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Showing posts with label Johnny Destino. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Johnny Destino. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
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ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
With 73 percent of precincts reporting, Ortt is carrying 64 percent of the vote — compared to Destino's 33 percent. Paul Brown has just 2 percent. Destino had said Brown's candidacy was that of a spoiler, but even the Working Family votes went to the Democrat, Destino would only have 35 percent of the vote total.
In Niagara County, Ortt received 32.429 votes to Destino's 16.728. Brown received 1,213 votes in the county.
Reached around 11 p.m. Ortt said, "We had a good night and we worked very hard on this campaign ... to get out in front of voters. I think our message resonated."
Ortt referred to himself as "a new generation of leader" and a "post-9/11 leader," saying "It's certainly a different role than it was back in '95 when Sen. Maziarz stepped in to this role."
Destino has not yet returned a phone call seeking comment.
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| State Senate Candidate Johnny Destino casts his ballot this morning with his kids — Lucan, Ciaran and Beanon in tow. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) |
NOTE: Story edited at 11:12 p.m. to update vote totals and add quotes from Robert Ortt.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
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| Debate moderator Corey Brown, left, introduces state Senate candidates Johnny Destino, center, and Robert Ortt. The pair faced off Wednesday night in Niagara Falls. (ENP STAFF PHOTOS) |
BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com
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The candidates were civil to start but the exchange got testy at times once
the debate began.
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Destino, a former Republican who is now running as a Democrat — with the support of the Democratic Party — said there is a culture of corruption in the Republican Party, specifically in Niagara County.
"I offer a fresh start," he told the audience of the debate — sponsored by the Niagara Falls Block Club Council, Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls chapter of the NAACP and the Kiwanis Club of Niagara Falls.
Ortt, the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence parties candidate said he has a "record of accomplishment" as the mayor of North Tonawanda. He also highlighted his military service, saying "my adult life started Sept. 11, 2001."
Despite the debate being held in what is typically a Democratic stonghold — Niagara Falls — Ortt's supporters in the audience of 150 or so were many. And loud.
The "George Maziarz question" was brought up be debate moderator Corey Brown of Niagara University. The Ortt campaign has worked to position itself as respectful of — but independent of — the political juggernaut whose decision to withdraw from the race before his nominating petitions were accepted in July led to Ortt's candidacy.
Tonight, Ortt referred to Maziarz as a "fierce advocate" for Niagara County, but said they're not identical, adding, "I'm not running to be the king of Niagara County politics."
Destino has worked to tie Ortt to Maziarz, a strategy some might question considering Maziarz' continued popularity in the district — despite his having been subpoenaed as part of a federal investigation.
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A group of protesters greeted visitors as they entered the
library's back entrance. They were upset about Destino's
silence on the issue of abortion.
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Party allegiance was a topic of conversation with Ortt calling Destino "a career candidate who will join any party he can to win office" and himself a "lifelong Republican."
Destino countered by saying that he wasn't happy with the local GOP. "You have to know who you're associating with ... and if they're doing wrong, it's time to leave." He also stuck up for Gov. Andrew Cuomo, saying he's paid more attention to Western New York than any other governor in 40 years.
Destino added that party politics has hurt the district — in particular Niagara Falls. "We had a senator who continually butted heads (with Niagara Falls officials) and that really hurt us."
Ortt said Niagara Falls officials are to blame for Niagara Falls' problems, noting that the city has received millions of dollars in casino revenues and is still $9 million in the hole, while North Tonawanda has a $6 million reserve — without casino revenue. He added that the casino money doled out should come with restrictions.
Both candidates said after the debate that they felt confident with their performance. Destino had one final zinger: "Ortt finally had a platform today and it was mine."
One prominent Republican in the audience felt that Brown was unfair to Ortt. The moderator attempted to keep both candidates on point, but did seem to set Ortt up with a question about Common Core, asking if the Republican candidate would support a system that asked schools to improve their own grades year over year rather than try to meet a certain statewide score. When Ortt agreed, Brown said it was what Common Core already does.
In the end, the candidates differed very little in terms of their goals and policies. But that doesn't mean they didn't have their differences.
