Party affiliation: Democrat

Date of birth: October 3, 1936

Hometown: Topsham

Occupation: Retired

Education: Master’s, Simmons College

Community organizations: Topsham Board of Selectmen; Topsham Local Redevelopment Authority; MaineShare Board of Directors; Topsham’s Future; past member of Municipal Building Committee, Legislative Policy Committee of Maine Municipal Association, Livable Wage Commission of the Legislature and Maine People’s Alliance Board of Directors.

Personal information (hobbies, etc.): Gardening, canoeing, reading, spectator sports.

Family status: Six children; seven grandchildren

Years in the Legislature: None

Clean Election candidate?: Yes

1. Through my experience in government and community organizations, I have gained awareness and understanding of the complex issues challenging our state. That experience has also helped me develop skills to function successfully in the Legislature.

2. Economic development, especially promotion of Maine businesses, is my top priority. Tax reform is an essential factor as is an effective health care program for all Mainers, education funding at all levels, sustainable energy policies and sensible transportation.

3. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights will throttle economic development and bring our infrastructure close to collapse as a similar program did in Colorado. Maine people will lose the right to determine how much they will pay in taxes and how the money will be spent. I do not support the initiative.

4. In the broader political arena, morals and ethics may play a significant role. It is uncertain whether local elections will be affected. The traditional social concerns in Maine have not surfaced in Topsham in a major way this year. I favor anti-discrimination legislation and women’s rights.

5. Dirigo Health, with its insurance, quality and data components, is an important beginning for improved health care in Maine. Constituents who have the insurance speak highly of the benefit. An important shortcoming is the involvement of the insurance industry in the plan. Self-insurance will improve participation rate and expand coverage.

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