To the Editor:

Legend has it that Hobson was an inn keeper who would tell his guests “you can ride any horse in the stable, as long as you take the horse closest to the door.” The people of Newtown are being given a “Hobson’s Choice” when it comes to the configuration of the proposed Newtown Community Center.

According to the most recent minutes posted on their website,  the Community Center Commission is planning on presenting proposals for a community center with a pool, a community center with an ice rink, and a community center with a pool and an ice rink. What about a community center with neither a pool or an ice rink, just a community center?

The survey conducted by the Community Center Commission did not show overwhelming support for a pool or ice rink. It reflected a 30 percent like and a 25 percent dislike, hardly a mandate for either component. And what about an arts center? Art therapy and music therapy are tremendously effective and we already have one of the top scholastic music programs in the country as a foundation

 Unless you’re ready to settle for a “Hobson’s Choice” take the time to forward this letter to the Community Center Commission at  kingawalshcommcenter@gmail.com.  My one voice can’t do it alone.

Paul Fadus

5 Sunset Hill Road, Newtown         January 11, 2016