To the Editor:

Running for office has been demanding but rewarding. I have learned more about Newtown this year than in the previous 15, reading more town documents than many will in a lifetime. During this process, I have met many people — some that have become friends and colleagues, some who have gained my respect by their professional approach to this process, and some who have shocked and amazed me with adolescent behavior reminiscent of junior high! I guess it’s all part of politics, but now it’s time to make a decision. I urge you to read the bios, understand who these candidates are, and vote for people, not just parties. You owe it to yourself and the town. I spent hours writing my speech for Pizza and Politics night and thought the voters in District 3 might like to read it.

Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen,

My name is Ann Ziluck and I am a candidate and webmaster for the Independent Party of Newtown (www.independentpartyofnewtown.com). I’ve lived here for 16 years and my son attends Reed School. I telecommute to Chicago as the information technology manager for the National Marine Manufacturers Association, producers of 30 boat shows worldwide and representing the entire marine industry. My team supports 150 employees in 12 offices in the United States and Canada, and I consider each one of them my customer.

I believe that my business and technology skills, enthusiasm, energy, and dedication to our town will be a valuable asset to the council. Newtown needs to be managed both professionally and microscopically, allowing our citizens to be keenly aware and supportive of how their tax dollars are spent. I look forward to the residents of Newtown being my customers. I will strive to bring modern technology to our schools and the town.

Communication…accountability…long-range planning…and sound budget management are critical skills required for my job and, our council. I spend hours each month micro-managing a $1.5 million budget, seeking ways to use technology creatively without sacrificing quality. For example, instead of spending $250,000 for off-site training, I found a $2,000 web-based solution offering thousands of courses our staff can take online, anytime. I compliment that training by holding regular lunch-hour webinars they attend from their desks. Annual savings $248,000. The next time you hop on a boat, look for the NMMA plate showing the person capacity for that model. I wrote the engineering software to calculate and print those values…that keep you safe.

Please support real change…vote for Joe Borst, Paul Magiafico, the entire IPN Team, and Doctor Ruby Johnson, who has had her finger on the pulse of Newtown…for 40 years. For Board of Ed, please choose Donna Monteleone and Lillian Bittman.

This dynamic group of high-energy business and educational professionals are ready to serve you with a fresh perspective on the issues to more effectively manage our money, our schools, and our town.

Thank you.

Ann Ziluck

Independent Party of Newtown

Candidate – Legislative Council District 3

61 Aunt Park Lane, Newtown                            October 31, 2007