To The Editor:

My name is Susan F. Filan and I am writing in support of Jim Gaston’s Re-Election to the Board of Finance. I have been a State Prosecutor, practiced in Family Law and have taught at the University of Arizona School of Law. I have lived in Newtown for over 12 years, am married and have two beautiful grown children. My father was a beloved Judge of the Connecticut Superior and Appellate Court. I was one of the first legal analysts on 24 hour news.

I have known Jim Gaston longer than he has known me. He is and has been one of the most skilled and sought after personal injury trial lawyers in the State. He has more than 100 plaintiff jury trial verdicts. He has lived with his family on Main Street since 1991. His children attended public schools, were star athletes (3 of 4 College, including one 3X All-Conference Soccer and another 3X All-American Swimmer). One is an Orthopedic Surgeon, another at a top 20 Medical School, and another working for a top law firm in NYC.

What’s amazing is that with his busy law practice and children’s sporting activities he still managed to serve four Years as Selectman, 16 Years as Chair/Vice-Chair of the Board of Finance, 12 Years as Warden of the Borough and 20 Years on the Borough Board of Burgesses. He’s the most experienced election official running. I don’t think he ever sleeps. His energy is unbelievable. He’s a true believer in John F. Kennedy — “ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” Jim has served well. He listens, learns and leads. His record proves it!

Please vote on November 4th!

Susan Filan

Newtown