To the Editor:

While we no longer reside in Newtown, our hearts will always be with all of you in Newtown. The future of Newtown is and always will be so important to us. Newtown is facing so many challenges these days, both on the local level and the state level. As election day approaches, we feel compelled to share our feelings of a particular candidate with all of you.

This year you have two choices for state representative for the 106th Legislative District. Your two choices are both currently serving on the Legislative Council. This is a plus for both of them as they are both committed to serving the community. Will Rodgers has served on the Legislative Council for 11-plus years and as chairman for the past five-plus years. Chris Lyddy has served on the Legislative Council for less than a year. In no way do we want to minimize Chris’s commitment to Newtown, as he is giving back to this town in a very big way and should be proud of what he is accomplishing.

We feel that the most important difference between these two candidates is, without a doubt, the obvious years of experience and maturity. In addition to the many years he has served on the Legislative Council, he also serves as a colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve of which he has been a member for 28 years. While serving in Iraq during 2006/2007, he remained in constant contact with the first selectman and council members so as to stay apprised of the issues and continue serving his community, giving his input from afar.

While serving on the Legislative Council, Will has listened to and heard the concerns of the townspeople for many years, thus providing him with a strong background to work in Hartford for the best interests of Newtown. In the capacity of state representative, Will’s experience and knowledge will enable him to continue serving Newtowners on issues that also affect them on the state level. There is no substitute for the wisdom that he has attained over many years of service to his community and country. That is why we feel so strongly that Will Rodgers is the best candidate and only real choice to serve Newtown’s needs in Hartford as State Representative.

Cynthia Simon and Richard Simon

3589 NE 107th St Road, Anthony, Fla.                     October 1, 2008