This week, The Newtown Bee presents its second of two installments of photos and brief profiles of local candidates pursuing elected seats this November on the Newtown ballot.

BOARD OF EDUCATION

DANIEL CRUSON, JR

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Education

E-mail: dancruson4newtown@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: www.facebook.com/crusonboe

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Bethany Cruson

Children: Daniel Cruson V and Nicholas Cruson

Pets: Kina, Giada, Kim

Years living in Newtown: 30 cumulative years

Education background:

Newtown High School, Class of 2001

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, SUNY Oswego, 2006

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Web Developer — self-employed

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

If elected I will continue to bring data-focused, logical thinking to the Board of Education like I have over the past five years. I will continue to work collaboratively with all of my fellow board members to create an inclusive environment for all members of our school community. I also hope to continue as a leader on the board and bring some new ideas to help better our work both within the board and with the Board of Finance, Boards of Selectmen, and Legislative Council.

JENNIFER LARKIN

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Education

E-mail: kuzmalarkinramsey4boe@gmail.com

Family information:

Children: Ryan (10), Erin (9)

Pets: Gracie (14)

Years living in Newtown: 11

Education background: Bachelor’s Degree, English, WCSU, 2000

Current Occupation and/or Employer: BlueCrest

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I am a parent of two kids in the school system so I have skin in the game in striving to make our schools be a place where children thrive and are happy, as they are the bedrock of our community. I have been a constant advocate for students, through insisting on academic accountability before and through COVID, or advocating for our children in special education, which I will continue to do, as a special ed parent myself. I strongly believe we need better collaboration between the community and the school system and will work to ensure all parents to feel comfortable about speaking out on issues that are impacting their children. I promise to listen to all, and work with the entire board to make sure their voices are heard, as they are the largest stakeholders. I am confident that I have the expertise to look at all aspects of items the Board of Education provides oversight, including policy, culture, inclusion. and fiscal responsibility.

JENNIFER PADILLA

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Education

E-mail: jennifer4newtown@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: Jennifer Padilla for Newtown Board of Education | Facebook

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: My husband, Jon Padilla, is my biggest supporter. I could not accomplish all of the things I do, without him cheering me on and enabling my crazy schedule.

Children: Jon and I have two daughters, Lillian (13) and Violet (9) and I have one stepson, Adam (22).

Pets: We are a family of animal lovers and currently have two dogs, Penny and Dobby.

Years living in Newtown: We have lived in the heart of Sandy Hook Center for 13 years.

Current Occupation and/or Employer: While my background is in human resources, specializing in recruiting and learning and development, currently I spend my days volunteering for our fantastic school district. I serve on two PTA Boards, and a host of other committees and councils all focused on supporting and improving our schools. I have been doing this work for almost eight years now, and find it to be the most fulfilling work of my life to date.

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

My background in HR and volunteer work in our school district have helped me hone a number of skills/abilities that are critical on the Board of Education. The ability to be open-minded and logical will help me listen and understand the needs of our community and apply data and education related concepts to areas for which I’m responsible. I’m able to think through problems and propose solutions/policies that will foster growth and excellence in our schools. My experience in learning and development and policy creation will help our BOE create policies that will benefit all students and staff.

JANET KUZMA

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Education

E-mail: kuzmalarkinramsey4boe@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Kevin Kuzma, husband

Children: Four

Years living in Newtown: Born and raised! Moved away in 2007 and returned in 2019.

Education background:

Newtown High School, Class of 2000

Connecticut Cosmetology License, 2007-Current

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Self-Employed family photographer

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

When my oldest was in first grade I took on the role of Parent Teacher Organization president. I loved collaborating with other parents and school staff to provide educational experiences for children. During my time serving, I was able to grow a successful group of active parents and helped bridge gaps between parents, teachers, and staff. A valuable lessons learned during that time was learning the importance of taking criticism and using it to evaluate yourself and continue conversations with an open mind. Learning to work together, even when in disagreement, will create the most beneficial experiences for our children.

