Dear Editor:

The opinions in this letter are my own and do not represent the views of any boards or committees I serve on. I have always believed the strength of our democracy lies in its people, our neighbors and friends, who are willing to stand up and participate. Strong communities are made up of citizens who vote, volunteer, and serve in its public offices. People who share their ideas and listen to the ideas of others with a focus on the common good of the community, these are our strengths.

Jason Putnam is such a citizen. He volunteers on the Wiscasset Ordinance Review Committee, he serves on the Wiscasset School Committee, and he has now stepped up to run for Maine State House District 87 representing Alna, Pittston, Randolph, and Wiscasset. I first met Jason two years ago when he reached out to me to talk about about community events and issues. Jason and I haven't always seen eye to eye but we have always found strength in our differences and shared a focus on the common good of the community. He is not the kind of guy to let differences hold a community back, rather he jumps in, rolls up his sleeves, and helps out no matter what the issue might be. This is the type of legislator we need in Augusta, it is time to get things done and move our state forward.

Vote for Jason Putnam in November, he is a stand up guy with a track record of making a difference.

Kim Andersson

Wiscasset