In 2008 I relocated to Brandon from the Boston area for a new job opportunity and change of scenery. I’ve developed roots here by purchasing a home and making friends. One of the first people I met was Stephanie Jerome. We’ve logged many miles together walking and running, talking about work, children, and aging parents. I’m happy that she’s my state representative, but more than that, I’m proud to call Stephanie my friend.
Brandon, Pittsford, and Sudbury are fortunate to have Stephanie as our representative in Montpelier and I urge Rutland-6 voters to re-elect her. I’m one of the many Vermonters whose employment has been impacted by COVID-19. When filing my initial claim for unemployment benefits, I answered one of the questions incorrectly, which invalidated my claim. Stephanie navigated the chaos at the Department of Labor and was able to quickly resolve my problem. In another instance, I directed someone (who lives outside of our district) to Stephanie to resolve a UI issue for a developmentally disabled adult. Stephanie works hard for her local constituents, but really for all Vermonters.
A few months later she alerted me to a new grant program that was suitable for sole proprietor, woman-owned businesses. And, as a member of the Commerce and Economic Development Committee, Stephanie had a role in the passage of the Restart Vermont Technical Assistance program, which provides technical assistance grants to businesses affected by COVID.
Stephanie votes her conscience, not necessarily along party lines — a refreshing change in our polarized political environment. She’s working hard to keep Vermont moving forward with quality education, job growth, vibrant local economies, living wages, and environmental stewardship.
Make sure you vote; vote early if possible, and I hope you’ll re-elect my friend, Stephanie Jerome, as our state representative for Rutland-6.
Sue Hoxie
Brandon