I would like to join my wife in the N.H. Hosue of Representatives

To the Daily Sun,

I am running for State Representative in Merrimack County District #3 (Northfield and Franklin, Ward #3) for the 2017-2018 term.

Originally from Guilford, Maine where I resided for over 40 years, I moved to New Hampshire after the passing of my wife in order to live closer to my brother, who taught school at Proctor Academy in Andover and then later at St. Paul's School, where he eventually became a rector.

Guildford is part of Piscataquis County which is equal to Coos County here in New Hampshire. The lumbering business, paper mills, knitting mills and many small businesses and factories had closed. The agricultural business is passing into history as the cost of farming had increased. Every other farm and house was up for sale, just as in the New Hampshire communities.

While living in Maine, I worked on a 200-acre horse farm where I was as a caretaker/grounds man. At the time my minimum earnings were $5 an hour, far below the minimum wage. I also served as a volunteer/mutual aid firefighter for the towns of Guilford, Dover/Foxcroft, and Sangerville.

MY wife (Joyce) and I raised our five children on a 50-acre farm. The farm was almost lost after Joyce died from a catastrophic illness. It was then when I realized there was a need for quality affordable healthcare for all.

In 2009, I met a state representative by the name of Deborah H. Wheeler. During that time, I visited the New Hampshire Statehouse in Concord. I attended committee hearing watched her present, and testify on bills for her committee and other committees in the General Court as well and on the House floor.

Many N.H. voters are concerned about the opioid addiction, minimum wage, medical and prescription drug costs for the elderly and the disabled. In addition to quality affordable education for our youth.

It is with all the knowledge and experience of the past 73 years that I understand I can make an impact to my community and am asking for your support during this election cycle.

I would like the opportunity to represent Merrimack County District #3 and all of its citizens. Please consider me. I can be reached at (603) 286-8212. My residence is 38 Bat St, Northfield, NH 03276.

My wife, Representative Deborah Wheeler (campaigning for her 4th term) and myself would make dynamic duo in the House of Representatives for the term 2017-2018.

Bob Gillespie

Northfield