DON RAMSEY

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Newtown Public Schools Board of Education

E-mail: moxieboardofeducationcandite@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page:

Facebook/Donald H. Ramsey

Facebook/Learn With Moxie

Newtown Board of Education Candidates — Kuzma Larkin Ramsey

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Wife, Maria

Children: Sons, Timothy Ramsey and Brian Ramsey. Grandbaby, Sophia Grace Ramsey (diseased). Stepchildren, Annmarie Rhyne, Lisa Lahey, Michael Zboray, and Andrew Zboray. Step-Grandchildren, Kaitlyn Rhyne, Kimberly Rhyne, Kelly Ann Rhyne, Eilon Martin-Zboray, and Tobias Martin-Zboray.

Pets: I’m a grandpa to French bulldog, Lemon, and an admirer/friend of Chiwawa/pug Tobey

Years living in Newtown: 25

Education background:

Norwalk High School. Class of 1972

Norwalk Community College 1972-1973

Central Connecticut State University — Bachelor’s Degree Secondary Education, 1976

Fairfield University — Master’s Degree Education/Counseling, CAS Sixth Year Diploma — Public School Administration and Supervision

Certifications include: Technology Education Pre K through Grade 12.

History/Social Studies Grades 7 through 12.

Intermediate Administration and Supervision.

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Retired

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I have a range of experience in public school education, including teaching/vocational counseling in an alternative high school for “at-risk” students, traditional classroom teaching technology education in Norwalk and Newtown. I was a central office supervisor and interim principal on the elementary and middle school level in Norwalk. I provided “professional development” for school climate, interdisciplinary curriculum development, classroom management, along with hosting Connecticut State Department of Education workshops on program development. I served on the Board of Directors for the Newtown Youth and Family Services and I’m active in the community with projects such as Launching Lions Club Pumpkins, Patriot’s Pen, The Holiday Festival, and participation in the Newtown Labor Day Parade with various groups.

BOARD OF FINANCE

NED SIMPSON

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: Neds2124@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: www.facebook.com/Ned4Newtown/

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Katherine, my wife of 48 years

Children: Daughter Allison, who lives in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Pets: Nutmeg our caique (parrot)

Years living in Newtown: Four

Education background: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Retired health care executive and management consultant

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

One of only two candidates running for Board of Finance re-election. Being retired, I have the time to research history and facts of issues coming before the BOF. I’m known as an independent thinker that believes in one Newtown. Modern schools, amenities, housing, infrastructure, and government combine for a great Newtown. On the BOF I believe I have a stewardship responsibility to taxpayers to keep a balance between taxes and town services. Improving operations without escalating cost is ingrained in my nature. My work on BOF has kept property taxes level while all BOE and BOS requests were funded.

STEVEN GOODRIDGE

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: Sbgoodridge14@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Wife Sue (married 37 years)

Children: Two sons, Brendon (35) and Ryan (30)

Years living in Newtown: 48

Education background:

Newtown High School, Class of 1977

Attended both Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea Ohio & University of New Haven

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Sales Consultant for Eder Bros

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

My business experience helps qualify me for a position on Board of Finance — VP of operations for Atlantic Air Commuter Airline (family owned and operated) — Retail and management experience in various business —Sales Consultant for Eder Bros (27 years to present). Try to keep taxes lower or below inflation, as a town we do not have the ability to print money like the federal government. We must be efficient with the money we raise through taxation. I want see Newtown thrive and prosper while maintaining fiscal accountability and keeping its small town feel and sense of community for generations to come.

LAURA MILLER

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: millerlaura926@gmail.com

Family information:

Significant other: Peter Schwarz

Children: Grant (30), Chris (29), Eric (28), Caroline (26), and Lauren (24). One beautiful grandson, Ben, age 4.

