To the Editor:

I am humbled by the overwhelming support I received from my fellow Newtown voters. Thank you. I pledge to work as hard as I can on the Board of Finance to balance the interests of everyone. We Newtowners are all in this together, whether young, living paycheck to paycheck, paying college tuitions, or retired.

I would like to give a shout out to some friends (on both sides of the aisle) who will not again be serving, but who have sought the best interest of our town. Jim Filan (Democrat) has served our town honorably and admirably on the Board of Finance. I would have liked to work with Jim. Eva Bermudez-Zimmerman served the Legislative Council extremely well.  Also, on the Legislative Council, (Republicans) Joe Girgasky and Bob Merola, were both gentlemen. A recent example, I didn’t have anyone to man my sign at the Middle School for a short while. Joe said “No problem I’ll man it for you.”  We sometimes disagreed on issues, but there was never a question as to Jim, Joe or Bob’s dedication and integrity. I hope they remain active and choose to serve on appointed positions when needed.  Congratulations to all the candidates!

On another note, I would like to thank the Main Street area homeowners for again making Halloween a success. Estimates include about 3,200 trick-o’-treaters.  Many people don’t know that candy costs Main Street area homeowners about $200-$300 each year. This is a remarkable selfless act.  Our community residents contribute many selfless acts throughout the year, a reason to preserve our traditions, history and true Newtown jewels. We should be cautious not to take them for granted. Thanks to Trin-ity Episcopal Church, Parks and Recreation, and a few others who donated candy. Last but not least, thank you to the Newtown Police for again stepping up to patrol the traffic.

Sincerely,

Jim Gaston, Sr.

18 Main Street, Newtown         November 8, 2015