Voices / Letters from readers

Toleno shows depth of compassion and character

My wife and I would like to publicly express our support for Tristan Toleno for Brattleboro District 3 state representative.

Those of us who have the good fortune to know Tristan are aware of his passion for politics and commitment to community service. He is well regarded as a culinary entrepreneur with a conscience, devoted to supporting local businesses and sustainable agriculture. Over the years, his staff have known him to be a supportive boss who has created a work environment that feels like a second family.

Tristan is purposeful and well-rounded in his personal, professional, and volunteer experience. He is devoted to putting his values into practice.

Restaurant owner, soccer coach, community volunteer, town meeting representative — Tristan has championed progressive and community-based causes from the Vermont Fresh Network to the Civilian Police Communications Committee to the Sunrise Rotary and Chamber of Commerce. Tristan is respected for his depth of understanding of local issues, good humor, organizational skill and ability to collaborate.

There are many aspects of Tristan’s experience and skill that deserve our support. Yet it is Tristan’s enduring support for our family during our time of tragedy that signifies the depth of his compassion and character. Months can go by without any contact. Then send a text, and Tristan is there: “Just tell me what you need.”

We are fortunate to live in an exceptionally caring community. Tristan is the embodiment of one who commits without concern for his own interests, except to do what is good and true and right. He is without question a person who will represent us with intelligence and heart in Montpelier.

Dan and Debbie Bernier-Sontag, Brattleboro

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