Ken Parker Announces Campaign for Newton Mayor
Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 09:58PM The movement to Bring Newton Back is officially out of the starting gates today as Alderman Ken Parker launched his campaign for Newton Mayor at a press conference in Newton Highlands.
"We have an exciting opportunity to once again make Newton a model City,” said Parker. “I invite Newton residents to read our vision as outlined in the Blueprint for Newton’s Future and sign on to our campaign for innovative, open government, clean and safe public space and schools that are once again the best in America.”
This YouTube video contains Alderman Parker's remarks only (9 minutes).
For the full speech and Q&A with press please click here.
Backed by friends, family and supporters, Parker expressed a desire to improve Newton government for all residents. Parker pledged to restore City Hall’s commitment to excellence in a city which so many people treasure as a great place to live and raise a family.
Parker announced his campaign’s leadership during the press conference. Alderman George Mansfield, Todd Krasnow, School Committee Member Geoff Epstein, former School Committee Member Leslie Schneider and Lucia Dolan will serve as Campaign Co-Chairs. Shawn P. Fitzgibbons has been appointed Senior Advisor and will be help oversee the campaign’s staffing, strategy and message. Nathaniel Lichtin will serve as Research and Outreach Director for the Campaign.
Alderman Parker is a 17-year veteran of Newton’s government and long-time publishing executive. He brings a strong vision, a unique set of policy and management skills and a detailed implementation plan to voters seeking change in the Garden City.
Over the past year Alderman Parker and his supporters engaged Newton residents in a discussion about the City’s future. Through that process over 100 community members actively helped research and write a plan for the City called A Blueprint for Newton’s Future. With this Blueprint completed, Alderman Parker and his supporters now plan to run a strong campaign for executive office in Newton.
“With so many people already engaged, we are in a great position to transition our group into a strong, city-wide campaign,” said Parker’s Campaign Director Shawn P. Fitzgibbons. “Expect to see a Parker campaign volunteer in your neighborhood soon, and when you do please let them know how you want to help Bring Newton Back!"
The Ken Parker for Newton Mayor Campaign Kickoff Party
Sunday, November 23 at 4:00 p.m.
Women’s Workshop • 72 Columbus Street, Newton Highlands
Snacks, cider, Ken Parker gear, music and more!
Families are welcome • Suggested contribution: $50
Questions - please get in touch.
Update: See the Daily News Tribune's take on our announcement
Update number 2 - article and video taken by TAB reporter Steve Bagley's personal digital camera.