Dear Editor,

At least once a month, I knock on doors in various communities in the district that I represent in the state legislature. The feedback, which I receive, is very helpful and gives me a better understanding of the issues confronting the people I represent. The process of going door to door can, however, be a little cold at this time of year.

Last weekend in Genoa was to me surprisingly cold. To my delight, a very tall and friendly gentleman greeted me on the sidewalk as soon as I had parked my car. I had not anticipated how cold it would be so, after speaking with this gentleman for a few minutes, I insisted that it was cold enough that I needed to keep moving. About 45 minutes later, I discovered that it was simply too cold without warmer clothing. At this point I discovered the same gentleman, Gil Barto, showed up with hat in hand and offered it as his contribution to state government.

Never have I appreciated neighborly help more than I did on this occasion.

Four hours later, as I was wrapping up at dark, Mr. Barto came back on his way from church and asked about how the afternoon had gone. He also insisted that I keep the hat. Mr. Barto is a great compliment to at friendly community; a fact demonstrated by other friendly residents of Genoa I met that afternoon.

Very truly yours,

Dennis E. Murray

State Representative