Dear Editor:

The vote on Edgecomb’s school budget was one of the most pivotal moments of my life. The town hall was packed and the energy was electric. To see so many townspeople under one roof, coming together to make big decisions, was incredibly uplifting. I daresay that somehow, some way, everyone left more or less pleased with the result.

While I’m proud of the victory, it is a shared one–and I have a long list of people to thank.

First, of course, is my wife Jaime. I can’t possibly express how much she has supported me in everything that I’ve done. Taking this position is a sacrifice in many ways, and it’s one of many that she has made for my benefit.

Two Edgecomb couples stand out as some of the most kind and supportive people I’ve ever met: the Brennans (Jack and Barbara), and the McSwains (Joe and Lisa). Far beyond being close friends, they have encouraged, counseled, and instructed me.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Stuart Smith a few weeks ago. He is a terrific person and a huge asset to the town. While we were adversaries in this race, he clearly has Edgecomb's best interests at heart.

The experience of going door-to-door and meeting people in town was the highlight of my campaign. It was illuminating and empowering to hear from so many different people, from so many different walks of life, and once again I was struck by how much we all have in common.

Principal Tom Landberg (who will be sorely missed!) planted the seed to run for town office. Since throwing my hat into the ring, I monopolized Heather Sinclair’s time both in person and on the phone in a relentless quest for knowledge about the ins and outs of the school budget.

Thank you to my entire family. Thank you for the many letters to the editor, signs, and vocal support. Thank you to the parents and staff of Edgecomb Eddy, the nucleus of the town. And thank you to each and every voter.

I am beyond excited to get to work and prove that you made the right choice!

Forrest Carver

Edgecomb