To the Editor:

When I envision someone whom I would greatly appreciate to see represent Newtown in a political capacity, the following attributes enter my mind. I first picture a person who has an overall love for people as a human race, and the belief that it is important to look for the best in each other. I think about an individual who has very strong beliefs in the utmost importance of supporting our beloved Newtown Schools…. A person who would work to ensure that they are places for our children not only to be immersed in the wonderful academic programs we provide, but to be places that foster a sense of community, encourage kindness, tolerance, and caring for each other’s hearts, and minds. In addition, I believe that an individual who has the honor of representing our town in a political capacity should be honest, transparent, an excellent listener, a person who takes into consideration the feelings of others when making decisions, possesses a tremendous amount of patience, and has the ability to work as a team while ensuring that everyone working as a part of this team feels valued.

One day, I received a phone call from Judit DeStefano, to share with me the news that she was running for the Legislative Council to represent District 1 in Newtown. While I was on the phone listening to her words, I could not stop smiling, because all of the attributes that I described above, if found in a dictionary, would have the photograph and name of Judit DeStefano next to them. I wholeheartedly ask that anyone who is reading this letter, please take the time to read about, and learn more about this very special candidate.

I grew up in Newtown, went through the Newtown schools, live in Newtown with my family so that our children can attend the Newtown schools, and, I am presently in my 13th year of teaching kindergarten in Newtown. I absolutely love our precious town, and cherish the people we are surrounded with. I would be overjoyed for all of us who reside here, if we were fortunate enough to have Judit DeStefano filling the post of our District 1 Legislative Council Representative.

I would be more than happy to discuss any questions or thoughts pertaining to this topic. You are more than welcome to e-mail me at Pondd@newtown.k12.ct.us. Thank you very much for taking the time to read my letter of support.

Warmly,

Deborah Lubin Pond

24 Pearl Street, Sandy Hook                                        October 3, 2015