Pets: Two dogs; family of turkeys; crows

Years living in Newtown: 21

Education background:

BA, English

MA, Curriculum & Instruction, K-12 Reading and Writing Endorsement

M.Ed, Educational Leadership and Policy

MA, English, ABT

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Director, EdAdvance 9-12 Special Education Program

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

For over 25 years, I have devoted my professional life to building relationships with parents, teachers, students, and community members to help give voice to the needs of special education students, first as a teacher and now as a director at EdAdvance. My experiences as a collaborator, facilitator, and school leader have shown me how to negotiate challenging situations in order to maximize everyone’s outcomes. Newtown residents deserve to have their voices heard by representatives who work together to develop responsive fiscal plans that focus on current and future needs. I want to offer my time and leadership skills to help realize Newtown’s financial priorities.

JOHN MADZULLA II

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of finance (incumbent)

E-mail: jsmadzula2@gmail.com

Years living in Newtown: 44

Education background: Immaculate High School 1995; Fairfield University, BS 1995; Roger Williams School of Law, JD 2013; admitted to practice in, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Florida, US Supreme Court, and US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims

Occupation: Attorney

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

Continue to apply my knowledge and expertise that I have learned and guided me over the past two years. I continue to seek to improve the Board of Finance in our advisory and review role. I pride myself on providing the necessary oversight and seek accountability from the various boards and committees that serve the citizens of Newtown.

ERICA SULLIVAN

Party Affiliation: Registered Democrat for over 30 years.

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: SullivanBOF21@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: www.facebook.com/EricaSullivan2021

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Patrick Sullivan

Children: Jack and Kate

Pets: Three dogs: Finley, Cooper and Maddy

Years living in Newtown: Six

Education background:

University of North Carolina, Greensboro, BA Political Science and BA Philosophy, 1990-1994

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Owner/Chocolatier, Castle Hill Chocolate, llc, Newtown — 2016-present

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I understand that a municipality is not run like a business. However, there are a few important skills, which I have developed as a successful business leader, that will be vital to my responsibilities on the Board of Finance. These skills include; long-term planning for funding operating costs and employing qualitative based reasoning to measure growth and expansion opportunities. I am also adept at managing and balancing budgets with great attention to detail. Most importantly, as a mom, a business owner, and an active community volunteer, I am deeply committed to serving all of Newtown with integrity, honesty. and compassion.

CHANDRAVIR AHUJA

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: chandravir.ahuja@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse: Roberta Ahuja

Children: Akash Ahuja (NHS Class of 2015). Ravi Ahuja (NHS Class of 2018)

Pets: Two Cats (Oreo and Donald), five goats, and 13 chickens.

Years living in Newtown: 18

Education background: Rice University, Electrical Engineering and Economics.

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Kolmar Americas. Bridgeport / commodity trading – business analyst.

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

Newtown has excellent schools and a charming character with historic buildings and open spaces. However, much investment is needed to maintain and grow our beautiful town in a balanced manner. Meanwhile, voter engagement on financial issues and turn ut for budget votes is low. To improve the board, and help keep Newtown an affordable attractive place to live, I will dig deep into the issues, researching and asking questions. My work experience of gathering and organizing information and data in a simple understandable manner to then act on is relevant. We need to collectively discuss the future of our town.

JOHN FLETCHER

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: jpfletch62@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: facebook.com/JohnFletcherforNewtown

Family information:
Spouse / significant other: Jordana Bloom

Children: Jamison (25), Jackson (22), Hudson (20), Hayden (18)

Pets: Two rescue dogs — Nutmeg (7), Fergus (2)

Years living in Newtown: 19

Education background:

Dartmouth College — Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, 1984; Columbia University Business School — MBA in Finance, 1989

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Business manager at IBM,

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I’ve worked in finance for 35 years, mostly with IBM. I have extensive experience managing large budgets, prioritizing short- and long-term spending, and interacting with many constituents to solve business issues. Those skills are all a good fit for the Board of Finance. Our four kids attended Newtown schools, and I commit to support priority investments including education, while continuing the recent budget and tax discipline that BOF has helped lead. I currently serve on the Borough Zoning Board of Appeals; I’d be honored to bring my business background to the BOF as well. Thanks for your support.

