Neither Extreme

To the Editor:

As this year’s campaign quickly approaches Election Day, I want to congratulate all of the candidates for their courage and fortitude. It is not easy to stand in the fish bowl of politics and weather personal attacks and criticism. I particularly commend those candidates who refrain from initiating personal assaults against their opponents.

With that being said, a clear and rather obvious theme has been established by each of the major parties. The IPN seems to see the sky as falling, and Republicans see times as grand. The Democrats see it Nicer in Newtown, but recognize that improvement is in order by means of teamwork, civility, and forethought.

In short, the reality is, Newtown is not “doom and gloom,” nor is it an “ultimate utopia.” We must be realistic and recognize what is working and what is not, by conceding that there are many areas which can and should be improved upon in the governing of our town. No one in government, present or past, has an arm long enough to pat themselves on the back for single-handedly accomplishing everything. Gary Fetzer and Joe Hemingway recognize and accept this fact. Where the IPN avows “doom and gloom,” fictitious conspiracies, a terrible school system, and a corrupt Fairfield Hills Authority, the Republicans assert that “all is well,” thanks solely to their leadership and direction. Nothing can be farther from the truth at either extreme. As most of us know, the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

Newtown is still a town working to attract families that include professionals, artisans, businessmen, and craftsmen alike. We strive to preserve the presence of our seniors, farmers, as well as our dedicated fire and ambulance volunteers. We take pride in our school system and the education that our children are receiving by many of the best teachers in the state. With this in mind, town and education budgets require tough scrutiny and accountability. Gary Fetzer and Joe Hemingway recognize and understand that the annual budget must be scrutinized and developed in a practical and accountable manner. We cannot just tax and spend, yet we must not hide our heads in the sand and ignore the essential needs of our community. We must remember that capital projects remain very important and a balance between the needs of the town and the school system must be maintained. We must recognize the fact that our school system must continue to improve to not only meet standards, but exceed standards. Long-range planning must be improved, but in a practical manner. Although much work has been implemented and completed at Fairfield Hills, a new survey of intent needs to be developed and evaluated to direct us through the Stage 2 phase of financing and development.

This is the reality of it all. Gary Fetzer and Joe Hemingway’s leadership plan for Newtown is realism, not extremism. Please visit TeamNewtown.com for more information on Gary, Joe, and the rest of the team.

Gene Vetrano

Campaign Manager Fetzer/Hemingway

6 Camelot Crest, Sandy Hook                                    October 4, 2009