To the Editor:

Rebekah Harriman-Stites is one of the most capable, competent women I know. I'm thrilled to endorse her candidacy for State Representative for the 106th district.

Rebekah and I got to know each other about eight years ago, before she had any political aspirations. She takes the time to prepare for every job, never leaving to chance that things will just be good enough. Rebekah always steps up to the plate.

She did just that when she ran for Middle Gate PTA president. She took on that difficult and thankless job because "Someone needs to do it."

On the Board of Ed, Rebekah has demonstrated a calm, thoughtful, and fair-minded demeanor, along with boundless energy to research, prepare, and engage. She approaches that job the same way she does every other: giving it 110 percent. At the core of her character, Rebekah is a true, active, unbiased listener. She will take the time to hear out anyone who has a position or an idea. Rebekah is responsive and considerate, but at the end of the day, she is unwavering when she holds a position she feels is right. She is steadfastly committed to sharing her truth, no matter how strong the opposition, and no matter how inconvenient or difficult communicating an unpopular standpoint can be. I can count on Rebekah to do what is right for Newtown every single time.

Rebekah listens, she shows strength in the face of opposition, and she is willing to step up to the plate for all the right reasons. This trifecta of leadership skills is what makes Rebekah the candidate worthy of our support this upcoming election and the person best-suited to represent Newtown in Hartford. I hope you join me in voting for Rebekah for State Representative for the 106th district.

Respectfully,

Judit DeStefano

12 Horseshoe Ridge Road, Sandy Hook July 18, 2018