To the Editor:

By CURT CLARK

Published: Oct 29, 2010 12:00 am

To the Editor:

I am Kathleen Ferguson, George Fergusonâs wife. Here are a few things I thought the voters of Newtown would like to know. He has spent his life championing causes and has made a significant difference in the lives of people and organizations. It is one of the things that attracted me to him 28 years ago. Since Iâve known him, George has been an advocate for women and girls. In fact, he was one of the driving forces behind changing the name of Boys and Girls Clubs of America to be inclusive of girls. This was a big deal for the now 104-year-old national youth serving organization which focuses on transforming the lives of inner city children.

Consistent with this theme is Georgeâs work with the Susan B. Anthony Project, a domestic violence and sexual assault services agency, serving Litchfield County. He helped transform this agency from a struggling agency relying almost exclusively on public support to a strong, vibrant organization with expanded programs and facilities. Working collaboratively, he motivated a team of volunteers to build a solid new foundation of leaders and private support. It didnât happen overnight, but George and others put their hearts and souls into this effort.

As a husband, father, son, and brother, George actively cares for his family. Some years ago he brought his mother, Helen, to Connecticut to relieve his sister, a NYC school teacher, of the responsibility for her care. He helped his Mom to continue to live as independently as possible for as long as she was able. He was her voice, advocate, and all around go-to-guy, caring for, humoring, teasing and being her closest friend.

His choice 17 years ago to leave the corporate world was centered around his desire to be actively involved in caring for and raising his children. It was a decision that came with economic sacrifices but which is consistent with his character. He has provided his children with incredible love, support, and encouragement. They have in turn rewarded him, by becoming responsible and caring young adults.

George has been a strong advocate for Newtown, our community, and its people. George genuinely believes that Connecticut is in trouble economically. With his track record, accomplishments, and proven skill set, George is the right person to be Newtownâs state representative.

Kathleen Ferguson

Lifelong Democrat

49 Taunton Hill Road, Newtown Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â October 27, 2010

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Dan was a real gentleman. I had the honor of knowing him for about 10 years from high school and into early adulthood. He was always upbeat and amiable. His love of golf was boundless. I remember him droning on about the type of wedge this or that professional golfer was playing at any given time. He loved to play also. Dan made the winning putt that clinched a championship for NHS men’s golf in 1984. It was a snaking, downhill putt that few people would have had the nerve or imagination to have holed at such a critical moment. It was magic!! You are a true gem, Dan. May your eternal reward be endless days of long, straight drives and the sound of difficult putts finding the bottom of the hole.

Daniel R. Baker

Congratulations John! This is quite a feat & shows a lot of perseverance, endurance, & commitment while becoming more healthy & having fun! The ultimate achievement! Wishing u a long healthy life!

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“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” The 1st Amendment does NOT say "except when there's a budget problem, or when some people wish things would quiet down." There is no way a proposed ordinance can be construed as other than singling out RockthisDemocracy, and also no way the town does not get expensively buried in court should it be foolish enough to go down this path.

Assembly Ordinance?

The Editor suggest a meeting between the "Rock This Democracy " and the Police Commission. As a former Police Commissioner the Chief should have followed the chain of command and discussed this with the Police Commission. The Chief reports to the Elected Police Commission not our Republican First Selection. Can't help but feel this is Republican politics again making an issue out of a non issue.

I support Chief Kullgren’s request to explore permitting, and cost-sharing for large gatherings. The right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy, and I fully support the constitutional right to free speech and assembly. However, where and how often these protests occur matters. Main Street is not just a symbol — it’s a vital artery for daily life in town. When events are held there monthly, and at increasing scale, they cause disruption to residents, businesses, and traffic. While the Rock This Democracy group may describe these protests as unique or urgent, the frequency — roughly once every two weeks this spring — suggests more of a recurring series than a singular, spontaneous moment of civic expression. This isn’t about silencing anyone. It’s about fairness, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. Every time a protest happens, our police department is forced to assign resources, often on overtime. That expense adds up quickly. If any group wants to use public space regularly, particularly in a way that impacts traffic and requires police presence, then it’s reasonable for the town to consider permitting and cost-sharing — just as we do for other organized events like races, festivals, or parades. Let’s protect everyone’s rights — including the right of the community to function smoothly and the right of taxpayers not to bear undue cost for repeated events. I trust the Council to consider a reasonable path forward that balances speech with responsibility.

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