To The Editor:

I am honored to write this letter of endorsement for Tom Long who is running for a seat on the Newtown Legislative Council, District 3.

I’ve lived in Newtown for 33 years and Tom has been my neighbor for nearly as many years. In addition to many curbside conversations, I’m inevitably bumping into Tom at events around town. He’s generally there as a volunteer, or on the board, or running the race or book sale, etc.

Tom has been on the Legislative Council for the past four years and he has chosen to break with his past and run as an unaffiliated candidate, clearly the more challenging route. A few months ago, Tom came knocking on our door, clipboard in hand, collecting the requisite signatures.

Regardless of where we fall on the political spectrum, we are all aware that these are trying times. With the daily bombardment of reminders about our divisions (real or manufactured) it is a challenge to find our own voices, speak independently and pause to consider what is truly best for ourselves, our family, our neighbors, our town, state, country and world. Tom Long is a reminder that we do not fit neatly into two camps. We should all be so lucky to have his determination, clarity and courage. We need more like him.

I believe in Tom’s dedication to balancing economic responsibility with creating a caring and supportive community, while working to maintain our rural character, when possible.

Please join me in voting for my friend and neighbor, Tom Long. And remember, he won’t be neatly lined up with the other party candidates — he’ll be five rows down, so take the time to pause and look for his name.

Beth Davis

Newtown