In this process we sent a Questionnaire to all households in Killingworth and received a large number of responses from citizens expressing various views on how Killingworth should be developed during this period. That information guided us in making changes to Killingworth's Planning and Zoning Regulations, and further provided us with citizen-based information for all future types of proposed development.

One example of your influence on our future development is your expressed desire to increase our tax base. In response to that concern we created new regulations allowing Active Adult Housing. As "baby boomers" downsize, this type of housing offers solid economic development for Killingworth.

Another example of Killingworth PZC responding to citizen concerns is the new regulations protecting neighborhoods from the noxious air pollution that the early models of the Outdoor Wood Burning Furnaces produce. The early models have become the scourge of many neighborhoods throughout our country, and our PZC has now prohibited these models, and put in place sensible restrictions on all new installations of the newer models which pollute to a much lesser extent.

Killingworth's PZC is sensitive to neighborhood concerns and is working diligently for a better quality of life in our future.

Phil Stull, Member Killingworth PZC

As we well know, the First Selectman is a figure head voted in by popularity. This does not mean they are the best "all around" person for the job. By having an Administrative Assistant we can keep things consistent as the elections come and go. The Director of Finance (which we have had for 4 years) is a necessity, too much can go overlooked if it only done on a part time basis. Gina has proven this over and over again.

As far as the director of Public Works, it is more than apparent that the first selectman is not the person for this job. The Town of Killingworth has Millions of dollars worth of infrastructure that need to be maintained on a continuous basis. A full-time person in this position, in my opinion, is a must. Road and bridge projects, playing field construction, building maintenance are large ticket items that need an experienced person watching over from inception all the way to on-going maintenance.

I for one will vote YES for the changes as I feel they will help bring Killingworth into the future. Please educate yourself on the proposed revisions and vote accordingly.

Todd Hajek

A Director of Public Works for a 5 man town crew (which other towns pay $125 thousand or more plus our Road Foreman makes over $70 thousand per year, An Executive Secretary with expanded duties, and the permanency of a high paid Director of Finance. Also the extraordinary change in the term of office for the Assessor from 4 years to 1 year. No other town in Connecticut has a term of one year. Also the duties of the First Selectman have been reduced considerably (as he is currently Director of Public Works). Many residents objected to these revisions which are deemed financially excessive, but the document was approved anyway by the Selectmen and is on its way to the voters as a yes or no vote. I believe it is imperative to save our current charter and vote no.

Also when I was campaigning, door to door, for a seat on the Board of Selectmen during the recent primary, I visited hundreds of residents and the one question I received time and time again was what is this Charter Revision document I received in the mail. It does not explain what the changes are? I explained to all who asked to check the parts about Director of Public Works, Executive Secretary, Director of Finance and what they propose to do to the Assessor, plus the reduction of First Selectman duties. All were shocked and agree this revision should get a no vote.

I agree,
John Samperi

In accordance with State Statues the appointing authority which is the Board of Selectmen appointed a Charter Revision Commission which consisted of seven members, all Killingworth residents to review, research, discuss and revise the current Charter. The Charter has been revised five times since it was adopted in 1981 to keep it current with statutes, ordinances and special acts.

With input from various boards, commissions, elected officials and appointed officials including the highway foreman and residents, the Commission's final recommendations were, as required, submitted to the Board of Selectman in July.

Following a hearing the Board unanimously recommended that the proposed revised Charter be placed on the ballot for approval.

To view the Revised Charter please go to Killingworthtoday.com.

When you go to the polls on November 3rd please VOTE "YES" for Killingworth's future.

Susan Adinolfo
Former Chairman
Charter Revision Commission

We enjoy a low level of debt, are funding capital projects affordably, and have enjoyed a stable mil rate over the past number of years. The contributions of Hilary and Shawn in achieving these goals have, in my estimation, been invaluable, and it has been my good fortune to serve with them on the Board of Finance.

Mr. Kumnick and Mr. O'Connell both possess a thorough understanding of our community, its needs, and how to affordably meet them. They both have a solid grasp of the municipal budgeting process, have great attention to detail, outstanding creative and critical thinking skills as well as the courage to make difficult decisions.

As a community we will unfortunately be facing some extremely challenging financial issues over the next few years, as our State Government continues to engage in undisciplined budgeting that will place greater financial pressure upon small towns such as Killingworth. We will be forced to rely more and more upon our own resources to keep financially afloat. We need people in public positions such as the Board of Finance with the demonstrated experience, knowledge and proven abilities to help pilot our ship through these potentially stormy waters. Hilary Kumnick and Shawn O'Connell are without a doubt the two people we need on the next Board of Finance. I urge the voters to join me in supporting these two fine incumbent candidates with your vote on November 3rd.

