GOP Caucus Endorses 2014-2016 RTC Slate

Darien Republicans held their caucus on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at 7:30 pm in the Town Hall Auditorium, endorsed a talented slate of Republican volunteers to serve on the 2014 – 2016 Darien Republican Town Committee and approved minor changes to the RTC Rules. 

The endorsed slate of 21 members includes 12 returning members from the current RTC and nine new volunteers.  Returning members include John Boulton, Sara Franzese, Malcolm Hall, Chris La Jaunie, Doug McKay, Nanci Natale, David Orner, James Palen, Ray Slavin, Matt Troy, Peter Truebner and Laurie Williamson.  New members include Ellen Bay, Jacki Calabro, Dawn Crouch, David Dineen, Bonnie Frate Dora, Brent Hayes, Charlie Koons, Keeley Kriskey and Gary Larkins.

RTC Chairman Jim Palen praised the Nominating Committee led by Chair Karen Armour and included Bob Bewkes, Marc Crouch, Dan Dolcetti, Eric Joosten, Ian Konecke, Susan Marks, Deb Ritchie and Terrie Wood, for their work interviewing and recommending the slate of 21 candidates.  Palen also recognized and thanked Registrar of Voters John Visi and his team from the Registrar’s Office for their organized administering of the check-in process, acting Chairman of the Caucus Michael Murray, acting Caucus Secretary Deb Ritchie and acting Caucus Rules Committee Chair Doug McKay for their efficient execution.

Jim Palen commented at the caucus, “We are once again very fortunate to have a talented group of volunteers who have stepped forward to dedicate their time and energy to the RTC.  The recruitment and support of candidates to run for local and state offices are paramount to the success and future of our town and community.  The newly endorsed slate is an exceptional combination of returning and new members who will continue to help make Darien an exceptional town.”

Finally, RTC Officers recognized the hard work and support of the nine current members of the RTC who will be stepping down from service on the committee but will continue to volunteer within our community in a wide range of elected and appointed leadership positions.  Bill Ferguson, Danielle Granath, Chip Kelley, Spencer McIlmurray, Jennifer Montanaro, Seth Morton, Joe Pizzarelli, Ciara Thurlow, and Guy Wisinski.

The RTC sponsored a social event at Jimmy’s Southside Tavern immediately following the caucus where attendees gathered to celebrate the endorsement of the slate and to congratulate both outgoing and new members.

More info www.darienrtc.com