LETTER: Kathleen Stowe Steps Up…

Submitted by Lisa Small, Greenwich

Throughout this turbulent political season, I find myself hearkening back to some of those seemingly simple Kindergarten rules — listen when others are speaking; respect others; play nicely with others; and treat others as you would like others to treat you – and longing for a candidate who embodies these elementary principles while still fiercely advocating on behalf of all of their constituents.

I believe Kathleen Stowe, the Democratic candidate for Connecticut House of Representatives 149th District, is that candidate.

Kathleen’s professional background in the investment banking and private equity sectors is extremely impressive and demonstrates her keen ability to navigate the complexities of our District’s finances.

Her active involvement in, and dedication to, our community at all levels is exceptional, from serving as class parent at Round Hill Nursery School and Parkway School to Board member of the Northeast Greenwich Association to coaching Greenwich Parks & Recreation softball to becoming Vice Chair of the Greenwich Board of Education and chairing numerous committees thereunder, including the BOE Budget Committee and BOE Policy and
Governance Committee.

But what I believe really distinguishes Kathleen from the other candidates is her proven track record of listening to all points of view and working with others regardless of their political party or leanings to get the work done on behalf of you and me.

There is no clearer example of her bipartisan and collegial spirit than her work on the Greenwich Board of Education, particularly during this year’s rancorous school budget debate and challenging “return-to-school” planning amidst the global pandemic.

In every case, Kathleen rolled-up her sleeves, crossed political party aisles to work with her Republican colleagues, like Peter Bernstein and Joe Kelly, listened carefully to the concerns of parents, school officials and staff, and worked tirelessly to get the best outcomes possible for all of us under extremely difficult circumstances.

Kathleen’s can-do attitude and commitment to hard work, bipartisan collegiality and fair play on behalf of all of those she serves has been a ray of hope for me in today’s hyper-partisan, hamstrung political arena.

But what I find most admirable about Kathleen is that at a time when it would be understandable for her to take a step back and focus her attention solely on her husband, three children and extended family, Kathleen selflessly stepped up to work for all us to protect our kids, families, schools, town and greater community.

I encourage you to join me and vote for Kathleen Stowe.

Editor’s note: Letters to the Editor in support of local candidates in the Nov 3, 2020 election may be submitted to [email protected] for consideration beginning July 15 and with a hard deadline of Oct 26, 2020 at noon.