To the Editor:

As a Newtown resident and co-worker of Phil Cruz, I would like to endorse him for election as a member of our town Police Commission.

Phil is a longtime resident of Newtown who has dedicated the past 16 years of his life to educating today’s youth. Phil started as an elementary school teacher, and he is presently an eighth grade social studies teacher at Newtown Middle School. As an educator, Phil is determined to create a culture for learning and safety inside and outside of his classroom. Phil has worked side by side with our resource officer to help educate our children about the awareness and dangers of drugs, alcohol, and Internet safety.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Phil has held the office of NFT president, NFT treasurer, coach of the NMS girls’ basketball team, and served on many other building and district committees. As a member of the union Phil was responsible for mediating and resolving key conflicts with individuals who had strong opposing perspectives.

Phil has always been a contributing member of his community. He was a member of the US Army, and spent six years as planning commissioner for the City of Danbury. Additionally, Phil spent five years on the Board of Directors for the Newtown Youth & Family Services and was also elected to the Alternate Planning and Zoning Commission for Newtown. Finally, he was appointed to the Water and Sewer Commission as a member for Newtown.

It is clear that Phil Cruz has the qualifications, knowledge, and experience to make an outstanding choice for the Newtown Police Commission. It is without reservation that I endorse him as a candidate for this commission.

Sincerely,

James Ross

18B Philo Curtis Road, Sandy Hook               October 24, 2011