Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Wallingford board seeks parent input on school budget
(203) 317-2225
WALLINGFORD - Parents who want their voices to be heard as the
school budget is built for 2012-13 are encouraged to attend a forum
next week.
On Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., a parent budget forum will be held at
the Lyman Hall High School's vo-ag community room. Board of
Education member Chet Miller said it's important to get parent
input as the school board prepares its budget.
"They're more in touch with specific problems and issues they feel
are in danger than we are at the board level," said Miller, a
Republican. "We see things on a broader spectrum, whereas they
might be in touch with a sport or an activity."
Miller said that parent input is crucial because the budget process
will be beginning shortly.
"We like to know going in if there are areas that need attention,"
he said. "It's harder to change things after the fact."
School Superintendent Salvatore Menzo said he hopes to hear
specific areas of the budget that parents would like to be
examined.
"We want them to share with us areas they'd like us to consider in
the process," he said.
Menzo said that the district uses its strategic plan to help build
the budget. The six areas covered by the Wallingford plan include
community outreach, curriculum and instruction, district climate,
facilities, finance and technology.
"We're taking each one, and want to see things that they want
continued and possible changes," he said. "We use that as another
piece of information."
Menzo said last year's budget forum for parents was the first, and
while only about a dozen parents attended they all came with ideas
and questions.
"It's so important to hear from parents," Menzo said. "This is not
my budget, it's not the Board of Education's budget, it's the
town's budget for the children."
The 2011-12 education budget was $4,779,296 less than the
$91,573,029 the board had proposed to the mayor. Mayor William W.
Dickinson Jr.'s budget represented a 0.42 percent increase over the
2010-11 budget; the board has sought a 5.95 percent increase.
School officials have said that if the district receives no
increase in its budget for the next year, it could face a shortfall
of several million dollars.
Friday, November 18, 2011
3rd Annual Wallingford Emergency Shelter FUNraising Banquet
Dear friends of the Shelter,
Since this time last year, the Shelter Board and various committees have been working non-stop toward making the dream of emergency housing for families a reality.
We are preparing to break ground this November on the Martin B. Rubin Family Center
Please consider joining us on November 18th for our third annual “fun” raising event at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn, located at 1074 South Colony Road from 6PM to 10PM
This year’s program will be more relaxed and casual and will include a wide variety of activities including a DJ for great music and dancing, fun and exciting games, a tea cup raffle and silent auction. And of course there is the full dinner at Zandri’s which is guaranteed to be great.
Tickets are $45.00 each.
Checks should be made out to Wallingford Emergency Shelter Inc.
Additional information is available online via http://www.wallingfordshelter.org
You can also email for more details to matt@wallingfordshelter.org
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thoughts, input–my letter to the editor, as published in the Record Journal
Editor: I wanted to thank everyone who came out to vote on Election Day, first and foremost. Whether you supported me or not, you decided it was important enough to invest the time to come out and be part of the process — and it is very important. I want to thank everyone who offered their encouragement, support and who gave me their vote.
Those votes I received, 5,537 in all, landed me in the #2 spot within my party, just 31 votes behind #1 John Sullivan and 5th out of all 12 who ran for seats on the council.
Those votes were based entirely on faith and goodwill, as I have no formal prior record of service to the Town of Wallingford. I will spend the next few weeks further preparing to take office and serve the town and all her people to the best of my ability – just as I had promised prior as part of my campaign.
I want to offer up as much information, communication and transparency as time and money permit. I will continue writing on my two Wallingford centric blogs. Wallingford Politico will remain a source of “news and information” with limited editorial commentary and “Jason Zandri for Wallingford Town Council” will become “Jason Zandri Wallingford Town Councilor,” where I will interject more of my thoughts and opinions into much of what is going on, politically and otherwise, in our town.
I cannot serve effectively without your thoughts and input. Let me know when I am on the mark and call me out when I need it. Help keep me honest and grounded. My first pledge, as your Wallingford Town Councilor (elect), will be to work hard enough to have earned each of those votes I received in advance this past November 8th. Thank you, again.
JASON ZANDRI, WALLINGFORD
Monday, November 14, 2011
Wallingford votes today on 30-year lease agreements
As published in the Record Journal, Monday November 14, 2011
By Robert Cyr
Record-Journal staff
rcyr@record-journal.com
(203) 317-2224
WALLINGFORD — As voters head to the polls today to decide whether or not to support the town’s 30-year lease agreements for a municipal parking area behind Simpson Court, groups that back either side of the issue will make their final push to sway residents to cast their ballots in favor of their viewpoint.