Working Families Party candidate Paul Brown was again a no-show to the event. His podium sat empty for the 45-minute debate.
Notable members of the audience included former Assemblywoman Francine DelMonte and her brother John, who is running for State Supreme Court Justice, Maziarz' Chief of Staff Gerald Meal, Niagara County Legislator Dennis Virtuoso, and former Niagara Falls Mayor Vince Anello. Current Mayor Paul Dyster was notable absent.
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Wednesday, October 29, 2014
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Tuesday, October 28, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
NIAGARA FALLS — State Senate candidates Johnny Destino and Robert Ortt will face off once again at 6 p.m. Wednesday in a debate at the Earl W. Bridges Library, 1425 Main St.
The pair debated on Oct. 15 at Niagara County Community College in an exchange that started civilly and got testy towards the end. The event was hosted by the Niagara USA Chamber.
Wednesday's debate is being presented by the Niagara Falls Block Club Council, Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls chapter of the NAACP and the Kiwanis Club of Niagara Falls.
Questions for the candidates can be emailed to niagarafallselection@gmail.com and may be asked by debate moderator, Corey Bower, a professor at Niagara University.
Working Families candidate Paul Brown was also invited to the debate. He was a no-show at the earlier debate.
East Niagara Post will once again "live tweet" from the debate at twitter.com/EastNiagaraPost.
Get the daily East Niagara Post email update.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
news@eastniagarapost.com
The pair debated on Oct. 15 at Niagara County Community College in an exchange that started civilly and got testy towards the end. The event was hosted by the Niagara USA Chamber.
Wednesday's debate is being presented by the Niagara Falls Block Club Council, Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls chapter of the NAACP and the Kiwanis Club of Niagara Falls.
Questions for the candidates can be emailed to niagarafallselection@gmail.com and may be asked by debate moderator, Corey Bower, a professor at Niagara University.
Working Families candidate Paul Brown was also invited to the debate. He was a no-show at the earlier debate.
East Niagara Post will once again "live tweet" from the debate at twitter.com/EastNiagaraPost.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com
The Shooters Committee on Political Education (SCOPE) has downgraded the score it gave to Democratic 62nd Senate District candidate Johnny Destino from an A to a C- due to support that Destino has received by people the group feels are anti-gun, according to a press release sent this afternoon by North Tonawanda Mayor and fellow 62nd Senate District candidate Rob Ortt.
"After revisiting and researching Johnny Destino, it has come to our attention that his campaign is being supported by officials that, in our opinion, are anti-gun owner and anti-Constitution," according to John Peracciny, Co-Chairman of Niagara County SCOPE. "At SCOPE, we believe candidates need to show support for the Second Amendment not only with their words, but with their actions. It is a clear conflict of interest for Johnny Destino to enthusiastically accept the endorsement of pro-SAFE Act officials, while telling us he supports the Constitution, and resulted in SCOPE lowering his rating to a C-,"
Ortt trumpeted the news: “Voters in the 62nd Senate District know where I stand on the Second Amendment and protecting the Constitution. I’ve fought to protect our freedoms in combat and I will continue to do so in Albany," he said via press release. “I am very proud to have and A+ rating from SCOPE, as well as the support of the National Rifle Association and the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. We need to send people to Albany that voters can trust to do what they say, and my proven record of defending our Constitution demonstrates to voters that I won’t just say I’ll protect their rights, I’ve done it.”
Destino, meanwhile, downplayed the downgrade: "If Ortt wants to make this whole election about guns, let him," he said. "It's becoming increasingly obvious that he has no plans for creating jobs in the 62nd District."
"SCOPE must be working directly with Ortt's camp since the first I've learned about this was from you," Destino added.
The 2nd Amendment has been front and center in this race from the outset. It was the primary stated concern of former candidate Gia Arnold and has been discussed at length by Ortt and Destino. The two made references to their SCOPE ratings in a debate at NCCC on Oct. 15. After Ortt had noted his A+ rating, Destino joked, "I only have an A."
