I write to call attention to Bettyann Sheats, who is a superb candidate for Maine Senate District 20.

Bettyann has lived in the area for almost 30 years, raising her family and starting a small business. She is a veteran and is well known for her balanced opinions and her ability to listen and bring people together.

Throughout her career, Bettyann has worked successfully to increase the state share of school funding, support first responders impacted by PTSD, strengthen support systems for veterans, create transitional housing for women and veterans and their families, focus tax incentives on home grown start-up businesses (especially in health, energy and technology), and reduce the costs of health care.

Senate District 20 now includes Auburn, Durham, New Gloucester and Poland. Voters in these towns deserve the listening, the collaboration, and the civility that Bettyann would take to Augusta as their senator.

Susan Martin, Auburn