"I want to bring new and fresh ideas to council with a focus on getting grants to improve Blossburg without increasing taxes," Nickerson said.

Nickerson, 27, is the founding and current vice president of Blossburg V.I.B.E., a nonprofit organization created in 2004 to improve the quality of life for those who live, work, play or attend school in Blossburg. Most recently she led the effort to apply for a $48,000 Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources grant to build a skate park at Island Park. Her work was also critical in securing Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development Main Street program grants for over $65,000 so far.

"Jill is highly motivated to make Blossburg a great place to live, and her work has already made a huge impact," said Carol Tama, a life-long Blossburg resident active on the boards of Blossburg Improvement Association, Bloss Area Swimming Association, First Citizens National Bank and Blossburg Memorial Library. "I think she'll be a great asset for borough council."

Blossburg Mayor John E. Backman agreed, "It is personally rewarding to recognize, encourage and support Ms. Nickerson's entrance into local politics. Her vibrant dedication to the betterment of Blossburg speaks volumes to her credit and speaks well for her generation."

Nickerson started Toddler University Daycare & Preschool, Inc., located on Main Street in Blossburg in March 2005. She employs nine people, has 27 children enrolled in pre-kindergarten and early preschool programs, and 30 children in daycare. The daycare has achieved STAR 2 rating from the Keystone STARS Quality Care Initiative administered by the state Department of Public Welfare.

"As a small business owner, Jill understands the importance of strong financial management to an organization," said Dave Jones, a Blossburg resident who serves as secretary of the Blossburg Municipal Authority and treasurer of Hillside Rod & Gun Club. "Jill has the background and dedication to become an excellent council member."

Although Nickerson is registered as a Democrat, she is running a non-partisan campaign for borough council. "I believe that partisan politics are not necessary on a local level. I hope that in November, I will be cross-listed as a Republican and Democratic candidate for borough council," Nickerson said. Mayor Backman said, "In my mind, Jill's party affiliation is far less important than her vision and interest in doing the tasks involved with local government."

Nickerson graduated from North Penn High School in 1997, then from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and a minor in educational psychology. She is currently working on a Masters degree in education at Mansfield University with a concentration in early childhood education and a reading specialist certificate. She is married to Shane Nickerson, owner of Nickerson Construction. They have two children, Mataya, 3, and Liam, 1.