Minutes. The chairman, Ward Mazzucco, called the meeting to order at 8 PM.

Minutes of the previous meeting were unanimously approved, with two changes. John Fagan was changed to Jon Fagan. The suggested annual donation should be paid by January 31 each year.

Minutes of the January caucus to select RTC members were also unanimously approved.

The report by the treasurer, Gary Miyashiro, was also unanimously approved.

A brief discussion followed concerning whether the RTC should engage a consultant. The issue was tabled.

Ward announced that the Week on Washington program will be held from June 25 to June 30 this year. It is open to rising juniors and seniors and provides a look at all three branches of government, exposure to think tanks, lobbying, and general entertainment. Sponsorship of half the cost for up to two students was unanimously approved. He asked the Guidance office at Joel Barlow to post it. He also asked Tom Derderian to insert a press release in the Pilot.

Tom also volunteered to work with Joel Barlow on the Ronald Reagan Memorial Award, to be given in June.

Don Stroetzel raised the question whether the RTC should take positions on issues from time to time. The ensuing discussion indicated general concern that taking a position on most issues would simply generate controversy without advancing our objective of getting Republican candidates elected.

Jerry Sarnelli's proposed mission statement (and outline of duties) for RTC members was discussed at length. Several minor changes were approved. Everyone thanked Gerry for his effort.

Ward reminded everyone that RTC officers will be elected at the March 6 meeting. Ward cancelled the April 3 meeting because the RTC must select delegates to the conventions during a certain period. Thus, in lieu of the April meeting, the RTC will also meet Thursday March 23 at 8 PM. Convention dates are as follows: State May 19-20; Fourth Congressional District May 15; State Senate May 17; State Assembly Districts May 16; Probate May 11 or 18. Ward encouraged everyone to check his or her calendar to see what convention dates were open.

David Lewson responded to the previous suggestion of a committee on the RTC to develop further expertise on educational matters. He and Julie Gorman recommended against the idea, as our board of education members can serve as a liaison between the RTC and their boards.

Ward described the successful visit by Christopher Shays. Tom Derderian, the local Shays coordinator, described the breakfast meeting he and Ward had with Michael Sohn, Campaign Manager, and Sarah Beth Luce, Assistant Campaign Manager.

Upon recommendation of the Vacancy Committee, as reported by Gerry Casiello, the RTC unanimously recommended to the Selectmen Shannon Craley to the Parks and Recreation Commission.

Natalie Ketcham gave a brief summary of Town events and responded to questions about certain land use matters.

Ward mentioned the need for funds and said he would ask the Events Committee to make recommendations for a fund-raising event. David Bohn, a guest, passed out literature on educational spending for consideration by RTC members.

A motion to adjourn was passed unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,
Ward J. Mazzucco, in the absence of secretary Andrea Cotton.