Yaccarino: Happy Holidays

The following editorial was submitted by Representative David Yaccarino (R-North Haven). 

As this year comes to a close and we are all a little rushed during this busy holiday season, I’ve been fortunate to find a few minutes to reflect back upon what’s been done for North Haven in the legislature and where we as a state go from here.

It’s been an amazing year as your elected State Representative and I appreciate each and every moment of my time serving as your voice at the Capitol.  I am truly blessed to be able to represent the people of North Haven- the town where I was born and raised and where, thankfully, I learned the important life lessons that make me who I am today.

As your Representative I’ve been able to witness firsthand the power a community can exert when determined to make a difference.  Despite the damages of Hurricane Irene we saw people come together and help each other by providing food, shelter, a hot shower or cleanup after the fact.  I was able to bring together about a dozen high school student volunteers to clean up the yards of local senior citizens and I was able to bring representatives from the state’s CHOICES program to the senior center to help them navigate state programs and medicare issues. One of my major priorities in Hartford is to be a strong advocate for the seniors of our town.

In Hartford I am proud to be part of the dialogue in changing how we manage education.  I’ve met with the Commissioner of Education, Stefan Pryor, and will be bringing him to North Haven during February’s office hours to advocate changes in how we fund education.

I’m also proud to have contributed to the passage of the jobs bill.  I’ve personally met with more than two dozen local businesses to gain a better understanding of their needs and how state legislation affects their business and employees.   Bringing our community’s needs to the deliberations in Hartford will help preserve and expand North Haven’s job climate.

Earlier this year I watched as a brand new playground, built with funds raised by the school’s PTO and a state grant, was dedicated in honor of longtime educator Cam Paradis- a teacher of 59 years- at Clintonville School.  Most recently, with tremendous help from the teens at North Haven’s Alternative High School,  we collected more than 500 coats, hats, gloves and scarves to be distributed free of charge to the needy this winter.  Events like these make me proud to say I represent North Haven, but more importantly they make me proud to say I am from North Haven.

I know we can do bigger and better things in the coming year and I look forward to helping with those goals.  As always, my door is open and I’m here for you.  If you’re visiting the State Capitol or Legislative office Building please stop in and say hello.  If you have questions or concerns, need help testifying on a bill, tracking particular legislation or stating your opinion please do not hesitate to contact me at 1-800-842 1423 or dave.yaccarino@housegop.ct.gov

I wish you the very best this Holiday season.  Have a safe and happy New Year and I look forward to working for you in the future.

Dave Yaccarino