Dear Editor,
We all know that there are some elected officials whom you only see when they are running for another term of office – if you see them at all. They have their solid supporters, and that’s whose favor they continue to curry.
Not so for state Senator Cheryl Hooker. I’ve known Cheryl for over 20 years, and I’ve seen her all over town, helping people, just as she and George warmly welcomed me when I first arrived in Rutland. She has helped newcomers find housing and settle in, even those who can’t vote for her, like our newly arrived Syrian refugees. She’s encouraged openness and acceptance within our entire community.
When the coronavirus hit Rutland, Cheryl pitched in and was one of those who made sure that Rutland wasn’t forgotten in Montpelier.
She has worked hard to help the Rutland community deal with the many negative effects of the virus, some the average person may not even be aware of.
She has helped people with their applications for unemployment funds and seen it through to the arrival of payments. She made sure that our business community was heard from when it came to doling out federal funds.
She was on the committee to ensure that essential workers got hazard pay, and she pressed for some of the federal funds to go to adequate housing. Our legislature, Senate and House, were thrust into the middle of the virus chaos and had to deal with numerous issues all at once; Cheryl rose to the challenge.
Cheryl Hooker is getting my vote for Vermont Senate.
Diane Alberts, Rutland
