Marshalltown - Talking Healthcare @ Mid-Iowa Community Action

It has been a while since I last posted anything here on this blog site. With the legislative session coming to and end and all the work that must be done once they go home, I just haven't found the time to sit down and write a post.

However, today, we are putting the capitol in our rearvirew mirror, and hitting the road for a two-day swing through northern Iowa. And we are talking about a subject near and dear to my heart - health care.

As many of you know, many years ago, I was a nurse. And though I haven't practiced in more than 30 years, I believe that once a nurse, always a nurse. You never stop caring about the health and well-being of those around you.

Which is why I have worked so hard with Governor Culver to improve the health and well-being of Iowans. Over the past four years, we have cut the number of smokers by nearly 80,000, promoted wellness to avoid expensive trips to the doctor, and expanded access for health insurance. In fact, one of the things I am most proud of is that we have virtually covered every child in this state. 57,000 kids have received health insurance today thanks to our efforts.

So, today, we are out sharing that story. Our first stop brought us to Mid-Iowa Community Action (MICA). They are a local community services provider, and while they are based out of Marshalltown, their coverage area extends all the way to the Minnesota Border. They really do amazing work, and it was great to come and help highlight all they do for this community, and our state.

I was happy to be joined in Marshalltown by my good friends, Rep. Mark Smith and Sen. Steve Sodders - both of whom are outstanding members of the legislature. Also, joining me today on the tour is Tom Newton, the Director of Public Health.

Finally, we have someone else joining the tour today. Except, its not a person, its our car. Some of you who may have followed our blog last summer may remember White Beauty - the nickname we gave our minivan. Well, guess what - she is back.

So, if you see a big white Dodge Caravan out traveling the roads of North Iowa, give a honk - It may just be White Beauty.

Well, we are heading northeast. Next stop - Waterloo.

Until next time,

Patty