Eager to Bring Fresh Ideas

I applaud Branford voters for re-electing First Selectman Anthony "Unk" DaRos and electing Andy Campbell for second selectman. Unk's performance as our leader is superior; he aims his vision towards continued progress and financial solvency for Branford.

As a District 1 resident, I am well-familiar with Virginia Stanlake, who was just elected to the RTM for the first time. A long-time community activist, Virginia once led a coalition of neighbors opposing the construction of an incinerator in our neighborhood. Virginia succeeded in preventing that incinerator from being built and I am grateful for that.

Virginia has a wealth of experience in politics, having served as a volunteer on municipal, state, and federal campaigns most of her life. A 30-year resident of Branford, she has been attentive to all governmental matters. She credits her mother for inspiring her to help others through community service.

Virginia's career was rooted in helping others-she was in charge of attaining prosthetic devices for veterans during her career working for the West Haven Veterans Administration Hospital as well as its counterpart in Newington. Virginia recalls that work as one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.

As one of our district's RTM representatives, Virginia will never fail her district neighbors and will always have an ear ready to listen to our concerns, issues, or suggestions. She is a great communicator and will be a bright new face on the RTM.

I think it is wonderful that we have a new face in Second Selectman Andy Campbell, as well as in RTM Rep. Virginia Stanlake. Both are eager to bring fresh ideas to even better improve the great town in which we live.

Clare Torelli
Branford

Democrat Clare Torelli serves on the RTM for the First District.