Category: Election

2024 Election Reflection

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The election results may have presented a setback for our hopes, but it’s crucial that we reflect on the origins of those hopes. They were formed through the strong bonds we share and the tremendous effort we put into this election. Together with our candidates, we united to connect with our neighbors, declaring that the Darien Democrats are ready to stand and fight.

To our candidates who bravely stepped up to run for office and serve their community—Sheila Quinn, Michael Balzano, and Joanna Walsh—and to the countless volunteers who invested their time knocking on doors, making calls, delivering yard signs, and engaging with friends and neighbors—your dedication is deeply appreciated. 

We have important work ahead of us here in Darien. And, after witnessing the commitment each of you displayed this year, I am more confident than ever that, together, we will continue to strengthen our core group of Darien Democrats, prepared to fight for and protect our values.

Warm regards,

Rob Richards
Chair, Darien Democratic Town Committee

 

Darien DTC nominates Joanna Walsh & Michael Balzano as candidates for the Board of Education

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 7, 2024

Contact: Robert Richards

              Chair, Darien Democratic Town Committee

               917-532-3735

 

Darien DTC nominates Joanna Walsh & Michael Balzano as candidates for the Board of Education

 

The Democratic Town Committee is pleased to announce the nominations of Joanna Walsh and Michael Balzano as candidates for Darien’s Board of Education.

Rob Richards, Darien DTC Chair, said of the nominations: “The Darien DTC is excited and honored to endorse Joanna Walsh and Michael Balzano for Darien’s Board of Education. Joanna brings years of experience as a volunteer in and around the Darien Public Schools and Michael is a public school educator with a deep understanding of curriculum and instruction. Our school district is facing great challenges as it struggles to meet the needs of every student under tighter and tighter budget constrictions. Driven by a belief that every child matters and that the district must meet the needs of each student where they are, they represent the best that Darien has to offer and Darien is fortunate that they have chosen to run for the Board of Education.”

Joanna and Michael are both seeking their first term on the Board of Education. Joanna has been very engaged in the Board’s work and the issues facing our district as a Co-Chair of the Council of Darien School Parents (CDSP) for the past three years. In that capacity she has worked closely with the Board, the Administration, and parents. In recent years, Michael returned to school to obtain a Masters Degree in Educational Instruction and Curriculum and became a public school educator.

Joanna is a graduate of Wesleyan University with a degree in Sociology. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she worked in marketing and communications at the educational company Kaplan, Inc. Since starting a family, Joanna has spent her time focused on volunteer work, primarily at her kids’ schools. She began volunteering as soon as her eldest entered preschool in New York City, and continued once her family relocated to Darien. She served three years on the Hindley PTO board, culminating in the co-chair role during COVID, where she and her partner worked creatively to deliver the programming and enrichment town PTOs usually provide despite the circumstances. CDSP then recruited Joanna to lead the organization as co-chair, which she has done for the past three years.

Joanna graduated from Lyme-Old Lyme High School in Old Lyme, CT, and returned to the state ten years ago when she and her husband, Matt, moved to Darien with their three children. Everett is a rising 11th grader at DHS, and Tessa is a rising 8th grader at MMS. Their youngest, Simon, is entering the 5th grade.

About her run for the Board of Education, Joanna said: “As co-chair of the Council of Darien School Parents for the last three years, I’ve watched Board of Education members discuss and debate Darien Public Schools’ issues. I’ve spent a lot of time talking to parents, teachers and administrators, and advocated for families in my volunteer position through public comment, meetings with individuals, and collaboration with the PTOs of all seven schools in the district. Yet, there is still so much work to be done to bring the focus back to our children. It’s clear to me that the best way to effect change is to sit at the table.”

Michael Balzano is a public school educator and Darien resident who is deeply committed to ensuring the best possible educational experience for every child in our community.

It was after becoming a father for the first time, that Michael chose to pursue a career in education. With the support of his wife Adriana, he took on the role of primary caregiver during the day while juggling full-time work and class schedules at night and on weekends. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Fordham University followed by a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Connecticut.

Originally from the Bronx, Michael and Adriana recently chose to put down roots in Darien, where their two children, Gavin and Scarlett attend Darien public school. It is a community they now proudly call home.

Having been raised in a close-knit town bursting with diverse opinions, Michael understands that the measure of a community is not found in its political leanings but in the respect shared between its neighbors and the value it places on its youth. Since settling down in Darien, Michael has been lucky enough to experience these values first-hand, working with other parents to coach Darien Little League Baseball and Basketball at the Darien YMCA while also supporting the local Cub Scouts of Pack 161.

