Guide Horse Owner takes on incumbent

The Ellsworth American

Mrach 4, 2004

Ellsworth – Dan Shaw announced this week that he is seeking the Democratic nomination for state Representative from House District 38, which includes Ellsworth, Otis, and Trenton.

Bob Croswaite, who announced his bid for re-election last month, is the incumbent.

Shaw, 47, of Ellsworth is known by many area children and adults as the owner of Cuddles, the world’s first guide horse.

Shaw has retinitis pigmentosa, a disease of the eyes that affects his vision. He acquired Cuddles three years ago.

Since then, Shaw’s story has been recounted to Oprah Winfrey, Barbara Walters, Connie Chung and others.

“Representing the people of District 38 would be a great honor and a privilege,” Shaw said in a statement. “Serving in the Legislature is about improving the quality of life for Maine citizens.

“I am running for the Legislature because of my commitment to dealing with issues that matter most to Maine Families – access to affordable healthcare, taking care of our children and our elderly, access to affordable higher education and sound economic development which includes good jobs.”

He said he wants to introduce his “real-life experiences to the Legislature.”

Shaw works as a book writer and landscaper. His wife, Ann, works at Maine Memorial Hospital.

Shaw said he is a Maine Clean Election candidate, and will accept no campaign funds from special interest political action committees.

Dan Shaw said he is a Maine Clean Election candidate, and will accept no campaign funds from special interest political action committees.

Information about him and his guide horse can be found on the Web at www.danandcuddles.com .