I am writing in support of John Spear's candidacy for State Representative in House District 92 in the Maine Legislature.

I first met John years ago when he was hired as business manager for the former MSAD 50, which at that time included the St. George School where I teach. My main contact with John was at the negotiating table where he sat as a representative of the School District, while I was a representative of the Teachers' Association. And although we were on the opposite sides of the table, I found John to be fair and kind, even in the midst of heated debate. He was always viewed as open and trustworthy; his sincerity and integrity were never doubted.

John is a good listener and tries to understand all points of view. We were impressed by his commonsense approach and his friendly manner.

As I worked with him over the years, I found that he never hesitated to ask probing questions and to explore alternative solutions to a particular problem, thinking about the long-term, not just a remedy to the immediate challenge at hand. On the other side of the coin, John was never reluctant to make a decision and displayed the ability to "get things done". And he always strived to ensure that every tax dollar was stretched as far as possible.

I believe his intelligence, thoughtfulness, congeniality and commitment to hard work will enable him to capably represent Cushing, Thomaston, St. George and South Thomaston in the Maine House of Representatives. Consequently I'll be voting for John Spear for State Representative on November 8.

Sonja Schmanska lives in St. George