GEOFFREY DENT

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Finance

E-mail: geoffdent@earthlink.net

Website / Social Network: Facebook

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Amy Dent

Children: Two who went through Newtown Schools — five grandchildren

Years living in Newtown: 42

Education background:

Danbury High School, 1966;

BA Texas Christian University (sociology) 1970;

MA University of New Orleans 1973

Current Occupation and/or Employer: retired

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I was a small business owner for 25 years — I was where the buck stopped. That frequently meant constantly reviewing income vs expenditures, and sometimes saying “no.” I will bring a level head and a world of experience and commitment.

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

DONALD MITCHELL

Party Affiliation: Democratic

Elected Position Sought: Planning and Zoning Commission

E-mail: damit@snet.net

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Claudia Mitchell, a retired middle school art teacher

Children: Five grown children, all of whom graduated from Newtown High School

Years living in Newtown: 47 years

Education background:

Villanova University — Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, 1966

University of Denver — Juris Doctor Degree. 1970

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Attorney

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

As a practicing attorney since 1971, I was introduced to Newtown representing the patients at Fairfield Hills. My public and private practice has included over 35 years representing the Borough of Newtown, primarily in zoning matters. During that time, it never lost in court. I have also been involved in many administrative, municipal, building, land use, and construction matters. After serving on the commission for the past eight years, I lend much needed expertise to its operations. Along with an accumulated knowledge of Newtown’s history and a facility for finding solutions, I can further improve planning and zoning in town.

ROY MEADOWS

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Planning & Zoning Commissioner

E-mail: meadowsrg@gmail.com

Family Information:

Spouse / significant other: Jane Brymer

Years living in Newtown: 32

Education background:

Dyersburg (Tenn.) High School, Class of 1963

BS in Chemical Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1968

MS in Chemical Engineering, West Virginia University, Charleston, 1976

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Retired chemical engineer from Dow/Union Carbide

Currently does handyman work part-time and licensing consulting

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

As a Planning and Zoning Commissioner I will attempt to balance the needs of the community with the desires of developers while maintaining the New England character of Newtown. Projects will be evaluated against Newtown’s Plan of Conservation and Development, and they must always be evaluated for their impact on the local traffic situation. Land use issues must be given a fair, open, and complete public hearing with all opinions taken into consideration. The land use decisions must cope with the impact on our community that has been created by the high housing density permitted under Connecticut’s Affordable Housing Regulations. I will fight to keep the affordable housing issues at the local level where the issues are understood rather than permit a statewide mandate applied carte blanche to all communities.

BARBARA MANVILLE

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Planning and Zoning Commissioner

E-mail: bamville123@charter.net

Family Information

Husband Jim Manville (deceased)

Son, daughter-in-law, and grandson: Bill, Zoe, and Jamie Manville

Son and daughter-in-law: David and Bridget Manville

Pet: Mini golden doodle named Mason

Years in Newtown: 27

Education: Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bryant College

Masters in Business from Sacred Heart University

Current Occupation: Controller, Choice Pet Stores. Small retail chain for pet food and supplies.

If elected, what traits, training or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I bring my ethical, moral, thoughtful, and investigative talents to the commission. I have six years’ experience serving on Planning & Zoning. There is a fine balance between keeping the “Nicer in Newtown” image and continuing to develop commercially. As a dedicated commissioner, I work hard to make well-informed, intelligent decisions. Additionally, I have experience working with a variety of personalities. This skill set enables me to work effectively with fellow commissioners and members of the public. It takes a “village.” As commissioner of Planning and Zoning, I proudly fill a position in that “village.” I appreciate your support.

GREGORY L. RICH

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Planning and Zoning Commissioner

E-mail: grich1110@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Kathryn D. Greif-Rich (wife)

Children: Four

Pets: Two dogs (Bagel, Nala), one cat (Cat), one bird (Skyler)

Years living in Newtown: Four

Education background: Newburgh Free Academy HS diploma (1983), Marist College BS (2014), Marist College MBA (2017)

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Retired as a Chief Petty Officer in the US Navy in 2006 after 23 years of service

Currently St Vincent’s Medical Center, facilities manager with Hartford Healthcare Corporation

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

My extensive knowledge of state and local building, fire, and health care codes and experience in governmental regulatory compliance brings insight into the Planning and Zoning Committee.

