Dear Editor:

Sitting amidst his peers, Mike Pander enthusiastically described his deep commitment to make a difference for Boothbay.

Mike Pander is running for a seat on the board of selectmen, Town of Boothbay. I was privileged to hear him speak on two occasions and will be giving Mike Pander my vote on May 7 when I vote at Boothbay Town Hall.

Mike prescribes civil discourse among citizens in town government while having spirited debate on the issues facing our town. For the past seven years, Mike has worked as a volunteer mediator in the Maine Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection Division helping to resolve disputes for Maine citizens and businesses. His training in acknowledgment of many sides of an issue and leading to resolution is a needed skill for a select board member.

Mike Pander stated that he is “not running against anyone but feels it is a good time for a change.” While listening to Mike describe his life's experiences, I was sure he could provide that change. In the past, Mike has overseen budgets larger than the town of Boothbay's. He has experience in both the public and private sectors. He served as associate director of public safety/deputy police for the University of Connecticut system and the position of director of safety and security at Bowdoin College. Mike later worked as assistant vice president for risk management and loss control at TD Insurance.

Mike has lived in Boothbay for over 30 years. He has been a member and vice chair of the Boothbay Planning Board. He is an active volunteer with Boothbay Region Land Trust and served on their board of directors.

Join me! Let's seize this opportunity to give Mike Pander a chance! Cast one vote for Mike and leave the other blank. I figure that is the only way we can assure victory for Mike when running against two incumbents. Please vote with me because … I like Mike!

Sharon Migliozzi

Boothbay