"Steve has demonstrated that he is a tireless volunteer for the Town of Monroe."-- Tom Buzi |  Excepted from his letter  to the Town Council Chairman (2-20-09), shown below:

Steve and I met over 10 years ago as “adversaries” on the travel soccer coaching sidelines.  Our competitive beginnings quickly turned into friendship and mutual respect for one another both on and off of the soccer field.  His competitive qualities and his ability to reach across the sideline with respect for his opponent is a quality that I have greatly admired in Steve and one that will translate very well and contribute to his success as First Selectman for the Town of Monroe.

We both shared a common goal:  The development and happiness of our players.   Even though we competed against each other, we worked together to ensure this most important goal was attained.  His willingness to reach across the aisle to achieve a common goal will serve the citizens of Monroe well.  His commitment to and experience serving on many town boards and volunteer organizations also demonstrate his long-term commitment and his desire to help the citizens of Monroe.

Monroe will be well served by electing Steve Vavrek as First Selectman on November 3rd!

-- Jamie Cherlin, Farmington CT

I support Steve's candidacy for First Selectman.  He is personal, energetic and a hard worker -- always willing to put in the long and odd hours usually required of public officials.  I've been a 20-year-resident of Monroe and during that time have worked with Steve on a number of occasions in support of our town's children.  He has always given his time and support to their well being and future.  He'll make a great First Selectman and dedicate the same efforts towards the town's future.

-- Don Arcuri,

Former Monroe Soccer Club President,

AYSO Coach/VIP Commisioner

To the Editor:

On July 23, 2009, Monroe Republicans endorsed a slate of candidates for the November municipal election.It should be an exciting election season and I look forward to the lively debate on issues that will ensue.

Our slate, headed by First Selectman candidate Steve Vavrek, brings a quality combination of experienced town leaders and first time candidates – all who bring an enthusiasm and dedication to do what’s right for Monroe.

I’m especially proud to have Steve as our First Selectman candidate.  Steve brings a deep history of community and public service to the table.

He has served as an elected and appointed official – Parks & Rec, Town Council, Board of Finance, Health District and currently serves on Monroe’s Water Pollution Control Authority.  He has been active in youth athletics and has organized privately funded efforts to create safe playing fields around town and at Board of Education facilities.  Steve is also active in his Church as well as service organizations such as the Jaycees and Rotary.  In addition, Steve is a small businessman and is actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce.  He is a well rounded individual with many skills to bring to Town Hall – fro m understanding the need for responsible economic development to the importance of solid education of our children.  In all that he has done, he has put Monroe first.  As former State Senator Rob Russo said to Republican State Chairman Chris Healy at a recent event, “Steve is the man behind the grill” – someone who rolls up his sleeve and gets the job done.

In regards to our other candidates, Marsha Beno, Jack Fracassini and Manny Cambra are returning as Town Clerk, Town Treasurer and Tax Collector, respectively.  Combined, they bring a wealth of public service and knowledge that cannot be beat.

Enid Lipeles, Tony Unger, Jeff Guttman and JP Sredzinski are returning to Town Council.  They will be joined on the ticket by Deborah Heim and Christopher Catropa.

For Board of Education, our candidates include current incumbent Darrell Trump who is returning for another term.  He is joined by Donna Lane, George King, and Mark Antinozzi.

Our Board of Finance candidates are Michael Manjos and Christopher Baudoin.

Planning & Zoning slate is Patrick O’Hara, William Porter, Karen Martin and Michael Fontneau.

I invite all Monroe citizens to visit www.monroectgop.org to get to know our candidates.  We look forward to speaking with you over the next 4 months of the election season and working for you in the future.

Elizabeth-Ann Edgerton
Chair
Monroe Republican Town Committee