The Town Council in August approved the lease agreements, which say the town will supply up to $500,000 in upgrades and maintenance to the parking area owned by four building owners in exchange for municipal use of the lot. A successful petition drive forced today’s referendum.
The Simpson Court parking deal has been a hot-button issue since the council’s action, and signs from two political action committees far outnumbered campaign signs for candidates in last week’s municipal elections.
Republican Councilor Craig Fishbein, one of two councilors who voted against the lease, said he would be handing out leaflets to encourage people to vote “yes,” which would repeal the lease agreements.
“I’ll be out there telling people what they need to know about this — there seems to be a lot of confusion,” he said.
Christopher Diorio, vice chairman of the Republican Town Committee and head of the political action committee Support Our Downtown, said more than 400 signs have gone up at homes and businesses and a staff of a half-dozen volunteers would spend the last days calling up registered voters. Support Our Downtown is in favor of the 30-year lease and improvements to the parking area. A final effort will be made today to hand out flyers at post offices and grocery stores, in addition to ads in local newspapers, Diorio said Friday.
“It’s certainly been a challenge because people are very confused, and they want to know why it’s not on Election Day, and they’re confused about the yes and no situation,” he said. “It’s less of a challenge than a process.”
A “No” vote keeps the leases in place.
Council members voted to hold the referendum on a separate day after the Republican Registrar of Voters Chester Miller told them it would be a strain on the voting system due to the limited number of ballot machines and minimum space needed.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Wallingford Final election results as published in the Record Journal
Click on the image to enlarge
Thank you again for the support!
VOTING LOCATIONS listed incorrectly in the Sunday Edition of the Record Journal
The polling locations as listed in the Sunday edition of the paper were incorrectly listed.
The proper locations can be found via http://wallingfordpolitico.blogspot.com/2011/11/wallingford-parking-lot-referendum.html and / or http://www.500kparkingdeal.com/html/voting_locations.html
Saturday, November 12, 2011
The PAC for the “NO” vote is leveraging the Mayor.
Just got a robo call recorded by the Mayor regarding the NO vote on the Parking Referendum for Monday; must be [THIS] close for the PAC to have to leverage the Mayor on this.
If this is such as great deal for the town and the property owners then the benefits AND the cost burden should be shared and NOT 100% input from the town's budgeted monies for the fiscal year.
Whatever happened to that fiscal conservativeness of the Mayor and the Republicans (who are the majority of the "NO" supporters)? I guess as long as the conservativeness is on the "little guy" only it works.
I support the YES vote but I encourage everyone to get the facts on their own and get out and vote.
Don't forget to vote! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wallingford-Parking-Lot-Referendum-November-14-2011/107225926053398
Vote YES!
NOVEMBER 14, 2011
$$$ STOP PRIVATE PARKING DEAL $$$
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Thank you
I wanted to thank everyone who came out to vote yesterday, first and foremost. Whether you supported me or not, you decided it was important enough to invest the time to come out and be part of the process.And it is very important.
Beyond that, I want to thank everyone who offered their encouragement, support and who gave me their vote.
Those votes I received, unofficially 5,542 in all, landed me in the #2 spot within my party, just 29 votes behind #1 John Sullivan and and 5th overall.
Those votes were based entirely on faith and goodwill as I have no formal prior record of service to the Town of Wallingford.
Now that the campaigning is over, I will spend the next few weeks prior to being sworn in further preparing to take office and serve the town and all her people to the best of my ability – just as I had promised prior as part of my campaign.
My first pledge now formally as a Wallingford Town Councilor (elect) will be to work hard enough to earn each of those votes I received this past November 8th.
Thank you again.
2011 Election Results from Wallingford
Click on the image to enlarge.
Winners are highlighted in yellow.
