Julian McKinley, Patch Staff

Julian grew up in Windsor. Things have come full circle for him as he returns to Connecticut's first town to serve as editor of Windsor Patch.

Julian returns to the Nutmeg State from Springfield, Mass. where he studied journalism at Springfield College and freelanced for The Republican. He served as editor-in-chief of Springfield College's weekly newspaper and it's annual sports magazine, The Pride Sports Journal.

Over the past few years, Julian has developed a passion for stories that matter—stories that bring people together and have the potential to make a difference in individuals' lives.

Julian's other passions include  all things college football, and his eclectic music library, which he protects with is life.

He contends the best song ever written is Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come." His favorite albums include Bob Marley's "Survival," M.I.A.'s "Kala," everything Jimi Hendrix, and John Mayer's "Continuum" (Yes, he is a proud John Mayer fan).

My Beliefs:

Politics

I am registered as a Democrat, but only so I could vote in the 2008 Democratic primary election. There is no political party that I feel particularly akin to. Rather, I subscribe to my own social and political beliefs that are founded in the protection of everyone's right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I do believe that well-funded social programs are essential to protecting that right.

Religion

I was not raised in a church, nor do I currently subscribe to a particular religion. However, I believe there is nothing more important than cultivating and celebrating the spiritual connection between all living things. I have great respect for all religions and enjoy discussing and learning about their values, practices, cultural contributions to society.

Local Hot Button Issue

The biggest concern is the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. It is anticipated that funding for public education will decrease, affecting one of, if not the, most important institutions that community members are actively involved with and concerned about. The quality of education is something that is a topic of conversation around every corner. There is no doubt that potential budget cuts to public education would have a great impact on the lives of many families here in town. 

Many of the concerns of residents are based on the well-being, development, and safety of youth. While Windsor is a relatively safe community, the development and maintanence of programs that assist in the development of youth are always a topic of interest. There are a wide variety of youth programs, events, and activites offered, which is a testament to the importance of youth development to residents.