Those of us who used to keep the political process at arms' length, are now fully aware of the need to keep informed, do our part and support the folks on the front lines who are committed to making the world, locally and globally, a just place. Which is why I'm thrilled that Anastasia Fischer, one of my dearest and most respected friends, has decided to run for a seat on the Rockport Select Board.

To serve in public office at any level requires commitment and a comprehensive understanding of how the layers work. Anastasia's respect in the community is strong, consistent and far-reaching. She is the woman who, at a recent town meeting with a rep from the ACLU, was the only one who raised her hand in answer to the question: "Has anyone here ever attended a school board meeting?" A single mom with a son at Camden Hills Regional High School, she has been diligent in staying involved with the local schools since her son was in kindergarten. Anastasia is passionate about integrity, due process and keeping a sharp intellect when it comes to the changing times we live in, politically and socially. When I sheepishly admitted to her I wasn't exactly sure what a Selectwoman's role is, she admonished me: "They are the people who help determine where your tax dollars should go locally," later gently reminding me that ignorance is what landed us here in the first place. And she's absolutely right.

Anastasia is someone who believes, with her whole heart and mind, that in order to see the world a better place, we have to be better people, which means taking up the cause, in whatever way we are able. Lucky for us here in Rockport, she is more than able. In all the years I've known her, there has never been an undertaking where she did not give her very best. I can say without hesitation that adding Anastasia to our Select Board will be one of the wisest moves we can make here in Rockport, Maine.

Amy Carpenter lives in Rockport.