To the Editor:

I am writing to endorse my friend Paul Lundquist for another term on the Legislative Council representing the First District. I have had the great opportunity to work with Paul on many occasions on matters of great relevance to our community and beyond.

Paul and I both served as directors of Sandy Hook Promise following its founding by members of the community and families of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. On the board, Paul played a critical role in ensuring the various perspectives of the Newtown community were heard as the organization moved forward with its ambition to reduce gun violence nationally.

Paul was also an invaluable source of informal advice to me on issues of relevance to the Newtown Community Center Commission, on which I served. Paul was especially helpful to me in explaining the importance of holding open and transparent hearings at which townsfolk could offer their views and, sometimes, vent their frustrations. As a member of that commission, I gained invaluable insight into the challenges local elected officials like Paul must be willing to face in their efforts to improve the lives of all residents.

Finally, Paul has been a close friend for a decade. I have watched with admiration his partnership with his wife, Elaine, and his dedication to his children, Matt and Eddie. It's easy to throw around terms of endearment like "family man," but it is an apt description in this instance. Paul is an exemplary member of the community and deserves your vote next week.

Rob Cox

136 Castle Hill Road, Newtown         October 30, 2017