To the Editor:

I am writing to endorse the candidacies of Judit DeStefano for Legislative Council and Rebekah Harriman-Stites for Board of Education. I have been fortunate enough to know both Judit and Rebekah for several years, and I have really appreciated the leadership and positive attitude that they have both shown in that time. When someone is looking for volunteers for a difficult job and most of the room is struggling not to make eye contact with anyone, Judit and Rebekah are always there with a smile and a hand up. They get things done and are even able to do the impossible — inspire others to get things done as well.

As the chair of NEAT [Newtown Environmental Action Team], I have had the opportunity to work and consult with both of them on our various projects. They are always ready to share advice and help in any way they can. They both listen and have the ability to respond to input and are critical thinkers. They understand that we all need to do everything we can to protect the planet so our children will have a decent place to live.

Just as importantly, they have worked very hard to get Newtown’s budget to stretch as far as possible. Since we all work hard for our money, it is wonderful to know that our elected officials are working equally hard to ensure that our tax dollars are being spent wisely.

I hope you all will join me in voting for two wonderful women on November 5. Let’s reelect Judit DeStefano to the Legislative Council and Rebekah Harriman-Stites to the Board of Education!

Vanessa Villamil

11 Antler Pine Road, Sandy Hook October 30, 2019