Totals at this point are unconfirmed.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The unofficial counts from Democrat Headquarters
BOLD denotes the winner
MAYOR
Dickinson (R) 6,213
Testa (D) 3,558
TOWN COUNCIL
DEMOCRAT
Sullivan 5,571
Hettrick 4,095
Harwood 4,878
Zandri 5,542
Reynolds 4,687
Eco 5,370
REPUBLICAN
Fishbein 5,642
LeTourneau 5,728
Parisi 5,809
Rascati 5,270
Cervoni 5,531
Laffin 5,195
BOARD OF EDUCATION
DEMOCRAT
Cei 5,632
Castelli 4,985
Reynolds 4,790
Leonardo 4,304
Ford 4,667
Votto 5,277
REPUBLICAN
Bachand 4,600
Miller 5,094
Brooder 5,094
Mansfield 5,297
Mckay 5,237
Marrone 5,065
Election totals are coming in…
I am at headquarters and collecting totals on the fly.
If the Record Journal has them first I’ll let you know.
You can check in there via http://www.myrecordjournal.com/election/2011/wallingford/
Vinnie Testa Candidate for Mayor of Wallingford
VOTE TODAY – TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2011
About Vinnie Testa
Vinnie Testa for Mayor - http://videoalive.com/vinnietesta/
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Vinnie-Testa-for-Mayor/118934548181765
vtesta@comcast.net
Born in Wallingford; / Wallingford Public Schools;
B.S. Fairfield University;
1 son in college, 1 teaching in Washington, D.C.
Current Minority Leader, Wallingford Town Council
Wallingford Town Council – 8 years, 1 term as Vice-Chairman
Wallingford Board of Education – 8 years
Wallingford Wetlands Commission – 2 years
CCD Teacher and Lector Most Holy Trinity Church
Wallingford Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors
Child Guidance Clinic Board of Directors
Yalesville Little League Executive Board
Baseball, basketball, soccer coach, founding coach of Wallingford Lacrosse
Cub Scout Leader
Wallingford Dream Foundation (Founding member)
Wallingford Education Foundation
Golf Tournament Committee
Business Network International Development Ambassador
Modernizing Government
With 20 years experience in local government, Vinnie knows how we can save money by:
- Reducing costs and creating efficiencies through the smart use of technology
- Sharing services between Town and the Board of Education
- Eliminating wasteful spending to ease the burden on taxpayers
Leading Economic Development and Creating Jobs
Based on 25 years of success in corporate business development, Vinnie has a specific plan for bringing new businesses to Wallingford by:
- Establishing our industrial parks as a clean energy research and development hub
- Recruiting new corporate taxpayers that are essential to rebuilding our diminishing grand list
Ensuring Public Safety
- Restoring critical paramedic services
- Strengthening our police force by retaining those we train
Providing a Great Education for Our Kids
Vinnie served on the Board of Education, helped develop the long-term strategic plan for our schools, and he teaches in the Wallingford school system. He understands the challenges we face in preparing our children for success in the 21st Century.
“I am proud of my service and commitment to our community. It would be an honor to serve you further as your mayor. It’s time we moved forward, together, to make this town we love an even better place to live and raise our families.
Sincerely,
Vinnie Testa
Jason Zandri Candidate for Wallingford Town Council
VOTE TODAY – TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2011
![clip_image002[4]_thumb[1]](http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f12DE301N2A/TrhYFC1wXDI/AAAAAAAAAnM/IW2z2iar6Kc/s1600-h/clip_image002%25255B4%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg "clip_image002[4]_thumb[1]")
Goals as your Town Councilor:
If elected, I will listen to town residents first before I make a decision and I will execute to the best of my ability the responsibilities of the office for the good of Wallingford and her citizens.
Background:
- Born and raised in Wallingford; attended Pond Hill Elementary, Moran Middle School and Mark T. Sheehan High School
- Married father of four children; two are in the public school system
- President of the Wallingford Fireworks Fund
- Auction Manager for Wallingford’s annual MDA Party for a Cure
- Information Technology Professional - Senior Systems Engineer with 13 years experience in the field; responsible for operational support, service management, and technical planning
- Avid writer, wrote the FROM WALLINGFORD column for the Record Journal for three years through spring of 2011
- Involved with the local political scene since the late 1980s
- District 4 leader, Wallingford Democratic Town Committee
Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places
As published in the Record Journal, Sunday October 30,2011
WALLINGFORD — Here is the list of polling places for the Nov. 8 election.
District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Hammarskjold Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road.
District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.
Voter information: (203) 294-2125
ELECTION DAY Locations to vote in Wallingford
District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road.
District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.
