When I was a high school sophomore, I remember taking notes from a well-worn civics textbook. I don’t recall all of the lessons, but I did retain an appreciation for civic life. I learned that there are important governmental functions on local, state, and federal levels and that checks and balances and civic participation are fundamental to the functioning of democratic societies.

In my own town of Wayne my neighbors and fellow townspeople serve on the select board and many other town committees and non-profit boards whose missions’ benefit Wayne’s residents and others across Maine. As a bystander and participant, I am grateful when we work together to address complex issues while being civil to one another, even when opinions vary widely.

Notching this lesson up from the local to state level, my appreciation for civility in governmental affairs will lead me to cast my vote for Janet Mills for governor.

Theresa Kerchner

Wayne