Letter: Candidate known for service, deep roots

As a 35-year Carol Stream resident and proud mom of four young adults (all born and raised in our wonderful community), I am writing to recommend Rick Gieser for village president in the April 4 election.

Rick, too, has deep roots in the community. He was born and raised in Carol Stream, attended Carol Stream schools, has tackled many diverse issues as a longtime village trustee and is actively involved in the community. He is collaborative and extremely responsive, lives full time in the community and is sure to be present and in person at meetings and community activities, maintains an informative social media presence where he shares news and historical content and is a big booster of all things Carol Stream.

His presence does not go unnoticed. Rick can be found literally everywhere people gather - from Veteran's memorial celebrations to Christmas sharing and holiday decorating contests, prayer breakfasts and historical events. He helps to coordinate the July Fourth parade, works to recognize community volunteers, celebrates community at the summertime concert series. He is both visible and accessible. Reaching Rick is easy - he is transparent in all he does online and freely shares his contact information.

Rick "walks the walk" and "talks the talk" when it comes to green initiative, sharing his son's entomology efforts to save the bees, planting a sustainable butterfly garden in his own front yard and actively pursuing green initiatives within the village - from recycling efforts, creek clean up and tree planting, to advocating for additional bike trails and solar energy. Rick is at the forefront sharing his belief that nature inspires us all to do better, be better stewards of the land and better citizens of our community.

I hope you'll join me in casting your April 4 vote for leadership for the future. Vote Rick Gieser for village president of Carol Stream

Janice Youngwith

Carol Stream