About his run for the Board of Education, Michael said: “Darien schools should be a shining example in addressing the diverse needs of all our students. I see service on the Board of Education as a way to ensure our schools meet those expectations while also giving back to our community that I care so deeply about.”

Joanna and Michael are the right candidates for the Board of Education. They are running because there are 4,563 students enrolled in the Darien Public Schools and every one of them matters.

 

For more information, please visit

www.joannaandmichaelforboe.com

Sheila Quinn Campaign Qualifies for Citizens’ Election Program Grant

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Darien, CT – The Sheila Quinn for State Representative campaign announced today that Quinn has been approved for a grant under the Citizens’ Election Program (CEP), Connecticut’s campaign financing system. Quinn is running as the endorsed Democratic candidate in the 141st assembly district. The district includes portions of Darien and Norwalk.

“In these incredibly difficult times, and with so much work that goes unfinished, it’s more important than ever to elect people who bring real results to the people in our communities.” Quinn added, “I will be the voice of Darien and Norwalk in Hartford and I know I can work with leadership so our communities are getting our fair share.”
 
The campaign reported raising a total of $6,250 from 200 individual contributions with 165 contributors residing in both towns, far above the amounts required to qualify for public financing. To be eligible for a campaign financing grant, candidates for state representative must raise a minimum of $5,800 in amounts ranging from $5 up to $320 with a minimum of 150 contributors coming from within the district towns.
 
“The Citizens’ Election Program is an important program that provides candidates with the resources to run their campaign without spending all their time fundraising,” Quinn said. “It really levels the playing field and allows me as a candidate to focus on knocking on doors, talking with voters, and listening to their concerns. I am grateful to everyone who contributed to my campaign, especially to the people of Darien and Norwalk for their support.”

Quinn, a graduate of New York University, is a 16 year Darien resident, businesswoman, and proud mother of two.
 
For more information about Sheila Quinn’s campaign, visit www.quinnforct.com.

Quinn For CT

Changing how
we do business

Darien and Norwalk Democrats Endorse Sheila Quinn for State Representative

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Darien and Norwalk Democrats Endorse Sheila Quinn for State Representative

Darien, CT – At last night’s Democratic Party convention for the 141st state assembly district, Democratic delegates from Darien and Norwalk voted unanimously to endorse Sheila Quinn for State Representative for the General Election to be held on November 5th. Quinn will be challenging Republican Tracy Marra who has held the seat since 2022. The district has long been a Republican stronghold but local Democrats see opportunity in 2024.

“I am honored to receive such overwhelming support from my Democratic colleagues and from so many who have encouraged me to run,” Quinn said in a statement.  “I am incredibly grateful to have earned their trust and support as the endorsed candidate for the 141st district representing portions of Darien and Norwalk. I look forward to the party’s continued support as we move forward to November’s election and work to elect a Democrat who can partner with House leadership to get things done and achieve meaningful progress for the people in our communities.”

In her address to delegates, Quinn said, “I am running because we need to put a Democrat in the state assembly to represent our communities and I strongly believe now is the time to make it happen. I am ready and looking forward to meeting folks in our towns, shaking hands with Democrats, Independents and Republicans alike. Because I believe we need leaders who represent all people.” Quinn stated her campaign is focused on everyday issues including improving Connecticut’s economy, investing in education, addressing the mental health crisis and bringing the state’s infrastructure into the 21st century.

“Our issues are the issues of everyday people. With the help of everyone here tonight and throughout our towns, I believe we can win this seat. We’ve seen it happen before in the communities around us. Now we have the chance to make it happen here in our community,” Quinn noted, adding, “I have the support of our neighboring state representatives and Senators and of Susan Bysiewicz and Jim Himes, who have pledged their full support for my campaign.”

Quinn is a graduate of New York University where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She and her partner Filippo Pistone opened their own business, Bacchanal Wine Imports, with more than 500 clients throughout Connecticut. Quinn resides in Darien with her two daughters, one who recently graduated and another entering high school.

For questions or more information about her campaign, contact Patrick Romano at patrick@dnacampaigns.com.

Spark Better Business

Sheila Quinn Democratic 141st State Representative Candidate

Seize Your Moment

Left: Rob Richards, Darien DTC Chair Middle: Sheila Quinn Democratic 141st State Representative Candidate. Right: Goody Gray, Darien DTC Vice Chair

Early Voting

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Next week, on March 26, early voting opens in Connecticut! For the first time ever, you will have the freedom to cast your ballot EARLY in the Presidential Preference Primary.

