I endorse Tony Jerome Hillian for East Spencer alderman. He is an educated man whose roots are well grounded in East Spencer.

Ever since he was a toddler, Tony was right beside his grandmother (Essie Foxx) being an advocate for their community. He is reliable and dedicated and is constantly doing for others.

When I called on him three years ago to help with SWAGGA (Students With Academic Gifts and Goals to be Acknowledged), he was there as an organizing committee member. He still works with SWAGGA in teaching teenagers and young adults work ethics. He has won their trust and listens to their concerns without judgment.

He has a passion for working with others to improve the living conditions of those who are often overlooked or forgotten. He is always on the front line fighting for solutions to (1) decreasing the many abandoned homes along the Long Street Corridor, (2) the need for more businesses, and (3) reducing the water rates. He has been very vocal about equipping the East Spencer Fire Department with the tools it needs to protect its citizens.

He is the person who can unite people and bring pride back to East Spencer. To once again make East Spencer a place that will attract people and businesses. He is a doer. I encourage you to vote for Tony J. Hillian on Nov. 7.

Esther Atkins Smith
Salisbury