Overwhelming support

Editor:

I just wanted to take a moment to thank the thousands of voters in Wallingford and Middlefield for overwhelmingly supporting my re-election campaign for state representative. I am glad we kept our campaign message a positive one, focusing on a proven record of fundamental principles, strong work ethic, and reaching across the aisle to collaborate on legislation, while also (when necessary) to oppose.

With this new term, the addition of Middlefield to the district comes as a welcome surprise. Truthfully, I didn’t even know that Middlefield’s border connected with that of Wallingford. In fact, when first told of the decision by the Reapportionment Commission, my initial response was one of skepticism. However, upon googling the area, I soon learned their borders do indeed meet.

I have a fondness for Middlefield that goes back many years. During summers away from school I used to work at my family’s factory in Middlefield, driving a forklift and loading trucks. I didn’t have a car until I was twenty, and there were quite a few times that I would walk to and from my home in Wallingford, and work in Middlefield. This past summer, I very much enjoyed once again walking the rural roads of Middlefield, knocking on doors, and engaging in various discussions. All told, between both towns, I personally knocked on over four thousand doors.

I most especially want to thank my wife and family for their love and support during this re-election campaign, as well as my superlative campaign treasurer, Jo-Anne L. Rusczek, and mindful deputy treasurer, Christopher K. Shortell. Their individual and collective efforts are what make mere average campaigns extraordinary. 

I also thank you for your kind and conscientious endorsement of my re-election. My best to you and yours for a safe and healthy holiday season. 

Craig C. Fishbein, Wallingford

Editor:

Sunday ‘s RJ “Heating Costs and Concerns on the Rise” was a well written recap of the funding shortfall for state and federal assistance for homeowners facing increased home heating costs. Home heating  fuel is up 72% over last year and in short supply. What was not addressed in the article was the real reason behind the surge in cost not only in home heating fuel but virtually all energy sources. America  was energy independent two years ago with abundant supply to export oil and natural gas. The Strategic Oil Reserve was at capacity and a pipeline from Canada almost complete. Two years later we are  now energy dependent as a result  of the current administration policies  on fossil fuels.  Climate change needs to be addressed, however the  draconian efforts by the administration to move to clean energy was shortsighted. A  strategic short and long-term plan to replace fossil fuels was and still is not in place.  In addition, we can  all look forward to January headlines about electric rates rising  due to short supply of natural gas of which we have abundant supply but cannot drill. Electric and diesel fuel costs will be  passed on to almost everything we touch. Inflation will be with  us for the long term. Lastly,  the shortfall in assistance programs noted above would not be needed if prices  were at 2020 levels. Low-income homeowners still needing  assistance would be able to receive relief. It’s time to return to energy independence for the good of all Americans.

Dan Daly, Middletown