To the Editor:

A few weeks ago, when my driver’s license came up for renewal, I learned that Connecticut now offers Verified Identity Protection.  Simply put, it means you should get through airports a little quicker.  The catch is that you have to provide DMV with your Social Security Card and a certified copy of your birth certificate.

I had the card, but the birth certificate is in a box somewhere.  Instead of tearing the house apart, I went to our town clerk’s office.  I’ve been there several times over the past few years for various reasons.  When I walked through the office’s door, it took about two seconds for Monica to jump up from her chair and greet me like an old friend.  Aileen gave me a big smile and a warm hello.  When I told Monica that I needed my birth certificate, she was off like a flash.  While they both continued to work, the ladies asked me how I’d been since the last time I was in.  We chatted while Monica processed my request and it was absolutely stress-free.

How often do you go to a government office and leave feeling better than you did when got there?  I wrote this letter to let them know how much I appreciate them.  I want to publicly acknowledge that these ladies have tough jobs, and they do them with grace, kindness, humor and patience. Thank you Monica and Aileen, you’re another reason to be proud of Newtown.

Dee Thrall

4 Summit Road, Newtown                 October 8, 2014