KERSTI FERGUSON

(unopposed)

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Planning and Zoning

E-mail: kersti.ferguson@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: William DeRosa

Children: Jack DeRosa

Pets: Enzo the Doberman

Years living in Newtown: Ten

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

The reason I have decided to run is because of my concern last spring when the extremely over reaching legislation regarding zoning was being proposed by State Legislature that would take local decision making out of the hands of Newtowners. This legislation would favor developers like those who wanted to take down the Inn over local residents. I felt strongly that I wanted to get involved and have all the voices of Newtown, regardless of political affiliation, represented to protect yet enhance what makes Newtown so special.

PLANNING & ZONING ALTERNATES

DAVID ROSEN

Party Affiliation: Democratic

Elected Position Sought: Planning and Zoning Alternate

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Dr Joanna Rosen

Children: Katarina (19), Joshua (16), Elliot (14)

Pets: Zeus (black Lab and Great Dane mix) and Phoebe (basset hound and queen of the house)

Years living in Newtown: 18

Education background:

Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Cornell University

Master’s of Public Health, Yale University

Master’s of Business Administration, Yale University

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Pharmaceuticals Analytics

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

In my four years serving as an alternate on Newtown Planning and Zoning I have learned to balance the importance of growing the business base in the town while simultaneously preserving its character. My academic and professional background help me to examine proposals and changes with an objective and analytical eye with the end goal of acting in the town’s best interest.

BRIAN LEONARDI

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Planning & Zoning Alternate

E-mail: BrianLeonardi5@gmail.com

Family Information: Wife, Elena; daughters, Avianna and Marcella

Years in Newtown: Five

Education Background:

Pace University School of Law (2011-2013)

Southern Connecticut State University (2001-2005)

Current Occupation: Assistant Vice President, Legal & Compliance – Sompo International

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

With nearly a decade’s worth of legal experience, I have the skill and experience needed to encourage thoughtful discussion amongst the Planning & Zoning Committee. This experience will help ensure that P&Z rulings are based on fair and measured interpretation of local regulations (and not emotion), while minimizing the risk of litigation against the town. I will also be an unabashed advocate of keeping planning and zoning a purely local matter. State regulators, who have no connection to our town, have no business imposing their will on matters impacting only Newtown residents. Surely Newtowners know what is best for Newtown.

ANDREW MARONE

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Alternate, Planning and Zoning Commission

E-mail: maronefornewtown@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: facebook.com/maronefornewtown

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Carly

Children: Owen and Patrick

Years living in Newtown: Three

Education background:

BA, Political Science, UConn

MA, Education Curriculum and Instruction, UConn

Sixth Year Certificate, Educational Leadership, SCSU

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Social Studies Teacher, Weston Public Schools

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I’ve learned so much during my term on Planning and Zoning — most importantly that listening and attention to detail are essential requirements to serve the people of Newtown. This term, I’ve focused on better understanding the needs of our town by listening to applicants and members of the public who’ve come before the commission, on paying close attention to how development in our town can be encouraged in a sustainable manner in line with our Plan of Conservation and Development, and on my responsibilities as a commissioner through training with the UConn Center for Land Use Education and Research.

CONNIE WIDMAN

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: P&Z Alternate

E-mail: connie.widman@raveis.com

Website / Social Network page: conniewidmann@raveis.com, connie moore widmann for facebook

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: My husband is Jim Widmann

Children: I have two children. Jimmy Widmann, currently working for Barnum Financial as a financial analyst. My daughter Sarah Widmann is a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Pets: One Dog Names Ruthie

Years living in Newtown: 19 years

Education background: Wykham Rise, Washington, Conn., 1980

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Realtor

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I am excited to serve on the Planning and Zoning commission as an alternate, as I have a strong background in real estate a love for Newtown and a commitment to the community. This is a beautiful town and I would like to be a part of making good sound decisions for the future of our town. I believe I have a strong understanding of the needs of the community and the affects the planning and zoning commission have on our future. I have a balanced opinion and able to listed to others opinion and take them all into consideration before making a final decision. As an alternate I believe it will be a great experience to learn all that goes into being on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

ALAN J. CLAVETTE

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected position sought: Zoning Board of Appeals

E-mail: ajclavette@msn.com

Family Information: Married to Mary Clavette, three adult children — Aimee, Natalie, and Stefanie.

