My father was a small-business owner (family-owned supermarket) and I grew up working in our store for pocket change — mopping floors, stocking shelves, bagging groceries, etc.

I also had an early morning paper route from age 11 until I graduated from high school. I have worked all of my life. Now I am about to retire from a career in education.

Given my life experiences, this is what is important to me: affordable educational opportunities for all Americans, affordable health care for all Americans, fair pay for all Americans, fair taxation policies for all Americans, protection of Social Security and Medicare for all Americans; and the protection of our natural environment for us and our children.

Charles Dumas is the best choice to represent us in the U.S. House of Representatives. He shares all of my values. He would represent all of the people in our district — students, workers, the retired and the unemployed.

He excels at working with people with differing points of view. He wants to work with all members of Congress to end the gridlock and move this country forward.

I urge you to join me in electing Charles Dumas to Congress.

Dan Trevino

Port Matilda