Basics Email: Craig.Donofrio@patch.com Phone: 203-297-4481 Facebook: www.facebook.com/RidgefieldPatch Twitter: https://twitter.com/RfieldPatch Bio: I grew up in Ridgefield, Conn. After working with a number of rusty lawnmowers, short-circuiting power tools, and poorly-ventilated gun ranges filled with lead dust, I figured that manual labor was not the best walk of life for me. So I went to college to pursue a degree in English literature, worked on and ran the college newspaper there, graduated, and then started freelancing for Patch. I eventually found my way to becoming an LE of Wilton, where I am incredibly jealous that their high school teaches Latin and Greek (I am a nerd).    Beliefs At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. Politics How would you describe your political beliefs? I’m socially liberal but I don’t like to affiliate myself with either party. Honestly, working in the news and having one set of beliefs is almost impossible. I talk to so many different people with different values, and read so much about both sides, that I’d rather not pigeonhole myself into Democrat or Republican. And I’d be lying if I said I weren’t a tad bit jaded by our political system (that's also an understatement).  Religion Do you consider yourself religious: I do not. Local Hot Button Issues What do you think are the most important issues facing the community?  Attracting and retaining local businesses. Wilton has seen more than a few shops close this past year due to a struggling economy and high rent. Also as a reporter, I also think it’s important to clarify where your tax dollars go—I know the mill rate isn’t the most beloved thing in town. You'll probably see me at Starbucks; come say hello.