The 2013 Legislative Session opened this week and I’m excited to get to work at the Capitol.  It’s time to put partisanship aside and work together. I’ll be listening to you on the critical issues we face and working to find common ground to strengthen Iowa’s middle class.

The opening gavel dropped at 10 a.m. Monday morning.  It was exciting to see several Newton Firefighters, including Chief Jarrod Wellik, participate in the presentation of the colors.  My 8-year-old nephew, Trevor, stood with me at my desk as I took the Oath of Office. 

I will always remember that moment and I hope he is old enough to be able to recall it someday. Later in the day, House members selected our desks for the next two years.  I moved one seat to the left in the front row on the aisle. I now sit at Desk No. 1. It’s your desk. Thanks for choosing me to sit in it. It’s an honor and a privilege.