If you need additional information:
Registrar of Voters
45 South Main Street, Room #211
(203) 294-2125
Registrars:
Samuel Carmody
Chester Miller
http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/Content/Registrar_of_Voters.asp
FROM WALLINGFORD – Hey kids, it’s time to show up
As originally published in the Record Journal Sunday, September 27th, 2009
It was also cross posted to my personal blog – From the Mind of Jason Zandri
The item regarding the Charter Revision vote is out of date and no longer relevant but the rest of it as timely as it ever was.
According to some research I have done recently, in the 2008 Presidential election the number of Wallingford people registered to vote aged 18 to 30 that came out and voted was about 2,800.
For people aged 60 to 72 that number was a little more than 4,000.
Both age sets encompass a span of 12 years.
In 2008, 22,000 of the nearly 26,000 registered voters in Wallingford generated an 85 percent voter turnout rate.
In the 2007 local election the number of people aged 18 to 30 that came out to vote in Wallingford was about 500.
Of the nearly 4,200 people aged 18 to 30 that were registered to vote only 500 showed up—that is a paltry 12 percent.
For people aged 60 to 72 that number was about 2,800 out of 4,700 or 60 percent.
When we talk about the impact for better or worse of the largest voting block the discussion always focuses around the older folks but it is not just because they are larger in size (as they are so by only about 500 voters) but rather due to the fact that they show up in greater numbers. In order to get to 2,800 voters showing up in a voter block for the 2007 local election you have to include everyone aged 18 to 47 — a bracket of 29 years.
That is a total of 11,400 registered voters to yield the same 2,800 turnouts.
Let me say it again— you have to leverage 11,400 registered voters from the 18 to 47 demographic to get the same turn out number of people aged 60 to 72 where 2,800 out of 4,700 showed up.
2,800 people aged 60 to 72 out of 4,700 is 60 percent.
2,800 people aged 18 to 47 out of 11,400 is 25 percent.
I understand that the numbers in total drop below 50 percent for local elections; in 2007 voter turnout was 46 percent.
The reason for this is mainly due to the younger generation of people not showing up.
This is especially concerning tome as a parent of four little children. At 40 years old I am in with a group of people that seem not to be willing to take control of their own destiny for themselves or their families.
Say whatever you want about how you can’t change things, politics is all dirty and it caters only to this group or that group or whatever— it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy when you don’t show up to vote.
I feel that local elections impact you more than any other election you could participate in. All the voters are from Wallingford, there is no other election that you could have a greater impact on by just voting.
In a Presidential election you are casting your important vote among millions of others; in Wallingford it is one vote of about 12,000 or so.
Your locally elected officials directly affect everything from what you are charged in taxes by way of the budget and what allocations get handed off to support the schools that your children are attending and so on. They provide the platform and funding for or removing it from all the local services you may use.
There are many changes offered to the voters in the 2009 election from the incumbents that are running for office again to all the newcomers throwing their hats into the ring.
There are changes being proposed to the Town Charter. This document dictates the guidelines of how elected officials are to discharge their duties in service to you and the town and it is the first time any changes are being offered in 18 years.
You as a voter directly get your say as you get the opportunity to vote “yes” or “no” to each of the proposed changes.
Democracy at its best— all you need to do is show up.
From the Editorial Page of the Record Journal: Vote with confidence
As published in the Record Journal on Election Day, Tuesday November 8, 2011
Voting is Democracy’s bedrock — a truly American activity which should not be taken for granted.
Elsewhere on this planet other societies don’t have it so well. In recent Arab Spring uprisings, thousands risked lives to demonstrate in favor of ballot-based elections, rather than further remain subjects beneath despotic leaders who abuse authority and employ violence to retain power. For centuries we have enjoyed what these modern protestors fight for. Today we can celebrate their efforts, and our first-world freedoms, by exercising one of a U.S. citizen’s most important rights — voting.
At last, Election Day has dawned. Local political clamor will soon yield to results. In copious political opinion letters to the Record-Journal, readers have expressed preferences for individual candidates and thoughts on pertinent issues in oft-times unequivocal terms. But mistake not the numerous political-letter- writers as enough interested individuals to decide an election. Every vote counts, and it is your responsibility — not someone else’s — to register your opinion.
As our country continues preparations for next year’s presidential race, municipal voting comes to have its own unique flavor in comparison. People familiar with one another in the same community get to express support, or lack thereof, for local candidates who are neighbors, and not TV personalities or names in a newspaper. It’s a chance for civic leaders to see what sits well with voters — issues and allegiances come into political alignment.
