Many Helped Initiate Youth Academy

To The Editor:

As the architect for the Newtown Youth Academy (NYA), I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to some of the local town employees without whom this project would not have gotten off the ground. These individuals were an incredible asset in facilitating the design and approval process. I cannot say enough about how cooperative and supportive they have been throughout.

In particular I would like to recognize George Benson, land use agency director, who acted as coordinator between the project team and all departments within the town.

I would also like to recognize the following employees for all their support in completing the initial phase of this project: Tom Paternoster, chief building official (retired); John Poeltl, chief building official; Bill Halstead, town fire marshal; Rich Frampton, deputy fire marshal; Rob Sibley, conservation officer; Ron Blamer, town engineer; and Fred Hurley, director of public works.

I have worked in many towns and cities in Connecticut and New York. I believe Newtown has some of the finest, most helpful, and professional staff you will find anywhere. On behalf of our project team, I would like to express our sincere appreciation for all their hard work.

Sincerely,

Philip Clark, President

Claris Construction Inc

153 South Main Street, Newtown                        February 27, 2008