Primary elections are fast approaching and the people of Camden, Rockport and Islesboro will be voting to replace the honorable Rep. Joan Welsh. We confront many issues in Maine and in our communities. Despite what many think, who we send to Augusta and the votes they will make impact all of us.

For almost 20 years I've worked with leaders throughout the US and around the world. Elected leadership is hard and often thankless work. It requires a careful balance of consideration of others' ideas, fortitude to get into the details and the data, and when data doesn't or can't clearly point a way forward, the courage to stand for your values.

With that in mind, I'd like to encourage voters to join me in voting for Kathleen Meil on June 14.

Kathleen is committed to working hard to improve our communities. From volunteering at school, to chairing Rockport's Library Committee, she considers others, dives into the details and stands by her values. She does the work. And, I know she'll keep working for us in Augusta. Please vote for Kathleen Meil on June 14.

Heather Kashner lives in Camden