To the Editor:

I am writing in support of two very fine candidates: for Legislative Council District 3 - Kelley Johnson, and Board of Finance - James Gaston, Sr. Anyone who knows either of them understands how well qualified both are for these positions.

Kelley graduated from Newtown High School and is a band alumna. Kelley completed a bachelor's in computer science and engineering, master's in electrical engineering, and MBA. She has worked in both business and engineering roles at Intel Corporation, NASA, Lockheed Martin, and MIT Lincoln Laboratory. She returned to Newtown as an entrepreneur in 2013 and is an active member of our community as a volunteer with the Friends of the CH Booth Library and as a judge for Veterans of Foreign Wars, District 1, Voice of Democracy competition.

Kelley has served on the Board of Finance since 2015. Now, we need to elect her to represent District 3 on the Legislative Council. She has a broad understanding of town issues and is a strong supporter of our schools. Did you know that she was also co-captain of the first girls' soccer team at Newtown High School?

Jim Gaston is an outstanding leader and has given countless volunteer hours to Newtown over the years. His many efforts include: Selectman, Board of Selectmen, 2011-15; vice chair of the Board of Finance, 2001-11, 2015-present (chair/vice chair); warden, Borough of Newtown, 2007-present., Board of Burgesses, Borough of Newtown, 1993-2007; Board of Directors, Family Counseling Center, 1992-2000; Town of Newtown, School HVAC Committee, 2001; founder, Western United Extreme, Inc, Girl's Premier Soccer Club, Board Member 2004-13. He has also served as a judge for Voice of Democracy at VFW Post 308 for many years.

I cannot think of two finer candidates to represent our town on Legislative Council and the Board of Finance. I ask you to join me this election day in voting for Kelley Johnson and James Gaston, Sr. God bless our town.

Donna Monteleone Randle

Erin Lane, Sandy Hook         October 25, 2017