John W. McMahon
Chairman / Killingworth Board of Finance

Someone asked her whether she will be a full-time First Selectman. I can tell you that she's already putting in so many hours as a selectman that I have gotten used to eating dinner with her at nine thirty in the evening. I expect that she will be working far more than full-time if she is elected, meeting with as many groups as possible and making sure she understands every situation from all angles.

When Catherine sees a job that needs to be done, she puts all her energy into doing it. She will be a great First Selectman for Killingworth, and I will have a snack before she gets home.

Paul W. Kahn

First, let's deal with the Selectmen's races. There are three potential outcomes.
        1. We can rearrange the deck chairs and move on.
        2. We can substitute Mr. Albrecht for one of the Republican candidates.
        3. We can bring in Mr. Baron (and Mr. Albrecht under minority representation rules) and say good-bye to one of the Republican candidates.

Then there is the boring but important revised Town Charter that impacts the role of the 1st Selectman and Selectmen in some significant ways.

Personally, I'm going to vote NO on the Charter and FOR which ever 1st Selectman candidate comes out against the revised charter (if any).

Not withstanding what the Charter Revision Commission says, here are facts that I feel combine to form the foundation of my position.

1. The revised charter prescribes in significant detail the responsibilities of the Director of Public Works, Director of Finance and the mandated Administrative Assistant position.

2. The revised charter significantly changes the duties and responsibilities of the 1st Selectman. Most significantly:

7-3a. Eliminates the 1st Selectman's administrative supervision of the Town Clerk and Tax Collector and adds significantly greater specificity of duties.

7-3b. Delegates responsibility of personnel scheduling to the mandated Administrative Assistant and limits 1st Selectman's role to oversight.

7-3c. Eliminates the 1st Selectman's role in the coordination of administration of boards and commissions and exempts some town agencies completely.

7-3d. Eliminates the 1st Selectman's ability to require reports and information from Town Agencies.

3. The change to the term of appointment of the Assessor.

I don't believe it is a good idea to fill (or try to fill) a professional full time position offering only a one year maximum term.

The idea that this change is to bring this position into conformity with other positions (Most, if not all, of which are part-time or as required in nature) is disingenuous and factually incorrect.

The facts are: Fire Marshall (indefinite); Building Official (4 years); Town Counsel (max. 2 years); Director of Health (4 years); Town Engineer (max. 2 years); Sanitarian (1 year); Wetlands Enforcement Officer (1 year); Open Burn Official (undetermined}; Zoning Enforcement Officer (1 year)

So there you have it. I hope when you go to the polls next Tuesday you will join me in voting No on this question at the top of the ballot.

John Amport

According to Howard Griffin, Level II instructor from the Potomac Curling Club in Maryland, "As we approach the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, the sport of Curling will definitely be a highlight. Throughout our greater Grand National Curling Club (GNCC) region, and indeed across the entire United States, we anticipate a surge of interested and enthusiastic new players who will sign up for one of our Learn to Curl events after seeing this action packed sport covered on television. We also anticipate a tremendous turnout for open houses planned at various curling clubs. Qualified instructors play a key role in introducing new curlers to the sport. I'm especially pleased that our USCA Instructor Course brings our junior players and our seasoned curlers together, because one of the great things about Curling is that curlers of all ages and abilities can play together."

Brundage, a sophomore at Haddam-Killingworth High School has been curling in the high school league at Nutmeg Curling Club in Bridgeport, CT for four years. She and her team have won state championships and are in the top rankings at interclub competitions.

You are being asked to elect twenty neighbors out of the three dozen candidates who stepped forward. These twenty, along with other current office holders, represent a fraction of those needed to assist in the smooth operation of our town on a day to day basis. There are dozens more people who serve on appointed boards, commissions and ad hoc committees. There are literally hundreds of others who donate their time and efforts through civic organizations and religious groups. And still, there is room for more.

So cast your vote next Tuesday and then take a minute to examine your talents or special interests. Find that perfect place where those talents and Killingworth's needs meet and join the many other residents who make Killingworth work.

Thanks for your support.

Rick Albrecht

With this in mind and in support of Rick and Cathy, I decided to put my name forward as a candidate for the Zoning Board of Appeals.

My commitment is clear. Many years ago, when Town Hall was the Grange building behind the Congregational Church, residents proposed establishing a Planning and Zoning Commission to provide regulations to govern town growth. A heated discussion followed because some folks didn't like the idea of any restrictions on growth. I was among those who supported zoning and helped bring judicious development to Killingworth.

