During recent years Middlebury has been fortunate to have two very dedicated representatives in the Vermont Statehouse: Paul Ralston and Betty Nuovo. Ideally I would like to have them both continue but I understand the demands of running a business and why Paul has subsequently chosen not to seek reelection. Fortunately we have the opportunity to return Betty as one of our representatives and she certainly has earned the right to reelection.
She is highly respected by all parties as a fair and objective legislator with a well deserved reputation for reaching across the proverbial aisle, engaging dialogue with all representatives, irrespective of party or ideology. She is passionate about understanding an issue and knows that the best answer is a collaborative of thoughts, and that sometimes it may not always the most popular choice. She is at her best when discussing an issue one on one and realizes the foolishness of endorsing a program or plan without full knowledge of its potential impact.
During this election season the question that now arises is who is best suited to continue the positive efforts of Paul Ralston as Middlebury’s second representative. I believe that each of the individuals running for the vacant seat has good intentions but one candidate has emerged as a logical choice, and that is Calvin McEathron. At first I was skeptical about Calvin’s candidacy but after several conversations with him my questioning has been changed to enthusiasm and support.
Calvin exhibits and extensive knowledge of Vermont issues and knows that the state is facing difficult decisions on topics including education funding, economic development, health care and energy choices. He understands that these are important and cannot be approached with unsubstantiated zealousness. During our conversations I found his answers to be thoughtful and deliberative, avoiding the generic vagueness that often happens during political campaigns. If he has uncertainty on a topic his approach includes extensive research to gain the appropriate knowledge and make a good and informed decision. These are traits of an effective legislator.
He is a part of Vermont’s next generation who have entered or are preparing to enter the work force and will be tasked with continuing the state’s qualities without causing harm. This gives him insight into the topics that are important to the citizens of his generation who want to live, work and contribute to the future of the state where they grew up. They are capable of great things and it is imperative that we provide opportunities for them to stay. My children are now a part of his generation and share the dream.
An interesting characteristic that I have noticed about Calvin is how he possesses a non-polarizing personality. He understands that successful and effective governance requires careful reasoning and gaining an understanding of issues, listening to and hearing all points of view including those in opposition and those of the quiet majority. This is refreshing and tells me that he will not bring to Montpelier the current, partisan charade of Washington.
In closing, this is an important election and I am confident that votes for Betty Nuovo and Calvin McEathron will provide Middlebury and Vermont with thoughtful, fair and effective legislators. They have earned and deserve our votes.
Nick Artim
Middlebury