To the Editor:

My name is Barbara Manville and I am running for Planning and Zoning.

My Sunday morning this week was spent going through a dozen boxes of books for the special drop-off donation day at the library. In early 2018, those same boxes of books were downsized and moved from our home of 24 years to my condo.

The boxes bring back memories that are a reflection of my life. Old year books, college bulletins, books signed by authors and believe it or not a 1996-1997 Sandy Hook School Directory! Most importantly, today brought back memories of my parents, who instilled basic life character traits still with me today. Be kind, be moral, be honest and be strong.

Let me focus on being moral. What does this mean? Merriam-Webster’s definition of moral is “of or relating to principles of right and wrong in behavior: ethical moral judgments.”

Is it ethical to leave your shopping cart randomly in the parking lot? Or is it better to return the cart to the store?

Is it ethical to throw your daily paper newspaper in the garbage? Or is it better to recycle the paper?

Is it ethical to serve on a local Commission knowing your decisions could impact your future earnings? Or is it better to serve on a local Commission, selflessly and with dedication for the sole purpose of giving back to the community?

I will serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission as the “ethical” member with no alternative motives. I serve selflessly for Newtown.

My name is Barbara Manville and I am running for Planning and Zoning.

Vote on November 7th.

Barbara Manville

Sandy Hook