Campaign season is a long haul, and even though many candidates enjoy getting out and meeting people, it’s just possible some have rung enough doorbells by now. Nevertheless, let’s not forget that extensive efforts by political hopefuls and their supporters add impetus to the fullness of Election Day’s turnout and significance. Underscore this point: voting — it’s part of a great American tradition and the exercise of a powerful right in democracy — a freedom not to be wasted or squandered.
And before exercising such rights, residents should fulfill their responsibility to make informed, confident decisions. Do research. Learn not only about candidates as community members but also where they stand on important issues. For instance: in today’s entrenched fiscal stagnation, those running for municipal office have by now expounded personal financial and economic development policies of all sorts. Citizens should identify which proposed monetary measures they believe as best suited to propel more expeditious economic recovery, and vote accordingly.
In coming days, supportive signs will swiftly dwindle from front lawns and political ads will disappear from television air time. Election Day will fade into tomorrow. But the results — candidates authorized to take office, some replacing incumbents while others gaining additional terms — will last for two or more years. Thus, we hope that all voters participating in today’s election have done reasonable, if not thorough, homework. Make that vote count — know your mind. Vote with pride.
Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places
As published in the Record Journal, Sunday October 30,2011
WALLINGFORD — Here is the list of polling places for the Nov. 8 election.
District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Hammarskjold Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road.
District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.
Voter information: (203) 294-2125
Monday, November 7, 2011
Tomorrow, Tuesday November 8, 2011 is Election Day
It’s not often that you get your chance to have your say, really have the opportunity to voice your mind and thoughts.
You do get an optimum chance on Election Day more so than any other time of the year.
There is no body of government that can affect you as much and that you have as much effect on as your municipal government.
Your municipal leaders regulate your ordinances, set the local budget for the town and the schools, as well as maintain and manage the tax base of the town.
If you voted in the federal election in 2008 you were one voice in 169 million registered. (About 133 million showed up to cast a vote).
86 million democrat - 55 million republican - 28 million others registered.
Of those voters there were 132,645,504 total voters out of an eligible voting age population of 212,702,354, which gives you a 62.4% participation rate.
For the elections held at the state level here in Connecticut as of 2010 the total number of registered voters is a hair over 2 million.
The largest group of registered voters in Connecticut is unaffiliated, accounting for 831,962 voters. There are 743,580 registered Democrats and 413,854 registered Republicans.
So when 73 percent of the state voters turnout, your voice is one in 1.46 million.
You as the voter in Wallingford during a municipal election are one of about 25,000 registered. During our last municipal election only 35.6 percent of the registered voters turned out.
Your voice there is one of about 8,900.
Where do you think your voice is the loudest?
Where do you think your voice is best heard among all the noise?
Wallingford is your town – get informed, get involved and VOTE on Tuesday November 8th
Town of Wallingford – Historic Election results
Let’s make 2011 the year of 50.1 percent turnout.
In 2009 the number dropped to 36% (and I have been telling people incorrectly 37%)
Vote November 8th
Malloy extends voter registration deadline for the local elections to Monday, Nov. 7.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed an executive order extending the registration deadline for the local elections to Monday, Nov. 7.
In his order, Malloy notes that the storm's aftermath has caused widespread transportation problems and forced many town halls to close.
The majority of the state's 169 cities and towns will hold municipal elections on Nov. 8
Public Information Meeting PROJECT 148-202 Design Plans and Improvements to Route 68 at Route 150
There will be a meeting on Wednesday November 9th, 2011 regarding planned design improvements to Route 68 where it intersects with Route 150.
The meeting is to be held in an open forum for individual discussions with Department of Transportation officials at 6:30 in room 315 at the Wallingford Town Hall
There will be a formal presentation beginning at 7PM in room 315.
The general public is encouraged and invited to attend.
Written questions or comments can be submitted to:
Mr. Timothy M. Wilson
Manager of State Design
PO BOX 317546
Newington, CT 06131-7546
Email communications are also welcome via timothy.wilson@ct.gov
Plans are available for viewing at the Wallingford Town Hall in the Town Clerk’s office.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Jay Cei
Age: 57
Address: 15 Blossom Lane.
Occupation: Chief financial officer and president, Ulbrich Stainless Steel & Special Metals Inc.
Education: B.S., business administration and accounting, Boston College.
Platform: Prepare students for 21st century challenges by developing critical thinking and math, science and communication skills; implement five-year strategic plan; oppose multi-year financial commitments that lack funding, without cutting services or compromising strategic plan; support pupil personnel programs; implement a state-of-the-art guidance and career planning program for all grade 6-12 students.
