To the Editor:

You will, hopefully, be going to the polls on November 8. This will keep Ben Franklin happy. He is after all, responsible for famously saying: “I have given you a Republic, if you can keep it.” During these turbulent times, when many of us feel like we have less control over our daily lives, voting has become an even more important right and privilege.

While you are there, I am asking you to consider voting for two of my competitors in the race for the four seats on the Legislative Council from District 1. You see the way things work in Newtown is that everyone runs against everyone else in the council races. The two competitors I’m asking you to support are Bob Merola and Joe Girgasky, who, like me, are Newtown Republicans. And if while you’re there, if you will consider filling-in the dot next to my name as well, that will also be greatly appreciated.

Bob Merola is a bit of folk hero in Newtown because of his vast knowledge of the financial operations of our community, both on the town, and school sides. His spreadsheets are filled with facts and figures, and he is an asset to our town, to our first selectman and to the council. He is polite, on point, and armed with the facts.

Joe Girgasky is a 17-year resident of Newtown and a member of the Newtown Building and Site Committee. He’s been married to Christine for 25 years and his son Mitchell attends NHS. He is one of the hardest working members of the Newtown Republican Town Committee, showing up for every single activity, no matter how strenuous or tedious. You can count on Joe to be standing in the freezing cold waving signs in November, overseeing the raffle, handing out water at the Labor Day Parade, walking door to door, or decorating the float for the Labor Day Parade. Joe shows up, does the job, and has a positive attitude. He holds a management position for a security systems contractor and will be an invaluable addition to the council. So if you can, please consider a vote for the Ferguson, Merola, Girgasky team in District 1, it will be greatly appreciated. We will represent and serve your interests, and those of your family and neighbors.

Finally, it really is still “Nicer in Newtown,” lets all keep striving to keep it that way.

Please vote Ferguson, Merola and Girgasky on November 8. Any order is fine.

Like me, Bob and Joe are firm believers in using “Common Sense” and seeking “Balance.” Thanks for giving us a shot.

George Ferguson

Legislative Council, District I

49 Taunton Hill Road, Newtown                             October 26, 2011