SABATTUS – The Maine Heritage Policy Center will honor state Rep. Scott Lansley, R-Sabattus, as its Legislator of the Year at its 2007 Freedom and Opportunity Luncheon on Aug. 16 in South Portland.

The award is presented to the Maine legislator who, in their legislative work, has best demonstrated a core commitment to the principles of freedom and opportunity that serve to improve the economic well-being of Maine, according to the center. Lansley is the inaugural legislative award recipient.

The center will present its 2007 Freedom and Opportunity Award to Waterville Mayor Paul LePage. The group gives the award to a Maine citizen who demonstrates the same qualities as those held by the legislator of the year.

The Freedom and Opportunity Luncheon is an annual fundraising event for The Maine Heritage Policy Center. This year, the keynote address will be given by Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida.