Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

In just a few months, newly elected state and federal leaders will take office.  Research just completed by AARP – the largest non-profit, non-partisan social membership organization both in Maine and in the U.S. – has confirmed that especially for older Mainers, the next two years will be hugely important to their future. 

In a survey entitled “Insight From Maine’s Voters Age 50+”, respondents overwhelmingly report that protecting retirement security (especially Social Security), access to affordable healthcare (especially Medicare), and preserving the ability to age independently are among the most important considerations in the upcoming election. 

The survey shows that more than three out of four older Mainers believe that controlling the cost of prescription drugs and holding drug companies accountable for skyrocketing prices are crucial objectives.  More than nine of every ten believe that each candidate’s position on helping older Mainers live independently will impact how we vote. 

In addition, when asked if the elections for governor, US Senate and Congress were held today, survey respondents who reported being undecided ranged from 12-16 percent across the races.  Such high percentages of undecided voters should send a strong signal to all candidates to be transparent on their positions.

Mainers over 50 are the biggest voting bloc in the state, and we urge all candidates for state and federal offices to pay close attention to this important new data and to what older Mainers are saying. It’s time for the candidates to tell us where they stand on these critical issues.  To find out more go to www.aarp.org/me.

Rich Livingston

AARP Maine Volunteer State President

Dear Editor,

Even though I do not live in Jennie’s district, I support her efforts to run for the Maine House of Representatives. She has the values and passion for what is needed in Maine. We should all be concerned about the education of our future leaders (students) in our state and she realizes the value of a good education for all and what it takes to do that. She also would be an advocate for our senior citizens that seem to have been forgotten in most places in this state especially when it comes to being able to afford to live in your home (taxes) and a place to go when you are no longer able to stay in your home, affordable assisted living and nursing homes. Jenny cares and worries about the impact of these items as they affect both young and old. Please consider voting for Jennie so she can take her passion where she can have a positive effect.

Marge Govoni

Windham

Dear Editor,

I first met Jennie Butler 20 years ago when my son joined Cub Scout Pack 805.  Her husband Brian was my son’s Den Leader.   I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Jennie and Brian on the Pack Parent Committee and at many Pack 805 events.  I knew the Butlers to be dedicated volunteers in the scouting community.

Jennie Butler was also a dedicated teacher at Windham High School. She was someone both my children felt comfortable and confident in approaching for assistance or just “to talk”. Jennie was often at school events such as sporting events and Windham Chamber Singer performances, showing her support for both the students and the school district. 

Jennie has been and continues to be active in the larger community, being an active member in the choir at St Ann’s Church and a dedicated volunteer in the Downeast Ski Club, where she was recognized as “Downeaster of the Year” in Spring 2018. 

I have also had the opportunity to see Jennie on the campaign trail, watching her knock on doors to meet her potential constituents and to talk about issues important to them, so I know firsthand how dedicated she is to serving those living in her district.

Jennie is an intelligent, hard-working, and levelheaded member of the Windham community, who has proven her ability to serve time and again. I know she will represent me well in the Maine Legislature and so I encourage you to elect her our District 25 Representative on November 6th.

Kimberly K Doering

Dear Editor,

Since moving to Windham in 2004 after his marriage to our daughter, Sheila Boyden, a life-long resident of Windham, Patrick Corey has been involved in the community: involved with local non-profits, leading efforts to preserve the character of Windham, or to keep property taxes down. He was on the board of directors of the Windham Land Trust and currently sits on the board of Windham Neighbors.

Patrick is a conscientious decision maker. He considers multiple points of view and weighs all potential outcomes for what is best for Windham and the state of Maine.

Patrick is committed. He has a 100% voting and attendance record and sits on two legislative committees. He wholeheartedly embraces the hard work.

Especially important to us was the bill to remove military pensions as taxable income, thus supporting Windham Vets.

We are proud to endorse his candidacy. Please join us in voting for Patrick Corey for Maine House of Representatives in November.

To learn more about Patrick visit www.coreyforhouse.com

John & Kathy Boyden