Date: Fri 18-Jul-1997

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

caucus-Rosenthal-Fetzer-Spiro

Full Text:

Democrats Expected To Primary

BY STEVE BIGHAM

Now that the Republican ticket is settled, all eyes have turned toward the

Democrats.

A large turnout was expected for Thursday night's caucus at the middle school

to endorse either Herb Rosenthal, Gary Fetzer, or Chris Spiro. However, the

battle between Mr Fetzer and Mr Rosenthal, the two frontrunners, could rage

all summer. Only Mr Spiro has said for sure that he would not primary.

At last week's meeting of the Democratic Town Committee, Mr Rosenthal squeaked

by Mr Fetzer, 17-13.

Mr Fetzer, a Board of Selectmen member, believes he's got the support from

more party members than his opponent gives him credit for and thinks he could

pull off what would be a mild upset. Mr Fetzer said a loss at the caucus would

force him to take a long, hard look at where he stood in the race. He would

not rule out the possibility of a primary if he was defeated. Mr Fetzer is the

only Democratic candidate to announce a running mate. She is Ann Krane.

Mr Rosenthal, the Board of Education chairman, said he would have agreed not

to primary (for the good of the party) had Mr Fetzer agreed not to do the same

earlier this summer.

Both say their preference would be to come out of the caucus unified, but on

one condition - they had to be leading the charge.

Primary petition forms are now available from the registrar of voters for

persons desiring to oppose party-endorsed candidates for local office.

Prior to the caucus, the town committee was expected to meet to go over the

candidates recommended by the selection committee. For the Planning & Zoning

Commission, the town committee was expected to endorse Heidi Winslow for a

four-year term, Michael Osborne and Lilla Dean to two-year terms, and Michael

Daubert as an alternate. For the Board of Education, Amy Dent and Margaret

Hull were expected to be nominated. Mr Rosenthal will not seek re-election.

Those expected to be endorsed for the Zoning Board of Appeals included Allan

Clavette (full) and Herb Hoover (alternate). Bob Connor, Jr, will be endorsed

for the Police Commission.