To the Editor:

It has become quite apparent over the course of this campaign that Newtown has a clear choice in the race for state representative.

Chris Lyddy has proven that he is in touch with the needs of the Newtown community. Chris Lyddy grew up in Newtown, attended our public schools, has been (and continues to be) involved in various organizations. He has been talking to Newtown voters and listening to what they have to say. This is the way you get to know the issues and concerns, as well as the hopes and dreams, facing a town. Because he has been engaged with Newtown and has been a part of this community for over 25 years, I know that Chris Lyddy knows Newtown best.

It is time for a change. Newtown deserves a stronger voice in Hartford. We deserve to have someone fighting on the front lines and really getting things done. I don’t want a continuation of what we’ve had for the past 20 years…I want someone who has already spoken out against the status quo, someone who will bring the change we need and deserve. Chris Lyddy is the kind of change we need in Hartford. He has been a force for change on the Legislative Council, and it is time to bring that leadership to Hartford.

As Chris’ campaign manager, I am privileged to be a part of this campaign on a daily basis. I am not supporting Chris simply because I am managing his campaign. Rather, I agreed to manage his campaign because of how strongly I support him. Chris Lyddy has proven to me that he is the person we need to represent us in Hartford. He has an ability to listen to voters and understand their concerns. Chris Lyddy not only has a deep understanding of the issues, including taxes, education, and health care among others, but has real solutions to address them. More importantly, he understands the importance of partnering with other legislators and local leaders, and has acknowledged that no one has all the answers. It is in working together that we find the best results. He has an ability to unite people, bringing differing views to the table to work toward solutions. Chris has ensured that people are informed, sharing information honestly and openly throughout the campaign. His energy, enthusiasm, and work ethic throughout the campaign are a sure sign of how hard he will be working for us in Hartford.

While all of this is important, to me, it comes down to one thing. Chris Lyddy is caring. Listening to voters throughout this campaign, Chris has made it clear that he cares about people. He cares about Newtown. He cares about this town and the people in it so much that he is willing to serve us by representing us in Hartford. That is what Newtown needs, and what all of us deserve.

Please join me in voting for Chris Lyddy on November 4.

Sincerely,

Sarah Hemingway

10 Overlook Knoll, Sandy Hook  October 29, 2008