Destino's support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo also came up at that debate with Ortt questioning how Destino could oppose the SAFE Act while also supporting the man who pushed to make it law. Destino said at the time that while he would like to see the SAFE Act repealed, he felt that Cuomo had done a better job reaching in to Western New York than other recent governors.
Destino has the Democratic line on the Nov. 4 ballot, while Ortt can be found on the Republican, Conservative and Independence Party lines. A third candidate is on the Nov. 4 ballot, as well. Paul Brown carries the Working Families line, but has not actively campaigned.
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"After revisiting and researching Johnny Destino, it has come to our attention that his campaign is being supported by officials that, in our opinion, are anti-gun owner and anti-Constitution," according to John Peracciny, Co-Chairman of Niagara County SCOPE. "At SCOPE, we believe candidates need to show support for the Second Amendment not only with their words, but with their actions. It is a clear conflict of interest for Johnny Destino to enthusiastically accept the endorsement of pro-SAFE Act officials, while telling us he supports the Constitution, and resulted in SCOPE lowering his rating to a C-,"
Ortt trumpeted the news: “Voters in the 62nd Senate District know where I stand on the Second Amendment and protecting the Constitution. I’ve fought to protect our freedoms in combat and I will continue to do so in Albany," he said via press release. “I am very proud to have and A+ rating from SCOPE, as well as the support of the National Rifle Association and the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. We need to send people to Albany that voters can trust to do what they say, and my proven record of defending our Constitution demonstrates to voters that I won’t just say I’ll protect their rights, I’ve done it.”
Destino, meanwhile, downplayed the downgrade: "If Ortt wants to make this whole election about guns, let him," he said. "It's becoming increasingly obvious that he has no plans for creating jobs in the 62nd District."
"SCOPE must be working directly with Ortt's camp since the first I've learned about this was from you," Destino added.
The 2nd Amendment has been front and center in this race from the outset. It was the primary stated concern of former candidate Gia Arnold and has been discussed at length by Ortt and Destino. The two made references to their SCOPE ratings in a debate at NCCC on Oct. 15. After Ortt had noted his A+ rating, Destino joked, "I only have an A."
Destino's support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo also came up at that debate with Ortt questioning how Destino could oppose the SAFE Act while also supporting the man who pushed to make it law. Destino said at the time that while he would like to see the SAFE Act repealed, he felt that Cuomo had done a better job reaching in to Western New York than other recent governors.
Destino has the Democratic line on the Nov. 4 ballot, while Ortt can be found on the Republican, Conservative and Independence Party lines. A third candidate is on the Nov. 4 ballot, as well. Paul Brown carries the Working Families line, but has not actively campaigned.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Friday, October 17, 2014
I miss Gia Arnold.
What the former Republican/Libertarian state Senate candidate lacked in decorum, she made up for with pizzazz. When she was in the race for the 62nd District seat, I felt like anything was possible.
Now we've got two candidates whose quotes I could easily confuse if I didn't put their names in front of them. Oh. And a candidate-in-name-only who is the poster boy for election reform in New York; We'll get to him later.
Oct. 15, 2014, I had a crucial decision to make. It was my 40th birthday and I had to decide whether to spend it with Mason Winfield and a glass of wine at Flight of Five Winery for their "Ghost Toast" or with Johnny Destino and Robert Ortt at Niagara County Community College for a political debate hosted by the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce.
Easy decision, right? You go with the wine and WNY's premier ghost guy. That's what all my Facebook friends seemed to suggest. In fact, I put it out as sort of an informal poll. Everyone said Winfield and wine. Everyone. But in the true spirit of election season, I ignored my Facebook constituency and did what I thought needed to be done — for freedom. Or something.
So there I was at NCCC Wednesday night listening to Rob Ortt and Johnny Destino each tell me why they should be my (our) next state Senator. And I immediately kicked myself for not listening to the "voters" on Facebook.
Ortt doesn't like Common Core because President Barack Obama and Gov. Andrew Cuomo like it. Destino thinks it's OK but was implemented badly. Destino thinks the tax cap hurts schools because it doesn't come with mandate relief. Ortt likes the tax cap but thinks it should come with mandate relief.
