On the Campaign Trail: or Travels with Nellie

Dear PATCH Readers ---

Don't leap immediately to the conclusion that this "blog" (web log) is a grandiose, self-aggrandizing, egotistical exercise in political autobiography – well-- at least not yet. Dave Moran, the editor of Manchester Patch, thought that you might enjoy ("suffer through" might be a better word) a short bi-weekly account of how a campaign for state elected office operates. Let me warn you now that at times this account will be sometimes whimsical and fanciful and at other times quite serious, even downright factually boring as when we examine voter concerns like education, the environment, and development. The inspiration for this journal, that is in actuality three months old, came from a suggestion my wife made back in April that brought to my mind Steinbeck’s semi-fictional account of his travel across American with his dog, Charlie.

Now, I have a dog, Nellie. And while I did not have a custom camper fitted onto a truck that Steinbeck bestowed with the title Rocinante (meaning workhorse), I did have a quarter ton 1925 Model T that I rechristened the Nellie Mobile. Steinbeck’s quest (Rocinante also happens to be the name Don Quixote gave to his noble steed.) was to rediscover America and in that rediscovery to recapture his youth. My travel across the 13^th District of Manchester and Glastonbury is to learn from the people I wish to represent what matters to them. What are their hopes and aspirations, and as I have come to appreciate like Steinbeck, what are their fears? In return, they to learn from me how I will behave if they choose to entrust me with the responsibility of representing them.

So, welcome to a journey that began in April. Expect serious discussions with a sprinkle of absolute silliness; it is good to laugh – especially at oneself. Expect photos of Nellie who epitomizes the observation James Thurber once made that he had, “known some profoundly thoughtful dogs.” And expect the occasional light-hearted video clip of Nellie and myself visiting children, farming (perhaps serious gardening is the better term), and suggesting solutions to the concerns voters have in the 13^th House District formerly held by the distinguished Jack Thompson.

For new readers who would like to catch up on this journey towards a Tuesday, August 14^th  primary showdown, I encourage you visit “Tom Gullotta” on Facebook to read what has already happened and enjoy the photos.