As an accountant, auditor, small business owner and non-profit executive director, I know budgets are a reflection of our values.  Investment in our educational system will pay dividends of individual achievement and a well-qualified and trained workforce and must be fully funded.  I support safety-net programs that are cost effective and save taxpayers money in the long run.  In-home Supportive Services for disabled seniors and child care to allow families to work are two such programs.  I would eliminate salaries for political appointees that cost millions annually.  And the Legislature must look deeper into every program – even the good ones – to eliminate waste, duplication and inefficiency.