Destino thinks the state should help repair and replace aging infrastructure. Ortt agrees and says that it does. But it could do more. Ortt wants the SAFE Act repealed and got an A+ rating from a gun group. Destino wants it repealed, too. He only got an A rating. Destino thinks the sky is blue. Ortt thinks it's more of an azure. Plus, he likes puppies. Whoa! Destino likes puppies, too. But that's not to say that kitties don't have their place.
Seriously, guys?
Gia Arnold would have disagreed with something. Somewhere. Plus, she would have mentioned her three-day affair for no reason whatsoever. And Paul Brown? He would have ... talked about fish? Seriously, I have no idea what Paul Brown would have talked about. He doesn't return my calls. I'm not sure he actually exists.
In a way, it's kind of great: The voters in this district are going to get a competent representative, be it a conservative Democrat or a liberal Republican. They're going to get someone who doesn't necessarily tow the party line. Someone who can think for himself. And someone willing to go it alone. So we kind of win.
But I wanted a train wreck!
No really, what we have now — in a sports metaphor — is a defensive battle. It's a low scoring game where each side keeps the other side at bay, waiting for them to make a mistake. What I wanted what a Jim Kelly, run and gun offensive bonanza. I wanted the 1999 Buffalo Sabres. Defense? What's that? I wanted the candidates out swinging ... calling each other names. Supporting gay animal abortion rights. Or whatever. I wanted a circus. I was promised a circus!
Side note: Remember circus peanuts? Those peanut shaped marshmallows with extra sugar flavoring? Me too.
Anyway. It's great to have two good choices come November. I just wish we could have two opposing choices. (Irony: As a registered Libertarian, if the candidates were actually a conservative Republican and a liberal Democrat as I'm advocating here, I wouldn't like either of them — but the voters deserve a choice).
After the debate, I spoke with both candidates and mentioned to them their similarities. They each made it a point to spell out their differences. I also mentioned it, offhandedly, to a long-time political insider who I will leave nameless. Their response: "Well, Johnny's really a Republican."
And I guess that's what it comes down to. We have two Republicans running for the spot. If Gia were still in the race, we would have had three. But one of them would have sent me emails at 12:30 in the morning with way too much information about their personal life. And women who email me at 12:30 in the morning with way to much information about their personal life can't be all bad, can they?
I should note that the candidates did get testy at points. But it was minor compared to the love fest I watched most of the night. And it has more to do with them playing on different teams than their having different points of view.
But what about Paul Brown? First of all, I was pleased to see that the Niagara USA Chamber set up a podium for him despite the fact that he didn't show. It was good for the audience to see that empty spot.
I live tweeted the debate on ENP's twitter account, twitter.com/EastNiagaraPost. I posted Ortt's answer. Then Destino's. Destino's then Ortt's. If I had really thought about it, after each question, I would have also posted "Brown said nothing because he's not here."
Let me be clear: Paul Brown is not a real candidate. He is making a mockery of the state's political system. If he were a real candidate, he would have been at the debate, not said he had a "prior engagement." Honestly, what could be more important than the only scheduled debate in the race? Let me answer that for you: If Paul Brown or one of his children (does he have children?) got married Wednesday, I'll give him a pass and issue an apology. Otherwise, there's no excuse.
Destino, of course, says that Brown was put up to being on the ballot. (Brown stole the Working Families line from Destino on primary day as a write-in candidate.) But whether Brown was put up to it or not, he still did it. He still chose to make a mockery of our election system — a system that needs to change.
Paul Brown should apologize to the voters. And me. I should get like a dollar or something for every time I've had to type his name. Because every time I do so, my faith in our republic dies just a little bit. It's damn near treason. And if I have to be complicit in someone else's treasonous manipulation of the state election system, I should at least get a dollar.
So come Nov. 4, vote for whoever you like ... as long as his name isn't Paul Brown. And this is the closest you'll get to an endorsement from me.
Scott Leffler is a poli-sci geek who will always choose a meaningful political debate over wine and ghost stories ... even if the devil on his other shoulder (and all his Facebook friends) suggests otherwise. Follow him on twitter @scottleffler.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt bookended his holiday weekend with endorsements — first from veteran lawmakers, then from a prominent gun association.
