To the Journal editor:

Rich Rossway is running for the 109th seat, vacated by his friend, the late John Kivela.

Rich is a strong leader who fights the tough battles. He is fiscally responsible, kind and very wise. He listens and works well with everyone, no matter what their political views may be. He does his homework and fights tirelessly for solutions that are right and fair for the people in Upper Michigan.

I am proud of Rich’s life as a public servant. His impressive list of qualifications show his ability to work effectively under pressure. He was on the executive board every year of his 17-year tenure on Marquette’s school board.

He was president for eight years, five consecutively. He was first to achieve advanced rating, then appointed to the legislative board in Lansing. He was appointed to the SmartZone by the city and was vice chairman of Brownfield for eight years and was DMA president for two years.

He held positions with the Ishpeming Cancer Society, MCAC, LSCP and many more. He is a member of Elks, the American Legion and served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman.

Beyond his civic duties, he still finds time to support the youth in our area through coaching sports and announcing high school sporting events with a sense of humor and great voice.

Rich is a kind and honorable man. He is a devoted husband and father. He understands the issues and the needs of the people of the Upper Peninsula. He will work in a bipartisan manner to achieve the results that are fair for all of us.

He understands the complex issues of funding our schools, the need for Marquette County Road 595, veteran care and insurance reform. He is supported by the NRA, Right to Life, and Michigan Farm Bureau, to name a few. He is well versed in policy, and is capable and willing to write and execute the passing of bills that work.

We live, work and worship in our unique Upper Peninsula. Our families deserve to have the best that we can give them, and to continue to prosper in our communities.

Being a native Yooper, Rich understands, and has the desire and ability to lead. Please help me elect my husband, and get him working in Lansing for the 109th. Please vote Nov. 7 in the special election for Rich Rossway.

Thank you.