To the Editor:

May I introduce myself? I’m Tom Long and I am running for the Legislative Council in Newtown’s Third District. This is an introduction I have used countless times over the past two months in front of grocery stores, at the transfer station, and going door to door. I am thankful for the warm response I have received, and the time people have given me to share that I currently serve on the Board of Trustees for the C.H. Booth Library and previously served on Economic Development Commission, Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers, and a recent Charter Revision Commission.

Beyond 16 years of volunteering in Newtown, I will bring to the Legislative Council years of professional experience in government, private, and nonprofit sectors. My work has helped people navigate state and federal government bureaucracies. I have created budgets and been held responsible for profitability of programs under my direction. My current work includes building collaborative networks with government agencies and nonprofits to help mature workers and the long-term unemployed secure employment.

The position I seek on the Legislative Council is a volunteer position. When I volunteer, I get the sense that I can better the lives of the people around me and the community I serve. My years of experience and sincere interest in serving Newtown motivates me to give me time, ideas, and energy to connect with others to create an even stronger community.

I ask that you vote on November 2, and when you do, consider Tom Long for Legislative Council.

Tom Long

Newtown