Words cannot express how grateful our family is to all of you who came out to vote in support of Bob Manson for fire commissioner. We know that most of you spent an average of 45 minutes on line to cast your vote and many of you drove past the firehouse numerous times that night looking for a parking space and hoping to find a shorter line.

As a result of our letter to fellow residents, our family received many calls the day of the election from members of our community who are either disabled or work a 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. shift and were unable to vote because our fire district does not allow absentee ballots. Subsequent to the election we received many calls from senior citizens who were distraught that they were physically unable to remain in line for an extended period of time in order to cast their vote and we understand and sympathize with you. As promised, we will include your names in our next request to the Hicksville Fire District for:

• Increased voting hours

• The ability to vote at more than one firehouse

• Special/easy access for handicapped individuals

• Absentee ballots

Thank you again for your part in electing Bob Manson, whose experience, integrity and dedication to the fire service will help unite the community, the volunteers and the fire district.

Gary, Terry, Matt, Mike, Gary and Kelly Tietjen

(Editor's Note: Gary and Terry Tietjen are members of the Briggs Street Committee.)