“This bill shows the generosity and empathy that the residents of Connecticut and throughout the world have for those affected at Sandy Hook,” said Rep. Hwang.  “It is appropriate for the CT General Assembly to support our courageous educators and first responders who have been through such a traumatic event by providing the necessary financial resources and counseling to help them heal from this tragedy.  This is a unique legislation specifically designed for Newtown.”

The United Way of Western Connecticut is handling the processing of the donations.  The fund will be administered by the state’s Office of Victims Services, with the State Treasurer managing its assets.

Police and elected officials from around the region supported the formation of a Family Justice Center. From left, Monroe Police Chief John Salvatore; Fairfield Detective Kerry Dalling; Stratford Police Chief Patrick Ridenhour; Fairfield Police Chief Gary MacNamara; Judy Stevens, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney; Trumbull Police Chief Tom Kiely; Deb Greenwood, CEO, The Center for Women and Families; Bridgeport Police Chief Joseph Gaudett; State Representative Tony Hwang; Trumbull Detective Kevin Hammel; Monroe First Selectman Steve Vavrek.

BRIDGEPORT, CT – The Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County (CWFEFC) held a public policy breakfast to explain to community and legislative leaders why our region needs a Family Justice Center.  Under one roof, it would be a one stop shop for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, offering all the services they need to become survivors.  It was also announced that The Michael Bolton Charities, Inc., will contribute financially and partner with CWFEFC to make the Family Justice Center (FJC) a reality.

This will be Connecticut’s first FJC, housed in CWFEFC’s headquarters at 753 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport. In addition to the Bridgeport, it will also serve victims in five other towns: Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford and Trumbull.

“The Family Justice Center is all about sharing services under one roof, community collaboration with police, prosecutors, community-based advocates and social services,” explained keynote speaker Judy Stevens, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney of the Domestic Violence Unit. “Victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault will no longer have to go from agency to agency repeatedly telling their story since all their needs will be met in one place. The frustration of dealing with the current system often causes the abused to give up in fear and frustration, recanting the facts and often returning to the abuser.”

In addition, the FJC will offer victims advocacy, shelter placement, case management, counseling, safety, education and employment planning, emotional support and childcare when receiving services.  CWFEFC’s model is based on the first FJC that opened in 2002 at San Diego, CA.  Documented outcomes from the FJC model include: reduced homicides, increased community support services, increased victim safety, increased autonomy and empowerment for victims, reduced fear and anxiety for victims and their children, reduced recantation and minimization by victims; increased prosecution of offenders and reduced costs because of co-location/streamlining the process.

State Rep Tony Hwang, CT Coalition against Domestic Violence (CCADV) “First 100+ Men” honoree and White Ribbon Campaign member, understands the importance and value of the FJC concept.  “The coordinated one stop resource center will help minimize the trauma, frustration and fear that victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse endure and experience.”  Rep Hwang added, “The demonstrated success of raising awareness and abuse prevention and prosecution by FJC’s in San Diego, CA and Brooklyn, NY reinforces the need for FJC in Connecticut to support victims and families impacted by domestic and sexual violence.”

“The Family Justice Center has proven to be a life saver for victims of family violence and their children, helping to break the cycle of violence by streamlining the process of providing services under one roof,” says Michael Bolton. “I believe that violence against women and children is not a private issue. It is a human rights violation and should be treated as such. Domestic violence damages families and communities. The Family Justice Center approach can protect the rights of women and children by providing a safe place.”

CWFEFC has always offered crises services for victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault. “Through the FJC, CWFEFC will be able to expand services to make survivors stronger, self-sufficient and no longer dependent on their abuser,” says Debra Greenwood, CEO and President of the Center for Women and Families. “Survivors will have the resources to help them and their children live better lives without financial, verbal, emotional and physical/sexual abuse.”

Approximately one-third of the criminal cases in the court system in CT involve family violence. Nationwide, it is estimated that only 25 percent of domestic abuse are reported to police.