The candidate for the 62nd Senate District, announced Saturday that he had received the support of three veteran public servants. At a rally at VFW Post 2535 in Lockport, Ortt received endorsements from Assemblyman Steve Hawley, Niagara County Legislature Chairman Bill Ross and Town of Cambria Supervisor Wright Ellis, all veterans serving their communities at different levels of government.
“It is truly an honor to receive the support of these three distinguished public servants. All three served their country in the military and continued their commitment to public service in government, fighting for the people they represent,” said Ortt. “I want to thank Assemblyman Hawley, Chairman Ross and Supervisor Ellis for their support. Together they represent the very best in commitment to service, and I look forward to working with them on behalf of the residents of the 62nd Senate District.”
This morning, the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association Political Victory Fund announced their support for Ortt.
"We have a lot of constituents in the 62nd District and one of their top concerns is more gun control schemes coming out of Albany. It is important for them to be represented in the state legislature by someone who respects their 2nd Amendment civil rights," said NYSRPA President Tom King. "I believe Robert Ortt is the best choice for gun owners in the race and encourage all concerned citizens to support his candidacy on Election Day."
“I have proven experience in protecting the Constitution. I fought for our rights in Afghanistan, and will do so in Albany as state Senator,” Ortt said. “As a vocal supporter of the 2nd amendment, I am proud to have the endorsement of the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. They have been a leading voice in protecting our 2nd amendment rights in New York and I believe I am the only candidate in this race who will stand with them to fight to repeal the so called SAFE Act, and prevent additional restrictions on law abiding gun owners and sportsmen and women across New York.”
In addition to the endorsement of the New York Rifle and Pistol Association, Rob Ortt has been given an A+ rating from SCOPE and has signed their candidate pledge to repeal the NY SAFE Act.
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. The 62nd Senate District is made up of all of Niagara, and Orleans Counties and includes the Towns of Sweden and Ogden in Monroe Counties.
He is facing Democrat Johnny Destino and Working Parties candidate Paul Brown in the Nov. 4 general election.
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Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
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Cambria Supervisor Wright Ellis, left, and Assemblyman Steve Hawley
applaud as Robert Ortt, candidate for state Senate, shake Niagara County
Legislature Chairman Bill Ross' hand. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
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The candidate for the 62nd Senate District, announced Saturday that he had received the support of three veteran public servants. At a rally at VFW Post 2535 in Lockport, Ortt received endorsements from Assemblyman Steve Hawley, Niagara County Legislature Chairman Bill Ross and Town of Cambria Supervisor Wright Ellis, all veterans serving their communities at different levels of government.
“It is truly an honor to receive the support of these three distinguished public servants. All three served their country in the military and continued their commitment to public service in government, fighting for the people they represent,” said Ortt. “I want to thank Assemblyman Hawley, Chairman Ross and Supervisor Ellis for their support. Together they represent the very best in commitment to service, and I look forward to working with them on behalf of the residents of the 62nd Senate District.”
This morning, the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association Political Victory Fund announced their support for Ortt.
"We have a lot of constituents in the 62nd District and one of their top concerns is more gun control schemes coming out of Albany. It is important for them to be represented in the state legislature by someone who respects their 2nd Amendment civil rights," said NYSRPA President Tom King. "I believe Robert Ortt is the best choice for gun owners in the race and encourage all concerned citizens to support his candidacy on Election Day."
“I have proven experience in protecting the Constitution. I fought for our rights in Afghanistan, and will do so in Albany as state Senator,” Ortt said. “As a vocal supporter of the 2nd amendment, I am proud to have the endorsement of the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. They have been a leading voice in protecting our 2nd amendment rights in New York and I believe I am the only candidate in this race who will stand with them to fight to repeal the so called SAFE Act, and prevent additional restrictions on law abiding gun owners and sportsmen and women across New York.”
In addition to the endorsement of the New York Rifle and Pistol Association, Rob Ortt has been given an A+ rating from SCOPE and has signed their candidate pledge to repeal the NY SAFE Act.
