To the editor:

Easthampton is a great place to live. The small city has evolved into a progressive, small but flourishing place of its own. Easthampton has a unique character that is down to earth. It is open to new ideas, the arts, small and large businesses, quality education, environmental concerns and more.

I believe that many people like myself feel a sense of pride and community here. I think Easthampton has come a long way in the past 20 years. While no one person can claim total credit for this positive direction, it is crystal clear that Michael Tautznik's leadership as mayor has served Easthampton very well.

It might be tempting to think that a new mayor can do better and clearly some people agree that is the case. It is difficult and incomprehensible, however, that any of the other mayoral candidates have the experience, vision and demonstrated success that Tautznik has. As my 12-year-old son says, "If it ain't broken, don't fix it."

Cynthia Chamberland

Easthampton