“This is an overwhelming problem that is not going to go away without considerable effort to stay ahead of it,” Stevens says. “Thirteen years ago, the first domestic violence docket was instituted in Bridgeport. Connecticut has taken the problem seriously. We now have the training and knowledge from these efforts and it is clear that the next logical step in this struggle is a Family Justice Center.”

THE CENTER FOR WOMEN AND FAMILIES:  The Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County Inc. has been helping those in crisis for 116 years, providing free, confidential, bilingual services to victims of domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault who live in Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford and Trumbull. Additionally, each year, The Center teaches more than 7,000 children and teens about how to build healthy relationships, the dangers of bullying and how to prevent dating violence; answers more than 2,000 calls on its 24-hour crisis hotline; assists with the civil and criminal court processes for more than 3,000 survivors of domestic violence; responds to more than 300 survivors of sexual assault and their families; provides a safe home for more than 100 women and children fleeing domestic abuse; and coordinates the investigations of more than 100 cases of child sexual and severe physical abuse, developing service plans for the young survivors and their families. Visit www.cwfefc.org.

ABOUT THE MICHAEL BOLTON CHARITIES, INC.  Founded in 1993, currently celebrating 20 years of “investing in a safe future for children and women at risk”, The Michael Bolton Charities, Inc. has raised over $10 million.  These funds have benefited over 100 charitable organizations including the New York City Family Justice Centers and The Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County Inc.

The Michael Bolton Charities, Inc. defines its Mission as 1.  The assistance of children and women at risk. and 2.  Through education and effective programs, create social awareness to broaden horizons and expand opportunities for youth across socioeconomic and multicultural lines.  Michael Bolton has been an active supporter of the federal Violence against Women Act and is dedicated to the development of the initial Connecticut Family Justice Center.  As Michael Bolton has stated:  “The Michael Bolton Charities serves as an instrument of compassion to respond to those less fortunate — especially children and women who deserve a chance for a better life.”   Visit www.michaelboltoncharities.com.

Rep. Tony Hwang was recently re-elected to a 3^rd term in the Connecticut General Assembly. Rep. Hwang represents the 134th District, which encompasses portions of Fairfield and Trumbull.  Rep. Hwang is the ranking leader in the Government Administration and Elections Committee and was a member of Appropriations and Environment committees in the 2011-2012 legislative sessions.  Rep. Hwang is a member of the CT Innovation Life Sciences Business/Government Group and a co-founder of the General Assembly Bipartisan Life Sciences Caucus. Visit www.RepTonyHwang.com

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FAIRFIELD/TRUMBULL – Representative Tony Hwang (R-134^th, Fairfield and Trumbull) responded to Governor Dannel Malloy’s biennium budget proposal for the fiscal years of 2013-14 and 2014-15.  Gov. Malloy presented his budgetary vision to a joint session of the Connecticut General Assembly.

Gov. Malloy’s budget proposal presents a dichotomy of a 9.7% ($1.7+ billion) increase in biennium budgetary spending while maintaining the rhetoric of “no new taxes” in revenue generation.  “It is stunning in the backdrop of a nearly $2.5 billion projected budgetary deficit that we continue to spend in such an upward trajectory,” said Rep Hwang. “I believe that this budget proposal runs counter to a ‘common sense’ and responsible approach to governing and leadership.  While I agree with the priorities emphasized in the Governor’s budget, such as education, business growth, and municipal funding, I do not agree with the approach in which he proposed to achieve those goals.  Gov. Malloy’s budget creates a bigger and more costly government, selectively picks winners and losers in business, and uses semantics in adversely impacting municipal budgets.”

To facilitate the proposed increase spending without a ‘tax increase’, Gov. Malloy’s plan borrows/bonded over $3 billion to close the budget gap.  CT will borrow $750 million dollars to help pay for the day to day expenses of the state government and will also borrow $122 million for state aid to cities and towns.  To comply under the Constitutional spending cap, Gov. Malloy’s proposal worked around the cap by moving about $900 million in spending outside of the spending cap.  Although not viewed as new taxes, extension of the following scheduled sunset taxes and credits such as: energy generation tax, caps on insurance premiums, a corporate surcharge, and the implementation of the ‘Amazon Tax’ will add additional tax burden to businesses and taxpayers.

