To the Editor:

As the world we live in remains enmeshed in conflict and our lives are transformed due to this recession, we look to our local and state governments to provide us with leadership that will not only benefit us and fulfill our various needs but give a sense of security and well-being.

We have little input into world affairs, but our state government needs to hear from us. Bill Barlow is a person who has spent countless hours in providing leadership to enhance and improve our education system, transportation and energy concerns and adopt fair fiscal policies to lessen the burden on our wallets while at the same time provide some relief for our less fortunate neighbors.

With all his accomplishments at the state level, he has been involved in our local community to improve its welfare through his personal involvement in education, youth sports, civic and church organizations.

Delegate Barlow has endeavored to increase teacher salaries and reduce class sizes. He has kept the Jamestown Ferry operating, which benefits commuters, businesses and tourism.

He has worked tirelessly to keep the James River and Chesapeake Bay clean and navigable for everyone who enjoys fishing and boating. He has supported policies that encourage renewable energy and cleaner energy technology with an emphasis on less waste. Bill is dedicated to protecting our environment and managing growth while at the same time maintaining a small-town quality of life.

I urge you to re-elect William K. Barlow as our delegate to the General Assembly. We can ill afford to lose such a highly qualified and selfless champion working for us. We need his continued leadership more than ever.

Marlene M. Stanton

Smithfield