Woodstock CT Café

Let’s face it! Nine months from now there will be only two true candidates for the Presidency. Right now there are seemingly three viable Republican candidates – McCain, Romney, and Huckabee – and three viable Democrat candidates – Clinton, Obama, and Edwards. Whoever is elected as the next President of the United States will likely win because of votes from the opposite party and by swaying a significant majority of independent voters, more so than in past elections. This is likely because the positions of the two finalists will be easily distinguished in a divided and polarized country. In the last 5 Presidential elections the candidates were distinguished more by their personalities and later differentiated as Presidents by their personality flaws.

In November we will get a President who is totally different from Presidents of the past 20 years even though we have no choice but to select from only two … and what a refreshing thought. I have the same feeling about our new leadership in Woodstock. I suspect and hope that Allan Walker will gain the respect of all citizens of the Town without regard to party as he moves forward. I sense no subterfuge for the first time in our 12 years in Woodstock. By demonstrating fairness to all, rational support for our schools, and protection of our town infrastructure, Allan should be able to hold office for many years. Hopefully, this is his mission as well.

Months ago, someone with anti-old guard sentiments pointed out that Mr. Walker had been laid off from his previous job and suggested that this reflected badly on him. From the perspective of having weathered 42 years of continuous employment, I would be the first to say that Woodstock was fortunate to have Mr. Walker available. The electorate chose the right person from the three vying for the position … hands down. Read the rest of this entry »

“Is Margaret Wholean abdicating her role as First Selectman to Delpha Very? “

In the January 6th issue (2006) of the Woodstock Villager there is an article on page 6 about Woodstock receiving a small cities bloc(k) grant for “as much as $700,000″ to pay for renovation of the New Roxbury Village, a senior housing complex of 24 apartments on Butts Road in South Woodstock. It was a very, very positive article about the accomplishment of Delpha Very in securing this grant for the town. These grants are routinely available for towns that apply for them – so securing grants where available should be at the top of the list on the First Selectman’s job description or that of the First Selectman’s Executive Assistant.

I am curious as to who actually filled out the application for the grant. I once filled out a community educational grant application. It may have taken me all of 2 hours to put the application together and I was very, very surprised when I received the grant awarded by the federal government. Ernie Wetzel also secured income for the town of Woodstock by recruiting a cell phone tower but during Ernie’s tenure, use of the tower and its income was blocked by the Board of Finance until Delpha took office and, albeit, credit for the new found income.

I am left wondering, however, what the actual amount of the grant is as the Villager article said “could receive as much as $700,000″ without further explanation. The article states that the cost for the upgrade of New Roxbury Village is estimated to cost $646,000 and there is the added cost of the designer’s services and the fact that the Town under Very has hired RFQ, a community consultant, to facilitate the grant process. Why isn’t Very administering the grant with the same savvy that she used to obtain the grant? Does this mean that there might be a short fall if Woodstock does not receive “as much as $700,000″ from the grant?

Much was made of the size of the Roxbury apartments the largest of which is 400 square feet. I lived for 4 years in an apartment that was 6 by 10 feet with four closets- one for the toilet, one for the frig, one for my clothes and one for the sink and shower which added up to about 117 square feet – so I question the statement, Delpha’s quote, “putting your lifelong belongings (in) is very, very difficult. But, what do you expect for “$90 a month” rent? Read the rest of this entry »

CPWF Forum introduction by Lindsay Paul

Bill Sowka introduces each candidate.

Use this icon to get full screen video

Introductory statement by Democratic BOE Candidate John Dlugosz

Introductory statement by Democratic BOE Candidate Cliff Davis

Introductory statement by Democratic PZC Candidate Earl Brazeal

Introductory statement by Republican PZC Candidate and Chairman Jeff Gordon

People are having difficulty with this link which I used successfully this morning and tonight. Has anyone else used it successfully? It’s interesting to listen to. John

CPWF Forum Audio – CPWFforumNov072011.mp3 Click to open and then click on the mp3 download button at upper right.

Introduced by Lindsay Paul and moderated by Bill Sowka.

This is the audio from the CPWF-sponsored Candidates Forum held on Monday Night, the night before election day featuring Jeff Gordon, Earl Brazeal, John Dlugosz, and Cliff Davis left to right pictures.

The voting percentage was only 26%.

Hi Kevin, Welcome from Colorado. Be safe and hurry back.

