Ralph Johnston knocked on my door one day in late spring and asked if I would sign his petition to run for the Legislature. Knowing Ralph was around what would have been my parents’ age, I’m sure the look of amazement on my face did not escape him! I asked, “Really, Mr. Johnston? You are willing to undertake this challenge?” His candid reply: “Oh yes! If the people will elect me I would be honored to serve. I am 92 now and feel I still have much that I can contribute at the state level.” I responded, “Where do I sign?”

Mr. Johnston has lived in my neighborhood, Highland Lake in East Windham, for more than 60 years. His name is infamous around this part of Windham for the outstanding work he has done through helping to found the Highland Lake Association. His dedicated work cleaning up the lake is a testament to his commitment for a clean environment. Mr. Johnston has also served the local community by being a member of the Windham School Committee, the Kiwanis Club, and the Veterans of Foreign War.

I feel Mr. Johnson is an exemplar of a lifelong learner. His tremendous enthusiasm and energy to work for positive change has been evident his whole life. He’ll share with you the fact that he used to be a Republican but “the party left me, I didn’t leave it.” His desire to work for a strong economy, quality education for all, and a clean environment and how to secure these are now aligned with the Democratic Party ideals.

As a senior citizen, Mr. Johnston understands the challenges of living on a fixed income. I retired after teaching 35 years only to see my monthly retirement decrease the past five years because of no cost-of-living increases and rising insurance costs. He can empathize with citizens trying to pay for ever-increasing food, gas, and oil prices. He will be an advocate for fair wages and benefits for ALL Maine workers.

So when Mr. Johnston comes to your door in the coming weeks (he’s already visited about 700 homes) I hope you will welcome him and tell him your concerns and issues. At 92 years young he has learned to be a good listener and will do his best to serve you as a Representative in the Maine Legislature. I’ll be voting for Ralph Johnston in November, I hope you’ll do the same.

Flora Woodside

Windham