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. The 62nd Senate District is made up of all of Niagara, and Orleans Counties and includes the Towns of Sweden and Ogden in Monroe Counties.
He is facing Democrat Johnny Destino and Working Parties candidate Paul Brown in the Nov. 4 general election.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
NORTH TONAWANDA — North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt announced today that he has received the endorsement of the Rochester Business Alliance in his campaign for the New York State Senate in the 62nd Senate District.
The Rochester Business Alliance is the chamber of commerce for the nine-county Rochester region, which includes Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates counties. The 62nd District includes the Towns of Sweden and Ogden in Monroe Counties, as well as all of Niagara and Orleans counties.
“Rob Ortt’s governmental experience as North Tonawanda Mayor, high energy level, and understanding of issues important to the business community make him well-suited to represent upstate in the New York State Senate," according to Rochester Business Alliance President and CEO Sandy Parker. "RBA and the Committee for a Strong Economy strongly endorse Rob’s candidacy and look forward to working with him on the critical issues necessary to moving our region’s economy forward."
The Rochester Business Alliance joins Unshackle Upstate and the National Federation of Independent Business in support Rob Ortt’s candidacy for State Senate, recognition of his commitment to promoting reform in Albany and job creation in Western New York.
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. He will face Democrat Johnny Destino and Working Parties candidate Paul Brown in the Nov. 4 general election.
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The Rochester Business Alliance is the chamber of commerce for the nine-county Rochester region, which includes Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates counties. The 62nd District includes the Towns of Sweden and Ogden in Monroe Counties, as well as all of Niagara and Orleans counties.
“Rob Ortt’s governmental experience as North Tonawanda Mayor, high energy level, and understanding of issues important to the business community make him well-suited to represent upstate in the New York State Senate," according to Rochester Business Alliance President and CEO Sandy Parker. "RBA and the Committee for a Strong Economy strongly endorse Rob’s candidacy and look forward to working with him on the critical issues necessary to moving our region’s economy forward."
The Rochester Business Alliance joins Unshackle Upstate and the National Federation of Independent Business in support Rob Ortt’s candidacy for State Senate, recognition of his commitment to promoting reform in Albany and job creation in Western New York.
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. He will face Democrat Johnny Destino and Working Parties candidate Paul Brown in the Nov. 4 general election.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
SANBORN — The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a debate between candidates for the 62nd District seat of the New York State Senate, formerly held by state Sen. George Maziarz, at 7 p.m. Oct. 15 in the theater of the Arts and Media building at Niagara County Community College, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road.
It will be moderated by Megan Rossman, a reporter for YNN News.
In this format, candidates will be asked questions by the moderator with a set time to respond and a rebuttal from the opposing candidate. Candidates of the 62nd include North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt, Niagara Falls businessman Johnny Destino and North Tonawanda businessman Paul Brown.
The event is open to the public, although questions will not be taken from the audience. The Niagara USA Chamber asks that spectators arrive at least one half hour before the debate begins.
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It will be moderated by Megan Rossman, a reporter for YNN News.
In this format, candidates will be asked questions by the moderator with a set time to respond and a rebuttal from the opposing candidate. Candidates of the 62nd include North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt, Niagara Falls businessman Johnny Destino and North Tonawanda businessman Paul Brown.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com
Johnny Destino, Democratic candidate for the 62nd State Senate District, said former Gia Arnold supporters are welcome to support his campaign.
Arnold, in announcing she had lost a fight for the Libertarian line in the November general election, encouraged her supporters to vote against Republican candidate Robert Ortt.
"If you happen to have a Rob Ortt for State Senate sign in your yard this election cycle, you are a fool to support the elite establishment that counts on your ignorance and apathy in order to continue to control our elections, state and national governments," she said earlier today via Facebook. "Vote anti-establishment this year. Do your research."
Destino said that despite the difference in parties, Arnold supporters could find a lot to like in his campaign.
"A lot of union members are members of sportsmen's clubs," he said. "They're just as interested in protecting Constitutional rights as Republicans claim to be."
