Happy New Year from your state senator

Judy and I want to wish you a Happy New Year, good heath, and our best for 2022! I pray you had a great Christmas with family and friends.

Over the holidays, we spent time with three of our four kids and eight of the grands. We played games, laughed, giggled, and some stayed up most of Christmas Eve waiting for Santa. I also had an opportunity to spend time with both of my brothers, whom I had not seen in around three years. There was a lot of catching up to be done. From grandkids to brothers, it seems we are all getting more mature.

As for Senate news, it has slowed a bit during the holidays. There were a few calls visiting with constituents about various issues. We have an Education Interim Committee meeting coming later in January. Part of our focus will be on House Joint Resolution 47, which is to study whether incarcerated individuals are getting the opportunities for some education. State law does allow for basic education. Following our education meeting, there will be a training for legislators. I find there is always something to learn at these meeting. The staff does outstanding work in these trainings, making sure to provide time for discussion and questions. Meetings are always open to the public, both live meetings and via Zoom.

I have filed with the Commissioner of Political Practices Office with my intent to run again for Senate District 14. The filing date with the counties begins on Jan. 13. I am looking forward to campaigning in your town and hearing how I can represent at the Legislature the issues that matter to you. I am looking for a treasurer to help out with my campaign. When I ran last time, Reuben Scheuerman did an outstanding job keeping the finances straight, but he has sort of retired and is spending this winter in Arizona. So, If you would like to give me a hand with this or know someone who may be interested, please give me a call or email. 406-265-0990. As always, be safe.

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State Sen. Russ Tempel, R-Chester, can be emailed at [email protected].