Topics include agriculture, economic development, government, criminal justice, health and human services, education and cultural, leadership and boardsmanship.
Plymouth Mayor Mark Senter shared some of his experiences with his 28 years with the Indiana State Police. Senter said, “I tried to make it a goal to get to know as many people as possible.”
He explained that he uses the same method to help the residents of the city and he often goes to the home of someone who has made a complaint or a request for help.
“I like to meet them face to face,” he said.
Hodge Patel spoke to the group on behalf of Congressman Joe Donnelly. Patel serves as an aide to the congressman. Patel said that Donnelly has met with more than 1,200 different groups since he took office in 2007.
“Joe (Donnelly) initiated ‘Congressman on the Corner’ meetings where local constituents can meet with him in person to discuss issues,” Patel said, who is one of nine aides in the district. Donnelly also has eight aides on his Washington D. C. staff.
Donnelly was scheduled to be at the class in Plymouth, but was called to Washington as talks were in progress for the potential bailout of the automotive industry.
Another speaker, Marshall County Commissioner Jack Roose, said when he retired from UPS in South Bend, he wanted to become more involved locally. “I’m not representing me,” he said. “I’m representing the people. It’s very satisfying to get to meet with people.”
State Senator Ed Charbonneau commented on his background in the steel, economic development and health care industries.
He initially was appointed to his state position to complete the term of Vic Heinold. Charbonneau was elected to the seat in November.
Charbonneau said, “No matter what anybody tells you about running for an office – they don’t know until they go through it.”
He explained he spends a lot of time traveling his district to meet with different groups or individuals. “No matter what business you’re in, you’re in the business of people,” he said.
State Rep. Nancy Dembowski served on the Starke County Council for three terms, Mayor of Knox for three terms, State Senator and is now State Representative.
She echoed Charbonneau’s sentiments about the time it takes for campaigning. “Even if you think you have an idea of how much time it’s going to take, you don’t,” she said. “I like being able to talk to people in person.”