Arnold's primary campaign theme was coming out against the New York S.A.F.E. Act. He also said it's been a major concern of voters.
"That's the only question I've gotten so far is 'Where do you stand on the S.A.F.E. Act?' " he said. "I signed a pledge to repeal it."
Destino, a former Republican, said he does support Democratic ideals, though.
"I am firmly in the camp of protecting labor rights. I have no issue whatsoever with protecting the workers rights to collective bargaining," he said. "The problems of the state of New York are not created by the working men and women of this state."
"(Republicans) have no idea how to increase the number of jobs in this area," Destino said.
The Niagara Falls School Board and BOCES board member also said he opposes cuts to public education, saying that Albany is "balancing the budget on the backs of schools."
Destino minced no words when it came to the local Republican Party and specifically Ortt.
"The feeling is that people are sick of this Republican group," he said. "And Ortt is unwittingly ... going along with their playbook ... stealing minor party lines, saying one thing in the primary and another in the general."
A North Tonawanda man, Paul Brown, has claimed victory of the Working Families Party primary on Sept. 9, winning a write-in campaign, according to a story in the Batavia Daily News.
Brown referred to Destino as "Tea Party extremist Johnny Destino" in the Daily News story and says he is a "founding member of the Working Families Party."
Destino, however, said that Brown, who owns North Tonawanda's "The Fish Place" had offered an earlier endorsement of Ortt.
"These people are just dirty to the bone and they'll cheat, lie and steal to get their election," he said.
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| Johnny Destino |
Arnold, in announcing she had lost a fight for the Libertarian line in the November general election, encouraged her supporters to vote against Republican candidate Robert Ortt.
"If you happen to have a Rob Ortt for State Senate sign in your yard this election cycle, you are a fool to support the elite establishment that counts on your ignorance and apathy in order to continue to control our elections, state and national governments," she said earlier today via Facebook. "Vote anti-establishment this year. Do your research."
Destino said that despite the difference in parties, Arnold supporters could find a lot to like in his campaign.
"A lot of union members are members of sportsmen's clubs," he said. "They're just as interested in protecting Constitutional rights as Republicans claim to be."
Arnold's primary campaign theme was coming out against the New York S.A.F.E. Act. He also said it's been a major concern of voters.
"That's the only question I've gotten so far is 'Where do you stand on the S.A.F.E. Act?' " he said. "I signed a pledge to repeal it."
Destino, a former Republican, said he does support Democratic ideals, though.
"I am firmly in the camp of protecting labor rights. I have no issue whatsoever with protecting the workers rights to collective bargaining," he said. "The problems of the state of New York are not created by the working men and women of this state."
"(Republicans) have no idea how to increase the number of jobs in this area," Destino said.
The Niagara Falls School Board and BOCES board member also said he opposes cuts to public education, saying that Albany is "balancing the budget on the backs of schools."
Destino minced no words when it came to the local Republican Party and specifically Ortt.
"The feeling is that people are sick of this Republican group," he said. "And Ortt is unwittingly ... going along with their playbook ... stealing minor party lines, saying one thing in the primary and another in the general."
A North Tonawanda man, Paul Brown, has claimed victory of the Working Families Party primary on Sept. 9, winning a write-in campaign, according to a story in the Batavia Daily News.
Brown referred to Destino as "Tea Party extremist Johnny Destino" in the Daily News story and says he is a "founding member of the Working Families Party."
Destino, however, said that Brown, who owns North Tonawanda's "The Fish Place" had offered an earlier endorsement of Ortt.
"These people are just dirty to the bone and they'll cheat, lie and steal to get their election," he said.
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Wednesday, September 24, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
NORTH TONAWANDA – North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt, the Republican candidate in the 62nd District state Senate race, has received the support of the National Federation of Independent Business, his campaign announced today.
The business association endorsement was Ortt's second victory of the day, after it was announced earlier that opponent Gia Arnold had been removed from the Libertarian line in the general election.