Years living in Newtown: 29 years, plus four years as a child (business in town since 1988).

Education: Bachelor’s in Business Administration-Accounting, Western Connecticut State University, 1980, Conn. Certified Public Accountant since 1982

Current Occupation/Employer: Owner of Clavette & Company, LLC-Certified Public Accountants and Advisors, Newtown

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I have been an elected member of the Newtown Zoning Board of Appeals since 1995 and currently serve as the chairman. My experience and leadership skills over many years in my business, profession, and in the community helps me to lead the commission with compassion and understanding in a nonpartisan, consensus-building manner. I am happy to continue serving if re-elected.

RACHEL ROWAN

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Zoning Board of Appeals (Re-Elect)

E-mail: rrowan7285@yahoo.com

Family information:

Pets: Odin, adopted male pit bull rescue (age 8)

Years Living in Newtown: 29

Education background St Rose of Lima School, 2004

Academy of Our Lady of Mercy: Lauralton Hall, Class of 2008

Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, UConn, 2012

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Investor Relations, Communications Analyst at FuelCell Energy (renewable energy company in Danbury).

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

To make Newtown a “better place to live” my role as an elected Zoning Board of Appeals official is to accept responsibility to protect the personality and vitality of our community. Knowing the intricacies of zoning and learning how to deal with people with patience, tact, and diplomacy has helped me learn through experience. If re-elected, I will continue to work to be responsive to the needs of Newtown’s residents and businesses, preserving the character of our town, planning for the town’s future in a strategic way, encouraging desirable economic growth, and initiating better engagement in town matters.

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS ALTERNATES

CHRISTINA PARADIS

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate

E-mail: christina.paradis@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Eric Paradis, married 27 years

Children: Simone, age 20, and Camille, age 17, a NHS senior

Years living in Newtown: 15

Education background:

Shelton High School

BA, English, Penn State

MS, Computer Science, Southern Connecticut State University.

Current Occupation and/or Employer: IT at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals in Ridgefield

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

The most important trait is commitment to the work required to keep our local government functioning smoothly. I have been proud to serve alongside all the other volunteers on the ZBA, and I hope to continue. The second most important trait is to listen carefully and respectfully to the neighbors who come to our board, ensuring we have a fair and consistent process for making decisions. Lastly, serving on the board for these past years has allowed me to become familiar with our local zoning laws and acceptable variances, in order to apply them correctly and fairly.

DAVID LANDAU

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate

E-mail: davidlandau@remax.net

Website / Social Network page: www.thelandaupropertygroup.com/

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Wife Jen, 28 years

Children: David Jr and Nick. Both NHS grads, both live in Newtown

Pets: Zoe, Terrier/Beagle mix

Years living in Newtown: 21

Education background:

Brien McMahon High School, Class of 86. Technical Careers Institute, graduate 1978

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Self-employed real estate business

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I am running for ZBA alternate to do my part as a civic-minded citizen. I know that decisions at the ZBA level must be made in accordance with legal requirements as well as a refined and astute understanding of our own zoning code. I have those skills from more than three decades of problem solving and technical analyses work in the automotive and real estate fields. I believe we can and will continue to grow and thrive, aligned with our values and what is required by law and zoning, and that I can help manage that agenda.

JOSEPH BOJNOWSKI

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate

E-mail: nbrllc@msn.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Jane Bojnowski

Children: Five children

Years living in Newtown: 40

Education background:

Newington High School 1961

Clarkson University — BS Chemical Engineering 1965

University of Delaware — MS Chemical Engineering 1967

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Self-employed

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

As a Zoning Board of Appeals member I will careful consider the hardship so that families are treated fairly, which will contribute toward helping our community will grow. I have served as an alternate for the past six years.

