It's July. Our stores are busy and we're all burning the candle at both ends as we also try to enjoy some summer fun! So I will be brief! Last week, I was driving to work much too early, and with much too little caffeine, when I sleepily noticed the "signs" are in the yards again. Election campaigning has begun! It occurred to me that I needed to update my New Councilmember Orientation Packet and prepare to educate these new decision makers on the role of the Liquor Operation in our City. This has proven to be a valuable tool in the past. I usually spend two or three hours giving the newly elected councilmember a tour of the store and presenting our financial information. I also cover our role in the control of alcohol and our overall contributions to the City. I'm often surprised by the misconceptions and questions that arise! My morning caffeine must have kicked in as I suddenly thought.....What am I waiting for? Anyone running for office would certainly appreciate this information now so that they can speak to any questions that might arise while campaigning! Also, sooner is better when establishing a relationship with anyone interested in City Government. When I got to work, I actually remembered to add this "To Do" to my calendar. As the week progressed, I kept moving it to the bottom of my priority list until finally I attempted to convince myself that it could wait for a few weeks! That's when it happened.....the voice of my conscience spoke...it usually sounds like my father, but this time had a bit of Paul Kaspszak mixed in! Scary!! Without the support of City Council, nothing else on my list mattered! I updated my Orientation packet, looked up the candidates email addresses, and sent it to each with an introduction attached. The response was remarkable. Each candidate expressed appreciation for the information to be used while campaigning and the intention to stop in and visit soon. If you need some help putting together an Orientation Packet, call Paul today! Candice Woods Hutchinson | 