The voting should be posted at about 8:30 PM

Candidates (Incubants underlined)

First Selectman, Allan Walker (R) SEATED – 1069

Selectman, Mitch Eaffy (D) SEATED – 506

Selectman, Chan Paquette (R) SEATED – 762

Clerk, Judy Walberg (R) SEATED – 1107

Treasurer, Barbara Rich (R) SEATED – 1067

Tax Collector, Linda Bernardi (R) SEATED – 1100

Board of Finance (both)

1.   Fred Chmura (D) SEATED – 646

2.   Dave Hosmer (R) SEATED – 911

Board of Education (seat three, vote for two)

1.   John Dlugosz (D) – 553

2.   Cliff Davis (D) – 628 – SEATED

3.   Mike Bernardi (R) – 800 – SEATED

4.   Hans Frankhouser (R) – 621 – SEATED

Board of Assessment and Appeals

1.   Rebecca Hyde (D) – 494

2.   Nancy Nystrom (R) – 791

Planning & Zoning Commission (vote for 5, seat 5)

1.   Earl Brazeal (D) – 614

2.   John Anastasi (R) – 806 – SEATED

3.   Fred Rich (R) – 953 – SEATED

4.   Dotty Durst (R) – 999 – SEATED

5.   Dexter Young (R) – 972 – SEATED

6.   Jeff Gordon (R) – 1051 – SEATED

P&Z Alternate

1.   Travis Sirrine (R) SEATED – 994

Economic Development Commission – term begins 2011

1.   Ed Higgins (R) SEATED – 1067

Economic Development Commission – term begins 2012

      1. Karen Carr (R) SEATED – 984

Although the turnout was light, this forum was a success because the two candidates for the BOE Cliff Davis and John Dlugosz and the two candidates for PZC Earl Brazeal and Jeff Gordon spoke eliquently and forcefully to a small crowd composed of leadership and representatives of the DTC and the RTC, and citizens of Woodstock. The reception of each candidate was cordial and respectfull. Lindsay Paul did a classy job of introducting the mission of CPWF to the crowd, and Bill Sowka held the crowd at bay as the event moderator – maybe Bill will do Miss America next . We look forward to many non-partisan events like this in the future.

The entire session was recorded. We will eventually post excerpts of each of the candidates’ statements post election, win or lose.

As usual, the Cafe will be the first to post the voting results in Woodstock between 8:15 and 8:30 PM Tuesday night. Stay tuned.

The Monday Night Forum is recommended by the Democratic Town Committee.
Featuring Jeff Gordon, Earl Brazeal, John Dlugosz, and Cliff Davis left to right.

Join us to meet the candidates and experience the fireworks – Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. All are welcome. CPWF

from John

This post represents my personal opinions and in no way should it be considered that I am speaking on behalf of any PAC or political party … in any way.

Yesterday two RTC bullies communicated to the town clerk’s office their dissatisfaction with CPWF because of the SEEC form 1 signed by Jeff Gordon. What this form actually says requires some legal interpretation. So I won’t waste your time quoting from it. Based on the RTC’s campaign poster, apparently they think they own Woodstock’s future.

These two apparently don’t like the support that the PAC known as “Community Partners for Woodstock’s Future” or “CPWF” is giving Jeff Gordon who is running for re-election to the Planning and Zoning Commission. In fact, Jeff is the Chairman of PZC and has been doing a terrific job with this commission. Because of his tireless effort on PZC, he deserves town-wide support and unanimous re-election.

It is my understanding that a PAC can support any candidate it wants with or without that candidate’s consent. None of the candidates supported by this PAC are members of the PAC or are receiving donations from the PAC.

I don’t know if a complaint has been filed with the SEEC but it looks like I will be having my bi-annual meeting with an SEEC attorney.

Two years ago, CPWF supported three candidates – two Republicans and one a Democrat. All were elected and no stink was raised even though the SEEC attorney knew about CPWF. During that last campaign a complaint was filed with the SEEC that had NO MERIT by two other bullies. So in Woodstock, if you don’t play by the bullies’ rules you will find yourself in a heep of hot water, not to mention the manure raining down. In Woodstock, forget freedom of speech and the democratic process, and do what the bullies want.

The following is my summary of what other Woodstockers have said:

‘I am surprised that they would make this an issue. It seems that fairness, objectivity, and a proclivity to hear all voices are not traits that Bernardi/Young value on PZC. Didn’t Durst write in support of Jeff? … It does not look good for Bernardi to be working at cross purposes to a PAC which has kept it’s nose clean, been 100% open about its intentions and purposes, and worked hard to get more information to the public in a bi-partisan basis.’

‘The Chair of the Republican Town Committee of Woodstock called the WINY morning talk show to voice disapproval that Woodstock Historical Society “Meet the Candidates” event only included one Republican. WINY was called to clarify that CPWF was presenting the event at Palmer Memorial Hall. It is silly not to use the space as intended in 1914.’

‘This is a candidates’ forum sponsored by a bi-partisan political PAC called “CPWF” and this group is renting the hall for the event. Renting the hall at the WHS is available to any group.’

‘Really rather sad that the Republicans, or Democrats for that matter, couldn’t be bothered to host a forum/debate, yet critique those who put the time and energy into getting this event together.’

‘…thanks for putting CPWF’s red signs up along with the RTC signs. You may get a call from Dexter or Mike, or find a horse’s head in your bed.’

‘…this is an attempt to silence CPWF and deter the candidates from associating with this PAC.’

PS: I will still support Linda for Tax collector. She is doing a very good job in this taxing role for the town… but maybe I can’t say this.

