I Solemnly Swear...

Three time's the charm. That's the magic number for Hartford Mayor Eddie Perez who will be inaugurated for his third term tonight. Throughout his campaign, Perez touted all the good he's done for the city and asked voters and the city to let him finish what he started. Can he?

The Hartford Courant ran a solid article that highlights some of Perez's accomplishments and plans for the future, but it just begs for more questioning, doesn't it?

"Perez is expected to urge that economic development serve as the tie to bind the city's North End to downtown; to push for ways for Hartford to secure affordable health care for its uninsured; and to pledge to determine the future of the Civic Center, now renamed the XL Center." - from the Courant.

Oh boy. Connecting the North End to downtown? Is this really a good idea? Has anyone taken a trip down the North End lately? The last time we found ourselves down that end of town was during the sleazy days of the nightclub Sanctuary (RIP) looking for, well, never mind. If you were there, you know.

Sure, scoring a big title sponsor is cool and all, but what will it really do for the city? Will it help to attract the hordes of live acts and shows that prefer the venues at the Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos? We're optimistic that the "powers-that-be" can turn things around and start making use of the Civic Center again. We'd pay top dollar to have a full on gladiator style show and toss a bunch of those mindless city planners throughout the years who have ruined downtown Hartford in the pit. Feed 'em to the lions!

So, what are your thoughts? Can Perez deliver on his promises, or is it just more political empty talk? We shall see.

Smile Joe, smile...