TIFFANY HAWLEY

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate

Family information:

Spouse: Robert Hawley

Children: Daughter Eva Hawley

Years living in Newtown: Eight

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Stay-at-home mom homeschooling Eva

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

If given the opportunity to serve, I will bring with me what I have learned from homeschooling my daughter, which includes careful planning and research. I want to move away from watching from the sidelines and be a part of the solution. We live here, we have a say here. It’s important to maintain a balance of small town appeal while being inviting to business that helps keep that appeal viable. “The Do” matters and that’s why I want to work to help keep Newtown uniquely Newtown.

EDMOND TOWN HALL BOARD OF MANAGERS

BETSY PAYNTER

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Elected Position Sought: Board of Managers of Edmond Town Hall

E-mail: paynterbetsy@gmail.com

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Bradford Paynter

Children: Althea Paynter, a senior at UConn, Grenville, a junior at University of Rhode Island

Pets: Otis, our rescue dog, and two cats, Kyle and Luke

Years living in Newtown: 25

Education background:

Danbury High School, Class of 1984

Bachelor’s Degree, Graphic Design/Marketing, Southern Connecticut State University, 1988

Current Occupation and/or Employer: I’m a marketing and economic development professional.

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I feel my experience in brand development/marketing, nonprofit management, event planning, and business development will be beneficial to my role as a member of the Board of Managers of Edmond Town Hall. I believe Edmond Town Hall has the potential to continue being a wonderful resource for the Newtown community, including the fabulous theater, spacious gym, beautiful Alexandria Room, offices, and meeting spaces. My experience in supporting small businesses, could help develop the business plan of the evolving Edmond Town Hall. I hope to utilize my love and passion for the arts to help the Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers bring artistic and cultural offerings to our community.

MARIE SMITH

No Profile Submitted

ARMEL ROMEO KOUASSI

Party Affiliation: Republican

Elected Position Sought: Board of Managers Edmond Town Hall

E-mail: armelromeo@gmail.com

Website / Social Network page: www.facebook.com/akouassi/

Family information:

Spouse / significant other: Valerie, who I am extremely proud of because of her work ethic and service to the country as captain in the US Army Reserve as well as a dentist at Dental Associates of Connecticut office in Newtown.

Children:

Matiya, age 13, is a talented violinist and is concertmaster this year at the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra and member of a local cross-country team.

Alexiane, age 10, my pescatarian daughter, loves animals; she enjoys horseback riding and plays violin and is a member of the Norwalk Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Camille, our 6-year-old, splits time between violin, piano, and learning swimming. The three girls are in the Newtown school system.

Years living in Newtown: Eight

Education background:

MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, 2009

Certificate of Alternative Investments, Harvard Business School, 2020

Certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM), Global Association of Risk Professionals, USA, 2010

Master’s in Finance from ESCP Europe, Paris, France, 2002

Master’s in Statistics and Econometrics with Honors from ENSEA, Cote d’Ivoire, 1999

Current Occupation and/or Employer: Senior Vice President at Northern Trust Corporations

If elected, what traits, training, or expertise will you apply to sustain or improve the office, board, or commission you are hoping to serve?

I am on a mission to help make Edmond Town Hall a center of excellence for arts, theaters, etc, which is self-sustainable while maintaining its local charm. I believe the arts and culture participate to shape, build, and identify communities. As leader in the community, I have the responsibility to push the arts and arts venue to be more innovative and impactful. I will be utilizing my nonprofit board experience, business connections, and personal skills to further Edmond Town Hall mission’s. My passion for arts come from childhood: As kid my outlets were literature and classical music: I read all French classics novels and Renaissance literature. I visited Mozart’s home in Salzburg, Austria, as a “pilgrimage.” Fan fact, when I was dating my wife, she offered me a 200-CD collection of Mozart’s entire life performance.

Marie Smith

Rachel Rowan