We are trying to re-schedule this before next Tuesday. CPWF

Vote to re-elect Jeffrey Gordon, Chair of the Woodstock Planning and Zoning Commission.  It is a difficult job and he does it well.  Chair of any commission in a small community is complicated.  Chair of P&Z, whose primary  objective is “to manage the development in a responsible manner in order to protect the public health and safety of the town’s citizens, as well as the environment, natural resources and character of the Town, and to further the goals of the Woodstock Plan of Conservation and Development” is challenging.  The position requires good leadership skills, attention to immediate detail while simultaneously keeping an eye on long-term goals, diplomacy, a thorough understanding of regulations and community, and a commitment to the mission of the commission.  Jeff Gordon has demonstrated these qualities repeatedly during his four years of service.  He understands and articulates the challenges facing Woodstock and is aware of the critical nature of decisions and actions at this time in our growth.  His articles in the Villager and online are excellent examples of his work to educate Woodstock’s residents about the work of the P&Z and to encourage involvement.  We are well served by Jeffrey Gordon. 

Gail White, Woodstock

Earl Brazeal is an excellent candidate for a position on the Woodstock Planning and Zoning Commission.  He will bring the skills he honed during twenty years as a research and development engineer to the job.  Mr. Brazeal has most recently demonstrated these skills when he contributed an alternative set of measurable lighting regulations that support the Last Green Valley’s national designation (and align with the Dark Sky Assoc. and the Illumination Engineering Soc. of North America’s Model Lighting Ordinance) to the PZC Regulatory Review Subcommittee.  He demonstrates his commitment to Woodstock by his volunteer involvement in many town-initiated meetings and focus and discussion groups that seek community input including the POCD update meetings.  Mr. Brazeal’s  abilities to analyze, problem solve, think creatively, and keep larger goals and objectives in mind are essential qualities for members of this Commission as it works to sustain into the future what we value in Woodstock while answering the needs of our residents. 

Gail White
Woodstock

In this November 8^thelection,  Woodstock voters only get choices on the Board of Education, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Board of Assessment Appeals. All other open seats are uncontested.  Where you have a choice, please take the time to learn about the candidates.

I am actively supporting PZC candidates Earl Brazeal and Jeff Gordon.  Earl brings a deep commitment to thoughtful long range planning for Woodstock’s growth and development. He has been active for several years behind the scenes by diligently researching  and respectfully advocating for regulations which will help ensure that Woodstock’s historic and rural character can be maintained in the face of development. I know him to be thorough and fair. Of the six candidates running for five seats on PZC, Earl is the only new candidate. It is vitally important to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives in order to have an effective board. New membership can  ensure that entrenched processes, approaches  and interests are challenged from time to time, even as institutional memory and expertise are retained through the older members. Earl Brazeal will bring additional energy and diversity of thought to the Commission. Read the rest of this entry »

It has been my profound privilege to serve on the Woodstock Board of Education for 7 years. Over this time I have developed great respect for our district’s highly capable and committed administrators, for our professional and devoted teaching faculty, and for our dedicated, hardworking staff. Woodstock is unusually fortunate to have such effective and caring people on the front lines of educating our children. I have also been lucky to serve on the BOE with some outstanding and deeply dedicated individuals who have set  high standards of integrity, unwavering commitment to our students’ achievement, and respectful discourse on the Board.

In this November’s 8^th election, I believe that two candidates for the Board of Education stand out: John Dlugosz and Cliff Davis.  They each are independent thinkers with no prior biases or agendas, and are driven by their deep belief in community engagement as a powerful l means  to improve education at the local level. Read the rest of this entry »

from Kirsten

As an out-going member of the Woodstock Board of Education, I write to encourage ALL Woodstock voters to vote for CLIFF DAVIS and JOHN DLUGOSZ for the Board of Education. Both of these individuals will work hard to ensure that our community’s public schools continue to educate our children for the 21st century.

John Dlugosz has already demonstrated the powerful impact he can have on the Woodstock schools. It was his brainstorming and enthusiasm that got the after school Spanish program started at WES this year. Faced with the reality of a budget with no money for in-school foreign language instruction, he helped create a unique after school program that combines the power of community members, private grant money, a local daycare and the public schools to start kids on the road to foreign language fluency in elementary school. John’s work at Trinity College in Hartford and his previous involvement with St. Mary’s school give him a solid background in cutting edge education with a focus on community cohesion. And to top it off, John is a down-to-earth guy with a thoughtful approach to problem-solving. He would be an excellent contributor to the Board of Education.

Cliff Davis has been a life-long zealot of public school education. Anyone who meets Cliff is immediately struck by his energy and curiosity. All of his children were educated in public schools and, while they are now grown , Cliff continues to be involved in public education. For the past three years, Cliff has voluntarily taught a class on communication skills at Woodstock Academy. Cliff’s experience in large corporations and in starting his own successful business provides important real life lessons for his students. The same talents Cliff has for tackling and creatively resolving problems as a businessman, will make him a fantastic member of the Woodstock Board of Education.

Please vote for Cliff Davis and John Dlugosz for the Woodstock Board of Education on November 8th.