Open Forum

Even since the Iowa Caucus was held all we have heard is A change you can believe in. I had assumed President Obama's meaning of the phrase was for a better way of running the government.Since his election:

One appointee withdrew his name due to an investigation that threatened his position.

One appointee forgot about paying $40,000 or so in taxes for three or four years. A mistake we all can make. Right?

One appointee came from the ranks of lobbyists; in spite of the president's campaign promise to make reforms in that area.

One appointee is in a position to invite huge conflict of interest deals.

One appointee is responsible for obtaining a pardon for a terrorist.

One long time friend is an unrepentant domestic terrorist.

The two worst congressional leaders in the majority party that I've seen in my lifetime are still in control.

One appointee is now in process of reconciling $130,000 or so in back taxes.

President Obama now says he'd like more bipartisan support for pouring billions of dollars down a rat-hole. This giveaway program is worthless without concessions from the recipients. This economy is in the tank because of greed and until changes and concessions are made by the recipients there will be no improvement. I applaud the minority party for trying to put some sensibility this giveaway program.

Unfortunately, this change you can believe in slogan means nothing but politics as usual.

Donald D. Weinmeister

Hillman

Legislative meeting is Friday

Minnesota is facing difficult decisions. Like 44 other states, we are looking at a $4.8 billion budget deficit this year. Unfortunately, that budget gap is growing with each passing day; some estimates predicting the shortfall will reach $7 billion next month - that's roughly 20 percent of the state's biennial budget.

The Minnesota Constitution requires a balanced budget. Gov. Pawlenty began the budget process two weeks ago, releasing his proposal to resolve the shortfall. We are working together to find thoughtful compromise and balance the budget responsibly.

We can't do this work alone. My legislative colleagues and I rely on your input to make the best decisions possible at the State Capitol. For that reason, we are taking the state budget on the road to gather recommendations from Minnesota citizens across the state.

A bipartisan legislative committee will be traveling to Little Falls on Friday, Feb. 20 to hear from people in our area about how best to resolve the budget shortfall. The hearing will take place at 9:30 a.m. in the Garden Level Meeting Room of the Morrison County Government Center (213 1st Ave. SE). All citizens of Little Falls and the surrounding area are encouraged to attend.

Facing this unprecedented challenge, we need to work together to make the right decisions for the future of our community and the state of Minnesota. If you can't make it to the hearing, I strongly encourage you to contact me directly with your questions, concerns, and suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Al Doty

State Representative

District 12B

DFL-Royalton