  • Early Voting will be conducted from 10:00am to 6:00pm at Darien Town Hall (2 Renshaw Road) in Room 119; there is only one central location for early voting for all Darien voters.
  • Early Voting will be conducted on Tuesday, March 26th; Wednesday, March 27th; Thursday, March 28th; Saturday, March 30th. No voting on Friday or Sunday due to the holidays.
  • It is too late to enroll in a party for the Early Voting period (as of noon today), but there is still time to vote in the April 2nd election.
  • Voters will be able to enroll with the Democratic Party in person up until April 1st at Noon to be eligible to vote in the April 2nd primary. 


Early voting is convenient and easy, and we hope you will take advantage of Connecticut’s expansion of voting rights. Click the button below to find your polling location, voter registration information, and more.
 

New Leadership Announced for 2024-2026 Darien Democratic Town Committee

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Darien, CT – March 13, 2024

New Leadership Announced for 2024-2026 Darien Democratic Town Committee

The 2024-2026 Darien Democratic Town Committee is proud to introduce its newly elected leadership team, bringing renewed energy and commitment to local engagement as we face new opportunities and challenges. The committee’s leadership for the upcoming term includes:

  • Chair: Rob Richards
  • Vice Chair: Goody Gray
  • Treasurer: Dan Noble
  • Secretary: Sheila Quinn

 

In addition to the executive team, the committee welcomes an esteemed group of members who reflect a diverse range of perspectives and experiences:

  • Adam Balgach
  • Michael Balzano
  • Katherine Gray Bunoski
  • Krista Carnes
  • Marcia Cleary
  • Lenore Douglas
  • Kristin Edwards
  • Susie Flaherty
  • Corey Frate
  • Susan Gray
  • Ric Grefé
  • Abigail Hornstein
  • Alicia Johnson
  • Kathy Piro
  • Erika Procaccini
  • Sherry Ramsay
  • Jennifer Leahy Slotkin
  • Maureen Early Vlak
  • Alison von Klemperer

 

“2024 marks a pivotal election year, and it has never been more important for the Darien community to actively participate at the National, State, and LOCAL levels,” stated Rob Richards, a former Selectman and the newly appointed Chair. “We urge individuals to contribute as volunteers or consider becoming candidates themselves. Your involvement is crucial to developing policy and pursuing strategies that protect our children’s health, safety, and education and continue to develop Darien with respect for people, place, and planet.”

 

Goody Gray, Vice Chair and head of Nominating emphasized a commitment to developing winning local strategies and called for widespread participation. “We are actively seeking individuals to engage with us as we shape effective local approaches,” Gray stated.

 

As part of their efforts to enhance local representation, the committee seeks candidates to run for the 141st State Representative position. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Goody Gray at vicechair@dariendemocrats.com for further information.

 

The 2024 Democratic Town Slate, poised for election this year, includes:

  • 141st State Representative
  • Board of Education – Julie Best
  • Registrar of Voters – Susan Gray

The 2024-2026 Darien Democratic Town Committee looks forward to an enthusiastic and engaged community as they work towards a prosperous future for Darien.

 

For media inquiries, please contact Ric Grefé at press@dariendemocrats.com. 

Darien Republican Candidates decline to attend LWV Debates for 2022

Posted on by Kathryn Doran

 

September 28th, 2022
Earlier today, we received notification that the Darien League of Women Voters is canceling Candidates Night for 2022.  Board of Education candidate, Kadi Lublin, was the only one who accepted their invitation. John Sini, Jill McCammon, and Tracy Marra all declined to participate in the event. 

Sadly we are seeing this same behavior by Republican candidates and their affiliated RTCs all over the state. The candidates listed above are running uncontested, but the Darien LWV Candidates Night has a long history of giving each voter an opportunity to submit questions, hear candidate’s views and learn more about the individuals representing Darien and its residents. 

Laura Smits, President of  League of Women Voters Connecticut, wrote an Op-Ed addressing this issue.  It is attached below in full.

 

Setting the record straight on debates… It wasn’t that long ago, that during election season, candidates eagerly awaited being invited to a League of Women Voters of Connecticut debate. Our reputation as a century-old non-partisan political organization guaranteed that they would be treated fairly when it came to how the debate was organized and that each candidate would be treated in the same way, regardless of their party affiliation. This is the first time we have encountered so much opposition by the parties, and (some) candidates to participate in our debates or control how we run them. 

This is unfortunate. Something has changed, but it is not the League. 

Our rules of engagement for debates have remained the same:

 

  • We notify each candidate about the date, time, place and rules of the debate at the same time. 

 

  • Questions for debates are submitted by the voters (on index cards for a live debate or emailed beforehand) and then screened by League members from both parties and when possible, an Unaffiliated member to ensure clarity, accuracy and that each question can be answered by all candidates. The Moderator is then given the screened questions and decides which questions will be used during the debate. 