Misc.: Seeking third term after being appointed to board in 2006; chairs Curriculum/Instruction Committee; co-chair of School to Career Committee; board liaison and member Strategic Planning Committee; helped create high school financial planning course and internship program and reactivate Big Brothers-Big Sisters program; board member Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, Blue Cross-Constitution Healthcare Division and Ulbrich Stainless Steel; United Way divisional chair; former youth basketball and baseball coach.
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Jason M. Zandri
Age: 42.
Address: 35 Lincoln Drive
Occupation: Computer systems administrator, Bloomberg LP
Education: Mark T. Sheehan High School
Platform: Raise new revenue sources for town beyond raising taxes; more efficient use of town capital and resources; proactive and strategic multi-year planning for town operations and growth; solicit input from residents and business professionals regarding town decisions.
Misc.: Helps lead annual fundraising for town's fireworks display as president of the non-profit Wallingford Fireworks Fund; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2007 as an independent.
Website: www.jasonzandri.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gunderstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/gunderstone
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education David Leonardo
Age: 24.
Address: 388 Church St., Yalesville.
Occupation: Intern, Rep. John Larson's campaign.
Education: B.A., history, UConn.
Platform: Ensuring financial literacy for students, early education and college preparation, including skills to thrive in the global economy.
Misc.: Raised by a single mother; attended town schools; volunteers with Dan Drew's mayoral campaign in Middletown.
Facebook:www.facebook.com/pages/David-for-Board-of-Education
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Valerie N. Ford
Age: 61.
Address: Judd Square, South Cherry Street
Occupation: Individual medical underwriter, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Education: B.A., liberal studies, Quinnipiac University.
Platform: the best possible education for each student; a safe and healthy environment in each school; cooperation between the board, school staff and parents; sound fiscal management; looking out for the best interests of students, challenging them and district personnel.
Misc.: Seeking 9th term; first elected in 1991; board secretary and former chair of various committees; member and board liaison for Vo-Ag Building Committee; board representative in last three teacher contract negotiations; married to Brian Ford; mother of three graduates of town schools.
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Michael Votto
Age: 61.
Address: 377 N. Elm St.
Occupation: Principal, St. Aedan/St. Brendan School, New Haven.
Education: B.S., education, Southern Connecticut State University; M.S. plus 30 credits, education, Southern Connecticut State University and University of New England.
Platform: Continue initiatives of new superintendent, including middle school team changes and stronger foreign language program; hire and work with new Pupil Services director, which supervises special education; advocate for parents of special needs kids.
Misc.: Board member since 1999; board secretary; former board chairman; taught middle school for 36 years in North Branford; teaches history/social studies in Choate's summer program.
Wallingford Ballot for the November 8th municipal election
For the office of Mayor you may choose only one of the two candidates.
For the seats on Town Council you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.
For the seats on the Board of Education you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.
The Secretary of the State website contains additional information which will provide you with important election details.
For the seats on Town Council you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.
For the seats on the Board of Education you can vote for any nine of the twelve running. You may vote for people that are one above the other – it is for ANY nine regardless of position on the ballot.
The Secretary of the State website contains additional information which will provide you with important election details.
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Robin M. Hettrick
Age: 45.
Address: 4 Blossom Lane.
Occupation: Corporate controller /Assistant treasurer, Tomra of North America, Inc.
Education: B.S., accounting, M.B.A., Quinnipiac University.
Platform: Fiscal responsibility, efficient government and economic development.
Misc.: Democratic Town Committee vice chair; former Zoning Board of Appeals member; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2005; former PTO Treasurer.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Patrick Reynolds
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 58.
Address: 844 Old Durham Road.
Occupation: Teacher, New Britain High School, Central Connecticut State University and Tunxis Community College.
Education: B.S., earth science, Central Connecticut State University; M.S., atmospheric science, University of Michigan.
Platform: Promote participation from parents, students, teachers, administrators and the board; spend money efficiently; make school maintenance an on-going process, not merely large-scale projects; accountability.
Misc.: Former board member; lost reelection bid in 2009; town native and Lyman Hall High School graduate; married to council candidate Debi Reynolds; father of three with two grandsons; former computer programmer for United Technologies and Stanley corporations
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Debi Reynolds
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 59.