“Rob Ortt is the leader small business and taxpayers need in the State Senate,"NFIB/New York State Director Mike Durant said in a released statement. "Rob understands the significant challenges facing small business in New York and will fight the policies that continue to hamper our economy. From his call to reduce New York’s sizable tax burned to his push to reduce the senseless red tape, Rob Ortt is the right choice for small business.”
“It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business. As Mayor of North Tonawanda, I worked with small businesses to help create hundreds of jobs in our community,” Ortt said. “Now, I want to bring that record of success with me to Albany. As your next State Senator, I look forward to partnering with the NFIB to help reduce the cost of doing business, eliminate burdensome regulation and help create good paying jobs right here in Western New York.”
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. He will face endorsed Democrat Johnny Destino in the general election Nov. 4. Paul Brown of North Tonawanda has claimed victory of the Working Families Party line via a write-in campaign.
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The business association endorsement was Ortt's second victory of the day, after it was announced earlier that opponent Gia Arnold had been removed from the Libertarian line in the general election.
“Rob Ortt is the leader small business and taxpayers need in the State Senate,"NFIB/New York State Director Mike Durant said in a released statement. "Rob understands the significant challenges facing small business in New York and will fight the policies that continue to hamper our economy. From his call to reduce New York’s sizable tax burned to his push to reduce the senseless red tape, Rob Ortt is the right choice for small business.”
“It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business. As Mayor of North Tonawanda, I worked with small businesses to help create hundreds of jobs in our community,” Ortt said. “Now, I want to bring that record of success with me to Albany. As your next State Senator, I look forward to partnering with the NFIB to help reduce the cost of doing business, eliminate burdensome regulation and help create good paying jobs right here in Western New York.”
Ortt is the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence party candidate. He will face endorsed Democrat Johnny Destino in the general election Nov. 4. Paul Brown of North Tonawanda has claimed victory of the Working Families Party line via a write-in campaign.
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BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com
North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt and Holley businesswoman Gia Arnold have each issued statements following Arnold's announcement that she would not be appearing on the November ballot.
Ortt's statement came directly to East Niagara Post as the result of a request for comment on Arnold being removed from the Libertarian line. It follows below in its entirety.
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Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com
North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt and Holley businesswoman Gia Arnold have each issued statements following Arnold's announcement that she would not be appearing on the November ballot.
Ortt's statement came directly to East Niagara Post as the result of a request for comment on Arnold being removed from the Libertarian line. It follows below in its entirety.
While I am glad the integrity of the process was upheld, my focus remains where it has been since day one — speaking directly to voters, sharing my vision for how to create more good paying jobs for Western New Yorkers and fighting for our shared values in Albany as their next State Senator.Arnold, meanwhile, has not responded to a request for comment from ENP. She did, however, post a statement directly to 62nd Senate District voters on her Facebook page. While it doesn't directly endorse Ortt's Democratic opponent Johnny Destino for the November election, it clearly suggests not voting for Ortt. It follows below in its entirety:
If you happen to have a Rob Ortt for State Senate sign in your yard this election cycle, you are a fool to support the elite establishment that counts on your ignorance and apathy in order to continue to control our elections, state and national governments. VOTE ANTI - ESTABLISHMENT this year. Do your researchOrtt and Destino will face off on the ballot for the 62nd District race in November. Paul Brown of North Tonawanda has claimed victory of the Working Families Party line via a write-in campaign.
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Candidate loses Libertarian line
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
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Arnold had run and lost on the Republican line in the Sept. 9 primary against North Tonawanda Mayor Robert Ortt. But she held onto hope, having filed petitions to run on the Libertarian line in the November general election.
A court case on the matter was set to resume on Friday in front of State Supreme Court Justice Frank Caruso. When the matter was before him earlier this month, he adjourned the trial until to allow the state Board of Elections to look at the complaint.
Ortt had challenged the petitions saying that many of the signatures are invalid. "A lot of the signatures came from outside the district," he said earlier this month. "We'll see where that goes, but our expectation is that those petitions would be thrown out."
With Arnold again out of the race, the general election will be a two-person race with Ortt squaring off against Niagara Falls Democrat Johnny Destino.
Calls to Arnold and Ortt have not yet been returned.
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