Rep. Hwang proposed empowering local non-profits against comparable state agency services as a reasonable solution to the budget deficit.  “Our non-profits have showed time and time again that they provide crucial services to our community and do so more efficiently then state government does and they are an integral partner in our community” said Hwang.  “I believe common sense solutions like these will improve our budget situation without increased spending and taxation and make a positive difference to organizations in our community.”

We can do better, and we need to do better because Connecticut residents demand and deserve a leaner and less expensive government that won’t bust their own personal budget.

Rep. Tony Hwang was recently re-elected to a 3^rd term in the Connecticut General Assembly. Rep. Hwang represents the 134th District, which encompasses portions of Fairfield and Trumbull.  Rep. Hwang is the ranking leader in the Government Administration and Elections Committee and was a member of Appropriations and Environment committees in the 2011-2012 legislative sessions.  Rep. Hwang is a member of the CT Innovation Life Sciences Business/Government Group and a co-founder of the bipartisan bioscience caucus.

TRUMBULL- Representatives Dave Rutigliano (R-123) and Tony Hwang (R-134), along with Probate Judge-Elect T.R. Rowe, visited Saint Theresa School today to join the faculty and students in recognizing National Catholic Schools Week. The theme for National Catholic Schools Week this year is “Catholic Schools Raise the Standards.”  Reps. Rutigliano and Hwang delivered a citation to the school honoring all the hard work that they do.

The 2013 theme supports the recent launch of the national standards for effective Catholic elementary and secondary Schools that ensure the effective operation and responsible governance in Catholic schools across the country to ensure high academic standards and Catholic identity.

“It was an honor to be invited here to Saint Theresa’s today,” said Rutigliano. “The faculty, staff, and students at St. Theresa accomplish so much and they are very deserving of this special recognition.”

Representative Hwang spoke highly of the event, “Saint Theresa and the Bridgeport Diocese School system have showed me that they have a formula for educational success,” said Hwang.  “The enthusiasm and discipline of the St Theresa students was quite impressive and they demonstrated an engaged and excited attitude to learn.  It is not only a testament to them, but their teachers, their principal, and their parents.”

“National Catholic Schools Week is such a great program for our students and students all around the country,” said Principal Salvatore Vittoria. “It was a great honor to get a visit from our distinguished guests who recognized our school with this great honor.  I thank Reps. Rutigliano and Hwang, along with Judge Rowe for all they do for our community.”

Saint Theresa School is a Catholic community that provides an academically challenging curriculum in which all students from pre-K to eighth grade can learn within the framework of Catholic principles and recognize their dignity and uniqueness.

Trumbull – Representative Tony Hwang (R-134) visited Middlebrook Elementary School to read and participate in their Sensitivity Day to raise awareness about learning and handicap disabilities.  Rep. Hwang joined parents, administrators and community leaders to read and interact with students.

Sensitivity Day is designed to enable students to experience a variety of physical and learning disabilities that impact some students’ everyday life. The program hopes to increase awareness and sensitivity of these differences in a safe environment. The interactive educational program is offered to all 4^th Grade Trumbull students and begins in the classroom with a discussion of differences, tolerance and the importance of being open and sensitive to all people in our diverse world. The students then attend a 35-minute program with hands-on learning stations on various disabilities.

Rep. Hwang had the chance to not only read with Mrs. Freda Stanton’s 1^st Grade class, but learn sign language with them as well.  “The class was engaged and excited as we read the story and learn how to communicate and express ourselves via sign language,” said Hwang. “Sensitivity Day is so important for the children to experience a greater appreciation of every child’s uniqueness and sensitivity.”

Mrs. Stanton, an educator of twenty years, said that the message she strives to get to her students every day is to respect and love one another, and to use love and kindness in everything they do. “I can’t say enough to my students, they absorb so much and are interested in learning everyday” said Stanton. “They really are great kids.”

