December 1, 2004

Dear Friend:

Incredibly, in January 2005, I will begin my fifth term as your state representative. Thank you for your continued confidence in me and for the privilege of serving. Many of you commented that you are proud of the way we conducted our re-election campaign. We proved that integrity and a solid history of service wins elections. People get the government they deserve. You deserve the best and I intend to see that you get it!

We made many new friends during this campaign and I am reminded of the saying, “Make new friends but treasure the old, one is silver the other is gold.” To my old friends, many of whom have been with me through eight consecutive successful campaigns for public office, I say with a grateful heart, “Thank you! Your encouragement and support have sustained me and made my service possible.” To my new friends I say, “Welcome aboard, I am glad you are with me.” When it comes to friends, I am the wealthiest woman in the Commonwealth.

Year-end finds our City of Springfield struggling financially and our Country at war. Hopefully, our City has turned the corner and begun the long road back to its historic status as one of the great urban centers of the Northeast. As for our Country, it has a long history of overcoming great odds. Author Theodore White wrote, “The American dream is not over. The American dream is an adventure!” The road ahead is long and difficult but, together, we can make a difference in the futures of our communities, our nation, and our world. As we celebrate the holidays with our families and friends, let us remain mindful of all we have accomplished and encouraged by what we will achieve moving forward together.

My thoughts will be with you the first Wednesday in January, 2005 when I will again take the oath of office. When I raise my right hand, I will remember that I would be nowhere without you!

Wishing you good health and the best life has to offer in 2005, I am Your state representative,
Gale D. Candaras