DEMOCRAT OF THE YEAR - EVENT
PRESS RELEASE
Please join the Enfield Democratic Town Committee as we celebrate Kay Tallarita and Scott Ryder on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Grassmere Country Club (130 Town Farm Road, Enfield, CT 06082), at the 2025 EDTC “Democrat of the Year” Award & Dinner. Doors open at 5:00pm and a buffet dinner will begin at 6:00pm, followed by our Awards.
Fred Gelsi Democrat of the Year Award:
The Enfield Democratic Town Committee is proud to announce that this year’s recipient of The Fred Gelsi “Democrat of the Year” Award for Selfless Service to the town of Enfield, CT is Kay Tallarita. For over 30 years, Kay Tallarita was the heart and soul of Enfield’s Senior Services. As the Senior Center Director, she created a welcoming environment for our town's senior citizens. Under her leadership, the center grew into a true community hub - offering health programs, educational workshops, fitness classes, and countless social events that enriched the lives of thousands.
One of Kay’s most impactful contributions was founding the “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” program, which continues to provide vital resources, support groups, and advocacy for families navigating the challenges of caregiving across generations. Her vision and dedication have left a legacy that will benefit the community for years. Kay has always been a strong Democrat and a champion for the elected officials in office. She is being honored for her accomplishments, as well as the kindness, leadership, and heart she brings to everything she does.
Joyce Hall Democrat of the Year Award:
The Enfield Democratic Town Committee is proud to announce Scott Ryder as this year’s recipient of The Joyce Hall “Democrat of the Year” Award for Service to the Youth & Educational Community of Enfield, CT. Scott has served on the Enfield Board of Education since 2017, holding the position of Minority Leader (2019-2021), Vice Chair (2021-2023), and currently serving as the Board Secretary. Since moving to Enfield with his wife and two children in 2012, he has shown his commitment to supporting the bond between our schools and the community through dedicating countless hours volunteering in our schools, as well as the creation and management of EnfieldPTO(com) in 2018. He saw a need in town to increase communications between our schools and families, and immediately stepped in to single-handedly implement a solution that is still thriving today.
Scott takes great pride in championing the work of our staff and administration, while promoting equity in education for all our students. His presence at the schools in Enfield and willingness to listen, make him easily approachable to staff and families. He has consistently used his voice to speak up about policies that do not align with the belief that “every child is unique and the diversity of our students is what makes Enfield Public Schools exceptional.” He was also recognized for his dedication to the Enfield Public Schools with the “2022 CEA Spirit Award” by the Connecticut Education Association. Scott’s impact on the town of Enfield is undeniable, and continues to be evident in his unwavering support for the staff, the students, and their families.
Email: EnfieldCTDems@gmail.com
