Vermont is a special place and a place which I am proud to call home.  I value our small town  democratic values, vibrant communities,  our rights and freedoms, and leaders who display civility, commonsense and compassion.  With the economic challenges that Vermont is facing we will have important and difficult decisions as to how best we can serve our citizens, protect our natural resources and promote sustainable and healthy growth for our communities. With a lifetime of living in Vermont, I've seen it become harder and harder for working families to buy a house, raise a family, pay for healthcare, build a community and enjoy life in the best state in the country. I've worked as a farmer, a teacher, a business owner and entrepreneur and understand the challenges facing Vermonters. I'll bring that lived experience and common sense to Montpellier and represent the needs of the Addison-Rutland district, and the many challenges faced by those with limited incomes. I take seriously the role of house representative and the responsibility and privilege in serving all my constituents. The Addison-Rutland house district needs a representative who will listen to concerns, engage, communicate and view each member of our community as a resource for ideas, understanding and guidance. I am excited to reconnect, reinvigorate and have people gain a greater sense of ownership in our state government.