To the Editor:

I have the privilege and honor of being DTC chairman of Newtown, and I am proud of the candidates the Newtown Democrats present to the citizens of Newtown in the upcoming election. They have varied backgrounds as far as education and professions, but are all passionate and exceptional candidates in bringing to all Newtowners the leadership Newtown deserves.

Democratic Candidates:

Gary Fetzer, candidate for first selectman — Experience (former selectman), will give Newtown the leadership for the challenges Newtown is facing with growth and change.

Joe Hemingway, selectman candidate — Currently on the Legislative Council, always involved in helping Newtown as a member of numerous civic and volunteer organizations.

Timothy Holian, judge of probate — Attorney who knows probate procedures, lifelong Newtown resident.

Sara Frampton, town clerk — Teacher, knows the importance of accurate and detailed record keeping, raised and educated in Newtown, volunteer for various organizations.

Board of Finance candidates — Martin Gerstein, James Gaston, and Michael Portnoy — All Newtowners should thank these gentlemen for their service to our town; they (along with the present Republican members of the Board of Finance) are doing an excellent job.

Board of Education — Eric Paradis, an educator; and Frank Scalzo, born and raised in Newtown, both want the best education for all students coupled with responsible spending.

Legislative Council-District 1: Ross Carley — A member of numerous boards and commissions over the years with a concern for the needs of our seniors. Paul Lundquist — Presently appointed to the Legislative Council, aware of what Newtowners want because of survey his company did (no cost to town). Paul believes Newtown can provide an excellent education done responsibly.

District 2: Robert Edwards — A proven leader. Worked with Police Department in past with technical knowledge. Andy Sachs — A local realtor, understands the tax burden on homeowners, believes there can be a commercial sustainable and yet unobtrusive tax base.

District 3: Jan Brookes — Retired Newtown High School teacher, presently on the Legislative Council where she is on numerous committees; dedicated, compassionate, and thorough in everything she undertakes. Dan Amaral — Longtime council member, “Newtowner” who is dedicated to the town, “listens” to his constituents and their concerns.

Planning and Zoning — Lilla Dean, current chairman of Planning and Zoning; leadership abilities and knowledge of planning and zoning issues have been recognized by both Democrats and Republicans (cross endorsed).

Police Commission — Robert Connor, Jr, 20-year member of the police commission; experience that cannot be equaled in all phases of this commission.

Zoning Board of Appeals — Herb Rosenthal; his experience is unequaled in all matters that concern Newtown.

Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers — Jim Juliano; I will continue to spearhead the projects necessary for the appearance and upkeep of the Edmond Town Hall.

One of the obvious common denominators of all the Democratic candidates is that they have been “involved” in Newtown. They have served on commissions of boards and have given their time to the community. They believe in Newtown and only want the best for the town. I believe these candidates deserve your support — and urge you to vote the Democratic Team!

Detailed resumes of these excellent candidates can be found at TeamNewtown.com

Jim Juliano, Chairman

Newtown DTC

Hundred Acres Road, Newtown October 25, 2009