To the Editor:

In this time of uncertainty and a sense of a need for patriotism, as displayed by all the flags in town, it is my sincere hope that everyone who is eligible will exercise the most important symbol of our freedom and vote next Tuesday.

This year’s election on November 6 is an important one. The legislative council is up for election and the people of Newtown have their best chance to make a difference in how the Legislative Council looks at the town budget. There are a number of strong supporters for the education of our children who are running for Legislative Council positions. The three candidates, who have been part of SOS [Support Our Schools] since its inception are Mike Iassogna in District 1, Joe Hemingway in District 2, and Gene Vetrano in District 3.

Mike, a key member of the SOS steering committee, is in favor of developing a vision and a long-term plan for Newtown and working toward that end. He has been active in the community for the last 12 years. Mike’s skill in analyzing budgets has been instrumental in helping put a focus on the causes for the increases in the Board of Education budgets and in helping all of us understand the meaning of the lengthy budget that is submitted each year.

Joe, co-chairman of SOS, has been a vocal supporter of the education for years. He has also been part of the Charter Revision Committee and the Economic Development committees in town. He is willing to use creative solutions and hard work to solve issues, as when he organized the painting of the Middle School by volunteers (including him) due to the Board of Education budget cuts.

Gene, co-chairman of SOS, has also been a vocal supporter for years. He has been involved in organizing support for the Hawley School addition, the High School addition and has been a key member of SOS for the last two years. His education in Urban Planning and Development as well as his work experience will be an asset for assisting in the planning for Fairfield Hills and for the overall town needs.

Many of the candidates who are running this year have supported the schools over the years. A few of the ones who stand out in my mind are Amy Dent in District 3, Brian White in District 3, Joe Borst in District 2, and Dan Rosenthal in District 1.

Amy Dent is the former chair of the Board of Education. Brian White and Joe Borst are incumbents on the Legislative Council who have shown a balanced approach to both the needs of the town as well as the needs of the school in deciding on the spending of our tax dollars. Both had worked with the Board of Education to fashion a budget that would be good for the town.

These fine people all understand the importance of education, the treasure of Fairfield Hills and the need for fiscal responsibility. Please mark your calendar and get yourself and your friends out to vote for them on November 6.

Deborah Hoffmann

Steering Committee

Support Our Schools

4 Antler Pine Road, Sandy Hook      October 31, 2001