Please Join Us Next Monday!!!

10/24/2011

6-7.30

The Register Star published a press release yesterday, the subject of which was an endorsement of Republican Bill Hallenbeck by current Democratic Mayor Rick Scalera, and former Mayor Dick Tracy.

Although it missed a byline and was clearly an opinion piece, the Register decided to categorize it as news, it was a clear demonstration of what Nick has been saying all along:

“For all intents and purposes the ‘current administration’ has been in City Hall since the mid-nineties and before, during which time the City has undergone dramatic changes.  The revitalization of Warren Street, the influx of new and vibrant businesses, the restoration and rehabilitation of a number of historic buildings and residences, and the rise in the standard of living of many of our citizens.

All of this has occurred despite any meaningful support or involvement from City Hall, or the folks who’ve ‘dipped their collective beaks’ for decades in the ‘industry of need’, a product of so many citizens living without meaningful jobs and opportunities.  It might be serendipitous, but I think it more a result of right minded people finding a place they call home, and an environment they find conducive to fulfillment.

We are poised on the cusp of a true ‘citizen’s based’ renaissance, yet there is so much more to follow.  Imagine what more we might have achieved, and how better we might have addressed the needs of so many, had we not been met with rancor and obstruction from City Hall?

To be fair, we can thank the current administration for removing the tank farm at the waterfront, and giving the City a lovely park.  Perhaps that is the only progressive physical act the administration has to its credit.  What we are left with is a very unpopular proposal for developing the waterfront.  One that is not the product of citizen’s input and again cleaves to a group with very narrow self interests.

We have watched the systematic razing of historic buildings, the selling off of properties to insiders at closed door meetings.  We have watched hundreds of thousands of tax dollars given to businesses in the City which have either made off with the money illegally or sold the property without due investment.  Interestingly, the only ‘new park’ in the City, on the 200 block of Warren Street, was created years ago by local taxpayers.

So what are we to do with the future?  Do we hand over the City to the very same group that has taken a ‘business as usual’ approach?  A group who’s currency is based upon poverty and patronage?  Or do we become inclusive and transparent?  Asking from our engaged and generous citizenry the very best they have to offer.  Do we address the 25% of our citizenry who live at or below the poverty line, and ask them, what can we do together to make our City a place where all of us can grow and prosper?

So it is, the current administration’s endorsement of my opponent is hardly surprising, for any attempt to make the system truly representative flies in the face of their narrow self interest.

The answer is clear, the future is now, and to benefit us all, we need to create a cohesive City; a City that respects each and everyone regardless of station, religion, or race, a place for all of us.

Only we can move Hudson forward, together.

Sincerely,
Nicholas C. Haddad

The Hudson African American Leadership Alliance (HAALA) has announced plans for a Mayoral Debate between Nicholas C. Haddad and William (Billy) Hallenbeck Jr.  Nick eagerly and graciously accepted the invitation, to address the City and its citizens about his vision, in this incredibly important election.  Although the debate was nearly derailed by Mr. Hallenbeck’s early refusal to participate, he has since agreed.  Nick is excited for the opportunity to finally bring the substantive issues to the fore.  Rev Ronald Grant, Pastor, will moderate the debate with several HAALA members to assist.

Please Join Us!!

John L. Edwards School, Auditorium

10/25/2011

6 – 7:30

Nick Haddad was busy this past holiday weekend impressing upon voters the need for a candidate with experience and integrity, someone who has Plan & Vision for Hudson.  Many folks were out to enjoy some of the finest weather our region has seen in sometime.  Nick mingled with and greeted voters at the FASNY Dalmatian Day, Chili Fest, Olana Octoberfest, ArtsWalk, OurHudson barge, and the Clearwater sloop, all the whilst enjoying beautiful fall foliage and crisp sunshine.

Nick was especially eager to dispel rumors about his plan for our local firefighters.  He has no plan of cutting firefighters, who are volunteer, nor does he have any plans to close some of the last symbols of Hudson’s long famous fire fighting heritage.  Nick made a point of dispelling this with folks at the Firemans Home and locals around town.

Please Join Us Next Thursday!!

10/20/2011

6-8pm

Please Join Us Next Monday!!!

10/17/2011

6-9pm

•Democratic Committee’s choice is now Democratic voters’ choice, too

•Thurston, Sterling, Thomas, Marston, also win handily

HUDSON, NEW YORK — Local resident and businessman Nick Haddad prevailed tonight in a write-in primary, receiving 319 votes to Linda Mussmann’s 157, according to preliminary counts made by the Columbia County Board of Elections.

An estimated 80 absentee ballots have been received thus far by the Board of Elections, but are not expected to change the Primary Day outcome.

Haddad had been nominated by the Hudson City Democratic Committee, but was required due to an Election Law technicality to have that nomination confirmed in an “opportunity to ballot” primary, in which all votes were cast by write-in vote. He has already secured the nomination of the Working Families Party.

“I deeply appreciate of the strong support of rank-and-file Democrats from all over Hudson,” Haddad said on Tuesday night after receiving the results. “It’s time to reunite the party and carry this momentum forward to November.”

“Tonight’s successful outcome also means I can now expand my positive campaign message to the entire Hudson voters, of all parties,” he added. “I am looking forward to a vigorous but friendly campaign with my Republican opponent.”

Haddad’s fellow Democratic running mates also won overwhelming victories. Sarah Sterling earned 74 votes to her opponent John Musall’s 19 for 1st Ward Supervisor; David Marston and Larissa Parks logged 77 and 76 votes to Geeta Cheddie’s 24; and Ellen Thurston handily defeated Glenn Martin 94-16.

Haddad has issued a detailed five-point campaign platform covering the topics of economic development, social services, property taxes and housing issues, the Hudson River waterfront and local schools, which can be read at www.nickhaddadformayor.com.

Haddad’s primary victory was fueled in part by endorsements from prominent Hudson elected officials, including City Treasurer Eileen Halloran and Supervisors William Hughes, Jr.

Heartening results for Nick Haddad’s running mates in today’s primaries:

3rd Ward Supervisor:
• Ellen Thurston 94
Glenn Martin 16

1st Ward Supervisor:
• Sarah Sterling 74
John Musall 19

1st Ward Aldermen (2 winners):
• David Marston 77
• Larissa Thomas 76
Geeta Cheddie 24