To The Editor:

The office of probate judge requires an individual with impeccable character and competence. That is true simply because judgments impact individuals personally in matters of finance, family, and property. Often judgments determine the life course for the most innocent and vulnerable among us: the children. The job of probate judge is not just about wills and estates. Therefore I am writing in favor of Daniel O'Grady for the office of probate judge for Newtown, Bethel, Ridgefield, and Redding.

On Tuesday, August 9, a very critical Republican primary is before us in Newtown. Since Newtown is part of the northern Fairfield County probate judge region along with Bethel, Redding, and Ridgefield, it is all the more important that every Newtown Republican vote in this primary. Though Dan's opponent appears to be a good man and capable attorney, the essential difference is that Dan is the only one with actual experience as a probate judge in the town of Bethel. He is currently the town treasurer for Bethel. Dan has even stepped up here in Newtown when our own probate judge was on vacation or otherwise absent. Dan is personally vested in Newtown by his longstanding membership in the Newtown Lions Club. He has even been enthusiastically endorsed by our own State Representative Mitch Bolinsky and the ever-popular former governor of Connecticut, Jodi Rell.

Since August 9 is an unusual time for a primary, with many on vacation, it is very important that all Republicans in town participate in this singular contest. I'm thanking anyone who takes stock in my opinion and turns it into voting action in the Republican Primary on the ninth of August.

Donald H. Ramsey

3 Prospect Drive, Newtown                  August 1, 2016