Address: 844 Old Durham Road.
Occupation: Business analyst, The Hartford.
Education: Maloney High School, Meriden.
Platform: Grow businesses to ease the tax burden on residents; address constituent questions and concerns with diligence and from the perspective of a hardworking resident.
Misc.: Married to Board of Education candidate Patrick Reynolds; mother of three and grandmother of two; former Wallingford Youth Soccer League coach, former group coordinator for Autism Speaks and former member Wallingford Land Trust.
Record Journal Voter Guide - Wallingford polling places
As published in the Record Journal, Sunday October 30,2011
WALLINGFORD — Here is the list of polling places for the Nov. 8 election.
District 1: Pond Hill School gym, 297 Pond Hill Road.
District 2: Stevens School gym, 18 Kondracki Lane.
District 3: Moses Y. Beach School gym, 340 N. Main St.
District 4: Dag Hammarskjold Middle School gym, 106 Pond Hill Road.
District 5: Cook Hill School gym, 57 Hall Road.
District 6: Parker Farms School cafeteria, 30 Parker Farms Road.
District 7: Yalesville School cafeteria, 415 Church St. (Route 68).
District 8: Senior Center, 38 Washington St.
District 9: Rock Hill School cafeteria, 911 Durham Road.
Voter information: (203) 294-2125
Video - Jason M. Zandri (D) – Candidate for Wallingford Town Council
Jason M. Zandri (D) – Candidate for Wallingford Town Council
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Board of Education Kathy Castelli
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 61.
Address: 9 Ashford Court.
Occupation: Retired.
Education: B.S., special education, Southern Connecticut State College.
Platform: Keep improving education in midst of funding limitations through creative solutions and close monitoring of the budget; increased use of technology to prepare students for global workforce.
Misc.: Seeking third term; former senior business analyst and senior quality assurance advisor at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield; mother of five children that attended town schools; local resident since 1979.
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Donald Harwood
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 56.
Address: 14 Taylor Lane.
Occupation: Owner-operator, AMB Associates.
Education: A.S., criminology and marketing, Middlesex Community College; B.S., industrial technology, Central Connecticut State University.
Platform: Better strategic planning to contain costs and improve education, public safety, economic development, real estate and property management and town government efficiency.
Misc.: Member Strategic Planning Committee of Board of Education; was School Building Committee chairman during major district-wide renovations; past chief Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department; former Wallingford deputy fire marshal; 26-year member state building Codes and Standards Commission; member state fire training and prevention boards; ran unsuccessfully for council in 2009.
Record Journal - Area races: 2011
As published in the Record Journal, Thursday November 3, 2011
Local mayoral races in Wallingford and Meriden are high profile and will be discussed in an editorial devoted to this subject and these candidates.
Meanwhile, though, local voters have to cope and sift through a welter of candidates for other offices, notably town and city councils and school boards. Many of these races do not pit individual candidates against each other but invite voters to choose 6 of 9, or 4 of 5, or some similar arrangement. We try, today, therefore, to select some candidates who appear vote-worthy or who might add particular skills to the body to which they seek election.
Cheshire — Democrats on this Town Council are presently there by virtue of minority representation rules, since Republicans won impressively two years ago; hence, 7 of the 8 GOP council candidates are incumbents. Two major issues have arisen and will go forward: that artificial turf field for Cheshire High School and a replacement bubble for the Community Pool. On both issues, there was some division, but as much among Republicans as between them and Democrats. Board of Education contests this year are low key, and voters may choose any 4 of 5 candidates.
The most interesting outcome will be on a ballot question approving a $30 million bond authorization for a water treatment plant upgrade. This is a non-optional project, ultimately, but questions have been raised by Democrats about what level of state contribution can be expected, and lack of answers here could affect the outcome.
Southington — On the council, 8 of 9 members are seeking reelection, among them John Barry (who has not been afraid to speak out on difficult issues), Christopher Palmieri (who has successfully combined two leadership jobs in town) and Edward Pocock III (who has emerged as a strong leader). Among those who would be valuable assets on the council are Cheryl Lounsbury, a well-known and veteran player in Southington public life, and John Moise, who has worked hard for a number of years on town fiscal integrity.
