Oct
23
2008
I’ve been door knocking in our district and many people have great concerns on their mind. The unpredictability of the national economy worries many of us. I believe we’re in this together and we will make it through these trying times, especially if our state leaders work together to serve the state.
In Minnesota we need safe and reliable roads so we can get to work. We need to take care of our farmers so we’ll have food on the table. People in our district should have access to affordable health care so they can take care of themselves before a family member’s health becomes a critical issue. Our schools struggle to make ends meet, and so we should continue looking at how we fund education while making sure schools are using the money the best way they can. We need effective and efficient government now more than ever.
At the Capitol I will advocate for our needs. The 2009 legislative session will be challenging. We need to be responsible, but we can do this together.
I ask for your support and your vote on November 4th.
Oct
11
2008
My volunteers and I have been knocking on as many doors as we can in order to reach people in our district. Two communities I’ve recently been walking through are New Prague and Le Center. Both of those towns have an atmosphere which is comfortable and yet busy, and both are full of good people.
If I missed you, please contact me with your thoughts and concerns. This legislative session will be an important one.
Oct
11
2008
This past week I was invited to speak at a representing people with disabilities forum in Le Center. I’d like to thank those people who shared their own personal stories or who came to share stories about someone they take care of or love.
We discussed several issues which can make every day a challenge for someone who is disabled. For example, limited mobility can make it hard to grocery shop or get to that job they are qualified for. We talked about health care issues, transportation issues, and other areas where public policy can make a difference.
It was a great forum. Rep. David Bly, also in attendance, has represented us well and is now up for re-election in the Minnesota House District 25B. He works hard to meet the people and listen to their concerns. David and I both would like all Minnesotans to have access to affordable health care.
Aug
24
2008
Today my wife, my daughter and myself went out to Pioneer Power Days for breakfast. It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves this morning. I can’t believe what a great job the Association does every year. No matter how many times I’ve seen it, it never gets old. My wife and I had a great time showing our daughter Kristin all the baby animals. Kristin had a great time petting them. She also really enjoyed the hotdogs from the Le Sueur Lions Club stand. It was especially nice meeting and talking to so many people. Thanks to the folks from the Pioneer Power Association for such a good time. Tim
Aug
18
2008
It was a great weekend for the Le Sueur County fair. I spent four days at the fair enjoying the many food choices, animals, demolition derby and the tractor pulls. The porkburgers at the Izaak Walton stands may have been the best. I enjoyed seeing so many familiar faces. Now it is on to the State Fair. Last year I only gained 3 pounds at the state fair. I am going to shoot for 5 this year.
Aug
18
2008
I was recently honored with the endorsement from the Minnesota Farmers Union Political Action Committee. The MFUPAC endorsed me because of my “position in support of farm families and rural communities.”
The MFUPAC is the political arm of the Minnesota Farmers Union. The decision was based on input from their members, my positions on agriculture and rural issues, and my willingness to meet with its members and staff on key issues.
I would like to thank the MFUPAC for their endorsement and confindence in me. It is a great honor given to me.
Aug
11
2008
I had the honor of being named the 2008 Scott County Celebrity Cow Milking Champion. Well, I guess I was co- champion. I milked a total of a 1/4 oz. of milk. Yes, it sounds pathetic but I beat 8 other so-called celebs!
Aug
11
2008
This week is the Le Sueur County Free Fair. I hope that everyone has an opportunity to come and enjoy the festivities. I will be up there every day. You can find me in the DFL booth or at the grandstands where I will be selling beverages and pork burgers to all of the fans. I hope to see you there.
Aug
11
2008
This past Sunday was the annual CD2 golf fundraiser. It was a great turn out and we raised a lot of money for our DFL candidates. My golf game is not up to par; having lost 8 golf balls on only nine holes, but I still had tons of fun. Steve Sarvi gave an excellent speech and really brought home the reasons why we need Steve in Washington, and why we need John Kline to stay at home. Frannie Franken brought one of her home made apple pies which auctioned for more money than I had in my pocket.
This was a great event and I recommend every DFLer to come out and play next year.
Aug
11
2008
This past Saturday my Grandpa and Grandma Cooney along with my parents and I hosted the monthly steak fry in Le Center. It was a great turnout and I enjoyed busing dishes, serving meals and meeting with all of the guests. If anyone is in Le Center on the 2nd Saturday of any month I would suggest stopping down to the VFW. You will not find a better meal for that price anywhere.