To the Editor:

Newtown is blessed that Jeff Capeci has decided to run for First Selectman! There’s no one better-suited to take the helm after Dan Rosenthal. I had the pleasure of working with Dan while I served on the Legislative Council, and I was very impressed with his knowledge and love of all things Newtown, and how level-headed he is. With Jeff’s experience and personality, I know he will do a great job of filling Dan’s shoes.

In Jeff’s twenty-plus years of service to Newtown, from Cub Scout den leader to his many elected positions including two terms as a Selectman and five terms on the Legislative Council, currently as Chairman, he has the experience, knowledge, temperament and wisdom needed to hold such an all-encompassing position as First Selectman.

Jeff is respectful of the autonomy of Newtown’s residents and businesses — he understands that they, rather than elected politicians, know what is best for their families and businesses. A good example of this would be the Legislative Council, under Jeff’s chairmanship, repealing the ordinance that compelled the undue burden of a paper bag fee on Newtown’s retailers and residents.

Jeff is a truly caring, helpful individual. When I was asked to run for Legislative Council and didn’t know anything about campaigning, Jeff offered to walk door-to-door with me, even though he was running unopposed. He’s always there to help with a smile on his face, and he’s a good listener.

Jeff’s running-mate for Selectman, John Madzula, is a life-long resident of Newtown and the current chairman of the Board of Finance. Between Jeff and John there’s a wealth of knowledge of Newtown, its people, and how its government operates.

Please join me in voting for Jeff Capeci for First Selectman and John Madzula for Selectman, and keeping it “Nicer in Newtown.”

Cathy Reiss

Newtown