To the Editor:

This is the first election I will be eligible to vote in. I couldn’t be more excited. For years I have been working alongside my dad and other candidates in their campaigns, but have never been able to vote. This will be my first opportunity to vote for my dad for Legislative Council, although it will be his third term if reelected. The first time I vote for anyone it will be for my dad, and I hope you vote for him too.

I’m not only voting for him because he’s my dad, but also because of what he has to offer. For four years Joe Hemingway has been a member of the Legislative Council. During that time he has supported education, judged fairly, and looked out for the good of the town. For as long as I can remember my dad has been involved in Newtown and has been working to improve the town we live in. When I look at my dad I see someone who wants to continue to serve Newtown. He’s honest and kind. He looks at both sides of a situation, and listens to the thoughts and opinions of others before making a decision.

When I was in elementary school, he helped to raise money for Sandy Hook and Hawley to buy new playgrounds. He and a group of volunteers spent their weekends putting up the new equipment. It was something he didn’t do just for his kids, but for all the kids at both schools then and now. My dad also coached basketball for my sister and me. Once again, he led by example, showing that hard work and dedication were important. Diligence and commitment are something I learned from him, very important qualities for a councilman.

The past three summers my dad has gone with me to work camp. I know how much he loves construction, but he also enjoys helping people in need. My dad is caring and kind. He is involved in the community and wants it to continue to succeed. In elementary school, I remember him telling me how he was one of the only dads at PTA meetings. He eventually became PTA president, then PTA council president. He co-chaired Support Our Schools and helped to pass budgets. SOS also helped to paint the Middle School halls to save money. Our family would meet with others on weekends to paint. It was hard work, but fun. Again my dad was giving something back to Newtown.

I’ve learned a lot from my dad. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that we each have a voice, and can use it to make a difference. This Election Day I will use my voice to make a difference. I will vote for Joe Hemingway for Legislative Council in District 2. I encourage you to do the same. Use your voice to make a difference and vote. If you want to make a huge difference for Newtown, cast your vote for Joe Hemingway.

Sincerely,

Sarah Hemingway

10 Overlook Knoll, Sandy Hook                                 October 19, 2005