These are difficult financial times.

Prices are rising, wages and pensions are not keeping up, and “help wanted” signs are everywhere. These problems are not unique to the Lewiston-Auburn area, Maine, or the nation.

Consequently, the solutions must be a cooperative effort between businesses and local, state and national governments. Bettyann Sheats understands the root causes of the problems, and as a former state representative she has worked hard in Augusta and locally supported policies that help the people she represents.

But there is still much to do.

That is why we need to elect Bettyann Sheats to the State Senate to represent Auburn, Poland, New Gloucester and Durham.

Bettyann has earned the respect of her constituents and colleagues. She knows how to work cooperatively with the private and public sectors to fix these financial problems.

I hope voters join me in supporting Bettyann Sheats for the state Senate.

John Cleveland, Auburn