“Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” These words were spoken by John F. Kennedy when he was sworn in as President of the United States. This has been my inspiration as to how I conduct my life in public service.
We are now faced with a key election. Our state has witnessed an opioid crisis and we need to solve this problem. Our citizens are dying from this plague that has come to our state; we must do more. My service in public office reflects my concern and my desire to solve this crisis.
I have worked with Chief Dan Goonan of the Manchester Fire Department to pass legislation regarding safe houses and have set up a series of meetings with local and state officials to get everyone together to come up with plans to deal with those affected by the problem. At the state level, money was put into the budget to provide treatment for those in need. The reauthorization of the New Hampshire Health Protection Plan will also provide needed aid. All is possible with state, federal and local cooperation. One cannot do this alone. We need everyone working together to get this job done.
Education is the key to success and our schools need our support. State money was given to Manchester to make schools safer. Manchester and Goffstown received over one million dollars to provide needed security. I visit our schools every year to see for myself how things are working. This allows me to witness first hand the changes that are taking place. We are very fortunate to have wonderful educators in our school system – both in Manchester and Goffstown – who give our students an excellent education.
Job creation is most important as we need good jobs to keep our families safe and ready to deal with the future. Good jobs are key to economic viability. I was a co-sponsor of the bill that will create the opportunity for good jobs in the Manchester Millyard. This bill will offer the opportunity to bring research and development to New Hampshire and allow the state to be on the cutting edge to breakthroughs that can change lives. This is a prime example of those in education, state and local government, and the private sector working together for the common good.
As the senator from district 20, I have been your voice in Concord. We have done a lot but there is more to do. I want to continue this effort. Over the years, my door has always been open to anyone in need. My record is one of which I have been proud. On November 6th, the citizens of the 20th Senate District will be voting for their state senator. The people must look at the record and cast their ballot for the person whom they believe will best represent them. It has been my honor to serve you over the years. Together we have gotten things done but we still have much to do.
I look back on what President Kennedy said and I know that we must do more for our country. At a time when our nation is divided, New Hampshire is an example of working together. This example must move forward if we are to keep our state on the upward path. I thank you for your confidence in me and ask that on November 6th we keep our dreams moving forward.
Sen. Lou D’Allesandro, a democrat, is running for re-election in District 20.
