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Drive to Help Others

I am writing in support of Theresa Ranciato-Viele’s candidacy for state representative for North Haven. I admire Theresa’s intelligence and ability to problem-solve as much as I admire her drive to help others. We need her on our side in Hartford.

As a FEMA reservist, Theresa was called to assist with the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy in Connecticut in 2013. As coordinator of CT Rises—Connecticut’s statewide, long-term recovery organization—she worked closely with the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, the departments of Insurance and Housing, and the American Red Cross to aid in the recovery from the hurricane. She used her experience with planning, zoning, and development and her social work background to aid hundreds of Connecticut residents on the eastern shoreline as they recovered from destroyed and damaged property.

Following Sandy, Theresa and her CT Rises team were asked to develop a long-term disaster recovery plan for Connecticut. Ultimately, the program Theresa and her team developed will help communities within Connecticut become more resilient and better prepared to meet the challenges of post-disaster recovery.

Theresa’s work with FEMA and disaster recovery planning exemplify her skills at problem solving, working with people from all sectors of the community, and effecting positive change. On the town Planning & Zoning Commission board, she has shown the same qualities. Her tenacity, her care and concern for others, and her willingness to tackle difficult problems make her an excellent candidate for state representative. She has my vote.

Betsy Beacom

North Haven