Pre-School in Keokuk, Washington and Thornburg

It has been far too long since I've written. Since our last trip across the state, we have been busy in Des Moines finishing up the bills that the Governor had to sign. And once that was done, my husband John and I took a few days off, and headed down to one of our favorite vacation spots - Honey Creek Resort at Lake Rathbun.

But now, we are back at work, and this week, we hit the road to highlight preschools.

But before we could leave, I went to the funeral of a dear friend and mentor - Ed Campbell. Ed and his wife Bonnie have been great friends and supporters throughout my career, and its hard to imagine democratic politics without him. The service yesterday was a fitting tribute to him. It featured former President Clinton and many other speakers who payed tribute to this larger than life Iowan, and I know his legacy will last long after he is gone.

After the funeral, we went southeast. And after another good nights stay at the Kingsley Inn in Fort Madison, we began our day with a stop at Hawthorn Preschool in Keokuk, where I helped the students read a book about a precocious groundhog and his love of fuzz. (Before leaving the children and I had also decorated ourselves in green fuzz.) We then went to Washington, where I read a book to the kids while they ate lunch. And finally, at Tri-County Schools in Thornburg, I helped students during their "centers" time and watched as they did educational activities.

I have visited about 20 preschools in the last six months, and let me tell you, I have seen growth in the four year old students during that time. These kids are smart. Each time I walk into one of the classrooms, I am amazed at what comes out of these little four year olds mouths. I learn something new everytime.

Now, some foks are saying that we should cut this program and use that money to give tax breaks to corporations.

Well, I think they need to get out to schools like Keokuk, Washington, and Tri-County to see the great work that is going on.

I can tell you, that as long as Chet Culver is Governor and I am Lt. Governor, we will always fight for the necessary funding to ensure that every child has access to quality, affordable preschool.

Well, after another good trip, its back to Des Moines. Next week, the Governor and I are kicking off our announcement tour, and I'm sure I will have a dispatch or two from the road.

Until next time,

Patty