Similarly, 7 of 9 incumbents are seeking new terms on the Board of Education, among them David Derynoski and Pat Johnson (who both have impressive veteran status on the board with an invaluable leadership and institutional memory), and Jill Notar-Francesco, Brian Goralski and Terri Carmody who has demonstrated solid guidance during this term. More important than individual members, who have generally proceeded with unity, will be voter choice on an $85 million bond authorization (less state contributions) for improvements to both middle schools. This work, virtually everyone in town agrees, is long overdue, so the question will be whether the commitment is too fiscally frightening to pass. We hope not, as it needs to be done.
Wallingford — Wallingford’s council election of nine members allows voters to choose any nine of the 12 running. Of nine incumbents, eight are seeking reelection: six Republicans and two Democrats, and they’ve been a reliable crowd. With Bob Parisi and Rosemary Rascati there is strong continuity, and with Craig Fishbein and Nick Economopoulos there is generally strong controversy, as both men are willing to stand up and be counted for their principles. Among those challenging incumbents this year are Don Harwood, a veteran public servant who did yeoman work as chairman of the School Building Committee during the extensive remodeling district-wide a few years ago, and Jason Zandri, whose enduring commitment to the community has led him to establish the “save the fireworks” fund with Fishbein, and to offer his commentary on these editorial pages for several years until his decision to run for council.
Wallingford’s Board of Education needs few words. The last two years have seen a strongly supportive group behind several major changes in the school system made by Superintendent Salvatore Menzo. Any of these changes could easily have proved damagingly controversial and divisive; that none did is due to Menzo’s abilities, of course, but also to the steadiness of board members. It’s significant that none of those challenging currently attack these changes, and so, in choosing which 9 of the 12 candidates to choose, we’d go strongly with incumbents.
Meriden — City Council elections offer a variety of candidates this year with three-way contests in three of the four council areas.
Highlights would be in Area 1, where Steve Iovanna has a lot to offer to Meriden. He is fully supportive of the new high school project, which needs to be supported strongly, and he is committed to improving downtown. Iovanna and Al Pronovost are vying for the seat being left by George McGoldrick. In Area 2, Matthew Dominello, a nineterm veteran on the council, is a man who knows how Meriden works and easily merits another four years in preference to his opposition, Josh Broekstra and Darnell Moss. In Area 3, incumbent Brian Daniels has done excellent work during his four-year term, especially in controlling the budget and committing to actions which improve Meriden’s financial position. In Area 4, Catharine Battista has excellent credentials to serve on the council which should make her a choice over her rivals Liz Whitney and Larry Kibner.
There are four candidates for the two at-large seats, foremost among them Kevin Scarpati, whose candidacy we are happy to support. He has youth going for him, of course, but he has done well in his two years on the Board of Education and his ideas will enliven the city council. The other three candidates are incumbents John Thorp and Walter Shamock and electoral newcomer David Lowell Meriden’s school board will elect four of five candidates, three of five incumbents: from the quality of them, the city cannot lose.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council Nicholas Economopoulos
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 62.
Address: 3 Woodmans Hill Road
Occupation: Retired.
Education: B.S., education, M.S., business education, Central Connecticut State University; M.S., educational administration, Southern Connecticut State University.
Platform: Develop goals for and improve management of town properties, including the creation of a buildings committee; conduct an efficiency study of town departments to find savings; do what's right above party and self.
Misc.: Seeking third council term; former business and accounting teacher at Lyman Hall High School; longtime high school girls' basketball coach; former Board of Education member.
FACEBOOK - Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum - November 14, 2011
Question: Why should Wallingford spend upwards of $500,000.00 to improve private property at your expense? Answer: IT SHOULDN'T! On November 14th, Vote "YES" to Repeal the one-sided deal!
It’s your town – get informed, get involved and VOTE on November 14th
For more information see the Wallingford Parking Lot Referendum Facebook page or go to the 500K Private Parking Deal site.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Record Journal Voter Guide for Wallingford: Democratic Candidate for Town Council John Sullivan
As published in the Record Journal Sunday October 30, 2011
Age: 52.
Address: 62 Dutton St.
Occupation: AT&T Chief of Staff Connecticut/Columbus-Dayton, Ohio.
Education: Attended Middlesex Community College and the University of New Haven.
Platform: Maintain tax rate; support public safety and economic development; develop a five- to 10-year downtown revitalization plan; make local government more efficient and user-friendly through technology; ensure adequate funding for school board's strategic plan; work in a bipartisan manner to benefit the town.
Misc.: Seeking second council term; hosted One on One political talk show on cable TV. Produced local sports programming.
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