Born in 1969 in Charlotte, NC, I grew up in Nashville, Tennessee and graduated from the University of Georgia. I moved to Portland in 1995 when I was 25 years old. Even though I haven’t been able to shake my southern accent, I’ve lived in Maine longer than anywhere else and plan on staying here forever.

A writer by education and profession, I began my career in Maine writing for the Portland Phoenix. I then wrote a weekly column for 10 years called Inside Bridgton for the Lakes Region Weekly and compiled and edited the seasonal travel guides Inside Naples and Inside Bridgton for Current Publishing. I have also been a contributing columnist for the Bridgton News, focusing on community issues and climate change.

In 2013 Eric and I bought and converted the historic Wales & Hamblen warehouse in downtown Bridgton and opened the Depot Street Tap House, which quickly became a favorite of locals and visitors alike. We have also purchased and restored several other buildings in Bridgton, including our current project “Blue Dream”, a historic home on Main Street that we are converting into affordable year ‘round apartments. We love saving old buildings and giving them new life.

I am also the owner of Castleman Concierge, a bespoke property management company committed to providing white glove service to both full time and seasonal property owners in Bridgton and the Lakes Region. In 2014 I was Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year.

I am an active member of our community. I was the Founder of Bridgton's Women in Business, a founding member of Bridgton Community Gardens, the Chair of Bridgton’s Sustainability & Energy Efficiency committee, and a member of EcoMaine's Board of Directors. I also currently serve on the Bridgton Selectboard where I am the liaison for Bridgton's Infrastructure and Wastewater Commission and for Bridgton's Community Development, Arts & Culture Committee. Beyond my dedication to public service, I have gained valuable, hands-on experience in municipal operations, balancing a town budget, and navigating the challenges of a fast-growing community.

While I will never be considered a Mainer (and wouldn’t dare call myself one!) I have put down deep roots in my community here. I love her people, her way of life, her tolerance, and her kindness. Maine has been very good to me and I am deeply grateful to be able to give back.

I am a tried and true, trustworthy leader who dares to make challenging decisions and has the dedication to work hard to improve the lives of those I represent.

I truly love public service and believe I can make a difference. I have seen firsthand the power of collaboration as a Selectman and know that real change begins locally. I work well with all different types of people, regardless of their political affiliation. I am a helper. I am dependable and dedicated and can be counted on to do what I say I will do or at least try my best to do it.

(above photo credit: Ellen X. Silverberg)