Skrzypek: Deborah Howard is doing the work in LD 27
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by Julie Skrzypek, Peoria resident
After Labor Day weekend and a week before my 70th birthday, I was reminded of a core value instilled in us as kids: a strong work ethic.
My adult children, who are now settled in their own careers, have credited their strong work ethic for pushing them forward.
“Do the work!”
That’s not a fancy slogan, but it truly is a vital part of being an effective member of our society. The image that irritates many citizens is the image of politicians getting elected then “resting on their laurels.”
During this election cycle, I have admired the hard work of Deborah Howard, a state house candidate in Legislative District 27.
As friends and neighbors, we stepped forward to help by garnering signatures, hosting and attending events, writing letters and postcards, making phone calls, placing signs, and canvassing door-to-door. In all activities, Howard is an engaged participant, even canvassing in 100-degree+ temperatures to meet prospective constituents, listen to their concerns, encourage voting, and inspire us to do the work. One volunteer drives from Flagstaff and helps because she believes in Howard’s candidacy. Some volunteers in our neighborhood are so enthusiastic that they’ve motivated their family members to help.
I never knew how much work went into campaigns, but in our legislative district, the work must be rigorous to give Democratic candidates the opportunity to succeed. I have listened to Howard talk to a variety of people - young, old, working, retired, conservative and progressive - and the commonality is that she listens, answers questions, and respects the wonderful mix of voters in LD27. She does not take anyone for granted, makes herself available to people in our area, and finds time to respond to written communication.
I was raised to believe in hard work. It is, by many accounts, a shared American value. Howard is doing THE WORK, knocking on doors, listening, researching when it’s needed. She will do THE WORK in LD27; elect Deborah Howard to work for you.