Lisa Hughes, one of event organizers and a parent of two Middlebrook students, also spoke highly of the interactive experience. “This is such an amazing program,” said Hughes. “It wasn’t long ago that student with special needs were in separate schools, it’s great for all of the kids to interact with one another so that they can better understand all of their fellow students.  We are so fortunate to have Rep Hwang read and participate with the students.”

Principal Pat Frillici also couldn’t speak highly enough of not only Sensitivity Day, but her students as well. “I call this school a shining star,” said Frillici. “All the bright teachers and young minds that are here make for such an amazing learning community.”

Rep. Hwang ended his visit by telling the students that it was important that they leave today and make sure that they use what they learned outside of the classroom. Mrs. Stanton’s class assured him that they would by saying goodbye and thanking Rep. Hwang for coming – via sign language.

Rep. Tony Hwang was recently re-elected to a 3^rd term in the Connecticut General Assembly. Rep. Hwang represents the 134th District, which encompasses portions of Fairfield and Trumbull.  Rep. Hwang is the ranking leader in the Government Administration and Elections Committee and is a member of Public Safety and Security and Insurance and Real Estate committees in the 2013-2014 legislative sessions.  Rep. Hwang is a member of the CT Innovation Life Sciences Business/Government Group and a founding member of the General Assembly Bipartisan Bioscience Caucus.

Rep. Tony Hwang supported the St. Vincent’s Swim Across the Sound Cancer Center Sports Gala & Auction that works to benefit all local and state 1st Responders and their family in Police, Firefighters, EMS (commercial & volunteers) and Correctional officers who are battling CANCER. Special guest speaker Jim Calhoun, former UConn Men’s Basketball and Hall of Fame coach, spoke sincerely about his passionate fight against cancer (being a two time cancer survivor himself). Calhoun also spoke of how, “Life is about intent and sharing, that whether it is coaching, parenting, we need to take the time to CARE.” Rep. Hwang, “I must admit to being thoroughly impressed, as I saw a different perspective of a man who care deeply about his school and community, rather than the caustic & competitive person we saw on TV and the basketball court.”

TRUMBULL – Representative Tony Hwang (R-134) and Representative Dave Rutigliano (R-123) delivered over 700 cupcakes this morning to the students, faculty, and staff of Frenchtown Elementary School.  The cupcakes were delivered for the celebration of the school mascot, Wolfie’s, 10th birthday.

Reps. Hwang and Rutigliano, who were introduced by school Principal Jacqueline Norcel, both spoke with the students about how thankful they both were to be a part of such a special day.  The birthday celebration even got a surprise guest, when Wolfie, came to help the students sing and dance as they all celebrated her tenth year anniversary at the school.

Rep. Hwang cited how the idea to deliver the cupcakes sprung from the 10^th anniversary gathering at Frenchtown in late October 2012.  “The singing, dancing and positive energy of students brought forth so much joy and unbridled enthusiasm during the October event.  It was the ultimate celebration of innocence and love,”  Hwang said “I just wanted to re-create that wonderful feeling of being a part of a caring and compassionate environment, and to remind us how every child is precious and special.”

“It is an honor to be part of such a special day,” said Rep. Rutigliano.  “To see the looks on the faces of the students as we brought in the cupcakes, and to witness the great enthusiasm they have for their school was truly remarkable.  I thank Principal Norcel, the staff, students, and parents for letting me to be a part of their celebration.”

“The whole idea behind the event was for the children to enjoy the positive things in life,” said Jacqueline Norcel.  “The event highlighted the things the children are grateful for — the school’s mascot, their teachers and each other.”

“To remind us that the world is a very beautiful place and that more good than bad happens here,” said FrenchtownSchool social worker David Weitzman. “It is an especially important message to send to children on a daily basis.  And we strive to do that here at Frenchtown.”

Kelli Giammarco, President of the PTA, said, “Tony and Dave are fantastic for having started their cupcake delivery.  It made for a great experience for the kids.”