Throughout the years I have regularly attended Planning & Zoning meetings. I have been proud of the way the Commission has regulated growth in the town. I frequently attended Inland Wetlands Commission meetings after that entity was established as well.

This background gives me the knowledge and understanding required as a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals for reviewing the decisions of the Planning and Zoning Commission. With your help I look forward to serving the residents of Killingworth with input and decisions that will both enhance and protect the character of the Killingworth we all love.

Patricia Smulders

Since meeting Cathy in 2006 I have observed a passionate leader who is willing to listen, learn, and ultimately do what is right for the average taxpaying citizen. She is not afraid to publicly take a stand with contentious issues (e.g. Venuti property). One of her best assets is a calm personality that is suited to building consensus in the face of strife. I firmly believe she has the personal fortitude and character to bring about something needed in Killingworth for quite some time. Namely, to build a functioning coalition of disparate groups of well intentioned volunteers, community stakeholders, and political groups for the purpose of moving Killingworth forward with a cohesive strategic vision.

So if you care like I do about preserving the rural character of our small town, continuing the fiscal responsibility of recent town budgets and providing an educational system that is in the top quartile of districts within Connecticut, then please join me in voting for Cathy Iino on Tuesday, November 3rd.

John O'Leary

Jerry's problem-solving abilities are practical and real. He is an independent thinker. He also has superior budgeting skills. His insights as a member of the Killingworth Board of Finance have been noteworthy. Jerry has impressed me as a person who has the skills and ability to form important and solid conclusions. I am a member of the Board of Education and I take my responsibilities very seriously as a steward of your tax money. I know that Jerry will do the same. I was also a partner in one of the largest accounting firms in New York City and I know a First Selectman's position requires someone with financial acumen to manage a town.

Jerry's wife is an author, whose beautiful book about a deceased Hispanic-Connecticut artist was published last year to glowing reviews. She serves the art world in Connecticut as a curator for a major retrospective exhibition at the Mattatuck Museum Arts & History Center. She is an invited, featured lecturer at the University of Connecticut.

We in Killingworth are very fortunate to have Jerry Baron as candidate for First Selectman. I feel very comfortable with him being the guardian of Town's and tax payers' assets. Please join me in electing Jerry Baron as First Selectman of Killingworth.

Respectfully,
Jim Lippert

"The increased police presence will surely be a deterrent over time but the fact that "civilians" are included as participants rather than just "ride-alongs" is groundbreaking," stated Toni McCabe of East Haddam Youth and Family Services. It is believed that this collaborative is the only one of the 28 community coalitions funded under the grant that has had people other than the police physically help with implementation of party patrols aimed at enforcing underage drinking laws.

The Troopers had the support of their Commanding Officer, Lt. John S. Eckersley as noted in a brief letter of gratitude for the nomination. "Troopers feel it is a privilege to serve the residents of our State and it's particularly gratifying when they are recognized for their dedicated service," he remarked.

Gail Onofrio, Director of Tri-Town Youth Services felt the troopers participation went above and beyond what may have been originally anticipated. "They took the lead in proposing the Party Patrols to their superiors, participated in countless planning meetings and have had critical input in evaluating the patrols expansion and effectiveness." Cheryl Chandler of Haddam-Killingworth summarized the Troopers's contribution. "There is no question that, without their courage, dedication, commitment and diligence, our efforts to increase the enforcement of underage drinking laws in our six communities would be much less successful than they have been."

First, I encourage you to read what has been said about her over the last week or so in Killingworth Today. Beautifully written letters have said everything I have wanted to say but more impressively and they beat me to it. Nonetheless, I cannot keep silent about this woman so I will add just a bit more.

I have known Cathy since the mid 90's. I kept seeing her at Board of Ed meetings, Town Meetings and community events. I liked her immediately. She really does care. It's not an act. She is concerned about preserving the unique character of Killingworth, about financial responsibility, about educating our children, and about us all being able to afford living here. A tough task given the current economy. But she adroitly delves into ways for the town to take advantage of programs and government funding and she will continue to do so.

Cathy understands that not everyone sees things from the same perspective and this makes her an unusually good (and genuine) listener. One feels comfortable talking with her. I have never seen her become defensive. Often at a meeting I will say to myself, "How did she KNOW that?" She's smart. She does her homework. She has a way of introducing a concern which has not been considered yet... she does it quietly with facts to support it. Inevitably there's a pause as this soft spoken idea raises important implications and the room feels its power.

She is not a flashy person. In politics this is so rare and such a gift for Killingworth...which, after all, is not flashy either. And from what I can tell, there is a consensus on keeping it that way.

