Thank you to the residents of the District for having confidence in me to represent you. I will do my best to insure the continued robustness and health of life we enjoy in our region. I do consider this a team effort, though. Your part in that team is staying in communication with me and your other representatives. If you have concerns or thoughts, let them be known. Through letters and conferences, I will keep you informed. I'm open for communication in return.

I have been a student over the last couple of months since the election. "Freshman Senators," as we are called, were gathered in Lincoln for training sessions where we learned rules and procedures, debate protocol, and the lawmaking process. Many of us were also in search for housing and have been getting acquainted with those with whom we'll be working. There has been a lot to digest, but I'm anxious to learn more and keep learning through the years.

My priorities have not changed. I believe that water is the foundation for our economy, affecting every community and nearly every household across the District. I will be making water solutions my priority bill in the Legislature because we need to act now. There are several topics important to the District, but water and possible imposed measures toward compliance with the Republican River Settlement Agreement with Kansas is the most urgent issue threatening the health of our region and its communities.

Bolstering our economic health -- both District-wide and for individual households -- is important. Also, insuring a healthy infrastructure to maintain the ethanol plants and  farm-based economy is crucial. Tax levels concern me. High taxes are not only stifling our District but crippling Nebraska itself in terms of economic development and reversing out-migration of our youth. Along those lines, we cannot overlook the idea that the age of technology is here to stay. Through technology and expanding job opportunities, our youth have the ability to stay and raise their families in a safe, loving environment rather than simply go to school here and use their skills in another state. In that light, we need to assure a good environment for children, since a stable home is the foundation of a lasting, empowering education. 

There are many things to think about in keeping our region strong, and I am humbled by your trust in me to be in Lincoln to fight for that. Speaking of which, thank you to the soldiers, both at home and in the field, and to the families who are proud but missing them, especially during the family gatherings over the holidays. You are an inspiration to us all in giving of yourselves.

May this year be wondrously special for each of you!