By Dominick Lombardi
Orange Republican Town Committee
Dominick Lombardi
As we embrace the new year, the Orange Republican Town Committee is charging ahead with energy and purpose. Traditionally, odd-numbered years receive less political attention due to the absence of national and state elections. However, for municipal organizations like ours, these years demand the most focus. The foundation we lay now is critical to ensuring a thriving future for our town and party.
I am thrilled to share the transformative strides the ORTC has made so far in 2025, setting a strong and inspiring tone for what promises to be a remarkable year as we head toward November.
One of our key achievements this past year was amending our bylaws to increase membership capacity from 75 to 150 members. In 2024, we expanded our membership from 75 to 103, and at our January meeting, we proudly inducted 16 new members, bringing our total to an unprecedented 119 members.
This growth reflects not just the enthusiasm surrounding our organization but also the broadening appeal of the ORTC to residents of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. These new voices are vital to the longevity and diversity of our Republican values.
Special thanks to our Membership Committee Chair, Jude Toohey, whose dedication was instrumental in achieving this milestone. Let us also extend a warm welcome to our newest members: Meghan Rabuse, Sharon Venezia, Christy Wooldridge, Ed Wooldridge, Amanda Zapatka, Marianne Bauer, Jack Fearnley, John Querker Jr., Angela McNabola, Caroline McNabola, Johnny McNabola, Pat McCorkle, Rob McCorkle, Georgia Sansone, Mary Anders and Peter Berube.
Our subcommittees, which were restructured last year, are thriving. The fundraising, membership, election integrity and Orange Young Republican Coalition subcommittees have already exceeded expectations, and we are delighted to announce the formation of a new subcommittee for 2025: the ORTC Candidate & Election Committee. This new body will play a pivotal role in managing candidate nominations and election operations as we approach November.
I am particularly encouraged by the growth of our Orange Young Republican Coalition, which began with just five founding members and has since blossomed into a vibrant group of nearly 50 young leaders, ranging from high school students to college graduates. This enthusiastic and energetic coalition represents the future of our party, and their involvement ensures our vision endures for generations to come.
Looking ahead, we have an exciting lineup of events to bring our community together and support our mission. We will host our hallmark corned beef and cabbage dinner on March 10 at Biagetti’s Restaurant in West Haven. This cherished tradition has been a highlight for over 20 years, offering a festive atmosphere to celebrate Irish heritage and camaraderie.
We are thrilled to invite you to the ORTC wine tasting on April 10th at Stappa Vineyard in Orange. This special evening promises to display the best of local wine and provide an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Tickets can be purchased via cash or check as well as through online purchases through our website and social media channels.
As we gear up for the 2025 election season, the ORTC is stronger than ever. With record membership, a strong treasury and a talented pool of candidates, we are well-prepared to ensure Orange remains a community of excellence and opportunity under the Zeoli administration.
I encourage you to join us on this journey. Our strength lies in the collective efforts of our members, and we welcome everyone who shares our commitment to a brighter future.
For more information or to get involved, please don’t hesitate to email ortc.chairman@gmail.com. Together, we will achieve remarkable things for Orange.
Dominick Lombardi is the chair of the Orange Republican Town Committee.