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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

Seamore’s Social

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Darien DTC “Seamore’s Social”

The Darien DTC warmly invites you to our Seamore’s Social, where we will salute our tireless volunteers who have dedicated themselves to supporting our community’s democratic values.

Join us for a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, enjoy delicious food, and have a fantastic time!

 

View invite

 

Thursday, July 25th

5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Darien Democratic Town Committee June 1st Campaign Kick-Off: A Resounding Success!

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Senator Blumenthal, Congressman Himes, State Rep Matt Blumenthal, with 141st candidate Sheila Quinn

Darien Democratic Town Committee
June 1st Campaign Kick-Off

On June 1st, the Darien Democratic Town Committee hosted a highly successful campaign kick-off event to officially launch their candidates’ campaigns for the 141st State Representative, Sheila Quinn, and Board of Education hopefuls, Joanna Walsh and Mike Balzano. The event, held at a private residence in Darien, drew an enthusiastic crowd, signaling strong community support and a promising start to the election season.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Political VIPs

The event was graced by an impressive lineup of political VIPs, underscoring the significance of the occasion and the high regard in which the Darien DTC candidates are held. Among the distinguished guests were: 

141st State Rep Candidate, Sheila Quinn with Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
141st State Rep Candidate, Sheila Quinn with Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
  • Senator Richard Blumenthal
  • Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
  • Congressman Jim Himes
  • State Senator Ceci Maher
  • State Senator Pat Billy Miller 
  • Former Mayor of Hartford, Luke Bronin
  • State Representative Matt Blumenthal

Campaign Messages and Community Impact

Sheila Quinn, the candidate for the 141st State Representative, delivered a stirring speech in which she outlined her vision for Darien and the broader community. Quinn emphasized her commitment to education, mental health, and local economic development, promising to bring real results to our communities.

Board of Education candidates Joanna Walsh and Mike Balzano also shared their backgrounds and aspirations for Darien’s schools. Walsh, a longtime advocate for educational equity, is currently serving as Co-Chair for the Council of Darien School Parents. Balzano, a social studies teacher, will bring a teacher’s perspective to the Board of Education.

Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Joanna Walsh, Mike Balzano, Sheila Quinn, and Senator Ceci Maher.

An Overwhelming Turnout

The event saw an overwhelming turnout, with over 70 community members from all walks of life coming together to show their support. The high attendance was a testament to the candidates’ strong local connections and the community’s desire for effective representation.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the candidates, ask questions, and discuss issues important to them. The atmosphere was one of optimism and determination, with Senator Blumenthal stating, “This election year is unlike any other in our history, democracy is on the line.” Congressman Jim Himes made it clear to all of us that “This is the year we can turn the 141st blue!”

Conclusion

With strong support from prominent political figures like Blumenthal, and Himes and the local community, candidates Sheila Quinn, Joanna Walsh, and Mike Balzano are set up to win their races!

 

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

Campaign Kick-Off!

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Darien DTC Campaign Kick-Off

Meet our 2024 Candidates for Cocktails & Conversation
With LT. Governor Susan Bysiewicz
(and other special guests)

141 State Representative & Board of Education

Private Darien Residence

(Location available upon RSVP)

Purchase Tickets

 

June 1, 2024

4:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

Meet our 2024 candidates for cocktails & conversation

With LT. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz (and other special guests) along with our 141 State rep and Board of Education

 

Corey Frate Needs Your Vote!

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What?
Corey Frate is a candidate to represent Darien at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago on August 19-22.

And if you reside in the 4th Congressional District (Jim Himes), then Corey would like your vote!

Where?
The convention to elect Corey for the 4th District will be held at Norwalk City Hall, located at 125 East Ave in the Community Room. 

When?
Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Arrive at 6:30 p.m.

Special Instructions
Please note that you need to arrive at 6:30 pm to be signed in for voting. The voting is for selecting 4 men and 4 women who will represent us at the DNC. The event is expected to last for 2 hours. Corey is one of the 17 male candidates and the only one from Darien! Therefore, it is crucial for as many of us as possible to be present there and vote for him.