Letter to the Editor: Student Supports Swanton's Candidacy

Dear Editor,

My name is Noah Schulman and I am a sophomore at Hall High school. I recommend Dennis Swanton to serve on our Town Council. Dennis was my coach for three years of little league baseball. In that setting, I saw Dennis perform as a leader and a teacher and, based upon my observations, I think that he would be an excellent Town Council member. 

As a coach, Dennis was very passionate about his work and could bring that passion to his work for the town. As a coach, he would throw pitches to us, take turns at hitting and demonstrate how to field balls. From every moment on and off the field, we could clearly see the passion that drove Dennis through practices and games. That passion could easily be applied to Town Council, where I can imagine him facing problems and creating solutions with the same attitude he had on the baseball field. The passion that he brings wherever he goes is inspiring, educating and improves the space, whether the baseball field or the town, around him. 

Dennis taught me values that I believe would easily translate to his work for the town. One game, one of my teammates was called out on a play. Dennis argued the call with the umpire, but the umpire remained firm on his decision. Dennis accepted the fact and then encouraged us to try even harder the next time we were up at bat. In that moment, I learned many things from him. I learned to stand up for my beliefs yet honorably realize your mistakes, and instead of moping around because of them, use them as motivation to improve yourself.  I'm sure the town would benefit as much as I did from Dennis' values.  

Dennis was not only one of my favorite coaches, but also one of the most enjoyable. He knew how to have a good time, and how to make others happy. Practice was always looked forward to because we would not only work hard and learn skills, but we would have fun.  He is a character to which others are drawn. Town Council would benefit from having him.