This is what we want in a leader: a good listener who is smart and has the best interests of Killingworth in mind. Add to this stellar ticket Rick Albrecht who has served Killingworth all his life. How lucky we are! Let's not let this opportunity slip away. Vote on November 3.

Divinna Schmitt

       2. If it is not broke don't fix it. (Over the last 2 years the PRESENT Board of Finance has been able to hold the mill rate and in one year also reduce it. Something that has not been done in recent memory.) During this time; bridges were built, roads were repaired and resurfaced, and recreation fields are in construction. But one of the things I'm proud of is, the Fire Department and the Public Works Department now have funds set aside for the purchase of vehicles. Due to use; they need to be replaced in a timely manner and these vehicles are quite expensive. The Board of Finance and Selectmen have been able to set aside funds yearly; so that when purchase time comes there will NOT be a large tax mill increase to cover the cost. This helps the Fire Department and Public Works Department as well as the tax payers. As an incumbent member of the Board of Finance we now have savings for Capital Projects and I'm proud to have been part of implementing this long term growth strategy for this town.

       3. Please remember that when this election is over, whether the people running be Democrat or Republican, these people will still be your neighbors and friends . Try and keep it that way.

In 1984, I purchased property in Killingworth and built my home the following year. In 1992, I was married in a church in this town and a year later my wife and I were blessed with a daughter. Our daughter has attended the Elementary and Middle School in town and is now a junior at HK High School. During this time I coached both girls Little League Baseball and Basketball.

I have had and will have a long term commitment to this community...

I'm a retired State Police Detective with 23 years of service. I was a Resident Trooper in 3 towns, where I wrote budgets, as well as State and Federal Grants. My last assignment was as a Detective investigating financial crime at Mohegan Sun & Foxwoods Casinos. I am proud member of the Killingworth Lions Club, our motto is "We Serve."

I am Shawn E. O'Connell an incumbent member of the Board of Finance, and I hope in November you will vote for me for the Board of Finance.

Oh! 'The old guy" I was speaking to was 86 years old, that fall day. Thanks Dad.

Shawn O'Connell

Dad married, built a home and started a family which again changed his priorities but he still found time to volunteer and serve. When our Mom was stricken there were new priorities but Dad still found time to volunteer and serve. Even now as Dad faces different priorities, elderly parents with health issues, he makes doctors appointments around his ambulance duty shifts so he still can find time to volunteer and serve.

We ask you to make it your first priority to vote on November 3rd and to support Rick Albrecht as Selectman. No matter what his priorities have been, he has always found time to volunteer and serve Killingworth. That has never changed.

Sincerely,
Matt Albrecht / Jessica Albrecht Wellington.

Then experience Ghost - Beethoven's Piano Trio No. 5 in D Major, Opus 70 No.1 - one of the best known works of his Middle stylistic period, a time in Beethoven's life filled with uncertainty and financial hardship. The composition opens with a triumphant fanfare as the cello, violin and piano unite, never surrendering their distinctiveness.

Return to the 20th Century with award-winning composer Paul Schoenfield's Café Music for Piano Trio. Combining Classical, Jazz and Rag, this piece came to Schoenfield in 1985, sitting in a restaurant listening to dinner music. The variety he heard - early 20th Century American, Viennese, light Classical, Gypsy and even Broadway tunes - inspired him to create this American classic. Schoenfield, whose works are performed around the world, is a Professor of Composition at the University of Michigan and an avid scholar of Mathematics and Hebrew.

Coming full circle, the evening culminates with Piazzolla's Summer & Spring, the last two selections from Four Seasons. The Summer movement, with its sassy, rhythmic tango and Spring, filled with electricity, propels the evening to its brilliant conclusion.

Cellist and Connecticut native Melissa M. Morgan, hailed as "deeply resonant" and "vibrant" by the Hartford Courant, has worked with Isaac Stern, the Juilliard String Quartet, and the Guarneri String Quartet. She was principal cellist of the Santa Fe Ballet, and member of the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra. Prior to Elektra Ensemble, she was a member of the New World Trio and a co-founder of the Bella Cosi String Quartet.

Violinist Brunilda Myftaraj is the First Prize winner of The Hartt School's van Rooy Competition for Music Excellence and the Emerson String Quartet Competition. She has appeared as a soloist with many orchestras including the Hartford Symphony and the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra.

Russian pianist Igor Lovchinsky has performed at the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Auditorium, and the Bushnell Center. He garnered First Prize at the Eastman International Piano Competition and the National Chopin Piano Competition of the Kosciuszko Foundation.