Both legislators were honored to be a part of Wolfie’s 10th birthday and look forward to visiting again and interacting with students and staff at FrenchtownElementary School.

Photo caption: (L-R) Rep-elect Rutigliano, incoming Rotary President Holly Sutton-Darr, President Jim Malski, Rep. Hwang.

TRUMBULL – Representative Tony Hwang (R-134) and Representative-elect Dave Rutigliano (R-123) addressed the Trumbull Rotary breakfast on Jan. 4th, speaking and answering questions on a number of topics, including an update on the legislative outlook for the upcoming session.

Rep. Hwang spoke about the rich history of the legislature and acknowledged the great work the Rotary and its members do — especially regarding their non-profit work.  He talked about how government must continue to work with non-profit community providers who are struggling with increased needs and service utilization amidst State budget cuts.

Rep. Hwang called for both political parties to work together to address the challenges the State faces.  He stated that the government cannot be allowed to tax without consequence and stressed the importance of government taking responsible and accountable actions during the upcoming session.  Rep. Hwang concluded by emphasizing that he was elected to represent the people, not political labels and he is committed to representing the community while applying the Rotarian principle of “Service above Self.”

Rep-elect Rutigliano, a small business owner, talked about the need to improve on the 9% unemployment rate in Connecticut.  He mentioned that making government more efficient and improving the climate for small businesses is the key to economic growth.

Rotarian and Town Council member David Pia, who introduced the legislators at the meeting, said, “I have the highest respect for these two public servants. Tony and Dave share an unparalleled commitment to the towns that they represent.  They work tirelessly for their community and I am proud to have them represent me in Hartford, and even prouder to call them friends.”

Jim Malski, President of the Trumbull Rotary, spoke of the great work Rep. Hwang has accomplished, “Tony is a great friend of Rotary and a supporter of all our charitable efforts for a number of years.  It is great to have him back for our first meeting of the year.”

“I have known Tony for five years and I can say with confidence he walks the walk in caring for his constituents, and is committed to the mission of enriching our community through reading and learning” said Sue Horton, Rotarian and Director of the Trumbull Library.

Both legislators noted how excited they were to begin the new session and the work that lies ahead.  The 2013-14 Session of the Connecticut General Assembly which includes the House of Representatives begins Wednesday, January 9th.

Rep. Tony Hwang was recently re-elected to a 3^rd term in the Connecticut General Assembly. Rep. Hwang represents the 134th District, which encompasses portions of Fairfield and Trumbull.  Rep. Hwang is the ranking leader in the Government Administration and Elections Committee and was a member of Appropriations and Environment committees in the 2011-2012 legislative sessions.  Rep. Hwang is a member of the CT Innovation Life Sciences Business/Government Group.

Rep. Dave Rutigliano was elected to his first term in the CT House on November 6, 2012.  He lives in Trumbull with his wife of 22 years, Michele, and their two boys.

FAIRFIELD/TRUMBULL- Representative Tony Hwang (R-134^th, Fairfield and Trumbull) announced that Connecticut House Republican Leader Lawrence Cafero has appointed him to the following committees for the Connecticut General Assembly’s 2013-14 legislative sessions: Government Administration and Elections (GA&E); Public Safety and Security; and Insurance and Real Estate. These appointments will become effective following final approval from the General Assembly’s Legislative Leadership on Committees.

“During his time here in the CT legislature, Rep. Hwang has distinguished himself as a capable leader and effective legislator who is deeply connected to the communities he serves,”said House Minority Leader Cafero. “These committee assignments reflect the trust and confidence we have in Tony’s ability to get the job done effectively, particularly as the Ranking Leader of the GA&E Committee where some of our state’s most challenging issues are debated and put forth to the full Assembly. His prior experience on the GA&E and other committees will also serve as a valuable resource to other committee members and for the communities Tony serves as a legislator for the 134^th District.”

Rep. Tony Hwang talks about the state budget on WICC 600 radio on December 12, 2012.

Click HERE to listen to the interview.