda Tyer is entering the race. Clerk since 2009, Tyer previously served as a city councilor.

“So I’ve got both perspectives,” Tyer said. “I understand what’s important for the management team that’s trying to run the day-to-day operations of the city. That’s what I’m bringing when I become Pittsfield’s next mayor.”

Bianchi says he is happy for competition.

“As I said I felt a little bit cheated last time by not having any competition,” Bianchi said. “This will give me the opportunity to get out there and campaign and get out and talk about some of the great accomplishments we’ve had and my vision for the city of Pittsfield and share that with many people.”

Under a new city charter, the next mayor will serve a four-year term instead of the current two.

Tyer plans to hold a public announcement on the steps of City Hall today at 5:30.

http://wamc.org/post/pittsfield-mayor-bianchi-seek-third-term-city-clerk-will-challenge

spagirl
spagirl
Reply to  Jonathan Melle
8 years ago

Don’t make me throw up. We can’t take 5 more minutes of you…let alone ..4 more years. The Dumb and Dumber Show is over.

amadaWell
amadaWell
8 years ago

Nana Banana go get a room with Jimmy Gee.