Francine Goldstein, long-time resident of Fairfield County and former treasurer of the Weston Democratic Town Committee, became the new chairperson of the DTC on March 19. The vote was unanimous.
With Barbara A. Reynolds’ announcement last month that after six years as Democratic Town Committee Chairperson and 12 years as an executive committee member she would not seek re-election as chair, the search committee, headed by Dana Levin, had its work cut out for them.
“These are very big shoes to fill,” First Selectman and DTC member Gayle Weinstein said.
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In the blood
Ms. Goldstein’s interest in politics and government goes back to the days her grandfathers, both liberal Democrats, volunteered for the Democratic Party in New York City.
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“I guess you could say politics is just in my blood,” Ms. Goldstein said. “Back in the days of my grandparents, your very life depended on [being active in politics]; I wish more people would realize that it still does and get more involved!”
The new chairperson’s list of accomplishments and activities is quite broad and lengthy.
Some of the highlights are co- hosting fundraising events where, at various times, the guests of honor were the Clintons, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and Jay Rockefeller; campaigning for local to national Democratic candidates; chairing the Advocacy Board of Connecticut Voices for Children; and membership on the advocacy and leadership boards of Planned Parenthood, NARAL, Washington, D.C.’s Center for Democracy, and the Opera Orchestra New York.
Proudest Achievements
Chairperson Goldstein’s proudest achievements in political and governmental activities are her work with Weston resident and DTC member Bob Gardner to petition John Troxell to remain as Weston’s Chief of Police; continuing to advocate for Roe v. Wade remaining the “law of the land;” helping to elect Hillary Clinton as New York senator; and working to elect many other candidates throughout the last 20 years.
“I hope to encourage the Weston DTC to become more of a political and advocacy organization,” Ms. Goldstein said. “Many of our members are already active politically; we need to harness our energies. We also need to help develop the next generation of leaders.
“I am very glad that Barbara Reynolds and I have worked together on the executive committee for two years; we have a great relationship. I can’t imagine taking this role on without her vast experience, knowledge and assistance.
“I am looking forward to continuing to encourage residents to attend our meetings, see what the DTC is all about and join in the political process.”
Saying Farewell but not Good-bye
Ms. Reynolds, who will remain a member of the DTC, is a former vice-chair of the school board, and secretary and search chair of the DTC’s executive committee. She was a delegate to the 2012 Democratic national convention.
Elected in 2012, Ms. Reynolds is the Democratic State Central Committee Representative (DSCC) for the 26th district. Hoping to be re-elected this year, she will continue the pursuit of local wins in the seven towns included in the district as well as seek candidates for the State Senate.
First Selectman applauds Reynolds’ leadership
“Barbara has done a tremendous job as DTC chair,” Ms. Weinstein said at the March 19 meeting. “She has put her heart and soul into everything she’s done. I give her credit for putting me in the position I now hold and believe she is responsible for most of our top officials’ [winning] their offices.”
Bittersweet reflections
“I am humbled and honored by the trust placed in me by Weston Democrats and I hope I have proven worthy of that trust,” Barbara Reynolds said.
“Together, the DTC has taken Weston Democrats to a new level. Our elected and appointed officials have worked together to keep Weston thriving, growing and maintaining that community feeling that drew us all to this wonderful town. I believe I leave the local Democratic Party well positioned to continue moving Weston forward.
“After 12 years on the executive committee it is time for me to focus on other areas of my life, including my role as DSCC representative where I am a member of the finance committee as well as serving on the committee to form the Women’s Caucus for the Connecticut Democratic Party.
“I expect the DTC to continue its pursuit of excellent candidates for local government and am confident that under the capable leadership of Fran Goldstein, Weston Democrats will do just that.”
New DTC executive committee
The newly elected executive committee, led by Ms. Goldstein, is comprised of Beth Gralnick, vice-chair; Cathy Minter, treasurer; Amy Shapiro, secretary; and Dana Levin, search committee chair.