 

  • Our Moderators are trained on how to run a fair debate and not allowed to moderate in the town or city that they reside in to ensure impartiality towards all candidates on the debate stage. The League hasn’t changed this methodology in decades. 

 

  • We do not allow “empty chair” or one person debates. If a candidate chooses not to participate, and we have at least 2 candidates, the debate will continue. If we do not, we reserve the right to cancel a debate. The League can also choose to hold other events or forums besides formal debates, where voters can interact with the candidates. 

 

Meanwhile, there are third-party candidates eager to debate but may have trouble qualifying due to the difficulty of raising enough funds to mount a successful campaign. This is not their fault, our system favors the major parties, and while this is unfair, it is the system that we have and must contend with now. Our vetting and debate criteria for candidates is updated every year and in the coming years we may find a way to be more equitable to offset some of this unfairness. 

 

Debates are an important part of the voter education process. Unlike websites, social media, emails or mailers, debates offer the voters a chance to see the candidates answer voters’ questions in real time, live and unscripted. Seeing and hearing a candidate on a debate stage gives voters another layer of insight about how a candidate handles themselves when presented with an opposing point of view about a topic. Were they able to get their point across? Did they answer the moderator’s question? 

 

The job of a public servant is to serve and interact with the public. It is up to the candidate to make their case to the voter and earn that vote. Our democracy depends on a mutual relationship of respect between candidates and the voters who elect them. Not participating in a debate sends the opposite message. No vote should be taken for granted. 

 

The League will continue to educate voters by using all of our voter education tools: printed materials, online and social media platforms as well as debates to bring voters non-partisan information about the candidates and the issues. Our League mission to empower voters and defend democracy continues… 

 

Laura Smits, President LWVCT

 

DTC endorses Kadi Lublin for the Board of Education

Posted on by Kathryn Doran

Darien Democratic Town Committee (DTC) endorses Kadiatu (Kadi) Lublin for the Board of Education

July 21, 2022

 

Darien Democratic Town Committee

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kathryn Doran, DTC Communications Committee Chair
info@DarienDemocrats.com
www.DarienDemocrats.com

The Darien Democratic Town Committee (DTC) is pleased to announce its endorsement of Kadiatu (Kadi) Lublin for the Board of Education.  

Kadi has been an active volunteer within our schools for many years, most recently serving on the Ox Ridge Building Committee and as chair of the Special Education subcommittee for the Council of Darien School Parents (CDSP). She is also a former co-chair of the Ox Ridge Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).  During the 2020-2021 school year, she volunteered as a substitute teacher to ensure that school buildings could remain open for students when there were pandemic related staff shortages.

Kadi is a graduate of Indiana University and has continued her love of learning by taking summer study and executive education courses at Columbia and NYU. She has a diverse background and skill set, having worked for both financial and design firms as well as having entrepreneurial experience starting and running her own business for several years here in Darien.  Kadi is currently working as a Director with Infralinx Capital Partners, LLC.  She also serves on the advisory board of ReadWorks, a non profit that partners with K-12 teachers to solve our nation’s student achievement gap.

Kadi and her husband, Derek, moved to Darien in 2008.  They have three children, the two oldest are at Darien High School and Middlesex Middle School, while her youngest is at The Winward School.  Their two energetic yellow labs round out their busy family.

Stacey Tie, Darien DTC Vice-Chair, in her nomination of Ms. Lublin said:

“Kadi is a passionate advocate for our schools and our children.  She is smart, measured, dedicated and is an independent thinker.  She stands up for what she believes in. She is ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work.  I can’t wait to see her work on the Board.”

Of her run for Board of Education Kadi said:

“When I visited Darien for the first time, I was immediately charmed by the friendly community, beautiful beaches and educational reputation of the town and I am proud to call Darien home. 

Having been involved for several years, I have seen many sides of our educational system – from individual school PTOs, to the district wide CDSP, meeting regularly with administrators and parents in both of those roles.  Additionally, I have served on the Ox Ridge Building Committee for three years working with multiple stakeholders – at all levels, across diverse skill sets – in collaboration to design and construct a modern and sustainable school that, I hope, will inspire students and staff and set a new standard for educational facilities in Darien.  As a member of the Board of Education,  I will serve our community and our students – always putting their best interests first.”

Theresa Vogt, Darien DTC chair stated, “The strength of our district and the community means always moving forward to prepare our students for their lives beyond the Darien schools. Kadi’s wealth of experience in our schools, community and business world will enable her to get to work on Day 1.”