LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Larry Cafero for judge of probate

I am writing to lend my support to Larry Cafero in his campaign to become Probate Judge for the Norwalk-Wilton District.

I have been a practicing attorney in Norwalk since 1975. Much of my practice involves estate planning and estate settlement. Consequently, I have had extensive dealings with the Norwalk-Wilton Probate Court. During that time, Norwalk and Wilton have been well served by three superb Probate Judges: Alfred Santaniello Sr., John E. Vallerie and Anthony DePanfilis. They were all well-versed in probate law, but it takes more than that to be a good Probate Judge. Many of the matters which come before the Probate Judge are of a sensitive and emotional nature, and in my experience, all three dealt with such matters fairly and compassionately.

I can think of no one more suitable to succeed Judge DePanfilis than Larry Cafero. His record is well known. He is a product of local schools, a practicing attorney for 35 years, a state Representative for 22 years, and due process hearing officer in the Norwalk Public School system.

Furthermore, he is involved in numerous charities, and is a devoted family man. He has already rendered extraordinary service to the NorwalkWilton community. In my opinion, he will make an excellent Probate Judge, who, if elected, will continue the excellent work of his predecessors.

John B. Devine Norwalk

Doug Stern for judge of probate

When families come before the probate court they have usually just come through a stressful life event. The judge must take time to hear every family concern and, regardless of how the matter is resolved, the family must feel they were listened to and their feelings taken seriously.

The judge must be available, accessible and render decisions in a timely manner. The judge should appreciate the economic environment surrounding the family and be able to explain the law effectively.

Finally, an effective judge of probate should be kind, patient and a good listener.

Doug Stern has all these traits and will have my support on Nov. 6.

Brad Williams

Wilton

Support for Stephanie Thomas in the 143rd

Stephanie Thomas is running for a seat in the Connecticut State Legislature in the 143rd District, our district. Since the early summer Stephanie has been in contact with voters daily, attending meet and greets, present at community convenings, and going door to door. She has been discussing with people the issues that are uppermost on their minds, getting to know her constituents and their concerns, one door at a time. Stephanie’s district encompasses the eastern part of Norwalk, a small sliver of Westport and most of Wilton.

I have campaigned with Stephanie as she meets the voters. People are impressed because she is actively listening to their thoughts and offering them genuine responses. Stephanie is committed to reflecting the concerns of her constituents and she is also giving them a reason to make a change this year.

Wilton and Norwalk need women legislators who don’t just go along. We need a thoughtful representative who examines the facts, listens to the electorate, and works to truly represent our communities up in Hartford.

Stephanie is a doer. She came from a poor family, but was encouraged to always strive for excellence, something she has done her entire life, including building her own business. She is a professional who knows how to talk across both sides of any aisle to gain consensus. Her business savvy, combined with empathy for those in need, are the secrets to her success. These are the very qualities that will make her a great representative for us all.

Residents of the 143rd District owe it to themselves to take a close look at this quietly powerful candidate. Stephanie Thomas is a woman for our time. #VoteStephanie Rob Maher Wilton